Boosting your professional credentials without breaking the bank is now possible with free cyber security certifications. These certifications offer a cost-effective way to validate your skills, keep pace with evolving threats, and increase your career opportunities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best free cyber security certifications currently available, emphasizing their relevance in the modern digital landscape.
As cyber threats become increasingly frequent and advanced, the need for well-trained cybersecurity professionals is multiplying at an extraordinary rate. Not only large corporations, but also small and medium-sized businesses, government bodies, and non-profits are in desperate need for these professionals.
According to the Cisco 2023 Data Privacy Benchmark Study, a staggering 95% of the organizations surveyed believe that every employee in their workforce must possess a fundamental understanding of how to safeguard data privacy. This highlights the growing realization among businesses of all sizes that data protection is not just the responsibility of a select few employees but should be an essential skill for all personnel.
In addition, the study found that 98% of the surveyed organizations are currently reporting privacy metrics to their board of directors. This indicates that companies are taking a proactive approach to privacy management and prioritizing transparency with their executive leadership. The fact that such a large percentage of companies are monitoring and reporting privacy metrics suggests that cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue but a business priority.
All these metrics point to an ecosystem that is putting a lot of focus on cybersecurity. It means that if you are looking for opportunities in this space, then you need to demonstrate your competences. Certifications come in handy here.
In this guide, we have sampled the best free cybersecurity certifications to get you started. But first, let's have a brief look at why cybersecurity certifications are attracting such a huge demand.
For a deeper understanding of how to implement offensive and defensive cybersecurity strategies in real-world scenarios, refer to our detailed article. This information is crucial for anyone looking to develop practical skills in cybersecurity.
Also Read: Top Free Cybersecurity Courses
The Rising Demand for Cybersecurity Certification
Certifications serve as a reliable means to validate an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the field, providing employers or clients with a trusted benchmark to assess candidates' or providers' capabilities.
One of the primary drivers of the rising demand for cybersecurity certifications is the growing sophistication of cyber attack vectors. As the number of cyber-attacks continues to rise, organizations require professionals who possess a deep understanding of cybersecurity best practices, as well as the ability to detect and respond to evolving threats. Certifications offer a reliable way for individuals or providers to demonstrate their expertise, enabling them to stand out from their peers and demonstrate their value.
Another factor driving the demand for cybersecurity certifications is the increasing regulatory requirements related to data privacy and security. In recent years, governments around the world have introduced stringent data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the United States. Compliance with these regulations requires organizations to implement robust security measures and employ certified cybersecurity professionals, further fueling the demand for cybersecurity certifications.
Moreover, as the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work, the risks of cyber-attacks and data breaches have increased. Organizations are seeking professionals with certifications in areas such as remote access security, cloud security, and other areas relevant to the new work paradigm.
Top Free Cyber Security Certifications
They say the greatest step you can make in building a great career is to just start. But sometimes it gets difficult to start if you don't have resources. So when you get a chance to start at no cost or negligible cost, you should jump on it right away. This is the kind of chance that is presented by these leading free cybersecurity certifications.
If you are a Managed Service Provider looking for relevant certifications, please check out this guide on MSP certifications.
Important: The numbering in this list is not intended to indicate the relative importance of each certification. Thus, you should not assume that a certification listed at the top is more valuable than a certification at the bottom. Each certification on this list carries significant value and offers a good return on your time investment.
1. Certified in Cybersecurity by (ISC)²
The International Information System Security Certification Consortium, or (ISC)², is offering the Certified in Cybersecurity certification for free as part of their One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative. The goal is to provide at least 1 million people worldwide with an opportunity to enter the cybersecurity field. This course is 100% online and self-paced, so if you've been curious about getting into cybersecurity but weren't sure how to start without any cost – now is your chance!
These categories of people are especially ideal for this certification.
- IT professionals looking to stay current
- Professionals interested in transitioning into cybersecurity
- College students and recent graduates
- Advanced high schoolers or recent alumni.
Besides getting a strong foundation for a career in cybersecurity, you will also get the advantage of becoming familiar with the exam approaches for higher (ISC)² certifications such as the famous CISSP®.
Learners also get the privilege to access the massive (ISC)² network of professionals.
