Introduction to Ethical Hacking Certifications

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity threats continue to grow in sophistication and frequency. Organizations, both private and public, face constant pressure to defend their data, systems, and networks. Ethical hackers play a critical role in this defense by simulating cyberattacks to identify and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them. To enter this field, many aspiring professionals pursue certifications that validate their ethical hacking knowledge and skills. Two of the most popular and widely debated certifications are the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and CompTIA PenTest+.

These certifications serve as entry and intermediate points for professionals who want to build careers in ethical hacking and penetration testing. However, despite their similar goals, CEH and PenTest+ differ in approach, content, recognition, and practical applications. Understanding these differences is vital for choosing the certification that aligns with your specific career goals, skill development needs, and long-term aspirations.

This article explores the foundations of CEH and PenTest+, breaking down their objectives, exam structures, required skills, and alignment with industry roles. By examining these elements in depth, you can determine which certification is best suited for your journey in the cybersecurity field.

The Role of Ethical Hacking in Cybersecurity

Ethical hacking involves legally and systematically testing an organization’s IT infrastructure to uncover security vulnerabilities. Professionals in this field use the same tools and methods as malicious hackers but with permission and the intention to improve security. This work is essential to preventing data breaches, safeguarding intellectual property, and maintaining regulatory compliance.

Ethical hackers may perform a range of activities, including vulnerability assessments, penetration tests, red teaming, social engineering simulations, and risk evaluations. The responsibilities can vary depending on the industry, the size of the organization, and the maturity of the security infrastructure.

Because of the critical nature of this role, employers seek professionals with proven competence. Certifications help validate a candidate’s skills, making them more attractive to hiring managers. Certifications like CEH and PenTest+ serve this purpose by setting a recognized standard of ethical hacking knowledge.

What Is the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)?

The Certified Ethical Hacker, commonly known as CEH, is a credential offered by a globally recognized organization that specializes in cybersecurity training and certification. This certification is designed to provide a foundational understanding of ethical hacking concepts and to introduce professionals to various cyberattack strategies and defense mechanisms.

CEH covers a wide spectrum of topics, including network scanning, enumeration, system hacking, malware threats, social engineering, and denial-of-service attacks. It also delves into the tools and technologies used by hackers and security professionals alike.

One of the major strengths of CEH is its widespread recognition. It is accepted by many government agencies, military branches, and Fortune 500 companies. This recognition makes it a go-to credential for professionals targeting roles in compliance-driven environments, such as government defense or heavily regulated industries.

However, CEH has historically been more theory-focused. While it teaches students about attack vectors and cyber tactics, the main exam is a multiple-choice test that assesses conceptual knowledge. There is an optional hands-on practical exam available, but it comes at an additional cost.

What Is CompTIA PenTest+?

CompTIA PenTest+ is a newer certification focused on practical penetration testing skills. Developed by a vendor-neutral IT certification body, PenTest+ is geared toward professionals who want to perform real-world security assessments and conduct hands-on penetration tests.

Unlike CEH, PenTest+ includes a significant emphasis on performance-based assessments. The exam challenges candidates with simulations and practical tasks that reflect real-world hacking scenarios. Test-takers must demonstrate their ability to identify, exploit, and report on vulnerabilities in systems and networks.

PenTest+ covers the entire lifecycle of a penetration test—from planning and scoping to post-exploitation reporting. It evaluates a candidate’s ability to conduct reconnaissance, execute attacks, and create professional-level reports that include mitigation strategies.

While not yet as universally recognized as CEH, PenTest+ is gaining traction among organizations that value practical, job-ready skills. It is often recommended for professionals seeking roles in offensive security, red teaming, or vulnerability assessment positions.

Comparing the Exam Structures

The CEH and PenTest+ exams differ significantly in structure and evaluation methodology.

