10 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications [2026 Updated] - Coursera

10 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications [2026 Updated] Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on Dec 5, 2025 Share A cybersecurity certification can help you learn new skills and find a job in the field. Elevate your career in information security with these in-demand credentials. Cybersecurity (sometimes called computer security or information security) is the practice of protecting computers, networks, and data from theft, damage, loss, or unauthorized access. As our global interconnectivity increases, so do the opportunities for bad actors to steal, damage, or disrupt. A rise in cybercrime has fueled a demand for cybersecurity professionals. Explore the exciting and well-paying career options that have emerged in this field.  Expert tip for choosing a cybersecurity certification: "Stop limiting which certification you're going after because, in this industry, you can navigate it. The opportunity is everywhere, and it's with almost every type of organization and every industry," said Steve Graham, Senior Vice President Head of Product at EC-Council, during Coursera's virtual panel, "How can online learning accelerate cybersecurity careers and talent?" 10 cybersecurity certifications companies are hiring for While cybersecurity professionals, including cybersecurity analysts, typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, companies may also prefer candidates with certification to validate knowledge of best practices. Additionally, you may obtain some entry-level positions by earning just a certification. Discover the available certifications, from general to vendor-specific, entry-level to advanced.  Before you spend your money and time on a certification, it is essential to find one that will give you a competitive advantage in your career. If you're just starting out in the world of cybersecurity, consider an entry-level post-secondary credential, like the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. You can build job-ready skills while earning a shareable certificate from an industry leader. Google Cybersecurity professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Event Monitoring, Document Management, Network Monitoring, Continuous Monitoring, Threat Detection, Query Languages, Security Controls, Incident Management, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Linux Administration, Authentications, Unix Commands, User Accounts, Command-Line Interface, Relational Databases, Unix Shell, Database Management, Authorization (Computing), AI literacy, Google Gemini, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Interviewing Skills, Branding, Cyber Risk, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Risk Management Framework, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Auditing, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Computer Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Model, Cloud Security, Firewall, Network Architecture, Network Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Algorithms, Computer Programming, Automation, IT Automation, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Scripting, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Programming Principles 4.8 (67,304 ratings) professional certificate Google Cybersecurity Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required. 4.8 (67,304 ratings) 1,504,110 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Event Monitoring, Document Management, Network Monitoring, Continuous Monitoring, Threat Detection, Query Languages, Security Controls, Incident Management, Technical Communication, Data Security, Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Linux Administration, Authentications, Unix Commands, User Accounts, Command-Line Interface, Relational Databases, Unix Shell, Database Management, Authorization (Computing), AI literacy, Google Gemini, Professional Development, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Interviewing Skills, Branding, Cyber Risk, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cryptography, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Risk Management Framework, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Auditing, Risk Analysis, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Computer Security, Computer Networking, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Network Model, Cloud Security, Firewall, Network Architecture, Network Infrastructure, Cloud Computing, General Networking, File I/O, Algorithms, Computer Programming, Automation, IT Automation, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Scripting, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Programming Principles 1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) The CISSP certification from the cybersecurity professional organization (ISC)² ranks among the most sought-after credentials in the industry. Earning your CISSP demonstrates that you’re experienced in information technology (IT) security and capable of designing, implementing, and monitoring a cybersecurity program. This advanced certification is for experienced security professionals looking to advance their careers in roles like: Chief information security officer: $153,100 CAD Security administrator: $94,345 CAD IT security engineer: $127,334 CAD Senior security consultant: $105,945 CAD Information assurance analyst: $75,563 CAD All salary data comes from Talent.com as of September 2024 and does not include additional pay such as bonuses, commission, or other compensation.  Requirements: To qualify to take the CISSP exam, you’ll need five or more years of cumulative work experience in at least two of eight cybersecurity domains. These include Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security. A four-year degree in computer science satisfies one year of the work requirement. Part-time work and paid internships also count. The path to CISSP If you’re new to cybersecurity and lack the necessary experience, you can still take the exam to become an Associate of (ISC)². Once you pass the exam, you’ll have six years to build the relevant experience for full CISSP certification. 2. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) This credential from the IT professional association ISACA helps demonstrate your expertise in assessing security vulnerabilities, designing and implementing controls, and reporting on compliance. It’s among the most recognized certifications for careers in cybersecurity auditing. The CISA is designed for mid-level IT professionals looking to advance into jobs like: IT audit manager: $120,000 CAD Cybersecurity analyst: $109,337 CAD IT security analyst: $94,575 CAD IT security architect: $125,000 CAD IT project manager: $122,040 CAD Compliance director: $144,425 Requirements: You need at least five years of experience in IT or IS audit, control, security, or assurance. You can substitute one or two years of experience with a two- or four-year degree, respectively. 3. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) With the CISM certification, also from ISACA, you can validate your expertise in the management side of information security, including topics like governance, program development, and program, incident, and risk management. Earning your CISM could be a good choice if you’re looking to pivot from the technical to the managerial side of cybersecurity. Jobs that use the CISM include: IT manager: $121,767 CAD Information security officer: $113,966 CAD Information risk consultant: $107,728 CAD Director of information security: $135,000 CAD Data governance manager: $120,900 CAD  Requirements: To take the CISM exam, you need at least five years of experience in information security management. Satisfy up to two years of this requirement with general information security experience. 4. CompTIA Security+ CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level security certification that validates the core skills needed in any cybersecurity role. With this certification, demonstrate your ability to assess an organization's security, monitor and secure cloud, mobile, and Internet of Things (IoT) environments, understand laws and regulations related to risk and compliance, and identify and respond to security incidents. Earning your Security+ certification can help you in roles such as: Systems administrator: $93,536 CAD Help desk manager: $95,000 CAD Security engineer: $126,859 CAD Cloud engineer: $125,955 CAD Security administrator: $94,345 CAD IT auditor: $104,081 CAD Software developer: $104,805 CAD Requirements: CompTIA has no strict requirements for taking the Security+ exam. However, you’re encouraged to earn your Network+ certification first and gain at least two years of IT experience with a security focus. If you’re just getting started in information technology (IT), CompTIA recommends getting your Google IT Support Professional Certificate first. You’ll build foundational skills in IT while preparing to pass the CompTIA A+ exams—the first step in the CompTIA certification path.  5. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Ethical hacking, also known as white hat hacking, penetration testing, or red team, involves lawfully hacking organizations to try and uncover vulnerabilities before malicious players do. The EC-Council offers the CEH Certified Ethical Hacker certification. Earn it to demonstrate your skills in penetration testing, attack detection, vectors, and prevention. The CEH certification helps you to think like a hacker and take a more proactive approach to cybersecurity. Consider this certification for jobs like: Penetration tester: $124,956 CAD Cyber incident analyst: $99,568 CAD Intelligence analyst: $95,942 CAD IT security architect: $124,780 CAD  Cyber Security engineer: $135,000 CAD  Requirements: You can take the CEH exam if you have two years of work experience in information security or if you complete an official EC-Council training. Managing Cybersecurity specialization Beginner level · 2 month(s) Skills you'll build: Business Continuity Planning, Computer Security Incident Management, Contingency Planning, Crisis Management, Cyber Governance, Cyber Security Policies, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Disaster Recovery, Firewall, General Networking, Incident Management, Incident Response, Network Administration, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Risk Management, Security Management, Vulnerability Management, Security Strategy, Governance, Organizational Leadership, IT Management, Cyber Risk, Information Technology, Cyber Operations, Proposal Development, Staff Management, Organizational Structure, Network Protocols, Wireless Networks, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cloud Computing, TCP/IP, System Monitoring, Threat Detection, Cloud Security, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cyber Security Assessment, Continuous Monitoring, Vulnerability Assessments, Security Controls, Threat Management, Human Factors (Security), Business Continuity, Risk Analysis, Risk Management Framework, Information Privacy, Enterprise Security 4.7 (1,381 ratings) specialization Managing Cybersecurity Managing Cybersecurity. Mastering the basics of managing cybersecurity in organizations 4.7 (1,381 ratings) 21,025 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 2 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Business Continuity Planning, Computer Security Incident Management, Contingency Planning, Crisis Management, Cyber Governance, Cyber Security Policies, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Disaster Recovery, Firewall, General Networking, Incident Management, Incident Response, Network Administration, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Risk Management, Security Management, Vulnerability Management, Security Strategy, Governance, Organizational Leadership, IT Management, Cyber Risk, Information Technology, Cyber Operations, Proposal Development, Staff Management, Organizational Structure, Network Protocols, Wireless Networks, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cloud Computing, TCP/IP, System Monitoring, Threat Detection, Cloud Security, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cyber Security Assessment, Continuous Monitoring, Vulnerability Assessments, Security Controls, Threat Management, Human Factors (Security), Business Continuity, Risk Analysis, Risk Management Framework, Information Privacy, Enterprise Security 6. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) This certification from the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) is an entry-level security credential for those with some information systems and networking background. Earning this credential validates your skills in security tasks like active defense, network security, cryptography, incident response, and cloud security. Consider taking the GSEC exam if you have some IT familiarity and wish to move into cybersecurity. Job roles that use the skills demonstrated by the GSEC include: IT security manager: $118,474 CAD  Security administrator: $94,345 CAD  IT auditor: $104,081 CAD Software developer: $141,017 CAD  Requirements: You will not have to complete any specific requirements to take the GSEC exam, although having experience in information systems and networking will be helpful.  The path to GSEC GIAC also offers the Information Security Fundamentals (GISF) as its entry-level certification for IT newcomers. If you’re still gaining experience with networking and information systems, this could be a good place to start. Cyber Incident Response specialization Beginner level · 1 month(s) Skills you'll build: Analysis, Business Continuity, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Operations, Cyber Security Policies, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Security, Digital Forensics, Endpoint Detection and Response, Incident Management, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Network Analysis, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Security Management, Threat Detection, Threat Management, Memory Management, Malware Protection, Exploitation techniques 4.7 (276 ratings) specialization Cyber Incident Response Launch your career in Incident Response. Master the technical skills needed for effective Incident Response. 4.7 (276 ratings) 8,419 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 1 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Analysis, Business Continuity, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Operations, Cyber Security Policies, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Security, Digital Forensics, Endpoint Detection and Response, Incident Management, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Network Analysis, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Security Management, Threat Detection, Threat Management, Memory Management, Malware Protection, Exploitation techniques 7. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) With this intermediate security credential from (ISC)², you can show employers that you have the skills to design, implement, and monitor a secure IT infrastructure. The exam tests expertise in access controls, risk identification and analysis, security administration, incident response, cryptography, and network, communications, systems, and application security. The SSCP is designed for IT professionals working hands-on with an organization’s security systems or assets. This credential is appropriate for positions like: Network security engineer: $126,093 CAD Systems administrator: $92,536 CAD Systems engineer: $123,196 CAD Cybersecurity analyst: $109,337 CAD Database administrator: $91,650 CAD Requirements: Candidates for the SSCP need at least one year of paid work experience in one or more of the testing areas. A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a cybersecurity-related program can also satisfy this requirement. ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) specialization Beginner level · 1 month(s) Skills you'll build: Application Security, Asset Management, Authentications, Authorization (Computing), Cloud Security, Cryptographic Protocols, Cryptography, Endpoint Security, Incident Response, Key Management, Malware Protection, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Network Security, OSI Models, Public Key Infrastructure, Risk Management, Security Controls, Security Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Assessments, Mobile Security, Cloud Computing, Human Factors (Security), Threat Detection, Virtualization, Virtual Machines, Data Security, Cybersecurity, Cloud Deployment, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Infrastructure Security, Cyber Attacks, Information Systems Security, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Endpoint Detection and Response, Change Control, Identity and Access Management, Data Ethics, Data Integrity, Cyber Security Policies, Enterprise Security, Cyber Security Assessment, Security Awareness, Information Assurance, Safety and Security, Computer Security Awareness Training, Single Sign-On (SSO), Computer Security, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), User Provisioning, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Access, Vulnerability Management, Network Analysis, Risk Modeling, Legal Risk, Vulnerability Scanning, Risk Mitigation, Event Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Operational Risk, Cyber Risk, Risk Management Framework, Continuous Monitoring, Computer Security Incident Management, Threat Management, Wireless Networks, Firewall, Telecommunications, System Configuration, Network Architecture, Network Administration, Network Infrastructure, Network Protocols, TCP/IP, Proxy Servers, Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Digital Forensics, Business Continuity Planning, Investigation, Incident Management, Contingency Planning, Encryption, Algorithms, Public Key Cryptography Standards (PKCS), Brute-force attacks 4.7 (303 ratings) specialization ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) Advance Your IT Career with Cybersecurity Skills. Gain Flexibility with Self-Paced Learning. 