The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions, across the below five domains:
- Security Principles – 26%
- Network Security – 24%
- Access Controls Concepts – 22%
- Security Operations – 18%
- Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, Incident Response – 10%
Once you pass the exam, you can enroll to become an (ISC)² member by paying the Annual Membership Fee of $50. To maintain the certification, you need to earn 45 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over the 3 years validity period. So the 45 credits plus the $50 AMF grants you a new certification after every three years.
Additionally, you must consistently remain committed to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics which include:
- Protecting society and the common good in general
- Always act honorably
- Be diligent in service provision
- Protect and contribute to the advancement of the cybersecurity profession
Top benefits:
- 35% potential for higher salaries
- New skills that can be applied in day to day challenges
- Certified professionals have access to a wide range of (ISC)2 resources, including research, publications, and events.
2. Kali Linux Fundamentals (by Cybrary)
Kali Linux is a Debian-based Linux distribution designed for digital forensics, penetration testing, and cybersecurity auditing. It is a collection of powerful and pre-installed tools that are used for various information security tasks, such as vulnerability assessment, network scanning, and password cracking. It's widely used by cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts, as it provides a comprehensive suite of tools and resources for assessing and improving the security of computer systems and networks.
So the Kali Linux Fundamentals is all about helping professionals interested in the Kali tools, especially those that are passionate about penetration testing and ethical hacking. As it's a foundational course, it hammers the key basics: distribution, installation, troubleshooting, and navigation.
The main topics include:
- Basic terminology and history of Kali Linux
- The process of downloading and installing Kali
- Navigating the terminal, filesystem and the key commands for starters
- Management of network settings, users and servers
- Tools and resources for basic troubleshooting.
As for prerequisites, no previous course or experience is required. However, it is advisable to have a basic understanding of the common terminologies around networking and hardware.
If you ever wanted a certification that is practical enough to teach you how to use high level tools in the cybersecurity industry, then this is it. For perspective, Kali Linux contains over 600 tools for penetration testing. Getting your way around these tools alone will open you to massive opportunities whether you want to work in employment or start your own business.
Also read: Cost of penetration testing
Top benefits:
- Opportunities to collaborate and network with other students and professionals interested in Kali Linux.
- A user-friendly platform that is easy to navigate and use, even for beginners
- A certificate of completion to showcase your skills and knowledge of Kali Linux.
3. Introduction to Cybersecurity (by Cisco)
This course dives into cyber trends in addition to cyber security as the overarching subject. Not only will you discover how to shield your personal data online, but you'll also gain further insight into the cyber challenges that institutions face presently. During this course, you'll cover:
- What cybersecurity is and how it affects you
- Typical invasions, threats, and weaknesses associated with cybersecurity
- How organizations ensure that their systems are secure against attacks
- The most frequent threats, assaults, and susceptibilities encountered on networks
What's actually more exciting about the course is the fact that you need zero prerequisites since it is basically a beginner guide. A very friendly start to any rookie in the cybersecurity field.
The coursework consists of interactive content. You will have the opportunity to complete quizzes, participate in discussions, and work through simulations and other interactive activities that will allow you to apply what you have learned in a practical way.
You will also have access to student forums. These can be a valuable resource to connect with other learners, ask questions, and discuss course content.
The course is available in a multitude of languages that cover the entire world. This means you can take up this course regardless of your most comfortable language.
Top benefits:
- Foundational knowledge: The certification provides foundational knowledge and skills in cybersecurity, including an understanding of basic cybersecurity concepts.
- Industry-recognized: The Introduction to Cybersecurity certification by Cisco is a globally recognized credential that can enhance an individual's credibility and employability in the cybersecurity field.
- Personal development: The course provides valuable knowledge and skills that can be applied to one's personal life, such as protecting personal data and devices.
4. Cybersecurity Essentials (by Cisco)
The Cybersecurity Essentials by Cisco provides you with an in-depth understanding of cybercrime, security principles, technologies and strategies used to protect networks.
Here's what's offered:
- Various practical security principles and how to create compliant policies
- Implementation of effective processes for data privacy and availability
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities using Cisco Packet Tracer
- Security controls for servers, networks and applications
If you want to pursue CCNA or CyberOps Associate Certifications, it's a good idea to start with the Cybersecurity Essentials certification.
As a prerequisite, you need to have taken the Introduction to Cybersecurity or have knowledge that is equivalent to the contents of the course.
Top benefits:
- Comprehensive coverage: The Cybersecurity Essentials course covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics, which collectively provide a strong foundation for those who want to start a career in cybersecurity.
