The top cybersecurity certifications every expert needs to know about 

In a world where cyber security are becoming rare, training is no longer enough: you need to be certified. Cybersecurity certifications have become essential benchmarks for validating your skills, reassuring employers and advancing your career. Offensive, defensive, governanceWhat are the essential qualifications for any security professional? This guide shows you the most widely recognised qualifications and their value on the market. Let's find out which ones...

Certifications play a key role role They are crucial for professionals who want to stand out from the crowd and prove their skills. They offer a objective validation knowledge and skillsThis is essential for employers seeking to protect their critical infrastructures.

Why get cybersecurity certification?

Certification in cybersecurity offers a number of advantages. Firstly, certification enables you to officially validate your skills with employers and your peers. It's tangible proof of your expertise that can make it easier to get a job or promotion.

Afterwards, preparing for and maintaining certification requires you to keep up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. Certification programmes are regularly updated to reflect developments in the field, ensuring that those certified have up-to-date and relevant knowledge.

Some certifications are required for specific positionsThis will broaden the career options available to those who have them.

And finally.., certification allows you to specialise in a particular area of cybersecurity. For example, an expert interested in cloud security could obtain a specific certification such as the CCSP, making them more attractive to employers looking for cloud security specialists.

What cybersecurity certification do you need?

Business	Training/Certification
System/Network Administrator	CCSA, Check Point Certified Security Administrator; CCSE Check Point Certified Security Expert; Palo Alto Networks - Firewall 10.2 Essentials : Configuration and management(EDU-210); Palo Alto Networks - Firewall 11.0 : Troubleshooting(EDU-330); Palo Alto Networks - Panorama 10.2 : Managing Firewalls at Scale (EDU-220)
Information Security Officer (CISO/CISO)	Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), PECB certification; CISSP, IS security, certification preparation; ISO 27001:2022 Lead Implementer, PECB certification; ISO 27001:2022 Lead Auditor, PECB certification; Certified Lead Cybersecurity Manager, PECB certification
Information Security Auditor	CISACISM, Certified IS Manager, preparation for ISACA certification; ISO 27001:2022 Lead Auditor, PECB certification; ISO/IEC 27701 Lead Auditor, PECB certification.
Risk Manager	Certified ISO/IEC 27005 Risk Manager, PECB certification; EBIOS Risk Manager, PECB certification; ISO 27005:2022 Risk Manager, preparation and LSTI certification
Analyst SOC (Security Operations Center)	SOC Analyst (Security Operations Center); Microsoft Security Operations Analyst (Microsoft SC-200); Certified Lead Ethical Hacker, PECB certification
Data Protection Officer (DPO)	Data Protection Officer (DPO), certification RGPD-CDPO PECB; Data protection officer (DPO), certification CDPO-CNIL PECB; ISO/IEC 27701 Lead Implementer, certification PECB
Security Consultant	CISSO, Certified Information Systems Security Officer, certification; Certified Lead Cybersecurity Manager, PECB certification; NIS 2 Directive Lead Implementer, PECB certification; DORA Lead Manager, PECB certification
Security Developer	Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator (Microsoft SC-300); Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (Microsoft SC-900)
Cloud Specialist	CCSP - Certified Cloud Security Professional, preparation for ISC² certification; AWS Certified Security - Specialty; Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Safety Engineer	Certified Stormshield Management Center Expert (NT-CSMCE); ISO 27001:2022 Implementer, LSTI certification; ISO/IEC 27035 Lead Incident Manager, PECB certification

Essential cybersecurity certifications

There is a wide range of cybersecurity certifications covering different areas: the offensive security (focused on attack and the search for vulnerabilities), the defensive security (focused on systems protection and defence), the governance and risk management, there cloud securityas well as specialisations such as forensic (post-incident analysis) or industrial systems security. Here are the most widely recognised certifications that every cybersecurity expert should know about, along with their main features and training opportunities.

💥 Offensive security certifications

This field focuses on the detection and exploitation of vulnerabilities in IT systems. Offensive security certifications are highly prized by professionals wishing to work in penetration testing (pentest) and the ethical hacking.

🎓 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Le Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is one of the best-known certifications in offensive security. Offered by the EC-Council, it covers a wide range of techniques and tools used by ethical hackers to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems.