The CEH exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in four hours. These questions are designed to assess a candidate’s theoretical understanding of ethical hacking tools, concepts, and strategies. Topics include footprinting, scanning, sniffing, malware analysis, cryptography, and cloud security. The optional practical exam tests candidates through simulated scenarios but is a separate and more costly component.

On the other hand, PenTest+ uses a hybrid format. The exam includes both multiple-choice questions and performance-based tasks. This structure ensures that test-takers not only understand penetration testing concepts but can also apply them in simulated environments. The practical components evaluate the ability to exploit vulnerabilities, perform threat analysis, and document findings effectively.

This practical orientation makes PenTest+ more suitable for professionals who want to build or showcase real-world, hands-on skills. It simulates the kinds of situations ethical hackers face on the job and offers a more dynamic assessment of technical ability.

Content Focus and Curriculum Overview

CEH emphasizes a broad and theoretical understanding of the ethical hacking domain. It introduces candidates to more than 20 modules covering a wide range of attack methods, defensive techniques, and security frameworks. While comprehensive, the curriculum often focuses on what hackers do and why, rather than how to do it in practice.

Topics typically include reconnaissance techniques, enumeration, network sniffing, session hijacking, vulnerability analysis, malware threats, cryptographic attacks, and wireless network hacking. It also covers newer domains such as Internet of Things (IoT) security and cloud computing threats.

PenTest+ offers a focused and hands-on curriculum tailored to the actual penetration testing process. Its content is structured around five major domains: planning and scoping, information gathering and vulnerability scanning, attacks and exploits, reporting and communication, and tools and code analysis.

The curriculum walks candidates through each stage of a penetration test, including how to select appropriate tools, conduct reconnaissance, identify vulnerabilities, exploit weaknesses, and present professional findings. PenTest+ integrates scripting and automation skills as part of its code analysis section, which reflects modern industry practices.

Career Paths and Industry Demand

The career opportunities associated with CEH and PenTest+ differ based on the skills they validate and the recognition they carry in different sectors.

CEH is often a requirement for cybersecurity roles in government and defense sectors, especially in organizations adhering to frameworks like DoD 8140/8570. It is frequently listed in job postings for roles such as cybersecurity analyst, network security engineer, IT auditor, and security consultant.

Professionals who earn the CEH credential are viewed as well-rounded individuals with an understanding of the hacker mindset and security principles. They are well-suited for positions that involve policy enforcement, vulnerability analysis, and organizational risk assessments.

PenTest+ aligns with roles that demand hands-on penetration testing skills. These include positions such as penetration tester, red team analyst, vulnerability assessor, and offensive security engineer. The certification appeals to organizations that prioritize skill-based hiring and are looking for professionals who can hit the ground running in technical security roles.

While CEH enjoys greater brand recognition, PenTest+ is steadily gaining traction for its practical value. Many companies in the private sector, especially startups and mid-sized firms with strong technical teams, are beginning to value PenTest+ just as highly for hands-on roles.

Cost Considerations and Accessibility

Cost is another major factor when choosing between CEH and PenTest+. The CEH certification tends to be more expensive. Candidates must often purchase training packages that include exam vouchers, courseware, and practice materials. The optional CEH Practical exam incurs an additional fee, and certification holders must also pay annual maintenance fees to stay certified.

PenTest+ offers a more cost-effective pathway. The exam fee is lower, and there are no annual renewal charges. Training options for PenTest+ are also more varied, with many candidates choosing self-paced study materials, bootcamps, or instructor-led courses. The lower overall cost makes PenTest+ more accessible to individuals and organizations with limited budgets.

These financial considerations can significantly influence a candidate’s decision, especially those just starting their careers or transitioning into cybersecurity from another field.

Recognition, Compliance, and Industry Standards

Recognition is where CEH currently holds the advantage. It is included in many organizational policies and hiring practices due to its long-standing presence in the industry. Government agencies, defense contractors, and Fortune 500 companies often prefer or require CEH certification.

