With the estimated employment of IT security experts to be 32% by 2030 and the average salary range to be $49.80 per hour as per US BLS, the right time to get ahead in the field is now! However, an increased requirement for ethical hackers also demands you to showcase your abilities. Obtaining relevant certifications is the key to not just meeting but surpassing the expectations of your employers and outperforming competitors.
What is CEH Certification?
CEH or Certified Ethical Hacker certification is awarded to individuals capable of identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the target system. The certification is awarded by the International Council for Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). It is the proof of capabilities exhibited by passing an exam, which further requires fulfillment of eligibility criteria of experience and knowledge.
How to Get Started for CEH Certification?
Candidates interested in earning the CEH certification are required to take well-planned steps in the direction of earning the certification. Here are the key steps:
Earning a degree: They must begin by earning a degree in the IT field, which offers basic knowledge and skills.
Applying for the CEH examination: Post completing the degree, candidates can go on to gain experience and then appear for the examination. Alternatively, they can choose to learn from the official EC-Council training course designed for all skill levels. After successfully completing the requirements for eligibility criteria, apply for the certification examination and pay the fees.
Preparing for the CEH certification: It includes familiarity and an in-depth understanding of all the topics considered in the syllabus.
Passing the examination: Candidates must clear the exam by scoring around 70% in the theoretical exam. The score depends on the correct answer. Further, they need to appear for the practical examination as well, which includes 20 scenarios to be answered within 3 hours.
6 Tips to Prepare for CEH Certification
The preparation for the CEH certification examination will be more convenient if candidates follow these tips:
1. Refer to the official guidelines
Knowing an exam is one of the primary things a candidate must do before heading towards preparation. Candidates are advised to navigate to the official website and follow the references offered. They must go with the CEH blueprint, which is a one-stop solution for all the significant documents concerning CEH. It includes a handbook, blueprint, exam-related details and queries, eligibility requirements, and a course outline.
2. Formulate a study plan
Familiarity with exam details must be succeeded by choosing a strategy. The prime thing here is to either opt for self-study or learn from the mentors. Here again, there are two options: to enroll in the CEH official training course from the EC-Council or to learn from the authorized partner. The choice depends on factors like your experience, learning history, level of requirement of guidance, personalized problems in preparation and possessed level of skills and knowledge.
3. Set clear goals and prepare
Give yourself into preparation with proper dedication. Follow the syllabus thoroughly and aim for clarity in concepts. Expand your knowledge and skill base. Prepare a detailed study plan defining your schedule and goals. Focus on your weak points while leveraging the strong points and parts of the syllabus.
4. Engage with practical labs for real-world environment
The CEH certification exam is not limited to theoretical knowledge. Candidates must exhibit their practical skills as well. Work on the practical aspect through a virtual lab environment to enhance your capabilities. Go through the scenario questions and identify the approach required.
Practice is the key to ace any exam. Holding true for the CEH certification exam as well, you can practice using CEH practice exams. These offer a real exam environment while helping you learn time and stress management. It must be taken either by the EC-Council’s CEH assessment or through the training providers who understand your weaknesses and strengths.
5. Networking and interaction
Interaction by being in touch with professionals and aspirants from the field is important. Be active on the online forums, communities, and websites to learn about the experience of exam takers. Connect with the individuals to enhance your learning strategies while also taking guidance. Seek advice through both the successes and failures of individuals taking the exam.
6. Stay updated
Cybersecurity is an IT field witnessing the actions of innovative minds. Being updated gives the candidate an upper hand in knowledge and exam. It helps them to follow up on important topics while helping to revise their information. Follow quality blogs, conferences, webinars, and other means to remain updated.
Final Thoughts
Candidates yearning for CEH certification to mark their presence in the field of cybersecurity are on the right path. Holding global recognition, they can clear the exam with a dedicated plan for preparation. Guidance and practice play key roles along with the clarity of concepts. Ensure to get the best one for yourself while focussing on in-depth understanding and practice for both theoretical and practical parts of the exam.