FAQs
Here are some commonly-asked cybersecurity programme FAQs for the 1000 Pentesters for Africa initiative:
Are there any prerequisites for the programme?
We welcome individuals with a diverse range of backgrounds to our program. To join, you can meet the criteria in one of the following ways:
Foundational Knowledge:
Familiarity with Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
Understanding of Networking concepts (TCP/IP, subnets, VPN, LAN)
Basic Programming skills (Python, Bash, Java, C#, PHP, JavaScript)
Knowledge of Databases (SQL and relational databases)
Comprehension of Web Technologies (HTTP/HTTPS, cookies, sessions)
Formal Education:
Holding degrees in cybersecurity or related fields can provide a solid foundation for success.
Vendor Certifications:
If you possess certifications from reputable vendors such as CISCO, Checkpoint, Fortinet, McAfee, Symantec, or SentinelOne, you're well-prepared for our program.
Specialized Cybersecurity Knowledge:
Expertise in areas like cryptography, vulnerabilities & exploits, essential tools (Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP Zap), security frameworks, and best practices is highly valuable and opens doors to advanced opportunities in cybersecurity.
Foundational Knowledge:
Familiarity with Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
Understanding of Networking concepts (TCP/IP, subnets, VPN, LAN)
Basic Programming skills (Python, Bash, Java, C#, PHP, JavaScript)
Knowledge of Databases (SQL and relational databases)
Comprehension of Web Technologies (HTTP/HTTPS, cookies, sessions)
Formal Education:
Holding degrees in cybersecurity or related fields can provide a solid foundation for success.
Vendor Certifications:
If you possess certifications from reputable vendors such as CISCO, Checkpoint, Fortinet, McAfee, Symantec, or SentinelOne, you're well-prepared for our program.
Specialized Cybersecurity Knowledge:
Expertise in areas like cryptography, vulnerabilities & exploits, essential tools (Metasploit, Burp Suite, OWASP Zap), security frameworks, and best practices is highly valuable and opens doors to advanced opportunities in cybersecurity.
What does an ethical hacker do?
Certified ethical hackers are hired by organizations either on contract or as full-time employees to help improve the organizations security posture. The programme is a required baseline certification for many different job roles. Still, the function of ethical hacking itself involves a methodical practice of identifying, evaluating, testing, and reporting on vulnerabilities in an organization. Ethical hacking is a broad practice that covers many different technologies. By systematically applying the methodologies taught in the programme, ethical hackers can evaluate nearly any application or infrastructure they are tasked with. They are able to identify potential vulnerabilities, and provide recommendations on how those vulnerabilities can be remediated. Ethical hackers are highly trained in offensive activities and possess the critical skill sets and tactics to evaluate target systems and defend their own organization’s assets in real time.
Is the programme worth pursuing?
While this is very much a personal decision for most, holding a CEH certification communicates to your potential or current employer that you possess the baseline knowledge and skills to be an effective and productive member of the security team. The field of cybersecurity is rapidly growing with projected Job opportunity growth of 33%, according to U.S. Department of Labour. Globally there is an insufficient supply of qualified people creating amazing opportunities for certified ethical hackers in nearly every industry.
Is CEH a good certification?
We know not all certifications are created equal, and deciding to get certified is an investment for you in both time and money. As a certification body, we ensure the topics covered in our examinations and the training that prepares you directly relate to the job roles and skills employers need. Our ANSI 17024 accredited examination covers rigorous job task analysis, careful curation of exam domains, extensive work to build world-class training, and hands-on components to provide candidates with an intensive hands-on experience throughout the program. CEH is recognized by various governments around the world including the United States Department of Defense, GCHQ in the UK, and others.
How much money does a certified ethical hacker make?
