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Best network security engineer certifications
Network security engineer certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an network security engineer to employers. However, not all network security engineer certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a network security engineer are CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP), and Security 5 Certification.
Below is a list of the best network security engineer certifications. Obtaining an network security engineer certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
16 best certifications for network security engineers
| Rank | Network security engineer certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) | Cisco |
| 2 | Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP) | (ISC)2 |
| 3 | Security 5 Certification | EC-Council |
| 4 | Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Global Knowle... |
| 5 | CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS) | Cisco |
| 6 | Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) | ISACA |
| 7 | Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA) | Cisco |
| 8 | Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) | Global Knowle... |
| 9 | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA |
| 10 | Network 5 Certification | EC-Council |
| 11 | Security Certified Network Professional (SCNP) | SCP |
| 12 | Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) | Check Point S... |
| 13 | CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE) | Cisco |
| 14 | Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) | (ISC)2 |
| 15 | Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) | Cisco |
| 16 | Cisco Networks Certified Professional | Learning Tree... |
16 best network security engineer certifications
1. CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Network Professional in Service Provider Operations (CCNP SP Operations) validates knowledge and skills required (of a Tier II or Tier III support engineer) to troubleshoot and maintain service provider IP NGN core (PE-PE and PE-CE) network infrastructures. With a CCNP SP Operations certification, a network professional demonstrates knowledge and skills required to isolate network performance problems, implement proactive fault measures using operations management processes, frameworks, and network management systems.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP)
CISSP-ISSAP requires a candidate to demonstrate 2 years of professional experience in the area of architecture and is an appropriate credential for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who may typically work as independent consultants or in similar capacities. The architect plays a key role within the information security department with responsibilities that functionally fit between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program. The candidate would generally develop, design, or analyze the overall security plan. Although this role may typically be tied closely to technology, it may be fundamentally closer to the consultative and analytical process of information security.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
3. Security 5 Certification
The Security5 Certification is the entry level for anyone interested in learning computer networking and security basics. The Security5 program gives individuals basic networking literacy skills to begin high-end IT programs.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
4. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
CCNA certification is the first level of Cisco Career certification and indicates a foundation in and apprentice knowledge of networking. CCNA certified professionals can install, configure, and operate LAN, WAN, and dial access services for small networks (100 nodes or fewer), including but not limited to use of these protocols: IP, IGRP, Serial, Frame Relay, IP RIP, VLANs, RIP, Ethernet, Access Lists.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
5. CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS)
As Enterprises migrate toward controller based architectures, the role and skills required of a core network engineer are evolving and more vital than ever. To prepare for this network transition, the CCNA Routing and Switching certification will not only prepare you with the knowledge of foundational technologies, but ensure you stay relevant with skill sets needed for the adoption of next generation technologies.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
6. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®) certification program is developed specifically for experienced information security managers and those who have information security management responsibilities. The CISM certification is for the individual who manages, designs, oversees and/or assesses an enterprise's information security (IS). The CISM certification promotes international practices and provides executive management with assurance that those earning the designation have the required experience and knowledge to provide effective security management and consulting services. Individuals earning the CISM certification become part of an elite peer network, attaining a one-of-a-kind credential. The CISM job practice also defines a global job description for the information security manager and a method to measure existing staff or compare prospective new hires.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
7. Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA)
Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA Security) validates associate-level knowledge and skills required to secure Cisco networks. With a CCNA Security certification, a network professional demonstrates the skills required to develop a security infrastructure, recognize threats and vulnerabilities to networks, and mitigate security threats.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISSP has clearly emerged as the key certification for security professionals. In fact, in an informal survey of information security jobs on a major employment web site, more than 70% of the positions required CISSP certification. Corporations are demanding experienced information security professionals with the certifications to prove it to protect their information and assets. Our course has been prepared with great care to provide the most exhaustive survey of the CISSP information, test taking techniques, and preparation materials available in the industry. While other CISSP course providers require extensive reading and practice test preparation between completing the class and taking the exam, our students have found that the high quality of our course and its in-class practice test result in a minimum of extra time spent preparing for the exam.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? No
9. CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification is the sign of a qualified networking professional.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
10. Network 5 Certification
Technology today is 'networked' - even in the literal sense. Networks have become an integral part of mundane existence. It is inconceivable to think of communications exclusive of networks. Network 5 serves to expose the learner to basic networking concepts.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
11. Security Certified Network Professional (SCNP)
The SCNP program focuses on defensive security technologies, such as Firewalls and Intrusion Detection. The up-to-date security lessons and the hands-on labs bring the security networking world to the candidates.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
12. Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
13. CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE)
Cisco CCIE Routing and Switching certifies expert-level knowledge of networking across various LAN and WAN interfaces, and a variety of routers and switches.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
14. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
The Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) credential offers information security tacticians, with implementation orientations, the opportunity to demonstrate their level of competence with the seven domains of the compendium of best practices for information security.The SSCP credential is ideal for those working toward or who have already attained positions as Senior Network Security Engineers, Senior Security Systems Analysts or Senior Security Administrators.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
15. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
With a CCNP, a network professional can install, configure, and troubleshoot local and wide area networks for enterprise organizations with networks from 100 to more than 500 nodes. The content emphasizes topics such as security, converged networks, quality of service (QoS), virtual private networks (VPN) and broadband technologies.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
16. Cisco Networks Certified Professional
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? No
What is the best certification for a network security engineer?