• Prerequisites : No previous experience is strictly required, but a good basic knowledge of networks and operating systems is recommended to follow the course.
• Certification process : The CEH exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 4 hours. The pass mark is approximately 70%.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition of your skills in ethical hacking
  - Validation of your ability to think like an attacker to better secure systems
  - New career opportunities in penetration testing and offensive security

To prepare for CEH certification, it is advisable to take a practical course in ethical hacking. ORSYS offers official training Certified Ethical Hacker v13 to prepare for certification. ORSYS also offers Certified Lead Ethical Hacker (PECB)which covers the essential techniques of ethical hacking and provides excellent preparation for the challenges of this field, as well as leading to the corresponding PECB certification.

🎓 Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

L'Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is a highly reputed certification for pentesters. Offensive Security's solution is widely recognised as one of the most advanced in its class. difficult and respected of the field, due to its entirely practical examination.

• Prerequisites : sound basic knowledge of networks and operating systems. Practical experience in penetration testing is highly recommended before attempting the OSCP.
• Certification process : The OSCP exam is a 24-hour practical challenge during which candidates must compromise a certain number of machines in a laboratory network. An exploitation report must then be submitted. The minimum score to pass is 70 points out of 100.
• Advantages :
  - Prestigious international reputation in the slopes community
  - Skills validation practices and in-depth penetration testing
  - Access to advanced positions in pentesting and offensive security, thanks to the difficulty of certification

Note: There is no official face-to-face training for the OSCP apart from Offensive Security's online course. However, many professionals recommend training via platforms such as HackTheBox or pentest labs. ORSYS also offers pentest-oriented workshops and training.

🎓 GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)

Le GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) is a certification created by GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification) that validates knowledge of intrusion testing techniques and tools. It is associated in particular with the training courses offered by the American organisation SANS Institute, which are well known in the cybersecurity world.

• Prerequisites : basic knowledge of networks and operating systems. Practical experience in offensive security is an asset for assimilating GPEN content.
• Certification process : The GPEN exam consists of 115 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 3 hours. The pass mark is 73 %.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition, particularly in organisations that use SANS training methods
  - Validation of skills in penetration testing on various environments
  - Career opportunities in pentesting and offensive security, with a focus on best practice and professional ethics

Good to know: As GPEN is linked to SANS training, its cost can be high. More affordable alternatives exist. These include ORSYS offers training in ethical hacking (mentioned above) and practical workshops that cover some of the skills assessed by the GPEN, making it possible to prepare more economically before attempting official certification.

🛡️ Certifications in defensive security

Defensive security aims to protect systems and data against attacks. These certifications cover a wide range of subjects, from the basic principles of information security to the strategic management of security within an organisation.

🎓 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Le Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is undoubtedly the most prestigious certification in information security. Created by the (ISC)², it covers eight areas ("CBKs") ranging from network security to cryptography, identity management and business continuity. The CISSP is often regarded as a must for CISOs and experienced security experts.

• Prerequisites : at least five years' full-time professional experience in at least two of the eight areas of the (ISC) Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).² (A one-year exemption is possible with a Master's-level university degree or other approved certification).
• Certification process : The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions (including scenarios and drag-and-drop), to be completed in a maximum of 6 hours. The pass mark is 700 points out of 1000.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition as an expert in information systems security
  - Skills validation covering all the major areas of cyber security
  - Advanced career opportunities in security management, IS governance and management positions CISO

ORSYS training : To help professionals obtain the CISSP, ORSYS offers a dedicated preparation course covering all areas of CBK. The training CISSP, IS security, preparation for certification enables you to master the required concepts and be fully prepared for the exam. It is led by certified experts and is based on official material (provided in English).

🎓 Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Le Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is a certification offered by ISACA, focusing on the management information security. It is particularly well-suited to professionals seeking management, governance or audit positions in cybersecurity (e.g. Information Systems Security Manager - ISSM).

• Prerequisites : at least five years' professional experience in information security, including at least three years in security management roles (ISS project manager, deputy ISSM, etc.).
• Certification process : The CISM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 4 hours. The pass mark is 450 points out of 800.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition of skills in safety management information
  - Validation of your ability to align safety strategy with business objectives
  - Career opportunities in security management, corporate governance and cybersecurity consulting

Please note: ISACA attaches great importance to experience for the CISM. If you do not yet have the required 5 years, it is possible to sit the exam and validate your experience at a later date. To maximise your chances, ORSYS provides CISM preparation training which reviews the 4 areas of the review (governance, risk management, safety programme...), incident response). This course provides an effective methodology for passing the exam on the first attempt.