4.7 (303 ratings) 41,344 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 1 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Application Security, Asset Management, Authentications, Authorization (Computing), Cloud Security, Cryptographic Protocols, Cryptography, Endpoint Security, Incident Response, Key Management, Malware Protection, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Network Security, OSI Models, Public Key Infrastructure, Risk Management, Security Controls, Security Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Assessments, Mobile Security, Cloud Computing, Human Factors (Security), Threat Detection, Virtualization, Virtual Machines, Data Security, Cybersecurity, Cloud Deployment, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Infrastructure Security, Cyber Attacks, Information Systems Security, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Endpoint Detection and Response, Change Control, Identity and Access Management, Data Ethics, Data Integrity, Cyber Security Policies, Enterprise Security, Cyber Security Assessment, Security Awareness, Information Assurance, Safety and Security, Computer Security Awareness Training, Single Sign-On (SSO), Computer Security, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), User Provisioning, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Access, Vulnerability Management, Network Analysis, Risk Modeling, Legal Risk, Vulnerability Scanning, Risk Mitigation, Event Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Operational Risk, Cyber Risk, Risk Management Framework, Continuous Monitoring, Computer Security Incident Management, Threat Management, Wireless Networks, Firewall, Telecommunications, System Configuration, Network Architecture, Network Administration, Network Infrastructure, Network Protocols, TCP/IP, Proxy Servers, Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Digital Forensics, Business Continuity Planning, Investigation, Incident Management, Contingency Planning, Encryption, Algorithms, Public Key Cryptography Standards (PKCS), Brute-force attacks 8. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) The CASP+ is designed for cybersecurity professionals who demonstrate advanced skills but want to continue working in technology (as opposed to management). The exam covers advanced topics like enterprise security domain, risk analysis, software vulnerability, securing cloud and virtualization technologies, and cryptographic techniques. The CASP+ can open up opportunities for advanced architecture, risk management, and enterprise security integration roles. Possible job titles include: Security architect: $124,780 CAD Application security engineer: $127,368 CAD Requirements: CompTIA has no formal prerequisite for taking the CASP+ exam. CompTIA recommends it only for experienced cybersecurity professionals with at least ten years of IT administration experience (including five years of broad hands-on experience with security). 9. GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) Earning the GCIH validates your understanding of offensive operations, including common attack techniques and vectors, and your ability to detect, respond, and defend against attacks. The certification exam covers incident handling, computer crime investigation, hacker exploits, and hacker tools. This certification is meant for anyone working in incident response. Job titles might include: Security architect: $124,780 CAD Systems administrator: $92,536 CAD Requirements: You will not have to complete any formal prerequisites for taking the GCIH exam, which is appropriate for incident response teams, system administrators, and security architects. 10. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) The OSCP from Offensive Security has become one of the most sought-after certifications for penetration testers. The exam tests your ability to compromise a series of target machines using multiple exploitation steps and produce detailed penetration test reports for each attack. The OSCP is a good option for jobs like: Penetration tester: $101,807 CAD Application security engineer: $147,786 CAD Requirements: The OSCP has no formal requirements, though familiarity with networking, Linux, Bash scripting, Perl or Python, and completion of the Penetration Testing with Kali course are all helpful. How to choose a cybersecurity certification Earning a certification in cybersecurity can validate your hard-earned skills and help you advance your career. Some things to consider when choosing which certification is right for you include: Your level of experience: Start with a certification that matches your current skill set. Invest in a certification you know you can achieve, and use it to advance toward more challenging credentials later in your career.  Cost: Getting certified typically costs several hundred dollars (or more), plus the additional fees to maintain it. Proper certification can open up better job prospects or higher salaries, but investing wisely is essential. Tip: Some employers may help pay for your certification, so it’s always a good idea to ask first. Area of focus: If you’re just getting started in cybersecurity or want to move into a managerial role, a more general certification might be a good choice. As you advance in your career, you might decide to specialize. A certification in your concentration area can validate your skills to potential employers. Potential employers: Check some job listings of employers you may want to work for (or job titles you plan to apply for) to see what certifications are commonly required. How to get into cybersecurity: Start with computer science Many of the most coveted certifications require (or at least recommend) some previous experience in cybersecurity or IT. If your career goals include a job in this in-demand industry, you can take some steps to start gaining the experience you need. While you don’t need a degree to enjoy a successful career in cybersecurity, it can help you build a strong foundation. When hiring in this field, employers may expect different education levels, including certifications, a college diploma or graduate certificate, or a bachelor’s or graduate degree.  The University of Pennsylvania offers an Ivy League Master of Computer and Information Technology degree designed especially for students without a computer science background. Try a course before you apply to see if this program is a good fit. Updated on Dec 5, 2025 Share Written by: Coursera Staff Editorial Team Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact... This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals. Opt-Out Request Honored Cookies Preference Center Cookies are small text files downloaded to your device via your web browser when you interact with the Site. Coursera and our approved third parties use cookies for the purposes described below under each of the category headings. For more information, please read our Cookies Policy. 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