In today’s digital-first world, where data breaches and cyberattacks dominate headlines, cybersecurity has risen to the forefront of technological concerns for businesses, governments, and individuals alike. As organizations increasingly migrate operations to digital platforms and cloud infrastructures, the need for robust cybersecurity strategies has become not only essential but existential. With sensitive data constantly at risk, a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce is critical to defending these assets against an ever-evolving threat landscape. Consequently, the global demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, leading to fierce competition for roles in this dynamic sector.
To meet this demand, professionals are seeking ways to distinguish themselves in a crowded job market. One of the most effective ways to stand out is through industry-recognized certifications. Cybersecurity certifications offer a structured path for developing and validating expertise in specific areas, allowing candidates to build their credibility and advance their careers. Among the many certification options available, the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and CompTIA PenTest+ have emerged as two popular choices for professionals focusing on offensive security skills such as penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. These certifications not only serve as benchmarks for knowledge and competency but also help open doors to more advanced and lucrative career opportunities in the cybersecurity field.
Understanding Cybersecurity Certification Paths
Cybersecurity certification paths are carefully curated programs that help validate a professional’s expertise in a given domain within the security landscape. These certifications signal to employers that the holder has the technical skills, practical knowledge, and up-to-date training necessary to perform critical functions. In a field where hands-on skills and real-world application matter immensely, certifications play a key role in workforce development and professional credibility.
For those new to cybersecurity, or those transitioning from related IT fields, certifications provide a stepping stone into more specialized and high-demand roles. The sheer diversity of certifications available reflects the expansive nature of cybersecurity itself. Some certifications focus on defensive measures like security operations and incident response, while others prioritize offensive strategies such as ethical hacking and penetration testing. Certifications like CEH and PenTest+ fall into the latter category and are best suited for individuals who wish to think like attackers in order to help organizations better defend their systems.
Choosing the right certification path depends on multiple factors including current experience, long-term career goals, personal interests, and the type of roles one wants to pursue. For instance, someone interested in breaking into systems to identify security flaws may gravitate toward penetration testing certifications. Conversely, a person more interested in analyzing malware or setting security policies might choose certifications that focus on analysis or governance. Therefore, a strong understanding of where CEH and PenTest+ fit into this broader certification landscape is vital for professionals looking to build a targeted and impactful career trajectory.
Cybersecurity Career Opportunities in a Growing Industry
The cybersecurity industry is undergoing massive growth, driven by the proliferation of connected devices, widespread adoption of cloud computing, and increasingly complex cyber threats. The shift toward remote work, digital transformation initiatives, and the rise in cybercrime have further intensified the need for skilled professionals who can detect, respond to, and prevent security incidents. As a result, industry studies consistently report a severe shortage of cybersecurity professionals worldwide, with millions of positions remaining unfilled due to the skills gap.
This shortage creates an ideal environment for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, where opportunities for growth, career advancement, and financial reward are plentiful. Organizations across various sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, defense, and technology are actively recruiting security talent. These roles often offer above-average salaries, generous benefits, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies. For professionals with relevant certifications like CEH or PenTest+, the doors to high-demand positions such as penetration tester, ethical hacker, and red team analyst are wide open.
The diversity of job roles within cybersecurity means that individuals can find a niche that suits their strengths and interests. Some professionals prefer the analytical rigor of threat detection, while others thrive on the challenge of breaking into systems legally to find vulnerabilities. Certifications help individuals qualify for these roles by demonstrating both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. In a market where employers are looking for job-ready candidates, a well-chosen certification can make the difference between being overlooked and getting hired.
Career Roles Aligned With CEH and PenTest+
Cybersecurity is a broad discipline encompassing numerous specialized roles. While some positions focus on strategic planning and compliance, others involve technical execution such as conducting penetration tests or investigating breaches. CEH and PenTest+ are particularly aligned with roles in offensive security. These roles require individuals to think like adversaries, simulating cyberattacks in order to discover and mitigate vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors.