It also meets several federal compliance requirements, making it essential for roles tied to national security, defense, or critical infrastructure. This gives CEH a level of institutional backing that is hard to overlook.

PenTest+ is not yet mandated by federal compliance frameworks, though it is recognized by many private employers. Its vendor-neutral nature and practical orientation make it ideal for companies focused on application security, DevSecOps, and offensive security programs.

Over time, as practical skills become more valued and compliance frameworks evolve, PenTest+ may gain more formal acceptance. Until then, CEH remains the preferred choice for positions tied to government or compliance-heavy environments.

Ideal Candidate Profiles

Understanding who benefits most from each certification can also help with decision-making.

CEH is ideal for professionals looking to enter cybersecurity through an academic or compliance-focused pathway. It is well-suited for those interested in cyber policy, risk management, and security consulting. Individuals with little to no experience may find the theoretical foundation helpful in building their understanding of the ethical hacking landscape.

PenTest+ is better suited for technically inclined individuals who enjoy solving puzzles, scripting, and breaking systems to understand their weaknesses. Those aiming for hands-on roles in red teaming or application security testing will find PenTest+ more aligned with their interests.

Candidates with prior experience in system administration, networking, or development may also find PenTest+ more rewarding, as it allows them to apply their technical background to real-world security scenarios.

Both CEH and PenTest+ offer valuable entry points into the ethical hacking profession. However, they are designed for different audiences and serve different purposes within the cybersecurity ecosystem.

CEH provides a strong theoretical foundation and widespread recognition, making it ideal for those pursuing government roles or needing compliance-based credentials. It teaches how hackers think and what strategies they use, but it offers limited hands-on experience unless the optional practical exam is taken.

PenTest+, on the other hand, is a hands-on certification designed to validate practical skills required for penetration testing and offensive security roles. It emphasizes real-world application over conceptual knowledge and is a cost-effective option for professionals looking to enter the field with technical expertise.

Choosing between these certifications depends on your personal goals, your preferred learning style, and the direction you want your cybersecurity career to take. Whether you’re more aligned with compliance and policy or hands-on technical work, each certification has something valuable to offer.

Detailed Skillsets Covered by CEH and PenTest+

When evaluating ethical hacking certifications, it’s essential to look beyond exam structures and cost comparisons. Understanding the actual skills developed through each certification can provide deeper insight into which aligns better with your career ambitions.

CEH is designed to provide a broad understanding of cybersecurity from the perspective of both attackers and defenders. It emphasizes the tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) used by hackers across various domains.

PenTest+ focuses on practical skill development in real-world penetration testing. It aims to ensure that professionals can perform hands-on testing, analysis, and reporting. While CEH is often broader in scope, PenTest+ is more practical and role-specific.

CEH includes modules on malware analysis, cryptography, cloud security, and web application threats. These modules are often taught from a theoretical angle, helping candidates understand attack surfaces and how to protect them.

PenTest+, however, dives deeper into planning test environments, executing attacks, and documenting results. This certification is ideal for learners who prefer to demonstrate capabilities through direct action rather than purely theoretical assessments.

How CEH and PenTest+ Evaluate Practical Knowledge

CEH and PenTest+ diverge significantly in how they assess a candidate’s ability to apply knowledge in practice.

The CEH exam is primarily multiple-choice. While it covers a vast range of topics, the format emphasizes memorization and comprehension over application. Candidates must answer questions that test their awareness of hacking tools, methodologies, and cybersecurity principles.

An optional CEH Practical exam is available for those who want to validate hands-on skills. It includes simulated network environments where candidates must identify vulnerabilities, exploit weaknesses, and conduct post-exploitation steps. However, this exam is not included in the standard CEH package and requires an additional fee.

PenTest+ includes both multiple-choice and performance-based questions within the core exam. Candidates are tested in a simulated environment to perform reconnaissance, conduct scans, exploit systems, and write reports. These simulations better reflect the types of scenarios penetration testers encounter on the job.