🎓 CompTIA Security+

Le CompTIA Security+ is an intermediate-level qualification covering the fundamental principles Information security (threat concepts, network security, etc.), access managementbasic cryptography, etc.). Created by the CompTIA organisation, it is often considered as a entry-level certification to get started in professional IT security.

• Prerequisites : no formal prerequisites. However, a basic knowledge of networks and operating systems is recommended, as well as previous experience in IT support.
• Certification process : The Security+ exam consists of up to 90 multiple-choice questions and multiple-response MCQs, to be completed in 90 minutes. The pass mark is 750 points out of 900.
• Advantages :
  - International recognition for a solid foundation in IS security
  - Validation of base security (threat management, access control, network security, etc.)
  - Career opportunities for juniors in cybersecurity, or to move from a general IT position to a security role

Advice : Security+ is ideal for starting a career in security. There are many free resources available (video courses, books, forums). If you're looking for structured support, training organisations can prepare you for this. ORSYSfor example, integrates the fundamentals of Security+ into some of its courses an introduction to cyber securityto prepare beginners for higher-level certification.

🏛️ Governance, risk and compliance certifications

This category includes certifications focusing on risk managementand security governance. These certifications are prized by auditors, consultants and security managers who need to align cybersecurity with business and regulatory objectives.

🎓 Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

Le Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) is an ISACA certification that focuses on risk management IT and the implementation of associated controls. It is particularly suited to professionals working in the roles of risk management or compliance.

• Prerequisites : at least three years' professional experience in risk management and information systems control. (ISACA requires proven experience covering at least two of the four CRISC areas).
• Certification process : The CRISC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 4 hours. The pass mark is 450 points out of 800. The content covers four areas: governance, risk assessment, risk response and reporting, and IS security.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition as a specialist in IT risk management
  - Validation of skills in identifying, analysing, assessing and dealing with IS-related risks
  - Career opportunities in risk management, regulatory compliance and IS auditing

ORSYS recently launched a specific exam preparation training CRISC of ISACAThis course will enable participants to cover the four CRISC domains and learn the best strategies for passing the exam and implementing good risk management in the company.

In Francethe method EBIOS (risk analysis method of theANSSI) is also widely used. Certifications such as EBIOS Risk Manager exist and are offered by organisations such as LSTI and PECB. ORSYS also offers training courses EBIOS Risk Manager (certification LSTI or PECB) to support professionals wishing to specialise in this French approach.

🎓 Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Le Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is an ISACA certification focusing on audit, control and security of information systems. It is suitable for professionals wishing to work as IS auditors, IT internal controllers or compliance consultants.

• Prerequisites : At least five years' cumulative professional experience in IS audit, information systems control or IS security. (As with the CISM, certain equivalences or partial waivers of experience may be granted by ISACA, in particular via education).
• Certification process : The CISA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 4 hours. It covers five main areas, including IT governance, IS audit processes, IS acquisition and implementation, IS maintenance and support, and protection of information assets. The pass mark is 450 points out of 800.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition in the field ofIS audit and control
  - Validation of skills in information systems audit, governance and assurance
  - Career opportunities in IT audit, regulatory compliance and security consultancy

ORSYS training : For audit professionals wishing to prepare for CISA certification, ORSYS offers dedicated training covering the entire CISA CBK. This five-day course provides a detailed review of the five areas of the exam and the methodology and reflexes needed to succeed. The course is given in French, with official materials in English, in accordance with ISACA requirements.

🎓 ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Auditor / Lead Implementer

ISO 27001 and ISO 27002 are the international standard for information security management (WSIS). Obtaining ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Auditor or Lead Implementer certifies your ability either to audit an Information Security Management System (ISMS) in accordance with ISO 27001, or to implement and manage it.

• Prerequisites : a basic knowledge of ISO standards and information security management principles is recommended. In general, it is advisable to have taken a course in Foundation (ISO 27001 Foundation) before aiming for Lead levels.
• Certification process : The Lead Auditor exam often consists of an advanced MCQ and situational questions to be completed in a few hours.
• Advantages :
  - International recognition in the field of compliance with safety standards
  - Validation of skills in security auditing (Lead Auditor) or in ISMS implementation (Lead Implementer)
  - Career opportunities in audit firms, CIOs wanting to comply with standards and IS governance consultancies

ORSYS training : ORSYS offers a wide range of training courses on ISO 27001. For example, the ISO 27001:2022 Lead Auditor, PECB certification course prepares participants for the certification audit under the standard, while the ISO 27001:2022 Lead Implementer, PECB certification training in setting up a compliant ISMS. These courses include the option of taking the corresponding PECB certification at the end of the course. They are often supplemented by practices to train on concrete case studies. In other words, whether you're aiming for an audit or implementation, ORSYS has the right course for you to master ISO 27001 from A to Z.

