Certifications can be a valuable asset to your SAAS business, but they aren’t something you should focus on too much, since they are more of an extra bonus on top of what you need to succeed in the software industry. However, if you keep in mind that acquiring them will help your reputation and the quality of your services, then these certifications can be quite beneficial to acquire. Here are 10 security certifications you should strive to acquire as your SAAS business grows and expands into different markets and territories.
1) ISA-99 (Information Security Architecture Professional Certification)
This certification is managed by (ISC)2, a non-profit that issues numerous other certifications. ISA-99 covers nearly every aspect of information security and is often used as a career stepping stone before earning professional certifications. ISA-99 requires two years of hands-on experience and two years of education/training in order to be eligible for certification.
2) ISC2 CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional Certification)
The CISSP from ISC2 is one of information security’s oldest certifications. But if you’re going for a job at a company with a formal information security program and they’re using something like ISO 27001, they may expect you to be CISSP certified.
3) CCSP (Cloud Security Certified Practitioner certification)
The Cloud Security Certified Practitioner (CCSP) credential is designed for Information Technology (IT) professionals and managers who work with enterprise-level cloud solutions. Individuals with these skills are in demand by organizations of all sizes, across industries. CCSP recognizes security professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in identifying, analyzing, and solving complex cloud security issues.
4) ECSA (Encryption Control Server Administrator certification)
ECSA certification is available through IACRB. You’ll be required to pass one exam (available online or in a classroom) and fill out a short application. Then you’re off on your way with an ECSA certificate! With an ECSA, you’ll have access to high-level crypto that can help keep your data protected from malicious attacks and keep sensitive information at ease. Plus, an ECSA certification proves that you are keeping up with technology and know what’s best for your company!
5) CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker Certification)
The CEH is an internationally recognized certification and was developed by EC-Council. The CEH credential recognizes information security professionals who have mastered the advanced tools, techniques, and procedures of a professional hacker. While most IT pros associate hacking with illegal activity, it’s also used in a positive way to test systems and applications by authorized individuals.
6) CCNA Cyber Ops or equivalent certification
Developed by Cisco, CCNA Cyber Ops is a must-have qualification for any cybersecurity professional. It’s Cisco’s first certification that provides training on designing and developing complex network architectures that can detect cyber threats and respond effectively. Any organization or company employing security professionals should encourage them to acquire it.
7) CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor certificate)
The CISA certificate from ISACA is a highly regarded credential in information security, used by major enterprises worldwide. Credential holders are part of an elite network that can offer top-of-the-industry advice and solutions for business’s most challenging information security problems. To become a CISA, you must pass one three-hour exam and then have five years of work experience in information security.
8) CISM (Certified Information Security Manager certificate
The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2 offers one of several certifications geared towards security professionals. CISM covers management, not technical skills. Candidates should have at least three years of experience with information security and a master’s degree or CISSP certification. CISM has two concentration tracks: one in management, another in operational risk management. Operational Risk Management deals with assets, their protection and assurance that information assets are safeguarded against loss.
9) CSX Practitioner Level Exam v.3.0
The Certified Secure eXperts (CSX) Practitioner level exam is a highly technical qualification. It requires expertise in all aspects of cyber security and telecommunications engineering. Knowledge of emerging trends and technologies is also essential.
10) Microsoft MCTS in Azure Solutions Architect
Microsoft’s certification for Azure solutions architects is one of a number of Microsoft’s certification track focused on cloud computing and infrastructures. Candidates looking to acquire or maintain their MCTS in Azure Solutions Architect should have at least two years of experience architecting and implementing enterprise cloud services. From there, they can take an exam provided by Microsoft that covers designing and deploying services like storage, networking, service deployment options and backup strategies.