This practical testing makes PenTest+ more attractive to employers who prioritize demonstrable, hands-on capabilities. It reduces the learning gap between certification and real-world job performance.

Real-World Scenarios Simulated in Each Certification

Ethical hacking is not just about knowing the theory behind attacks—it’s about applying that knowledge to uncover flaws before malicious actors can exploit them. Both CEH and PenTest+ attempt to replicate this reality to varying degrees.

CEH introduces attack types such as buffer overflows, denial-of-service attacks, phishing, ransomware, and backdoors. It discusses how attackers think and how systems can be hardened against their efforts. However, the simulations are generally conceptual unless a candidate opts for the CEH Practical exam.

PenTest+ provides immediate exposure to realistic challenges. Test-takers must scan networks for open ports, identify misconfigurations, craft payloads, and document all their findings in reports that mirror what would be shared with a client or manager. The focus is not just on executing attacks but also on delivering a professional post-assessment report.

If you are preparing for roles that demand direct application of security techniques, PenTest+ may give you a faster ramp-up. CEH, on the other hand, is ideal for roles where strategic thinking, compliance awareness, and theoretical expertise are more critical.

Certification Maintenance and Renewal

Maintaining a certification is a long-term commitment. Both CEH and PenTest+ require periodic renewal, but their policies differ in cost and flexibility.

CEH requires recertification every three years. In addition to the upfront cost of the exam and training, holders must pay an annual fee to keep the certification active. They must also earn continuing education credits or retake the exam.

PenTest+ also operates on a three-year renewal cycle. However, it does not charge an annual fee. Professionals can renew their certification by earning continuing education units, which can be obtained through training, webinars, work experience, or higher-level certifications.

For those on a tight budget, PenTest+ offers a more sustainable path. Over a decade-long career, the total cost of maintaining a CEH can be significantly higher due to recurring fees.

Industry Recognition and Perception

Recognition plays a significant role in the value of a certification. CEH enjoys a longer history in the industry and is often listed as a requirement or preferred credential in government and large enterprise job postings.

Because CEH meets specific regulatory standards, especially those tied to federal compliance frameworks, it is often considered essential for professionals aiming to work in defense, intelligence, or highly regulated sectors. It is also a staple among hiring managers looking for a benchmark certification in ethical hacking.

PenTest+ is newer but is gaining momentum, particularly among employers in the private sector who value hands-on skills over name recognition. It is commonly accepted for positions focused on red teaming, threat hunting, and penetration testing. Although it does not yet meet compliance mandates like CEH, it has carved a strong niche for itself based on practical relevance.

Over time, as cybersecurity hiring continues to shift toward practical skills, PenTest+ may grow in stature. For now, CEH still holds the upper hand in name recognition and traditional job listings.

Career Pathways for Each Certification

Both CEH and PenTest+ can be stepping stones into lucrative and dynamic cybersecurity careers. However, the paths they lead to may differ based on the skills emphasized.

CEH opens doors to a wide variety of roles, including cybersecurity analyst, security consultant, information security officer, and IT auditor. It’s ideal for individuals who want a foundational understanding of ethical hacking as part of a broader security strategy.

Because it is recognized across multiple industries, CEH is often required or preferred for roles that involve advising, monitoring, or managing security teams. Professionals in compliance-heavy sectors find CEH beneficial for fulfilling job requirements and contract eligibility.

PenTest+ aligns more closely with specialized offensive roles. These include penetration tester, vulnerability assessor, red team analyst, and exploit developer. It is better suited for professionals who want to focus their careers on attacking systems to uncover and remediate flaws.

For those interested in building careers in DevSecOps, bug bounty programs, or advanced offensive operations, PenTest+ can serve as a solid launchpad.