☁️ Cloud security certifications

With the massive adoption of cloud services, the security of environments cloud has become crucial. The certifications below focus on securing infrastructures and services in the public cloud.

🎓 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Le Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is a certification (ISC)² specialising in cloud security. It is aimed at professionals who design, manage or secure cloud environments and want to validate cross-disciplinary expertise (cloud technologies, secure architecture, operations, compliance, etc.).

• Prerequisites : at least five years' professional experience in IT, including at least three years in information security and at least one year in one or more of the six areas of the CBK CCSP (cloud application security, cloud operations, legal and compliance, etc.). Note: CISSP holders are exempt from the one-year cloud security experience requirement.
• Certification process : The CCSP exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 4 hours. The minimum score to pass is 700 points out of 1000.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition as an expert in cloud security (multi-vendor)
  - Validation of skills in cutting-edge subjects such as cloud identity management, hosted data security and regulatory compliance in the cloud
  - Career opportunities as a secure cloud architect, cloud security consultant or CISO in cloud-first environments

ORSYS training : To succeed in the PSAB, the ideal is to combine experience and structured preparation. ORSYS offers the following training CCSP - Certified Cloud Security Professional, preparation for ISC² certificationThis 5-day course covers the entire official programme. This course helps you to acquire a 360° view of cloud security issues and to practise with exam-style questions. It's an excellent bridge for those who already have a background in security and want to specialise in cloud solutions.

🎓 AWS Certified Security - Specialty

L'AWS Certified Security - Specialty is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services to validate skills in securing AWS infrastructures. It is ideal for professionals working in AWS environments who want to prove that they have mastered the best security practices specific to this cloud provider.

• Prerequisites : AWS recommends that candidates have at least five years' experience in information security, and a minimum of two years' specific practical experience in securing AWS workloads. In practice, it is useful to have already passed AWS Associate level certifications (such as AWS Solutions Architect Associate) before tackling the Security Specialty.
• Certification process : The AWS Security Specialty exam consists of around 65 questions (multiple-choice and multiple-answer MCQs), to be completed in 170 minutes. The pass mark is 750 points out of 1000.
• Advantages :
  - Recognition that you know how to secure environments AWS in an advanced way
  - Validation of specific skills (encryption on AWS, security of managed services, monitoring via CloudTrail/CloudWatch, incident response on AWS...)
  - Career opportunities in companies that make extensive use of AWS, particularly as secure cloud architects or cloud security engineers

Advice : ORSYS, through its subsidiary ITTCERT, offers training on AWS run by AWS-certified trainers. These courses cover the AWS Certified Security - Specialty certification programme.

🎓 Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)

The title Azure Security Engineer Associate (obtained via the AZ-500 exam) is Microsoft's certification for validating skills in securing Azure infrastructures. It corresponds to an Associate (intermediate) level and is increasingly in demand from companies adopting Microsoft Azure.

• Prerequisites : Although no prior certification is required, it is advisable to already have some experience of Azure (Azure administration, Azure AD concepts, Azure resource management). The Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) or Identity and Access Administrator (SC-300) certifications can provide a useful knowledge base before aiming for AZ-500.
• Certification process : the AZ-500 exam, entitled Microsoft Azure Security TechnologiesIt consists of between 40 and 60 multiple-choice and multiple-answer questions, to be completed in 120 to 150 minutes. The pass mark is 700 points out of 1000. The questions cover identity management (Azure AD), data security, configuration of network security measures (NSG, Azure Firewall), vulnerability management, etc.
• Advantages :
  - Recognition of your skills in security for Azure environments
  - Validation of practical know-how: configuring the security of Azure services, deploying data and application protection solutions in Azure
  - Career opportunities in cloud security engineer roles, particularly within organisations using Azure (increasingly common in large companies and the public sector)

ORSYS training : ORSYS offers official Microsoft training via its subsidiary ITTCERT. For example, the Azure - Security technologies (AZ-500) provides the knowledge needed to implement security controls and manage the security posture on Azure. In addition, ORSYS also offers the following training courses Microsoft Security Operations Analyst (SC-200) and Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator (SC-300)Azure Security Engineer Associate, which will be useful for reinforcing your related skills in Microsoft cloud security. By combining these courses, you'll be well equipped to pass the Azure Security Engineer Associate certification.

