The Top 5 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Certifications

One of the most sought-after professions in the world today is cybersecurity. Protecting sensitive data has evolved into a top responsibility for businesses as they digitise their operations. However, there is a problem: even entry-level positions increasingly require one to two years of experience.

For beginners, the right certification can open the first door to this field. But not every certification guarantees results. Some sound impressive but have little impact during interviews. Here are the top five entry-level cybersecurity certifications that employers genuinely value in 2025.

1. CompTIA Security+

Why it’s worth it:
CompTIA Security+ is often seen as the global standard for entry-level cybersecurity roles. It is DoD 8570-compliant and widely recognised across industries. The certification builds strong fundamentals in risk management, threat identification, cryptography, and incident response.

Key facts:

• Experience required: 6–12 months of basic IT knowledge

   

• Cost: About $392

   

• Who hires: Government departments, IT firms, and managed service providers

   

Pro tip: Use online labs such as TryHackMe or Practical Labs to gain hands-on experience before the exam.

2. Google Cybersecurity Certificate (via Coursera)

Why it’s worth it:
This six-month online certificate, developed by Google, introduces beginners to real-world tools such as Wireshark, Splunk, and Python. It also includes interview practice, job-readiness modules, and access to Google’s hiring network.

Key facts:

• Duration: About six months (part-time)

   

• Cost: Around $49/month

   

• Who hires: Start-ups, SMEs, and entry-level security teams

   

Pro tip: Build your LinkedIn profile alongside this course and connect with cybersecurity professionals for visibility.

3. ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

Why it’s worth it:
The ISC2 CC certification is a free beginner programme offered by the same organisation that manages CISSP. It covers the five foundational domains of cyber security diploma — Security Principles, Network Security, Access Control, Security Operations, and Risk Management.

Key facts:

• Duration: One to two months of preparation

   

• Cost: Free (for a limited period)

   

• Who hires: Companies hiring SOC trainees or junior analysts

   

Pro tip: This certification is a strong first step before pursuing CompTIA Security+ or CySA+.

4. eJPT (Junior Penetration Tester) by INE

Why it’s worth it:
This is one of the few certifications where you hack into real systems in a lab setup. It is ideal for those drawn to ethical hacking, penetration testing, or red teaming. Unlike theory-heavy exams, the eJPT tests your practical knowledge directly.

Key facts:

• Duration: 1–3 months

   

• Cost: About $249

   

• Who hires: Security consultancies, red teams, and offensive security divisions

   

Pro tip: Publish your practice reports on GitHub to demonstrate your technical skills to recruiters.

5. CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)

Why it’s worth it:
CySA+ bridges the gap between entry-level and intermediate cybersecurity positions. It focuses on behaviour analytics, SIEM tools, and detecting threats using data analysis — core skills for blue team professionals.

Key facts:

• Recommended: Security+ or equivalent knowledge first

   

• Cost: Around $414

   

• Who hires: Security Operations Centres (SOCs), managed service providers, and government agencies

   

Pro tip: It’s best suited for those looking to move from IT support into security analyst roles.