Salary Outcomes and Earning Potential

Salary is an important consideration when investing time and money into a certification. While both CEH and PenTest+ can enhance earning potential, they differ in how they influence salaries across industries and job roles.

Professionals holding the CEH credential report average annual salaries around one hundred thousand dollars, depending on experience, location, and job role. Higher salaries are common in government roles or with companies where CEH is mandated.

PenTest+ holders typically report average salaries in the ninety-thousand-dollar range. However, professionals in hands-on pentesting roles or those who combine PenTest+ with certifications like OSCP or CISSP often surpass six-figure salaries.

Ultimately, CEH may offer slightly higher average compensation due to its visibility in high-paying sectors. However, PenTest+ offers a more cost-effective route to similarly rewarding careers, especially when combined with further technical credentials.

Certification as a Step Toward Advanced Roles

For professionals who plan to advance beyond entry or mid-level positions, CEH and PenTest+ can be foundational certifications.

CEH provides a broad base that complements advanced certifications like CISSP, CISM, and CISA. These credentials are ideal for those pursuing management, policy-making, or compliance-focused leadership roles.

PenTest+ serves as a precursor to highly technical certifications like OSCP, GPEN, and GXPN. These are designed for professionals seeking mastery in offensive security, exploit development, or red teaming.

If your long-term goal is to become a chief information security officer (CISO), CEH may be the more appropriate starting point. If you envision yourself as an elite penetration tester or red team lead, PenTest+ combined with OSCP or similar hands-on credentials is the recommended path.

Training and Preparation Strategies

Preparing for CEH and PenTest+ requires different study approaches. CEH preparation often involves reading, memorizing concepts, and reviewing simulated case studies. Study materials include textbooks, lecture recordings, and practice tests that help reinforce theoretical understanding.

PenTest+ preparation is more interactive. It involves configuring labs, practicing toolsets like Metasploit and Nmap, and engaging in real-time simulated attacks. This hands-on learning reinforces muscle memory and builds problem-solving instincts needed in actual penetration tests.

Many candidates combine structured study programs with independent practice environments. Open-source labs, virtual machines, and Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges are commonly used to prepare for PenTest+. Candidates should also familiarize themselves with operating systems, basic scripting, and network protocols.

Regardless of the chosen certification, the more a candidate practices, the more confident and capable they become. Choosing training material that suits your learning style—visual, auditory, kinesthetic—can make preparation significantly more effective.

Community Support and Resources

One often-overlooked aspect of a certification is the strength of the community that surrounds it. A supportive community can make a major difference when studying, networking, or seeking job leads.

CEH benefits from a large global community of certified professionals, training partners, and discussion groups. Forums and online communities regularly share resources, exam tips, and updates. This ecosystem provides an excellent support network for those new to cybersecurity.

PenTest+ also has a growing community of learners, trainers, and professionals. Technical forums, cybersecurity Discord channels, and study groups offer candidates the chance to collaborate, troubleshoot, and share knowledge. Its community tends to be more focused on practical challenges, tool usage, and scripting.

Whether you value theoretical discussion or technical deep-dives, both certifications offer access to vibrant professional networks.

Evaluating Which Fits Your Professional Goals

The decision between CEH and PenTest+ ultimately comes down to your career aspirations, current skill level, and preferred learning style.

If your goal is to enter the cybersecurity field through a well-known credential that’s often required by employers and compliance regulations, CEH may be the better fit. It helps you build a foundational understanding of ethical hacking while opening doors to a variety of roles.

If you prefer a certification that tests and builds your technical abilities through practical scenarios, and you aim to work directly in penetration testing or offensive roles, PenTest+ may be a better match.

Each certification offers something valuable. The key is aligning the strengths of the certification with where you see yourself in the next few years. The right choice is the one that complements your goals, challenges your abilities, and moves you forward in your cybersecurity journey.

