How Do I Get a Computer Security Certification?

A computer security certification is an exam that tests your knowledge in one or more security topics, including general security, penetration testing, ethical hacking, digital forensics, policy management and disaster recovery. Getting a computer security certification involves meeting the vendor's prerequisite requirements, if any, and learning the exam's objectives using relevant study materials. After preparing to take the exam, you will need to sign up to do so and pay any related fees.

Before starting the process of getting a computer security certification, you must first determine which certification fits your current skill level and will be most beneficial to your career needs. Some security certifications require years of professional experience or prerequisite certifications, so you should check with the vendor to make sure you can meet the requirements. Those new to information security should consider an entry-level certification that lacks prerequisite requirements and will help build a foundation for more specialized security certifications.

After finding a computer security certification that suits you, you must determine if the vendor requires you to take any authorized courses. Some security certification vendors won't let you sign up for the exam unless you complete a program through an authorized training provider. After completing an authorized course, you would usually receive a special code you can use when you purchase your exam voucher. If your specific certification doesn't require a course, then you still may benefit from taking one, because it can provide interaction with other professionals and helpful lab experience.

Locating your security certification's objectives is critical when preparing for the exam. Being familiar with the exam's topics will help you purchase the right books, videos and virtual simulators to help you study. While some exams can be passed by studying books and watching videos, some security certifications require you to demonstrate hands-on experience you can gain from working with virtual labs. Your experience level also is important, because you may simply need to review a book if you have comprehensive experience in the certification's content.

After you master some of the material, you can start using practice exams that you can either purchase as software or view online at no charge. Receiving a high score on these practice tests often means you are prepared for the real exam. Registering for your computer security certification may require you to contact the vendor with proof of work experience or an approved course. After receiving approval, you can schedule the computer security certification exam on the testing provider's website and pay any required fees.