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Top Cybersecurity Certifications for Beginners: Costs, Benefits, and Career Opportunities

  • mdebrandjr
  • Mar 26
  • 3 min read

Introduction 

If you want to break into cybersecurity, certifications are a great way to validate your knowledge and stand out to potential employers. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some IT experience, certification can help you land entry-level cybersecurity jobs and accelerate your career.

In this guide, we'll explore the top beginner-friendly cybersecurity certifications, including their costs, benefits, time to complete, prerequisites, salary ranges, and the jobs they can help you qualify for.


A joyful woman proudly displays her newly acquired cybersecurity certificate, marking a significant achievement in her professional journey.
A joyful woman proudly displays her newly acquired cybersecurity certificate, marking a significant achievement in her professional journey.

1. CompTIA Security+

  • Cost: ~$392 (exam voucher), additional for study materials or courses

  • Time to Complete: 2–3 months (depending on study schedule)

  • Prerequisites: No formal prerequisites, but CompTIA recommends having CompTIA Network+ and 1–2 years of IT experience

  • Jobs You Can Qualify For: Security Analyst, Systems Administrator, Security Consultant, Network Administrator

  • Average Salary Range: $60,000–$90,000/year

  • Benefits: Industry-recognized, vendor-neutral certification that covers core cybersecurity concepts like risk management, network security, and cryptography. It's often listed in job descriptions for entry-level roles.

2. Google Cybersecurity Certificate (via Coursera)

  • Cost: ~$49/month (Coursera subscription)

  • Time to Complete: 4–6 months (self-paced)

  • Prerequisites: None

  • Jobs You Can Qualify For: Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, IT Support Specialist

  • Average Salary Range: $55,000–$85,000/year

  • Benefits: Created by Google, this program teaches hands-on skills like Linux, SQL, and threat detection. It also includes job readiness support and career connections via Coursera.

3. Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate

  • Cost: ~$300 (exam)

  • Time to Complete: 2–4 months of study

  • Prerequisites: Basic networking knowledge recommended

  • Jobs You Can Qualify For: SOC Analyst, Cybersecurity Technician, Junior Security Analyst

  • Average Salary Range: $60,000–$85,000/year

  • Benefits: Focuses on operations center (SOC) activities, including incident response and security monitoring. Great for those interested in blue team roles.

4. (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

  • Cost: Free (with one year of ISC² membership and exam waiver offer) or $199

  • Time to Complete: 1–2 months

  • Prerequisites: None

  • Jobs You Can Qualify For: Entry-level Cybersecurity Analyst, Risk Analyst, Junior Security Engineer

  • Average Salary Range: $55,000–$80,000/year

  • Benefits: A newer certification from a trusted organization. Recognized as a stepping stone to the CISSP. Free training is available through ISC².

5. Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate (via LinkedIn Learning)

  • Cost: ~$49/month (LinkedIn Learning subscription)

  • Time to Complete: 3–6 months

  • Prerequisites: Basic computer and networking knowledge helpful

  • Jobs You Can Qualify For: Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, IT Security Specialist

  • Average Salary Range: $60,000–$90,000/year

  • Benefits: Covers Microsoft security tools, threat detection, and real-world analysis techniques. Strong if you plan to work in Microsoft environments.

6. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)

  • Cost: ~$134 (exam voucher)

  • Time to Complete: 1 month or less

  • Prerequisites: None

  • Jobs You Can Qualify For: IT Support Technician, Junior IT Assistant (stepping stone to cybersecurity)

  • Average Salary Range: $40,000–$55,000/year

  • Benefits: Ideal for total beginners. It helps you understand basic IT and cybersecurity concepts before diving into more advanced certifications.


A proud recipient displaying his newly acquired cybersecurity certification.
A proud recipient displaying his newly acquired cybersecurity certification.

How to Choose the Right Cybersecurity Certification 

Choosing the right certification depends on your background, goals, and learning style. Here are a few tips:

  • Consider the ITF+ or (ISC)² CC if you're starting.

  • If you want a job-ready certification, Google Cybersecurity Certificate or CompTIA Security+ are excellent options.

  • If you're aiming for a SOC Analyst role, consider Cisco CyberOps Associate or Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst.


Conclusion 

Cybersecurity certifications can fast-track your entry into the field and validate your skills to potential employers. From free entry-level certs to more advanced, job-ready options, there's something for every aspiring cybersecurity professional.

Explore these certifications based on your goals and budget, and start your journey toward a rewarding career in cybersecurity.

For more certification guides, salary insights, career tips, and course recommendations, visit InfoSecureWorld.com—your go-to resource for cybersecurity education.

 
 
 
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