CISSP vs CEH

ByLora Goody

 


One needs at least two years of professional experience in a particular area of information security to become a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). A candidate must have four to five years of paid job experience across at least two of the eight information security areas in order to be eligible for the CISSP certification.

CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) are both popular certifications in the field of information security. While they share some similarities, they have distinct focuses and objectives. Here’s a comparison between CISSP and CEH:

  1. Focus:

    • CISSP: CISSP is a broader and more comprehensive certification that covers various domains of information security, including security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering, communication and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security. It is designed for professionals who work in security management or have responsibilities across different areas of information security.
    • CEH: CEH, on the other hand, is specifically geared towards ethical hacking and penetration testing. It focuses on teaching individuals how to assess the security of computer systems and networks by using hacking techniques in a legal and ethical manner. CEH covers topics such as footprinting and reconnaissance, scanning networks, enumeration, system hacking, wireless network hacking, web application hacking, and more.

  2. Purpose:

    • CISSP: CISSP is intended to validate the knowledge and skills required for designing, implementing, and managing a secure information security program. It is widely recognized and respected in the industry and is often sought after by professionals in managerial or leadership roles, such as security managers, IT directors, and consultants.
    • CEH: CEH is focused on providing individuals with the skills necessary to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in computer systems and networks. It is primarily aimed at security professionals who perform penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and security audits.

  3. Content and Examination:

    • CISSP: The CISSP exam covers eight domains of information security knowledge. It consists of multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions, with a minimum passing score required to obtain the certification. Candidates are also required to have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the domains to be eligible for the certification.
    • CEH: The CEH exam assesses candidates’ knowledge of tools, techniques, and methodologies used in ethical hacking. It includes multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum passing score to earn the certification. While there are no strict experience requirements to take the exam, it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience in the information security field.

  4. Industry Recognition:

    • CISSP: CISSP is widely recognized as a prestigious certification in the field of information security. It is often a requirement or preferred qualification for senior-level positions in security management and architecture. The certification is accredited by (ISC)², an internationally recognized nonprofit organization.
    • CEH: CEH is well-regarded within the ethical hacking and penetration testing community. It is recognized by various organizations and government entities and is often sought after by professionals involved in security testing and auditing.