- Real-world scenarios: The course uses real-world scenarios and case studies to help learners understand the practical application of cybersecurity concepts. This approach helps learners gain a deeper understanding of the course material and be better prepared to face cybersecurity-related challenges in their careers.
- Industry-recognized certification: The course prepares learners for the Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification, a globally recognized certification.
5. Networking Essentials (by Cisco)
The amazing thing about the Cisco Network Academy's Networking Essentials is that no prior networking experience is necessary. This is great because it means that anyone interested in building a career in networking can start here without worrying about their past knowledge or budget – considering it comes at no cost.
This Networking Essentials course is ideal for professionals already working in the industry and looking to develop their networking knowledge. It is of particular benefit to those with software development or data science careers, and no prior experience is required.
What will you learn?
- How to mitigate and recognize security menaces from a home network.
- Verification and troubleshooting network and internet connectivity.
- How to plan and install a small company network employing wireless technology and connect it to the internet.
- Critical thinking and problem deciphering skills using the Cisco Packet Tracer.
The course is available in English, French, Deutsch, Portuguese and Spanish.
Top benefits
- Foundational knowledge: The Networking Essentials course covers foundational networking concepts, which play a critical role in providing learners with a strong foundation in networking.
- Hands-on experience: The course includes hands-on lab exercises that give learners practical experience in configuring and managing networks. This practical experience helps learners develop critical thinking skills and gain a deeper understanding of networking concepts.
- Career opportunities: The demand for network professionals is growing, and going through this course can open up a wide range of career opportunities in the field of networking. These career opportunities include network administrator, network engineer, and network architect, among others.
- Continuous learning: The Networking Essentials course is just the first step in a learning path that includes more advanced networking courses. Once you finish this course, you can continue your education and pursue more specialized certifications, such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification, which covers advanced networking concepts.
6. Ethical Hacking Essentials (by EC-Council)
The «Ethical Hacking Essentials» course by EC-Council is designed for individuals who are interested in learning the fundamentals of ethical hacking, including the latest techniques and tools used by security professionals to protect organizations from cyber threats.
This course explores various aspects of ethical hacking, including:
- Fundamentals of information security and hacking
- Analyzing network vulnerabilities
- Introduction to social engineering
- Password cracking tools and techniques
- Network attacks like session hijacking and denial of service
The entire course consists of 12 modules and takes 15 hours to complete, which is really reasonable considering the value you'll earn. At the end of the course you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
There are no formal prerequisites. All you need is a computer with internet and you'll be good to go. However, the EC-Council recommends that individuals interested in taking the course have a basic understanding of networking and operating systems.
Top benefits
- Continuous learning: The Ethical Hacking Essentials course is just the first step in a learning path that includes more advanced ethical hacking courses. Once learners obtain their CEH certification, they can continue their education and pursue more specialized certifications, such as the EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA) and the Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) certifications.
- Collaboration skills: The course emphasizes the importance of collaboration and communication between different stakeholders in an organization, such as IT and business units. This helps learners develop the soft skills necessary to effectively communicate the importance of security practices and policies to non-technical stakeholders.
7. Digital Forensics Essentials (by EC-Council)
Earning the Digital Forensics Essentials (DFE) certification is a testament to one's expertise in the fields of digital forensics. This certification not only showcases an individual's skills and knowledge but also provides immense value to their workplace and employer.
Companies seeking to hire qualified professionals with DFE certification can rest assured that the candidate possesses a strong foundation in forensic principles, practical experience, and a deep understanding of information security practices. This, in turn, maximizes productivity and ensures the protection of sensitive data and information.
This course is an introduction to computer forensics fundamentals and the investigation process. If by any chance you are looking for an ideal entry point to understanding digital forensics, then you should consider taking this one.
You will be introduced to various concepts relating to investigations such as:
- Computer forensics investigation process
- Hark disks and file systems
- Data acquisition
- Network forensics
- Investigating web attacks
- Dark web forensics
- Malware forensics
The examination consists of 75 questions and takes two hours to complete. The passing score is 70%.
The certification is valid for three years from the date of issuance, which is the day you pass the examination. Upon expiry, you can recertify by taking another exam. No annual maintenance fees are charged.
Top benefits:
- Professional recognition: The Digital Forensics Essentials certification is widely recognized in the digital forensics industry, and holders of the certification are viewed as knowledgeable and experienced in this field.