One key role that aligns with both CEH and PenTest+ is that of a penetration tester. Penetration testers are responsible for simulating real-world cyberattacks on systems, applications, and networks to uncover weaknesses. They use the same tools and techniques as malicious hackers, but do so ethically and within legal boundaries. Their findings help organizations strengthen their defenses and achieve compliance with industry standards.
Another role that benefits from these certifications is the ethical hacker. Ethical hackers, also known as white-hat hackers, are hired by organizations to conduct security assessments and identify gaps in security posture. They often work closely with incident response teams, system administrators, and security architects to implement the changes needed to close those gaps.
Security analysts, while traditionally focused on monitoring and defense, also benefit from offensive security knowledge when analyzing threats or reverse engineering malware. A certification like CEH can enhance their skill set, enabling them to understand attack vectors more deeply and respond more effectively.
In each of these roles, the ability to simulate attacks and understand adversarial behavior is critical. CEH and PenTest+ provide professionals with the training and validation needed to perform these tasks confidently and competently. This alignment between certification and role helps professionals focus their learning and career development in a way that maximizes both their impact and earning potential.
The Impact of Certifications on Salary and Career Advancement
Certifications in cybersecurity do more than just decorate a resume. They provide tangible proof that a professional possesses the knowledge and skills required to perform specific tasks effectively. As such, they are often directly correlated with higher salaries, faster promotions, and better job security. Employers use certifications as a benchmark for hiring, promoting, and allocating responsibilities, making them a powerful tool for career advancement.
According to industry salary surveys, professionals with certifications like CEH and PenTest+ consistently earn more than their uncertified peers. This pay differential reflects the value employers place on validated skills and the confidence certifications inspire in hiring decisions. Beyond base salary, certifications can also influence eligibility for bonuses, contract opportunities, and leadership roles within security teams.
Certifications also enhance a professional’s visibility in the job market. Recruiters often search for candidates based on certification keywords, and having a widely recognized certification can result in more interview calls and job offers. In a field where competition is fierce and roles are specialized, standing out through certification can be a critical factor in securing desirable positions.
In addition to immediate benefits, certifications can also shape long-term career development. They serve as stepping stones to more advanced credentials and specializations. For example, a professional who begins with CEH or PenTest+ may eventually pursue more advanced certifications in red teaming, exploit development, or incident response. Each certification builds upon the last, enabling continuous growth and positioning the professional for senior-level roles over time.
Moreover, certifications demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning—a key trait in a field as dynamic and fast-changing as cybersecurity. Employers are more likely to invest in professionals who show initiative and a willingness to stay current with the latest threats, tools, and methodologies. By earning certifications like CEH or PenTest+, professionals signal their dedication to excellence and continuous improvement, making them valuable assets in any organization’s cybersecurity strategy.
What Is the CEH Certification?
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, developed by the EC-Council, is a globally recognized credential that validates a professional’s ability to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems using the same tools and techniques as malicious hackers—but in a legal and ethical manner. CEH is often regarded as a foundational certification for those entering the offensive side of cybersecurity. It equips professionals with knowledge of the latest hacking techniques, attack vectors, and countermeasures, all framed within a structured ethical hacking process.
CEH is designed to simulate real-world scenarios that a hacker might exploit. Through its curriculum, candidates learn how to perform reconnaissance, scan networks, identify weaknesses, gain access to systems, maintain persistence, and cover tracks—all with the aim of helping organizations find and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals. The certification emphasizes a hacker’s mindset while reinforcing strict ethical standards, preparing professionals to operate within the legal and professional frameworks expected by employers.
What sets CEH apart is its comprehensive approach to cybersecurity threats. It covers a broad range of topics including malware analysis, enumeration techniques, system hacking, wireless network exploitation, web application vulnerabilities, and cloud security risks. This breadth makes it ideal for individuals who want a thorough understanding of how adversaries think and act.
Skills and Knowledge Covered by CEH
The CEH certification is built around a core set of competencies that mirror the key stages of the ethical hacking lifecycle. These competencies ensure that certified professionals can assess the security posture of an organization in a methodical and effective way. One of the first skills taught is information gathering, also known as reconnaissance. This involves techniques such as footprinting and passive scanning to identify targets without alerting them.