Other specialist certifications

In addition to the major areas listed above, there are other more specific certifications. specialised for niche areas of cybersecurity. Depending on your interests and the direction you want your career to take, these certifications can add unique value.

🎓 GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)

Le GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA) is a GIAC certification aimed at theforensic analysis security incidents. It certifies that a professional knows how to investigate compromised systems, analyse digital evidence and trace the cause of an attack. The GCFA is particularly suited to analysts wishing to work in incident response or digital investigation.

• Prerequisites : basic knowledge of operating systems (Windows, Linux) and networks. Previous experience in IT support or system administration will help you to understand forensic scenarios. Candidates for the GCFA often already have GIAC GCIH (Incident Handler) certification or have taken SANS training courses in forensics.
• Certification process : The GCFA exam consists of 115 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 3 hours. The pass mark is 73 %. It covers subjects such as disk and memory analysis, incident chronology reconstruction, detection of rootkitsetc.
• Advantages :
  - Worldwide recognition among teams digital investigation
  - Validation of advanced skills in forensic analysis and incident response
  - Career opportunities in the CERT/SOCelite cyber defence units and companies specialising in digital investigations

Good to know: As the GCFA is issued by GIAC, it is often prepared via the corresponding SANS training course. These are expensive courses. Alternatively, ORSYS offers training Forensic analysis and incident response which covers the fundamentals of digital investigation. This course can be a springboard before aiming for certification such as the GCFA, by giving you the methodological reflexes to deal with a security incident.

🎓 Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)

Le Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA) is an EC-Council certification focusing on industrial systems security (SCADA/ICS). In the era of Industry 4.0, industrial control systems (factories, energy networks, critical infrastructures) have become prime targets, creating a need for industrial cybersecurity specialists.

• Prerequisites : basic knowledge of SCADA systems and industrial networks. Experience in an industrial environment or in IoT (operational technologies) is recommended to fully grasp the context.
• Certification process : The CSSA exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 4 hours. It covers understanding of ICS architectures, threats to SCADA systems, security countermeasures specific to PLCs, etc. The pass mark is approximately 70 %.
• Advantages :
  - Recognition in a niche field - the industrial cyber security - increasingly critical
  - Validation of skills in securing SCADA/ICS environments, where the technologies and constraints differ from those of conventional IT
  - Career opportunities with critical infrastructure operators, industrial companies and OT security consultancies

ORSYS training : In addition to (or in preparation for) CSSA certification, ORSYS offers training in SCADA: security for industrial systems. This provides a solid basis before embarking on more formal certification.

🎓 Certified IoT Security Practitioner (CIoTSP)

Le Certified IoT Security Practitioner (CIoTSP)also offered by EC-Council, focuses on the security of connected objects (IoT - Internet of Things). With the explosion of connected objects (sensors, cameras, wearable tech, home automation, etc.), securing these devices and their communications has become a field of expertise in its own right.

• Prerequisites : Basic knowledge of networks and security, and familiarity with IoT environments. Electronics/embedded training or experience may help, as IoT security often involves hardware.
• Certification process : The CIoTSP exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, and lasts 4 hours. The pass mark is approximately 70 %. Topics include the secure design of an IoT network, securing endpoints (sensors, objects), lightweight cryptography, management of IoT updates and patches, and response to incidents involving connected devices.
• Advantages :
  - Positioning in an emerging field IoT securitywith dedicated certification
  - Validation of technical skills covering both IT and OT (because the IoT bridges the gap between IT and the physical world)
  - Career opportunities in companies developing or deploying IoT solutions (smart cities, connected health, industry, etc.), as well as in security research (IoT labs, product evaluation, etc.).

In practice : IoT security is still in its infancy, and this EC-Council certification is one of the first on the subject. ORSYS offers dedicated training Hacking and Pentest IoT where you learn the methodology for intrusion testing on connected objects (firmware analysis, radio protocol hijacking, etc.). This type of practical training will give you a head start on CIoTSP certification and, more broadly, on securing IoT projects in your organisation.

⚖️ Other certifications: regulatory compliance and cybersecurity management

In addition to technical certifications, there are also certifications focusing on the following areas safety management and regulatory compliance which are gaining in importance.