- Improved problem-solving skills: Learning the fundamentals of digital forensics provides individuals with the skills needed to identify, analyze, and solve complex digital forensic problems.
8. Network Defence Essentials (by EC-Council)
The Network Defense Essentials is a great starting point for those beginning their cybersecurity career.
The course covers a range of topics related to network security, such as:
- Key components on information security
- Identification and authorization
- Virtualization and cloud computing
- Data Security
- IOT device security
- Mobile device security
- Physical and technical network defense controls
- Network traffic monitoring
- Cryptography techniques, algorithm and public key infrastructure
No prior knowledge is needed; just a basic understanding of IT networking and cybersecurity concepts is recommended.
With 97% of the over 4000 professionals who have undertaken the course giving it a 5/5, this is certainly a powerful yet free course.
Top benefits:
- Increased job opportunities: Just by holding the Network Defense Essentials certification, you are able to demonstrate your expertise in network defense and can use it as a stepping-stone to pursue more advanced certifications or higher-level positions.
- Certified instructors: All instructors for the Network Defense Essentials certification are certified in the field of network defense, ensuring that they have the expertise and experience necessary to provide an in-depth learning experience.
9. Risk Management (by Open University)
The Risk Management certification is a free course that Open University and Rolls-Royce PLC have come together to offer. This collaboration has been successful in helping learners gain an understanding of modern risk management ideas within the context of a multinational firm with cutting-edge risk management techniques and best practices.
The course consists of 8 sessions and the university provides all the resources you will need to complete it successfully, including a facilitated workshop.
You will have the privilege to access rich case studies that play the important role of helping you to appreciate the application of this expertise. With numerous videos that explain all the complex risk management approaches employed at Rolls-Royce and other global companies, you should be able to find the learning here a smooth experience.
Upon completion of the course, you will have learnt:
- How to identify and understand risks encountered by organizations in day to day running of their operation
- The importance of reporting and management of risks after you immediately identify any.
- How to measure and assess risks in an organization
- Why it's important to monitor and report risks
- The various methods of risk management and mitigation.
- How to remediate cybersecurity threats
While the digital certification badge is not accredited by the Open University, it's a great way to demonstrate evidence of your commitment to the industry.
Top benefits:
- Exposure to real-world risk management scenarios: The course provides exposure to real-world risk management scenarios, allowing individuals to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
- Comprehensive course materials: The course includes comprehensive course materials, such as lecture slides, handouts, and activities, to help individuals practice and apply their knowledge of risk management.
10. Information Security (by Open University)
If you are looking for a certification where the learning starts by breaking down the importance of information and management for modern organizations, then this is it.
A key requirement is that you need to be familiar with an organizational environment in order to study this course. The organization could be your employer or even an organization where you are volunteering.
You get to learn the key basics of information security which will eventually put you in a good position to comfortably explain what information security is all about.
Here is a short highlight of what to expect:
- Appreciation of the value of information to modern day organizations
- Learn about the CIA triad of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability
- Learn how to relish the difficulties that arise when valuable information is being shared
- Access to top resources on information security.
Top benefits:
- Exposure to real-world scenarios: The course provides exposure to real-world scenarios, allowing individuals to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
- Expert tutors: The course is led by experienced tutors with expertise in the field of information security.
11. Digital Forensics (by Open University)
This free cybersecurity course introduces learners to the field of computer forensics and offers learners the opportunity to:
- Understand how to conduct investigations, analyze the facts and present them as digital evidence to relevant audiences.
- Go through the processes of locating, collecting and analyzing evidence from various devices
- Learn how to stay on top of the the fast changing technology landscape
- Master how to stay up to date with the ever changing compliance and regulations around digital forensics.
At the end of the the course, you will have acquired enough knowledge to:
- Explain the genesis of digital forensics
- Understand the difference between legal decision-making and scientific conclusions
- Appreciate the role of digital forensics and how it relates to traditional forensic methods
- Identify and be able to comfortably explain a minimum of 3 digital forensic investigation practices.
The course is properly suited for beginners in the field of digital forensics.
Top benefits:
- Multi-disciplinary: The course covers a range of disciplines, including computer science, law, and criminology, to provide a broad understanding of digital forensics.
- Community: The course provides opportunities to connect with other learners through online forums and discussions, creating a supportive learning community.