The best network security engineer certification is CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP). The CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) is awarded by the Cisco Systems, Inc. this certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this network security engineer certification:
- To become a certified CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP), you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 3 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for network security engineers?
The most in-demand network security engineer certification is Cisco Certified Network Associate based on all active job postings. Having this network security engineer certification will give you access to more network security engineer jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a network security engineer career and salary?
The CCNP Service Provider Operations certification will help you to secure a senior security & network engineer position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A senior security & network engineer's average salary is $106,892 whereas network security engineers make an average salary of $88,322.
The most common combination of network security engineer certifications include: CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP), and Security 5 Certification.
Online courses for network security engineers to earn certifications
1. Network Security Support Fundamentals
Explore network security with the Network Security Support Fundamentals online course. Designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of network security, this course is crucial in today's digital world. By the end of this course, you will be able to describe the role of enterprise networks, explain enterprise network security basics, and understand network security operations. Perfect for beginners aiming for a cybersecurity career or professionals looking to enhance their skill set, this...
2. Palo Alto Networks Network Security Fundamentals
In this Network Security Fundamentals course you will gain an understanding of the fundamental tenants of network security and review the general concepts involved in maintaining a secure network computing environment. Upon successful completion of this course you will be able to describe general network security concepts and implement basic network security configuration techniques...
3. The Complete Cyber Security Course: Network Security!
Volume 2 : Network Security, Wi Fi Security, Wi Fi Hackers, Firewalls, Wireshark, Secure Networking. + Password Managers...
4. Cisco ASA Firewall Training
This course will cover functionality , setup, configuration, troubleshooting and Failover of Cisco ASA Firewall...
5. Juniper Networks Security Fundamentals
The Juniper Networks Security Fundamentals specialization provides students a brief overview of cybersecurity problems and how Juniper Networks approaches a complete security solution with Juniper Connected Security. Key topics include configuration tasks for initial system configuration, interface configuration, security object configuration, security policy configuration, IPsec VPN configuration, and NAT configuration. The specialization delves into foundational knowledge of security objects,...
6. Networks and Communications Security
Welcome to Networks and Communications Security Course! In the Networks and Communications Security Course, you will learn about the network structure, data transmission methods, transport formats, and the security measures used to maintain integrity, availability, authentication, and confidentiality of the information being transmitted. Concepts for both public and private communication networks will be discussed. Course Objectives 1. Describe network-related security issues 2. Identify...
7. CCNA Security Real World Labs - Cisco ASA, Network Security
Identify, lock down, and secure vulnerabilities in a small to medium enterprise branch network - real world training...
8. Ethical Hacking: Network Security & Network Layer Attack
Learn Ethical Hacking with Network Security, Sniffing, Subnetting, Networking, Password Cracking & implement Mit M attack...
9. Fundamentals of Computer Network Security
This specialization in intended for IT professionals, computer programmers, managers, IT security professionals who like to move up ladder, who are seeking to develop network system security skills. Through four courses, we will cover the Design and Analyze Secure Networked Systems, Develop Secure Programs with Basic Cryptography and Crypto API, Hacking and Patching Web Applications, Perform Penetration Testing, and Secure Networked Systems with Firewall and IDS, which will prepare you to...
10. CCIE Security ASA 9.6.1 Deep Dive: Labs
Master Cisco Adaptive Security Appliance (ASA). Learn About Cisco ASA OS 9.6.1 in An Easy Way.....
11. Network Security Auditing with nmap
Learn to perform network security scanning with nmap in the right way...
12. Ethical Hacking: Network Scan Nmap& Nessus Network Security
Scan networks with vulnerabilities by using Nmap& Nessus. Master Cyber Security, ethical hacking, network hacking skills...
13. Cybersecurity of Networks from Scratch to Advanced
Computer Networks Security Technologies and Tools for Network Admins and Cyber Security Officers...
14. Cisco Network Security Master Class
Learn how to secure Cisco networks...
15. Internet Security: A Hands-on Approach
Network security, attacks on ARP, TCP/IP, DNS, & BGP protocols; Sniffing/Spoofing; Firewall; VPN; How the Internet works...
16. CCIE Security v5 by Khawar Butt
CCIE Security Lab Bootcamp...
17. Computer Networks Foundations - Best Starter Course [2023]
Learn foundations of computer network systems in a simplified manner...
18. The Complete Nmap Ethical Hacking Course: Network Security
Become an expert in the ethical hacking and network security tool Nmap!...
19. Mastering Palo Alto Networks
Dominate and take control of all the features that Palo Alto firewalls can offer to protect and secure your network...
20. Master Class: TCP/IP Mechanics from Scratch to Expert
Networking Course, UDP, TCP IP protocol Suite, Flow and Congestion Control, CCNA and others, TCP/IP Complete Course...