Following reconnaissance, CEH dives into scanning and enumeration, where professionals learn how to probe systems for open ports, services, and other valuable data that can be used to craft an attack. This stage builds a technical foundation that supports deeper system exploitation, which is covered in later modules. CEH teaches a variety of exploitation techniques, including password cracking, privilege escalation, and buffer overflows, giving candidates hands-on experience with tactics used by real attackers.
CEH also covers the use of various hacking tools that are standard in the penetration testing community. Candidates become familiar with utilities such as Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, John the Ripper, and Burp Suite. These tools are used in practical labs and exercises to simulate real-world attacks in a controlled environment.
Beyond technical skills, CEH emphasizes the importance of documentation, reporting, and ethical considerations. Candidates are trained to provide detailed, actionable reports that help organizations understand their vulnerabilities and take steps to mitigate them. Legal and regulatory frameworks are also addressed, ensuring that professionals understand the boundaries of ethical hacking and the consequences of crossing them.
In recent updates, CEH has added focus areas such as Internet of Things (IoT) security, operational technology (OT) environments, and cloud-based infrastructure. These additions reflect the evolving threat landscape and the growing complexity of enterprise environments. By covering these advanced topics, CEH ensures that certified individuals are well-prepared to face modern cybersecurity challenges across various platforms and industries.
CEH Exam Details and Structure
The CEH certification exam is structured to evaluate a candidate’s knowledge of ethical hacking principles and their ability to apply that knowledge in practical scenarios. The current version of the exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within a four-hour time limit. The questions are designed to assess both theoretical understanding and applied skills across a broad range of topics related to cybersecurity and penetration testing.
The exam covers five key domains, each with a specific weight. These include information security and ethical hacking overview, reconnaissance techniques, system hacking phases and attack techniques, network and perimeter hacking, and web application hacking. Each domain contains questions based on real-world scenarios and use cases that professionals are likely to encounter on the job. The exam requires not only knowledge but also the ability to analyze and respond to situations in a time-sensitive environment.
Candidates must achieve a passing score that varies slightly depending on the version of the exam delivered and the difficulty level of the questions. This score typically ranges between 60% and 85%. EC-Council uses a statistical process to normalize exam scores to ensure fairness and consistency across different test administrations.
In addition to the traditional multiple-choice exam, EC-Council offers a separate practical exam known as CEH Practical. This hands-on assessment evaluates a candidate’s ability to perform real ethical hacking tasks in a virtual environment. CEH Practical consists of 20 challenges that must be completed within six hours. This optional exam provides further validation of technical proficiency and enhances the credibility of the certification.
To qualify for the CEH exam, candidates must either attend official EC-Council training or submit proof of two years of relevant work experience in the cybersecurity field. This prerequisite helps ensure that individuals have the foundational knowledge required to succeed on the exam and apply their skills responsibly.
Industry Recognition and Value of CEH
CEH is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the field of ethical hacking and penetration testing. Its reputation is built on years of consistent industry presence, a robust curriculum, and endorsement by a wide range of employers, government agencies, and educational institutions. CEH is frequently listed in job postings for roles such as penetration tester, vulnerability assessor, red team analyst, and ethical hacker. Its recognition across both the private and public sectors makes it a valuable credential for professionals seeking career mobility.
Many employers view CEH as a reliable benchmark for assessing a candidate’s readiness to perform offensive security tasks. The certification’s alignment with the latest industry standards and its emphasis on hands-on skills make it especially relevant in practical job settings. Organizations often look for CEH-certified professionals when building red teams, conducting internal security audits, or evaluating third-party risk.
The value of CEH extends beyond job placement. It also plays a role in meeting compliance and regulatory requirements. Certain government roles, particularly those related to the Department of Defense or other critical infrastructure sectors, list CEH as an approved certification under frameworks like DoD 8570.01-M. This makes it an important credential for professionals seeking to work in sensitive or regulated environments.
In terms of career advancement, CEH can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications such as Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN), or EC-Council’s own Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT). Holding CEH demonstrates a baseline level of knowledge and commitment that can help professionals qualify for senior roles or transition into specialized areas like exploit development, red teaming, or threat simulation.
