I am looking to get my first certification to break into the industry. I see Security+ mentioned a lot for entry-level, but CEH seems more specific to what I want to do. Which one do recruiters in the US actually look for more when hiring for Junior Security Analyst positions? I have a limited budget and want to make the most impactful choice for my career.
3 answers
If you are a total beginner, start with CompTIA Security+. It provides a broad foundation of all security concepts and is a prerequisite for many government and defense contracting jobs in the US (under DoD 8570). However, if your heart is set specifically on "Ethical Hacking," the CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) is more recognized for that specific niche. CEH focuses on the "how-to" of hacking, whereas Security+ is more about the "what and why" of general security. Most high-level professionals eventually get both, but Security+ is usually the more affordable and accessible starting point for a resume.
Are you aware that some job roles specifically require the CEH for compliance reasons, regardless of whether you have other more advanced certifications?
Security+ for the broad knowledge, CEH for the specialized title. If you can afford it, go for the CEH as it carries a bit more "prestige" in the hacking community.
I agree, Gary. CEH definitely has that "cool factor" on a LinkedIn profile that catches a recruiter's eye much faster than the more general certs.
Lawrence makes a great point about compliance. Many HR filters are set to look for those specific three letters: C-E-H. It acts as a benchmark that proves you understand the hacker's methodology and the phases of an attack. Even if you have the skills, sometimes you need the paper to get past the initial automated screening process.