6 Essential Network Security Certifications for Network Engineers

One of the best ways to show expertise in network security is to earn a few certifications. Several organizations offer networking certifications that either focus on network security knowledge or a general overview of networking expertise. Below, we’ve listed six essential certifications for any network engineer or administrator that focuses on securing and managing enterprise networks.

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Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

COST: $300 per exam

“The new CCNP Security certification program prepares you for today’s professional-level job roles in security technologies. CCNP Security now includes automation and programmability to help you scale your security infrastructure. One of the industry’s most respected certifications, CCNP validates the core knowledge you need while giving you the flexibility to choose a focus area. And now every exam in the CCNP Security program earns an individual Specialist certification, so you get recognized for your accomplishments along the way.”

Learn more about this certification here.

Certified Network Defender (CND)

COST: $450

“The Certified Network Defender (CND) certification program focuses on creating Network Administrators who are trained on protecting, detecting and responding to the threats on the network. Network administrators are usually familiar with network components, traffic, performance and utilization, network topology, location of each system, security policy, etc. A CND will get the fundamental understanding of the true construct of data transfer, network technologies, software technologies so that the they understand how networks operate, understand what software is automating and how to analyze the subject material. In addition, network defense fundamentals, the application of network security controls, protocols, perimeter appliances, secure IDS, VPN and firewall configuration, intricacies of network traffic signature, analysis and vulnerability scanning are also covered which will help the Network Administrator design greater network security policies and successful incident response plans.”

Learn more about this certification here.

Computer Hacker Forensic Investigator (CHFI)

COST: $250

“Computer crime in today’s cyber world is on the rise. Computer Investigation techniques are being used by police, government and corporate entities globally and many of them turn to EC-Council for our Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator CHFI Certification Program. Computer Security and Computer investigations are changing terms. More tools are invented daily for conducting Computer Investigations, be it computer crime, digital forensics, computer investigations, or even standard computer data recovery, The tools and techniques covered in EC-Council’s CHFI program will prepare the student to conduct computer investigations using groundbreaking digital forensics technologies.”

Learn more about this certification here.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

COST: $699

“Accelerate your cybersecurity career with the CISSP certification. Earning the CISSP proves you have what it takes to effectively design, implement and manage a best-in-class cybersecurity program. With a CISSP, you validate your expertise and become an (ISC)² member, unlocking a broad array of exclusive resources, educational tools, and peer-to-peer networking opportunities. Prove your skills, advance your career, and gain the support of a community of cybersecurity leaders here to support you throughout your career.”

Learn more about this certification here.

CompTIA Security+

COST: $349

“CompTIA Security+ is the first security certification IT professionals should earn. It establishes the core knowledge required of any cybersecurity role and provides a springboard to intermediate-level cybersecurity jobs. Security+ incorporates best practices in hands-on trouble-shooting to ensure security professionals have practical security problem-solving skills. Cybersecurity professionals with Security+ know how to address security incidents – not just identify them.”

Learn more about this certification here.

GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

COST: $1999

“The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification validates a practitioner’s knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts. GSEC certification holders are demonstrating that they are qualified for hands-on IT systems roles with respect to security tasks.”

Learn more about this certification here.

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