Moreover, CEH helps professionals build a professional network and access resources through the EC-Council community. Certified individuals can participate in ongoing training, attend conferences, and contribute to forums that foster knowledge sharing and professional development. This community aspect adds long-term value to the certification and supports continued learning in a rapidly evolving field.
Exploring the CompTIA PenTest+ Certification
What Is the PenTest+ Certification?
CompTIA PenTest+ is a performance-based certification designed for cybersecurity professionals who specialize in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. Developed by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), PenTest+ is considered a mid-level certification that focuses on assessing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. It aims to validate a professional’s ability to conduct penetration tests across a wide range of environments, including on-premises systems, cloud networks, and web applications.
What distinguishes PenTest+ from many other certifications is its emphasis on the complete penetration testing process. Rather than focusing exclusively on exploitation, PenTest+ ensures that candidates understand the full engagement lifecycle—from planning and scoping to reporting and communication. This makes it especially valuable for professionals who are not only technical but also involved in the operational and strategic aspects of penetration testing projects.
CompTIA designed the PenTest+ certification with a vendor-neutral approach, allowing professionals to apply the concepts and tools they learn to a wide variety of IT environments. This broad applicability, combined with its practical focus, makes PenTest+ a popular choice for professionals working in small to mid-sized enterprises, managed security service providers, and corporate IT teams tasked with internal security assessments.
Skills and Knowledge Covered by PenTest+
PenTest+ provides a comprehensive look at the knowledge and skills required to plan, execute, and document professional penetration tests. One of the first areas covered is planning and scoping, where candidates learn how to define the rules of engagement, identify legal and compliance constraints, and prepare tools and resources for the assessment. This foundational step ensures that testing is conducted within ethical and legal boundaries and aligns with business objectives.
The certification also covers information gathering and vulnerability scanning. Candidates are trained to use open-source and commercial tools to collect intelligence about targets and perform automated or manual scans to identify potential weaknesses. This phase includes techniques such as social engineering, DNS enumeration, and vulnerability analysis using tools like Nessus or OpenVAS.
The exploitation phase of PenTest+ teaches professionals how to gain unauthorized access to systems, elevate privileges, and pivot across networks. Although the certification does not focus on deep exploit development, it ensures candidates understand common attack vectors and can use tools such as Metasploit, Hydra, and SQLMap to simulate real-world attacks.
Unlike some certifications that focus primarily on technical execution, PenTest+ places strong emphasis on reporting and communication. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to create detailed, business-oriented reports that clearly explain vulnerabilities, exploitation results, and mitigation strategies. This skill is crucial for penetration testers who must translate technical findings into language that decision-makers can understand and act upon.
PenTest+ also incorporates cloud, mobile, and web application testing to reflect modern IT environments. Candidates gain exposure to testing within AWS or Azure, evaluating mobile apps, and identifying common web application flaws such as cross-site scripting and SQL injection. By covering a diverse range of platforms, PenTest+ ensures that professionals are prepared for assessments in hybrid and cloud-centric infrastructures.
PenTest+ Exam Details and Structure
The PenTest+ certification exam is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to perform real-world penetration testing tasks and communicate their findings effectively. The exam consists of up to 85 questions, which include a mix of multiple-choice and performance-based items. Performance-based questions require candidates to complete tasks in simulated environments, making the test more practical and hands-on than traditional exams.
Candidates have 165 minutes to complete the exam. The questions are divided across five main domains: planning and scoping, information gathering and vulnerability identification, attacks and exploits, reporting and communication, and tools and code analysis. Each domain is carefully weighted to reflect its importance in real-world penetration testing scenarios.
To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a score of 750 on a scale of 100 to 900. The test is considered moderately difficult and is often recommended for professionals with at least two to three years of experience in security or networking roles. CompTIA suggests that candidates have foundational knowledge equivalent to CompTIA Security+ or Network+ before attempting PenTest+, although there are no formal prerequisites.
The exam is available through Pearson VUE testing centers and online proctoring platforms. Unlike CEH, there is no mandatory training required to sit for the exam. This flexibility allows self-starters and experienced professionals to prepare using a variety of study methods, including books, labs, and courses from authorized training providers.