- Updated content: The course content is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure it reflects the latest developments in digital forensics.
12. Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization (by Coursera)
This course is designed to help learners understand system protection technology and methods. Those who can undertake it include students, software engineers and developers. The expectation is that by the end of the course, you'll have developed a deep passion and appreciation for cybersecurity.
The program aids in drafting and implementing cyber security strategies that will reduce the risk of data loss or manipulation. It also equips students with practical communication skills that enable them to engage effectively with corporate management regarding cybersecurity issues and enhance information and systems protection.
Four major topics are covered:
- A summary of the purposes of the cybersecurity discipline
- A summary of authentication and identification basics in cybersecurity
- An explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of security through obscurity
- Developing a long-lasting master plan for landing potential careers in the cybersecurity industry.
The key goal of the course is to help learners develop a passion in cybersecurity, and this passion then drives them to excel in their future endeavors in the industry.
It's important to note that as part of developing the course, interviews were conducted with experienced industry partners. This has contributed greatly to giving the course a critical customization that makes its concepts relatable to the real business environment.
Rather than just memorizing issues for the sake of passing the exam, emphasis is given to practical foundational aspects. A hands-on project is mandatory as part of the course.
If you are someone who wants to develop a long lasting career in cybersecurity, then this certification will give you a great foundation.
Top benefits:
- Industry-relevant: The contents of the course are designed to be relevant to the needs of industry, with a focus on the skills and knowledge required for a career in cyber security.
- Relevance to daily life: Learners get an opportunity to understand the importance of cyber security in their daily lives, providing practical advice on how to protect themselves and their personal data online.
13. Building a Cybersecurity Toolkit Certification (by Washington University in collaboration with edX)
This is a six weeks course developed by Washington University in collaboration with edX to equip learners with skills needed to adequately execute cybersecurity roles. The syllabus helps students build a professional cybersecurity toolkit, teaches them how to use various tools in different situations, and enhances their management and problem-solving skills.
This certification is built on the thinking that attackers can easily compromise the technical defenses, and so it's important that professionals go beyond just the technical prowess. They need to be multifunctional and agile so that they can quickly adapt. This is the kind of mindset that learners will receive at the end of the course. It's about being rooted in solving problems that are constantly changing. The method that worked today may not work tomorrow, so the professional must be willing to change and deploy a different method that will work tomorrow.
As a learner, you will benefit from the wealth of experience that comes from established thought leaders spread across business and academia.
Can anyone earn this certification? Fortunately yes. You simply need to be curious in cybersecurity and you are good to get in.
The Chief Instructor is David Aucsmith, Senior Principal Research Scientist in Applied Physics Lab at the University of Washington.
The basic version is free, but you can upgrade for USD 199 and gain access to more advanced lessons and benefits including a shareable certificate and graded exams.
Top benefits:
- Interactive learning: The certification features a range of interactive learning resources, including videos, quizzes, and practical exercises.
- Engaging delivery: The certification uses a variety of delivery methods to keep learners engaged, including videos, interactive exercises, and case studies.
- Networking opportunities: The certification provides opportunities for learners to network with cybersecurity professionals and potential employers.
14. ISO27001 Information Security Associate (by Skillfront)
ISO/IEC 27001 is an international standard for information security management. It outlines a systematic approach to managing sensitive information to ensure its confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The standard provides a framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an information security management system (ISMS) within an organization. The ISMS includes policies, procedures, and controls to manage risks and protect information assets. ISO/IEC 27001 is widely recognized as the de facto standard for information security management and is used by organizations of all sizes and types to demonstrate their commitment to information security.
Why does ISO/IEC 27001 matter? This is the first chapter of the ISO27001 Information Security Associate certification. Once you understand why it matters, you proceed to dig in deeper into the structure, scope, application, mandatory requirements for organizations, audit programs, implementation guide, roles and responsibilities for organizations. They also give interesting bonuses that train you to «become a bit better than you each day» as well as the key steps to follow in pursuit of growth. These bonuses go outside the technicals and focus on the person, which is a unique benefit that many certifications do not offer. So take advantage.
SkillFront has partnered with hundreds of exponentially growing companies to deliver this program adequately. These include: Bluehost, Shopify, Convertkit, Keep, Google Cloud, and Click Funnels, among many others.
