Cybersecurity Certification Roadmap 2026
From beginner to senior professional
Want to work in cybersecurity but unsure where to start? This roadmap gives you a practical order of certifications—from zero IT background to senior roles like CISSP. The goal is simple: build strong layers of knowledge, not random badges.
🟢 Level 0 — No IT background
If you’re not confident with basic networking and operating systems, don’t start with Security+. Build fundamentals first.
- CompTIA ITF+
- Google IT Support (or similar IT basics)
Goal: Understand how IT infrastructure and devices work in the real world.
🟡 Level 1 — Technical foundations (networking first)
Security without networking knowledge stays theoretical. Learn IP, DNS, routing, and core infrastructure concepts.
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCST (Networking)
Goal: Be able to reason about traffic, services, and common network failures.
🟠 Level 2 — Core cybersecurity
Now you’re ready for real security domains: identity, access, cryptography, risk, threat modeling, incident response.
- CompTIA Security+
Goal: Get the global baseline that HR and hiring managers recognize.
🔴 Level 3 — Specialization
Pick a direction: offensive (pentest), defensive (blue team), cloud security, or governance. Specialize after you have fundamentals.
- CEH (offensive leaning)
- CySA+ (defensive leaning)
- Cloud security (AWS/Azure/GCP)
Goal: Build depth in one area and create portfolio-worthy practice.
🟣 Level 4 — Senior & architecture
Senior certifications can be powerful—but only if you have real experience. Don’t rush them too early.
- CISSP
- CISM
- Security Architect paths
Goal: Move toward enterprise security leadership and architecture.
💰 Cybersecurity salary outlook (2026)
Typical global ranges (very dependent on country, experience, and company). Use this as orientation, not a promise.
Entry-level
$55k–$75k
Mid-level
$80k–$110k
Senior / Architect
$120k+
Disclaimer: ranges vary widely by location, role, and experience. Certifications help most when combined with hands-on practice.
🔍 Security+ vs CEH — which one first?
These two are often confused. Security+ is the baseline. CEH is more offensive-leaning. Most people should start with Security+.
| Security+ | CEH | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Foundational security domains | Ethical hacking / offensive concepts |
| Hiring | HR-friendly baseline | More niche and technical |
| Best time | First cybersecurity cert | After Security+ (and networking basics) |
Recommendation
Start with Security+. Choose CEH next if you want offensive security. If you prefer defensive roles, consider CySA+ after Security+.
FAQ
Which cybersecurity certification should I get first?
If you know networking basics, start with Security+. If not, do Network+ (or CCST) first.
Do I need Network+ before Security+?
Not mandatory, but strongly recommended. It makes security concepts easier and more practical.
Is CISSP worth it in 2026?
Yes—if you have real experience. Without experience, it won’t unlock senior opportunities by itself.
Can I get a cybersecurity job without experience?
Possible, but harder. Combine certifications with labs, projects, and consistent practice to stand out.
🚀 Start now (the practical way)
Read the roadmap once, then take action. Consistent practice beats endless planning—start with the Security+ quiz and build from there.