The cloud has become a major pillar on which businesses stand today. However, with this growth comes an increased risk of cyber threats.
Cloud security industry certifications act as your defensive license, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to protect sensitive data and infrastructure.
These certifications are not just badges of honor; they’re essential for navigating the complex world of cloud security and securing high-level roles.
Let’s explore the top 10 certifications that can elevate the security of your company!
1. AWS Certified Security – Specialty
AWS continues to dominate the cloud industry, and the AWS Certified Security – Specialty certification is designed for professionals responsible for security within AWS environments. This certification tests your knowledge of data encryption, secure access, and incident response in the context of AWS.
- Who is it for? This cloud security cert is ideal for those already working with AWS services who wish to specialize in cloud security, such as cloud architects, DevSecOps engineers, and security professionals.
- Certification Path: AWS recommends a minimum of five years of IT security experience, including two years specifically focused on securing AWS workloads.
- Why It’s Valuable: As AWS dominates the cloud market, this certification provides significant industry recognition. It also validates your ability to architect and implement security controls in AWS.
2. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
The CCSP by ISC2 is widely regarded as one of the premier vendor-neutral cloud computing security certifications. It emphasizes security best practices, architecture, and operations in cloud environments.
- Who is it for? This certification is perfect for professionals who work in cloud security roles, such as security consultants, cloud engineers, or system architects.
- Certification Path: ISC2 recommends having at least five years of work experience in IT security, including one year in cloud security.
- Why It’s Valuable: The CCSP is globally recognized and offers a deep understanding of cloud security, from data encryption to compliance.
3. Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer
The Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer certification focuses on Google Cloud environments, teaching candidates how to design, implement, and manage secure Google Cloud infrastructure. It addresses a wide range of security tasks, such as configuring access, securing network configurations, and monitoring threats.
- Who is it for? This certification is aimed at cloud security engineers who work with Google Cloud technologies.
- Certification Path: Google recommends candidates have at least one year of experience using Google Cloud and three years of experience in the IT industry.
- Why It’s Valuable: As Google Cloud gains popularity, this certification can prove your ability to secure Google Cloud environments, making you stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
4. Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
The Azure Security Engineer Associate certification is Microsoft’s flagship cloud security cert. It focuses on securing identity, implementing platform protection, managing security operations, and data and application protection within Microsoft Azure.
- Who is it for? This certification is ideal for security engineers working with Azure who need to enhance their knowledge of cloud security tools and methods.
- Certification Path: Microsoft suggests candidates have experience with Azure services, security controls, and scripting, with an understanding of C# or Python.
- Why It’s Valuable: With Azure being the second-largest cloud service provider, this certification boosts your credibility in securing cloud workloads in Azure environments.
5. Alibaba Cloud Academy Security Associate
The Alibaba Cloud Academy Security Associate certification provides specialized training on Alibaba Cloud security services, including tools like ServerGuard and Anti-DDoS. As Alibaba continues to grow in the cloud sector, professionals securing its infrastructure are in demand.
- Who is it for? This certification is ideal for cloud security professionals focusing on Alibaba Cloud solutions.
- Certification Path: The training includes network security fundamentals, data security, and identity management, making it suitable for software engineers and cloud security specialists.
- Why It’s Valuable: With Alibaba Cloud gaining traction, especially in the Asia-Pacific region, this certification can set you apart in a growing market.
6. GIAC Cloud Security Automation (GCSA)
GIAC offers a range of security certifications, and the Cloud Security Automation credential focuses on cloud infrastructure automation, security orchestration, and cloud-native security tools.
- Who is it for? This certification is perfect for cloud engineers, security architects, and DevOps professionals interested in automating cloud security processes.
- Certification Path: Candidates should be familiar with cloud infrastructure, scripting, and automation tools like Terraform or AWS CloudFormation.
- Why It’s Valuable: As cloud security shifts towards automation, this certification highlights your ability to secure complex cloud infrastructures using automation.
7. CompTIA Cloud+
CompTIA Cloud+ is a more general cloud certification, but it includes a strong cloud security component. It addresses cloud infrastructure, security controls, compliance, and risk management.
- Who is it for? This is an ideal certification for IT professionals, system administrators, and cloud engineers seeking a broad foundation in cloud security, architecture, and operations.
- Certification Path: CompTIA suggests candidates have 2-3 years of experience in system administration or ce roles.
- Why It’s Valuable: As it covers multiple cloud vendors and security fundamentals, this cert provides flexibility for professionals looking to work in diverse cloud environments.
8. Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist (CKS)
The Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation trains candidates in securing containerized applications, particularly in Kubernetes environments.
- Who is it for? This certification is targeted at cloud engineers and security professionals working with Kubernetes.
- Certification Path: Candidates must first hold a Certified Kubernetes Administrator certification before pursuing CKS.
- Why It’s Valuable: With Kubernetes increasingly becoming the standard for cloud-native applications, this cert is essential for securing containerized environments.
9. Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK)
The CCSK by the Cloud Security Alliance is a vendor-neutral certification that provides an excellent foundation for cloud security, including incident response, encryption, and application security.
- Who is it for? This certificate is ideal for professionals new to cloud security who wish to establish a strong base in the subject.
- Certification Path: No work experience is required, making it accessible for those starting their cloud security journey.
- Why It’s Valuable: As a widely recognized vendor-neutral certification, CCSK is an excellent starting point for your cloud security certification path.
10. EC-Council Certified Cloud Security Engineer (C|CSE)
EC-Council’s C|CSE certification covers cloud security across three major platforms: AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. It addresses cloud security configuration, penetration testing, and incident response.
- Who is it for? This certification suits InfoSec professionals, cloud engineers, and network security administrators who want a comprehensive view of cloud security.
- Certification Path: Candidates should have at least two years of IT experience.
- Why It’s Valuable: By covering multiple cloud platforms, this certification equips you with versatile cloud security skills applicable across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Choosing the Right Cloud Security Industry Certification
Selecting the right cloud security certification depends on your career goals, experience, and the cloud environments you work with. Whether you prefer a vendor-specific certification such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud, or a vendor-neutral option like the CCSP or CCSK, obtaining a certification will significantly enhance your expertise.
For cloud security engineers, focusing on a cloud security engineer certification path can help align your skills with industry demands. By gaining these certifications, you are not only securing your career but also playing a crucial role in safeguarding today’s cloud infrastructure.
