⚔️ 2. Offensive Security
(Ethical Hacking & Pentesting)
Certifications
These certifications focus on offensive techniques, vulnerability identification, and penetration testing.
| Certification | Organization |
|---|---|
| 🔴 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) | EC-Council |
| 🔴 eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) | INE / eLearnSecurity |
| 🔴 TryHackMe – “Complete Beginner” Path + Certificates | TryHackMe |
| 🔴 HTB Academy – Certified Bug Bounty Hunter (CBBH) | Hack The Box |
| 🔴 Offensive Security SOC-100 (more defensive, but still OffSec-oriented) | Offensive Security |
🔐 Introduction to Offensive Security
Offensive security, also known as ethical hacking or penetration testing, is a branch of cybersecurity focused on identifying, exploiting, and remediating vulnerabilities before malicious attackers can do so. Unlike defensive security, which protects systems from threats, offensive security actively challenges them to strengthen their defenses.
Professionals in this field think like attackers—but with permission—and use the same tools and techniques as malicious hackers to help organizations improve their security posture. It is a strategic, technical, and highly in-demand role.
🏆 Benefits of Getting Certified in Offensive Security
Professional credibility: Certifications are a recognized way to validate your knowledge and skills.
Better job opportunities: Employers seek certified professionals as proof of hands-on expertise.
Confidence and recognition: Boosts your professional reputation within the cybersecurity community.
Networking access: Many certifications offer exclusive communities, events, and forums.
Hands-on learning: Top certifications are lab-based and focus on real-world hacking scenarios.
Preparation for specialized roles: Such as penetration tester, ethical hacker, red teamer, or bug bounty hunter.
💰 Salary Comparison: With vs. Without Certifications in Offensive Security
Obtaining certifications in ethical hacking and offensive security not only validates your skills—it can significantly boost your income. Below is a general comparison based on market data from platforms like Glassdoor, PayScale, and Indeed (2024 estimates, U.S. and global averages):
| Position | Without Certification | With Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Penetration Tester | $45,000 – $60,000/year | $60,000 – $80,000/year |
| Penetration Tester | $60,000 – $80,000/year | $85,000 – $110,000/year |
| Bug Bounty Hunter (Freelance) | $0 – $10,000/year (inconsistent) | $10,000 – $100,000+/year (based on skill + reputation) |
| Ethical Hacker | $50,000 – $70,000/year | $85,000 – $120,000/year |
| Red Team Operator | $70,000 – $90,000/year | $100,000 – $140,000/year |
| Offensive Security Specialist | $80,000 – $100,000/year | $120,000 – $160,000/year |
💡 Note: These numbers can vary greatly depending on location, experience, specialization, and the prestige of the certification (e.g., OSCP, eJPT, CEH, etc.).
📈 Why Certifications Increase Salary Potential
Trust Factor: Employers see certifications as proof that you’re serious and skilled.
Demonstrated Skills: Many certs require real-world, hands-on testing—making you more job-ready.
Better Negotiation Power: With recognized credentials, you can command higher salaries.
Access to High-Level Roles: Some positions require certifications just to apply.