CompTIA also provides continuing education credits for PenTest+, allowing certified individuals to maintain their credential through ongoing learning and recertification every three years. This ensures that professionals remain up-to-date with the latest tools, tactics, and threat landscapes in a fast-changing cybersecurity environment.
Industry Recognition and Value of PenTest+
CompTIA PenTest+ has steadily gained industry recognition as a valuable and practical certification for offensive security professionals. While it may not carry the legacy brand recognition of CEH, PenTest+ is respected for its hands-on rigor and its focus on real-world penetration testing practices. Employers in sectors such as finance, healthcare, consulting, and government increasingly view PenTest+ as a reliable indicator of job readiness for penetration testers, vulnerability analysts, and red team members.
One of the major strengths of PenTest+ is its alignment with job roles that require both technical and communication skills. The inclusion of reporting and client communication in the exam ensures that certified professionals can function effectively within cross-functional teams and contribute to both the technical and business sides of cybersecurity operations. This makes PenTest+ an ideal credential for professionals who want to work not only behind the scenes but also in client-facing or consultative roles.
From a regulatory perspective, PenTest+ is approved for DoD 8570 compliance under specific roles, making it relevant for professionals working in federal government or defense environments. While CEH has traditionally been the go-to certification in these settings, PenTest+ is increasingly seen as a credible alternative, especially for roles that prioritize practical skills over theoretical breadth.
In terms of career development, PenTest+ can serve as a stepping stone toward more specialized or advanced certifications such as OSCP, GIAC GPEN, or CompTIA’s own CASP+ for enterprise-level security professionals. For those in hybrid roles—such as system administrators or network engineers transitioning into security—PenTest+ offers a structured, accessible entry point into the offensive security space.
The vendor-neutral and flexible nature of PenTest+ also appeals to professionals working in diverse IT environments. Unlike certifications tied to specific tools or platforms, PenTest+ focuses on universal skills that can be applied across a wide range of technologies and infrastructures. This adaptability makes it valuable for professionals seeking roles in dynamic organizations where the technology stack may vary.
Overall, PenTest+ delivers strong practical value by equipping professionals with the ability to perform real-world penetration tests and communicate their findings effectively. Its growing recognition, balanced curriculum, and focus on the full testing lifecycle make it a compelling choice for anyone pursuing a career in offensive cybersecurity.
CEH vs. PenTest+: A Direct Comparison
Choosing between the CEH and PenTest+ certifications ultimately comes down to your career goals, learning style, budget, and desired recognition within the cybersecurity industry. While both certifications validate skills in ethical hacking and penetration testing, they differ significantly in focus, structure, and industry positioning. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your personal and professional trajectory.
Cost and Accessibility
One of the most immediate differences between CEH and PenTest+ lies in cost. CEH is notably more expensive, with exam vouchers often exceeding $1,200. If you include the cost of official training courses—which EC-Council strongly recommends for eligibility—the total investment can approach or surpass $2,000. This makes CEH a considerable financial commitment, particularly for early-career professionals or self-funded learners.
In contrast, PenTest+ is far more budget-friendly. The exam voucher costs approximately $392, and there are no mandatory training requirements. This lower barrier to entry makes PenTest+ more accessible to a wider range of professionals, including students, career changers, and those working in smaller organizations. For candidates with hands-on experience or a strong foundation in networking and security, PenTest+ offers a more cost-effective route to certification without sacrificing rigor.
Difficulty and Exam Format
Both exams are challenging, but their structure and emphasis differ. CEH focuses heavily on theoretical knowledge, with its exam consisting of 125 multiple-choice questions over four hours. While the questions are scenario-based, the format leans more toward knowledge recall than real-world simulation. The optional CEH Practical exam introduces hands-on tasks, but it comes at an additional cost and is not required to earn the base CEH credential.
PenTest+, on the other hand, integrates performance-based questions directly into the main exam. These practical tasks require candidates to complete penetration testing activities in simulated environments, such as exploiting a vulnerability or analyzing a script. This format offers a more balanced assessment of both theoretical understanding and applied skills. As a result, many professionals find PenTest+ to be more reflective of real-world tasks encountered in penetration testing roles.