An ISO27001 Information Security Associate training will empower you to protect confidential data and threats associated with the latest technological advancements. The learner is also equipped enough to respond to developing security threats and reduce the costs associated with unnecessary spending on ineffective defense technology.
Top benefits:
- Stronger compliance culture: Individuals who obtain the certification can help to create a culture of compliance within an organization, promoting adherence to security standards and best practices.
- Thorough knowledge of the ISO 27001 standard: You'll get an in-depth understanding of the ISO 27001 standard, its requirements, and its implementation.
- Better ability to assess third-party risks: The program provides individuals with the skills to assess the information security risks of third-party vendors and suppliers.
15. NSE 1: Network Security Associate 1 (by Fortinet)
The Network Security Associate 1 is the entry-level to the Fortinet Network Security Expert program. It highlights the current cyber threats and advises professionals on how to keep companies' information secure.
Not familiar with network security? Please check out this comprehensive article on network infrastructure security.
Anyone who wishes to learn more about the cybersecurity threat landscape can take up the NSE 1. The key topics covered include:
- Application security
- Fast truck workshop
- Network security
NSE 1 sets the foundation for NSE 2 which focuses more on Fortinet's solutions. Both Fortinet's and its' Partners' Sales and Pre-Sales Associates must complete NSE 1 before proceeding to the next level.
Students are required to register an account with Fortinet Training Institute. Fortinet partners must create an account on the partner portal before enrolling. If you are taking the course courtesy of your company as a partner, you must use your company's email address when creating your account on the Fortinet Training Institute.
Top benefits:
- Covers Fortinet's security fabric architecture, a comprehensive framework for securing distributed networks.
- Prepares participants for the NSE 2 certification, which builds on the foundational knowledge of NSE 1.
16. NSE 2: Network Security Associate 2 (By Fortinet)
While NSE 1 is mainly about the threat landscape as well as the challenges that organizations and individuals are dealing with, NSE 2 is focused on the evolution of cybersecurity in general. Here, you get to learn about the various products that have been created by different vendors to deal with the challenges.
In other words if you are passionate about cybersecurity products, then this is a good fit. Just as was the case in NSE 1, NSE 2 is also mandatory for all Fortinet employees and partners.
Besides Fortinet employees and partners, the NSE 2 is open for all individuals wishing to advance their knowledge in cybersecurity and security products. .
If you're a Fortinet partner, you'll be required to register an account on the partner portal before you can enroll. Make sure you use your company's email address when registering.
Top benefits:
- Fortinet offers a range of other certifications that build on the skills and knowledge acquired through the NSE 2 certification, allowing learners to progress their careers within the Fortinet ecosystem.
- The vendor-neutral approach of this course allows learners to gain a broader understanding of network security, which can be applied to a range of vendor solutions and can prepare them to quickly adapt to changes in the industry.
17. NSE 3: Network Security Associate 3 (By Fortinet)
While NSE 2 introduces leaners to vendor-based cybersecurity products, NSE 3 focuses on Fortinet products and the specific problems they handle. Any person keen to learn about the wide collection of Fortinet products is welcome to undertake the course.
The certification is part of Fortinet's NSE Associate designation and is valid for two years from the completion date. It is, however, renewed by completing any of the four NSE 3 courses in the NSE structure.
Top benefits:
- In-depth Knowledge of Fortinet products: NSE 3 provides candidates with in-depth knowledge of Fortinet products, enabling them to configure and manage these products with ease.
Also Read: The Basics of Developing Network Security Policies
Conclusion
In the past, individuals who wanted to pursue a career in cybersecurity were often limited by the costs. This often made it difficult for those who could not afford to pay for these educational resources to break into the field, regardless of their level of skill or potential.
However, with the advent of free cybersecurity certifications, this barrier has been significantly lowered. These free certifications provide a platform for anyone with a passion for cybersecurity to gain the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the field, regardless of their financial situation.
Moreover, the availability of free cybersecurity certifications is not just a matter of financial affordability. It is also a reflection of the democratization of education and information. By making these certifications available for free, educational institutions and organizations are opening up access to knowledge that was once the exclusive domain of a select few.
This leveling of the playing field is not just beneficial for individuals who are seeking to start a career in cybersecurity, but it is also beneficial for the field itself. The wider pool of talent that is now able to enter the field due to the availability of free certifications means that the field is more diverse and inclusive, with a wider range of perspectives and ideas being brought to the table.
Is it free