CEH vs CISSP: Which Cybersecurity Certification Should You Choose?
CEH vs CISSP: Which Cybersecurity Certification Should You Choose?
Choosing between CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) and CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) depends on your career goals, experience level, and the type of cybersecurity work you want to pursue.
🧩 Overview of CEH and CISSP
Certification CEH CISSP
Full Name Certified Ethical Hacker Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Issued By EC-Council (ISC)²
Focus Area Offensive Security / Ethical Hacking Security Management / Governance
Target Audience Penetration Testers, Security Analysts Security Managers, CISOs, Architects
Required Experience 0–2 years (formal training or waiver required) 5+ years in 2 of 8 security domains
🎯 What Is CEH?
CEH focuses on:
Ethical hacking
Penetration testing
Vulnerability assessment
Real-world attack tools and tactics
✅ Ideal For:
Beginners to intermediate security professionals
Hands-on technical roles
Aspiring ethical hackers and red teamers
🧪 Topics Covered:
Footprinting and reconnaissance
Scanning networks
Malware threats
System hacking
Social engineering
IoT and cloud security
🎯 What Is CISSP?
CISSP is a broader, management-oriented certification that covers:
Enterprise security policies
Risk management
Access control
Security architecture
Legal, compliance, and governance
✅ Ideal For:
Mid-to-senior professionals
Security managers, architects, consultants
Those aspiring to leadership roles in cybersecurity
🧪 Domains Covered:
Security & Risk Management
Asset Security
Security Architecture & Engineering
Communication & Network Security
Identity & Access Management
Security Assessment & Testing
Security Operations
Software Development Security
🔍 CEH vs CISSP: Quick Comparison
Factor CEH CISSP
Difficulty Moderate High
Technical Depth High (hands-on hacking) Medium (conceptual)
Career Stage Entry to Mid-Level Mid to Senior-Level
Cost ~$1,200–$1,500 ~$750 exam + annual fees
Exam Length 4 hours (125 questions) 6 hours (125–175 questions, adaptive)
Recognition Popular in ethical hacking circles Globally recognized for leadership roles
🧠 Which One Should You Choose?
Choose CEH if:
You’re interested in ethical hacking, penetration testing, or red teaming
You want a hands-on, attack-oriented role
You're at an early or technical stage of your cybersecurity career
Choose CISSP if:
You aim for leadership or architecture roles
You want to build or manage security programs
You have 5+ years of professional security experience
🧭 Final Advice
Goal Recommended Cert
Become a Pen Tester CEH
Move into Security Management or CISO track CISSP
Transition from IT to Security Start with CEH, work toward CISSP
Build well-rounded expertise Do both, in the right order
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