For example, the recent European directive NIS 2 and the regulations DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) have led to the creation of certification courses to help organisations comply.

This has led to the emergence of courses such as NIS 2 Directive Lead Implementer or DORA Lead Manageroffered by bodies such as PECB. These emerging certifications are particularly useful for security consultants and managers in Europe, as they demonstrate a detailed understanding of the new legal obligations in cybersecurity and resilience.

Similarly, management certifications such as the Certified Lead Cybersecurity Manager (CLCM) certification addresses the strategic management of cybersecurity. It complements certifications such as the CISSP or CISM by offering an even more comprehensive approach to the management of cybersecurity. field and operational safety management. For example, training Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), PECB certification validates the high-level skills required to perform the role of CISO with an international scope.

How do you choose the right cybersecurity certification?

With so many qualifications available, choosing the most relevant for your career can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice.

Evaluate your career goals

First think about what you want to achieve. Do you want to become a pentester, cloud security consultant, CISO or forensic expert? Your choice of certification should be in line with your career plan.

For example, if you are aiming for a position in penetration testing, certification in offensive security such as OSCP or CEH would be appropriate. If you are more interested in security governance and management, the CISSP or CISM would be more suitable, possibly supplemented by regulatory certifications (ISO 27001, NIS 2, etc.).

Consider your level of experience

Some certifications are aimed at beginnersothers to professionals experienced. It's important to be realistic about your current level.

For example, certification CompTIA Security+ is excellent for getting beginners off to a flying start, while the CISSP targets profiles with several years' experience and a broad vision of safety.

Choosing a certification that is too advanced without having the required background can lead to failure or unnecessary frustration. On the other hand, if you already have experience, a more basic certification is unlikely to add much value to your skills.

Skill level	Training/Certification
Beginner	ISO 27001 Foundation, Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (Microsoft SC-900)
Intermediate	ISO 27001 Lead Implementer, Certified Lead Cybersecurity Manager, EBIOS Risk Manager
Advanced	CISSP, CISO, Certified Lead Ethical Hacker, ISO 27001 Lead Auditor

Take account of market and employer requirements

Find out about the most common certifications Research in your region or business sector.

For example, in companies that are migrating massively to the cloud, cloud certifications such as the CCSP or theAWS Certified Security - Specialty are in great demand. Similarly, in certain regulated sectors (banking, healthcare, vital operators), specific certifications such as ISO 27001 Lead Auditor or RGPD-related qualifications (certified DPO) can be a major asset. Checking the job offers in the field that interests you can help you decide which qualifications to choose.

Define a coherent running order

If you are planning to obtain several certifications, organise them gradually. As mentioned above, it's better to acquire the fundamentals first and then build up your expertise.

For example, obtaining a generalist certification first (such as Security+ or ISO 27001 Foundation) can give you confidence and a foundation, before moving on to more complex certifications. An often recommended path could be: basic knowledge → intermediate technical certification (e.g. an Associate-level (ISC)² or ISACA certificate) → advanced certification (CISSP, CISM...) → specialisation (cloud, forensic, etc.) if necessary.

Pentest → CEH → OSCP

Management → CISM → CISSP

Take into account your budget and preparation time

Certifications require both financial and personal investment. Some are expensive (several thousand euros including training) and require hundreds of hours of study or practice.

Make sure you choose a certification that is in line with your budget and the weather available to you.

For example, taking the OSCP often requires you to practise for many hours on labs before attempting the exam, while other more theoretical exams such as the CCSP require long hours of reading and memorisation. Plan intelligently according to your constraints.

Boost your career with the right certification

In short, cybersecurity certifications are now essential for validating your skills, reassuring employers and advancing your career. Whether you're interested in offensive security, there defensive security, there risk management or the cloud securityThere's a certification that's right for you.

By choosing the right certification for your career, preparing methodically, and keeping abreast of the latest threats and technologies, you can position yourself as a leader in your field. cybersecurity expert and seize the many opportunities offered by this fast-growing sector.

Finally, remember that cybersecurity is a demanding field where continuous training is the key to staying competitive. Each certification obtained is not an end in itself, but a step in a continuous learning process. ORSYSAs a training organisation, we'll be with you every step of the way, offering up-to-date training in line with developments in the sector.

Take a look at all our cybersecurity certification courses to find the course that's right for you, and give your career in cybersecurity a new boost. Good luck with your preparation, and good luck with your certifications!