Considering the global need and lack of qualified talent in the workforce, cybersecurity professionals are generally paid exceptionally well. As of August 2022, a simple search on salary.com for United States based positions show that certified ethical hackers make an average of $103,866 per year, with the 90th percentile earning above $130,000. Experience, education levels, and other certifications provide even more value. It is common to see starting salaries for Ethical Hackers that stretch well into six figures. We recommend searching your local job boards, viewing local salary information, and talking to potential employers to assess your own value in the market. C|EH has been ranked in the top 5 highest paid cybersecurity certifications for the last 10 years and continues to grow worldwide. Don’t just trust us. Here are a few examples so you can see what other research has concluded:
• https://www.zdnet.com/education/computers-tech/best-ethical-hacking-certification
• https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/which-it-certifications-are-most-valuable
• https://www.enterprisestorageforum.com/management/cybersecurity-certifications/
• https://www.infosec-careers.com/the-best-cyber-security-certifications-in-2022/
• https://www.cio.com/article/193586/top-15-it-certifications-in-demand-for-2021.html
• https://www.zdnet.com/education/computers-tech/best-ethical-hacking-certification
• https://www.roberthalf.com/blog/salaries-and-skills/which-it-certifications-are-most-valuable
• https://www.enterprisestorageforum.com/management/cybersecurity-certifications/
• https://www.infosec-careers.com/the-best-cyber-security-certifications-in-2022/
• https://www.cio.com/article/193586/top-15-it-certifications-in-demand-for-2021.html
Is CEH a popular cybersecurity certification?
Currently in its 12th version, CEH is a very well-known certification in the cybersecurity space. A simple search for global job ads on LinkedIn (as of August 2022) shows more than 32,000 available jobs requesting candidates with a CEH certification. That reresents more than a 72% market share in job ads placed by employers combined across Career Builder, LinkedIn, Dice, Indeed, Monster, and Naukri, while being compared to other certifications like SANS GPEN, OSCP, and Pentest+.
Is CEH in demand?
Like the answer to the question above, CEH is a popular certification. CEH is the most in-demand cybersecurity certification globally. It represents the majority share of job shortages requesting certified candidates. CEH is also recognized as a baseline certification by the United States Department of Defence for its cyber workforce. Furthermore, CEH is the backend content at more than 1,200 colleges and universities across the globe running computer science and cybersecurity degree programs.
How long does it take to become a CEH?
The course is designed for self-paced studies. Certification can be obtained within a few weeks to 12 months.
What does the programme cover?
The programme covers a variety of topics that centre around the knowledge, skills, and ability required to be a tactical cybersecurity professional. Students will learn a variety of tools and techniques in the programme including hands-on-labs access experience in a controlled environment, and collaboration with security professionals through Discord channels.
Is it a hands-on program?
Yes! The programme provides hands-on-lab experience in our Cyber Range to test your academic knowledge gained through the programme.
Is the programme available online?
Yes, our program offers flexibility to cater to a variety of learning preferences. We are proud to provide both online and hybrid options.
Online Program:
Our comprehensive program can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. You can participate in the course, access study materials, and engage with instructors and peers online. This option is ideal for those who prefer a fully remote learning experience.
Hybrid Program:
For those who thrive in a blended learning environment, we offer a hybrid program that combines online education with the opportunity to physically attend labs at our Johannesburg location. This unique approach allows you to get hands-on experience in a real lab setting while benefiting from the convenience of online access.
Whether you're looking for the flexibility of online learning or the immersive experience of on-site labs, we've got you covered. Your cybersecurity journey, your way.
Online Program:
Our comprehensive program can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. You can participate in the course, access study materials, and engage with instructors and peers online. This option is ideal for those who prefer a fully remote learning experience.
Hybrid Program:
For those who thrive in a blended learning environment, we offer a hybrid program that combines online education with the opportunity to physically attend labs at our Johannesburg location. This unique approach allows you to get hands-on experience in a real lab setting while benefiting from the convenience of online access.
Whether you're looking for the flexibility of online learning or the immersive experience of on-site labs, we've got you covered. Your cybersecurity journey, your way.
Student requirements
Stable internet connection
Great aptitude for learning and success
x86-compatible or x64-compatible 2.0 GHz CPU minimum or higher
USB drive
8 GB RAM or higher required
Wireless adapter
40 GB available hard drive space
Windows 10
Great aptitude for learning and success
x86-compatible or x64-compatible 2.0 GHz CPU minimum or higher
USB drive
8 GB RAM or higher required
Wireless adapter
40 GB available hard drive space
Windows 10
What do the students get?
Student administrative, technical, and mindset support
Welcome pack which includes a T-Shirt
Course materials
Welcome pack which includes a T-Shirt
Course materials