How long does it take to get a beginner cybersecurity certification?

Most beginners can pass Security+ in 2-3 months of study, eJPT in 1-2 months, and PNPT in 2-4 months. Study time varies based on your background - IT professionals often need less preparation.

Beginner's Guide

Best Cybersecurity Certification for Beginners 2026

Q: What is the best first cybersecurity certification?

For most beginners, CompTIA Security+ is the best first certification because it covers broad security concepts and is widely recognized by employers. However, if you specifically want penetration testing, start with eJPT or PNPT instead.

Q: Should I get Security+ or eJPT first?

Get Security+ if you want a broad foundation in cybersecurity and don't know your specialization yet. Get eJPT if you're certain you want to pursue penetration testing. Security+ is better for general IT security roles; eJPT is better for offensive security.

Q: Is CEH worth it for beginners?

CEH is generally not recommended for beginners due to its high cost ($2,000+) and theoretical focus. For the same budget, you could get multiple practical certifications (eJPT + PNPT + Security+) that teach more hands-on skills.

Starting your cybersecurity career? Here's our honest guide to choosing your first certification based on your goals, budget, and learning style.

Quick Recommendations

General Cybersecurity

Security+

$392 | 2-3 months

Pentesting (Easiest)

eJPT

$249 | 1-2 months

Pentesting (Practical)

PNPT

$399 | 2-4 months

Blue Team

BTL1

$499 | 2-3 months

TL;DR - Our Top Pick

For most beginners, we recommend starting with eJPT or Security+ depending on your path:

Want to hack things? Start with eJPT ($249), then PNPT, then OSCP
General security career? Start with Security+ ($392), widely recognized
Defend networks (Blue Team)? Start with Security+, then BTL1

Beginner Certification Comparison

Certification	Price	Difficulty	Study Time	Type	Best For
eJPT	$249	Easy	1-2 months	Offensive	Absolute beginners
Security+	$392	Easy-Med	2-3 months	General	Career foundation
PNPT	$399	Moderate	2-4 months	Offensive	Practical pentesting
CPTS	$490	Moderate	3-5 months	Offensive	HTB enthusiasts
CEH	$2,000+	Easy	1-2 months	General	HR checkboxes

Detailed Breakdown

eJPT

INE Security

$249

The eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) is the easiest entry point into offensive security certifications. It's designed specifically for people with zero pentesting experience.

Why We Recommend It:

Most affordable pentesting cert
48-hour exam (no time pressure)
Excellent training material included
Perfect first cert for hackers

Limitations:

Less recognized than Security+
Doesn't cover web apps deeply
May be "too easy" for IT pros

Full eJPT Review

Security+

CompTIA

$392

CompTIA Security+ is the industry's most recognized entry-level security certification. If you're not sure what you want to specialize in, this is your best bet.

Why We Recommend It:

DoD 8570 compliant (gov jobs)
Universally recognized by HR
Covers broad security concepts
Great for career changers

Limitations:

Theory-heavy, not practical
Doesn't teach pentesting
Requires renewal every 3 years

Full Security+ Review

PNPT

TCM Security

$399

Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT) is a practical pentesting cert that bridges the gap between eJPT and OSCP. Best value for money in the practical cert space.

Why We Recommend It:

Excellent value ($399 all-in)
Report writing focus (real skill)
5-day exam, less stressful
Perfect OSCP stepping stone

Limitations:

Less recognized than OSCP
Newer cert, still building rep
Moderate difficulty (not easy)

Full PNPT Review

Recommended Certification Paths

Penetration Testing

1 eJPT ($249)

2 PNPT ($399)

3 OSCP ($1,749)

Total investment: ~$2,400

General Security

1 Security+ ($392)

2 CySA+ ($392)

3 CISSP ($749)

Total investment: ~$1,500

Blue Team / SOC

1 Security+ ($392)

2 BTL1 ($499)

3 GCIH ($2,499)

Total investment: ~$3,400

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best first cybersecurity certification?

For most beginners, CompTIA Security+ is the best first certification because it covers broad security concepts and is widely recognized by employers. However, if you specifically want penetration testing, start with eJPT or PNPT instead.

Should I get Security+ or eJPT first?

Get Security+ if you want a broad foundation in cybersecurity and don't know your specialization yet. Get eJPT if you're certain you want to pursue penetration testing. Security+ is better for general IT security roles; eJPT is better for offensive security.

Can I get a cybersecurity job with no certifications?

Yes, but it's harder. Many employers use certifications as a filter for applicants. Without certifications, you'll need to demonstrate skills through CTF achievements, bug bounty programs, home labs, or relevant IT experience.

Is CEH worth it for beginners?

Generally, no. CEH costs $2,000+ and is mostly theoretical (multiple choice exam). For the same budget, you could get eJPT + PNPT + Security+ and learn significantly more practical skills. CEH is only worth it if an employer specifically requires it.

How long does it take to get a beginner certification?

eJPT: 1-2 months | Security+: 2-3 months | PNPT: 2-4 months

Study time varies based on your background - IT professionals often need less preparation. Plan for 1-2 hours of study per day.

Ready to Start?

Explore our detailed reviews of each certification to find your perfect match.

eJPT Review Security+ Review PNPT Review All Certs

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