The 6 Best Cybersecurity Certifications for Beginners

Cybersecurity certifications are a great tool for beginners trying to break into the field as they provide proof of a certain level of foundational knowledge. Combined with hands-on skills, cybersecurity certifications can add credibility and help you land your first cybersecurity role.

To help you decide which cybersecurity certifications to pursue, we conducted multiple interviews with large and medium employers in Germany and analyzed job postings on popular German job boards, including LinkedIn, Xing, StepStone, and Indeed. This helped us determine which certifications are most in-demand and valuable for entry-level professionals, and which are less recognized and effective.

Why Cybersecurity Certifications Matter for Beginners

Cybersecurity certifications are more than just credentials — they’re a structured way to enter the field and showcase your commitment to cybersecurity. Here’s why they’re important:

• Credibility: Cybersecurity certifications validate your knowledge to employers, even if you lack formal experience.
• Industry Recognition: Many certifications are benchmarks for entry-level roles in cybersecurity.
• Skill Development: They cover essential concepts like risk management, network security, and threat detection.
• Job Alignment: Certifications align closely with real-world job requirements for roles like SOC analyst and IT security specialist.
• Compliance: Some roles may require specific certifications and credentials to meet compliance requirements.

Top Cybersecurity Certifications for Beginners in 2025

We’ve compiled a list of the most relevant cybersecurity certifications for beginners, including which topics are covered, estimated study time, and potential job roles and their demand in the job market.

1. CompTIA Security+

• Overview: One of the most recognized entry-level certifications, CompTIA Security+ provides a strong foundation in cybersecurity principles, making it a top choice for beginners.
• What You’ll Learn:
  • Basics of network security, cryptography, and risk management.
  • Threat analysis, incident response, and securing devices and applications.
• Study Time: ~120 hours.
• Cost: ~€375 for the exam (excluding training resources).
• Job Roles It Prepares You For: SOC analyst, IT security administrator, junior cybersecurity analyst.
• Job Posting Demand Score: 9/10
• Why Get This Certification: Security+ is highly valued by employers and provides a well-rounded introduction to cybersecurity concepts, preparing you for multiple junior roles.

2. CompTIA Network+

• Overview: Focuses on networking concepts, an essential prerequisite for understanding cybersecurity at a deeper level.
• What You’ll Learn:
  • Networking protocols, architecture, and troubleshooting.
  • Configuring and securing wired and wireless networks.
  • Basics of network design and implementation.
• Study Time: ~100 hours.
• Cost: ~€340 for the exam (training resources extra).
• Job Roles It Prepares You For: Network administrator, junior cybersecurity analyst, IT technician.
• Job Posting Demand Score: 7/10
• Why Get This Certification: Networking knowledge is a cornerstone of cybersecurity, and this certification sets you up for roles requiring strong network security fundamentals.

3. ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

• Overview: Designed for beginners, this certification from ISC2 offers a pathway to more advanced credentials like CISSP.
• What You’ll Learn:
  • Security principles, risk management, and compliance basics.
  • Governance, incident response, and security operations.
• Study Time: ~90 hours.
• Cost: Free training offered by ISC2, with a €185 exam fee.
• Job Roles It Prepares You For: Cybersecurity technician, junior SOC analyst, IT support specialist.
• Job Posting Demand Score: 8/10
• Why Get This Certification: A beginner-friendly certification that’s gaining recognition in job markets for providing a solid foundation in cybersecurity.

4. Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate

• Overview: A Coursera-based certification offering practical, hands-on cybersecurity training for beginners.
• What You’ll Learn:
  • Cybersecurity fundamentals, including threat management and incident response.
  • Hands-on experience with Google’s tools and real-world simulations.
• Study Time: ~30 hours.
• Cost: ~€37/month subscription to Coursera.
• Job Roles It Prepares You For: IT security analyst, cybersecurity technician, help desk analyst.
• Job Posting Demand Score: 2/10
• Why Get This Certification: A low-cost, practical certification ideal for beginners who prefer interactive and flexible online learning.

5. Hack The Box Certified Defensive Security Analyst (HTB CDSA)

• Overview: A hands-on certification focused on defensive security and SOC operations, designed for those interested in practical, real-world cybersecurity skills.
• What You’ll Learn:
  • Threat detection, SOC tools, and defensive strategies.
  • Incident handling in real-world scenarios.
• Study Time: ~120 hours.
• Cost: ~€330 for the exam.
• Job Roles It Prepares You For: SOC analyst, defensive security specialist, incident responder.
• Job Posting Demand Score: 6.5/10
• Why Get This Certification: Ideal for those looking to specialize in defensive cybersecurity with a focus on practical, job-ready skills.

6. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

• Overview: CEH focuses on offensive security and penetration testing, teaching the mindset and tools used by attackers to secure systems.
• What You’ll Learn:
  • Penetration testing and vulnerability analysis.
  • Ethical hacking principles and exploitation techniques.
• Study Time: ~150 hours.
• Cost: ~€1,100 for training and exam bundle.
• Job Roles It Prepares You For: Penetration tester, red team member, vulnerability analyst.
• Job Posting Demand Score: 8/10
• Why Get This Certification: A valuable credential for those pursuing a career in ethical hacking or offensive security roles.

Certifications are just the beginning – the next steps

While certifications are essential for breaking into cybersecurity, they’re only part of the equation. Employers increasingly value hands-on experience, problem-solving skills, and a strong cybersecurity mindset. To stand out, you should:

• Build a Portfolio: Work on personal projects like securing a mock network or running penetration tests on virtual labs.
• Practice in Real-World Scenarios: Many certifications, like HTB CDSA, include simulations to prepare you for the job market.
• Network in the Industry: Join cybersecurity communities or attend events to connect with other professionals.
• Improve your language skills: If you do not speak fluent German, improving your language skills can be very helpful.

Combining cybersecurity certifications with practical experience and critical thinking will give you a competitive edge.

Conclusion: your first step into cybersecurity

Cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+, HTB CDSA, and ISC2 CC are excellent tools to support your entry into the cybersecurity industry. With dedication, the right study plan, and a focus on hands-on experience, you can build a strong foundation for a rewarding career.

Advanced training programs like Cybersteps include preparation and testing for certificates as well as other aspects of hands-on training and career development, providing you with a complete program to enter the cybersecurity industry. If you decide to study and obtain certifications on your own, make sure to focus on the well-known cybersecurity certifications that have a clear value and are worth your effort.