Industry Demand for CEH and PenTest+

The demand for ethical hacking certifications like CEH and PenTest+ has grown rapidly as cybersecurity threats become more frequent and sophisticated. Organizations are actively searching for skilled professionals who can identify and mitigate vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them. Both certifications are respected in the industry, but they appeal to different sectors and job functions.

The CEH certification is often preferred by large enterprises, government agencies, and organizations with structured cybersecurity departments. It is commonly listed as a requirement in job postings for positions like Security Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and Security Consultant. CEH’s long-standing reputation and association with a structured methodology make it a go-to credential in highly regulated industries such as finance, defense, and healthcare.

On the other hand, PenTest+ is gaining popularity in organizations that value hands-on experience and practical security testing abilities. It is particularly attractive to startups, managed service providers, and smaller enterprises that prioritize skills over branding. The certification is frequently sought for positions such as Penetration Tester, Vulnerability Assessor, and Security Engineer. Since it includes performance-based testing, employers often see PenTest+ holders as job-ready from day one.

CEH and PenTest+ in Government and Defense Roles

Government and defense-related cybersecurity roles are highly competitive and often require certifications that meet specific regulatory or compliance requirements. In this space, CEH has an advantage due to its long-standing alignment with regulatory standards. Many U.S. Department of Defense job roles align with CEH under specific cybersecurity workforce frameworks, such as the DoD 8570 directive. This makes CEH a mandatory or preferred certification for roles in military, intelligence, or defense contracting.

PenTest+, while increasingly respected, is newer to the government sector. It is listed in some frameworks but doesn’t have the same level of adoption as CEH. However, PenTest+ is still a valuable credential for those looking to enter public sector roles, especially if supplemented with additional certifications or practical experience.

It’s important to note that the inclusion of CEH or PenTest+ in government hiring criteria can vary depending on the specific agency, contract requirements, and job function. Candidates should review job listings carefully and align their certification path with their targeted career goals.

Hiring Manager Preferences and Recruiter Insights

From the perspective of hiring managers and recruiters, both certifications demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to ethical hacking. However, their views on the value of each can differ based on the role being filled.

Hiring managers seeking individuals for roles that require formal methodology, structured reporting, and compliance often lean toward CEH. The CEH credential assures them that the candidate is trained in a systematic approach to penetration testing and understands risk management in an enterprise environment. For example, CEH candidates are typically evaluated on scanning, enumeration, footprinting, and vulnerability assessment techniques, which align with standardized security practices.

Conversely, PenTest+ is often favored in interviews where practical application is prioritized. If the hiring process includes a technical challenge, lab test, or whiteboard session, candidates with PenTest+ often excel because they’ve practiced similar skills in their certification exam. PenTest+ emphasizes active network testing, scripting, and analysis under simulated conditions, which appeals to hiring managers who value demonstrable proficiency.

Some recruiters may prioritize CEH due to its name recognition, while others may value PenTest+ for its performance-based testing. In competitive job markets, having both certifications can set a candidate apart from others and broaden their opportunities.

Salary Expectations and Career Growth

Both CEH and PenTest+ can lead to well-paying jobs in cybersecurity, though the exact salary can depend on various factors like experience, location, job role, and the size of the organization. In general, professionals with CEH certification can command slightly higher salaries, especially if they work in roles aligned with enterprise cybersecurity, auditing, or consulting.

Certified Ethical Hackers often report salaries in the range of $80,000 to $120,000 annually, with some exceeding that range depending on seniority. The CEH credential tends to carry more weight with employers offering structured career paths, which can lead to rapid promotions and increased pay.

PenTest+ holders, on the other hand, typically earn between $70,000 and $105,000 per year in junior or mid-level roles. The certification’s focus on practical skills allows many to transition quickly into hands-on positions, such as junior penetration tester or security analyst. Over time, as they gain experience, PenTest+ certified professionals can see their salaries rise significantly, particularly if they pursue more advanced certifications or specialize in red teaming or vulnerability management.

