🛡 Certifications

CompTIA Security+ vs CEH: Which Certification Should You Get First?

By eStudyIT 5 June 2025 7 min read

Two of the most popular cybersecurity certifications in the UK are CompTIA Security+ and CEH v12. Both open doors into cybersecurity, but they suit different backgrounds and career goals.

Quick comparison

CompTIA Security+CEH v12
LevelEntry-levelIntermediate
Duration6 weeks8 weeks
Price£950£1,200
UK salary£28k–£42k£40k–£65k

Which should you take first?

Take Security+ first if you’re new to cybersecurity or want a job quickly. It’s the fastest path to your first cyber role.

Take CEH first if you already have 1–2 years IT experience and specifically want penetration testing.

UK salary data (2025)

Related on eStudyIT: Cyber Security Analyst career guideCompTIA Security+ courseCEH v12 course

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