While both exams are designed for intermediate-level professionals, PenTest+ may feel more difficult for those with limited hands-on experience due to its practical nature. CEH, though broader in content, can be more approachable for candidates who are comfortable with structured study and multiple-choice assessments.
Recognition and Industry Perception
In terms of global recognition, CEH has a longer history and a more established brand, particularly among hiring managers and government agencies. It is often the default certification listed in job postings for ethical hacking roles and is well-known even outside the cybersecurity community. This visibility can give CEH an edge for candidates looking to enhance their résumé or qualify for government-related positions, especially in regions or organizations that require compliance with frameworks like DoD 8570.
However, PenTest+ is gaining significant ground in terms of credibility and employer recognition. Many hiring managers now view it as a legitimate and sometimes preferred alternative to CEH, especially in roles where practical skills are prioritized over theoretical breadth. Its focus on the entire penetration testing lifecycle—from scoping to reporting—makes it particularly attractive for consulting roles, red teaming positions, and organizations that value operational effectiveness over brand prestige.
Both certifications meet continuing education requirements and are supported by active professional communities, but the EC-Council’s ecosystem is larger and more globally visible. CompTIA, while traditionally stronger in foundational IT certifications, has successfully extended its brand into the cybersecurity domain with certifications like Security+, CySA+, and PenTest+, further boosting PenTest+’s industry relevance.
Target Audience and Career Fit
CEH is ideally suited for individuals seeking to enter or advance in roles focused on ethical hacking, especially within enterprise or government environments. It’s a strong choice for professionals who want to develop a comprehensive understanding of how hackers operate, with a structured curriculum that includes legal frameworks, emerging technologies, and a wide array of attack techniques. CEH can serve as a foundational credential for those planning to pursue more advanced offensive security certifications later in their career.
PenTest+ is better suited for professionals who already have some experience in IT or security and want to transition into penetration testing with a focus on practical application. It’s particularly useful for individuals working in internal security teams, managed service providers, or consultancies where reporting and client communication are as important as technical skill. PenTest+ is also a smart choice for professionals who want a more affordable and accessible certification that doesn’t sacrifice relevance or depth.
If you are an entry-level candidate looking for broad exposure and brand recognition, CEH may be the better fit. If you’re a hands-on learner with technical experience looking to validate your skills in realistic scenarios, PenTest+ may offer more practical value and ROI.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between CEH and PenTest+ is not about choosing the “better” certification—it’s about identifying which one aligns best with your current experience, learning style, and long-term goals in cybersecurity. Both certifications offer valuable skills and industry credibility, but they cater to slightly different audiences and priorities.
CEH stands out for its brand recognition, structured curriculum, and strong presence in government and enterprise hiring practices. It’s a smart investment for professionals who want a well-rounded understanding of ethical hacking principles, are aiming for roles in highly regulated industries, or value global name recognition in their résumé. While the cost is higher, the payoff may be worth it for those pursuing traditional penetration testing roles or planning to climb the cybersecurity certification ladder.
PenTest+, on the other hand, is a modern, practical certification that focuses heavily on real-world tasks and the complete penetration testing lifecycle. It’s ideal for professionals who want to demonstrate immediate job readiness and hands-on expertise. With its accessible price point and performance-based exam structure, PenTest+ is particularly appealing to self-taught professionals, IT specialists transitioning into cybersecurity, or those working in environments that value results over credentials.
If you’re early in your career and looking for foundational knowledge and broad exposure, CEH may provide the structured start you need. If you’re already in the field and want to deepen your practical penetration testing skills without unnecessary expense or training requirements, PenTest+ offers a highly targeted and efficient path forward.
Ultimately, the best certification is the one that moves you closer to your career objectives. Consider where you are now, where you want to go, and which credential will best support that journey. In a field as dynamic as cybersecurity, the ability to learn, adapt, and apply your knowledge effectively will always matter more than any single certification.
Whichever path you choose, both CEH and PenTest+ are valuable tools that can help you break into ethical hacking, build credibility with employers, and unlock new opportunities in one of the most exciting and in-demand fields in technology today.