In terms of career growth, both certifications provide a solid foundation. CEH can be a stepping stone to more advanced certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP). Similarly, PenTest+ prepares candidates well for certifications such as the CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) or other offensive security paths.

Choosing the Right Certification for Your Goals

The decision to pursue CEH or PenTest+ depends on individual career goals, budget, learning style, and preferred industries. Each certification caters to different professional aspirations and has unique strengths.

CEH is ideal for individuals aiming to work in compliance-heavy environments, government roles, or enterprise settings where a formal, structured approach to ethical hacking is essential. If brand recognition and alignment with global standards are priorities, CEH offers a clear advantage.

PenTest+ is best suited for professionals who enjoy hands-on work and want to develop deep technical skills in real-world scenarios. It’s also a great fit for those entering the cybersecurity field from technical backgrounds like networking or systems administration. With its focus on practical skills, PenTest+ often leads to quicker entry into technical roles.

Additionally, budget-conscious learners may favor PenTest+, which is often more affordable when considering exam costs and optional training materials. CEH, by contrast, may require candidates to attend accredited training programs, which can add to the total expense.

Ultimately, aligning your certification choice with your long-term career objectives will ensure that you get the most return on your investment in training and certification.

Success Stories and Real-World Outcomes

Numerous professionals have built successful careers on the foundation of CEH and PenTest+. Their experiences offer valuable insights into the impact these certifications can have.

For example, individuals who pursued CEH often report that the credential opened doors to roles in security auditing, governance, and consultancy. Many have transitioned into leadership positions in security operations or risk management. The CEH credential, coupled with real-world experience, has proven to be a reliable pathway into executive cybersecurity roles.

On the other hand, professionals who earned PenTest+ frequently speak about how the hands-on nature of the certification helped them land their first technical role. Some have gone on to work in penetration testing firms, red team environments, or vulnerability research labs. Others have used PenTest+ as a launching point into advanced offensive security training and freelance security testing.

Employers also cite the benefits of hiring certified professionals. Many report that CEH holders bring a strong understanding of frameworks and methodologies, while PenTest+ holders hit the ground running with technical problem-solving skills. These real-world outcomes reinforce the value of both certifications in a wide variety of job settings.

Combining CEH and PenTest+ for Maximum Impact

Rather than viewing CEH and PenTest+ as competing certifications, some professionals opt to earn both. This dual-certification approach offers the best of both worlds: the theoretical and compliance-based knowledge of CEH, along with the hands-on and practical experience of PenTest+.

Holding both certifications demonstrates versatility and a commitment to continuous learning. Employers recognize this combination as a sign of a well-rounded security professional capable of both strategic planning and tactical execution. It can also make candidates more competitive for senior roles or specialized positions in cybersecurity.

Some professionals choose to start with PenTest+ to build a strong foundation, then move on to CEH to strengthen their understanding of industry frameworks and structured attack strategies. Others take the opposite route, starting with CEH to meet job qualifications, then deepening their hands-on abilities with PenTest+.

In either case, combining these credentials can enhance credibility, expand job opportunities, and increase earning potential.

Final Words

Ethical hacking is a dynamic and challenging field that requires a balance of theoretical knowledge, technical skill, and continuous learning. Certifications like CEH and PenTest+ serve as valuable stepping stones into this exciting profession. Choosing the right certification should involve careful consideration of career goals, job market demands, learning preferences, and available resources.

Both CEH and PenTest+ have proven their value in the cybersecurity industry. Whether you pursue one or both, staying committed to hands-on learning, staying current with emerging threats, and actively participating in the cybersecurity community will keep your skills sharp and your career moving forward.

As threats evolve, so must ethical hackers. By choosing the right certification path and continuously building experience, professionals can play a vital role in defending digital infrastructure and protecting sensitive information across industries. Whether you take the structured route of CEH or the practical path of PenTest+, the journey into ethical hacking is filled with opportunity, growth, and impact.