CompTIA Cloud+
Unlike most of the other certifications on this list, the CompTIA Cloud+ certification offers more general cloud training. However, cloud security features prominently in its curriculum: candidates will learn about vulnerability management, compliance, and security controls. Since CompTIA Cloud+ also provides instruction in cloud architecture, deployment, operations, troubleshooting, and DevOps fundamentals, it can be extremely useful for professionals who want a broader context when learning about cloud security. The exam, which is proctored online or onsite, consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and is performance-based. Professionals must renew their certification by taking 50 continuing education units (CEUs) within three years.
To qualify for the exam, you must have five years of experience in IT, including at least two to three years as a systems administrator or cloud engineer.
Training Fees: CompTIA Cloud+ offers three packages, including the exam voucher: a self-guided study guide for $475, an exam preparation option for $591, and an eLearning product for $1,059.
Exam Fee: $369 (can be financed monthly)
EC-Council Certified Cloud Security Engineer
The EC Council offers the Certified Cloud Security Engineer (C|CSE) certification. This certification is notable for its comprehensive approach: Rather than being vendor-agnostic, the C|CSE certification provides training on three of the most popular cloud services: AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. The certification also provides general best practices in configuration, security, penetration testing, incident response, business continuity, and disaster recovery. The target audience for this certification includes information security professionals, cybersecurity engineers and analysts, and network security administrators. Candidates must score a 70% on a 125-question multiple-choice exam to earn the C|CSE certification.
To qualify for the exam, you must have two years of experience in the IT field.
Training Fee: Test preparation is available for $99, although EC-Council also offers live and group training that candidates can inquire about.
Exam fee: $100 (can be waived by formal training)
GIAC Cloud Threat Detection (GCTD)
GIAC has extensive cloud security offerings, including GIAC Cloud Security Automation (GCSA). One of its newest offerings is the GIAC Cloud Threat Detection (GCTD) certification, designed for security analysts, engineers, architects, vulnerability assessors, and other professionals involved in monitoring, threat detection, and incident response. The certification covers automation, cloud management, threat intelligence, and host and network logging. Candidates must score at least 70% on the 75-question on-site or online test. Certificate holders must earn 36 credit hours over four years to maintain GCTD validity.
Training Fees: GIAC offers live GCTD training in various cities around the world, starting at $8,020 USD.
Exam fee: $979
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