Cybercrime has become more frequent and easier in this rapidly growing digital era. And because of that, cybersecurity became the most critical aspect. Since data breaches and cyber threats are increasing, the demand for ethical hackers is also growing. Ethical hackers are trained professionals who use their skills to protect systems from any threat. Companies are hiring ethical hackers to protect their businesses from threats and to maintain security.
If you are willing to build a career in cybersecurity or want to use your hacking skills for good, then ethical hacking is your sector. But to be an ethical hacker, you need to have a certification so that you can enhance your credibility and increase your earnings. This guide will give you thorough knowledge to start your best ethical hacking course in Lucknow.
Is ethical hacking a great choice in 2025?
Yes, ethical hacking is still the greatest choice in 2025, because it is not just about breaking into systems. But it involves activities like finding the issues before attackers find them, fixing them, and protecting the system. Various sectors like education, IT, healthcare, and finance are in need of ethical hackers. As most of the businesses are growing online, the number of attacks is also increasing. Because of this threat, organizations now need ethical hackers to strengthen their online presence deeply. Apart from that, globally theirs a shortage in skilled cybersecurity professionals. So, when there’s a need, there’s a good, high-paying opportunity as well. The best thing about this job is that ethical hackers can work remotely or on a freelance basis. But remember to be an ethical hacker; getting certified is extremely crucial.
Best Certifications for Ethical Hackers
CEH – Certified Ethical Hacker (EC-Council)
This is amongst the most recognized and best ethical hacking course in Lucknow that is managed by EC–Council. It includes all the tools, techniques, and methodologies that are used by professionals to test and secure the systems. This certificate course makes you think properly like an ethical hacker. Along with that, it will make you learn:
- Foot printing and reconnaissance
- Scanning networks and enumeration
- System hacking, malware threats
- Web app and SQL injection attacks
This CEH exam lasts for 4 hours and has 125 MCQ questions. This course is ideal for beginners to mid–level professionals. Generally, it is led by instructor training, video lectures, self-study courses, and hands-on lab experience. If someone already has knowledge, they can directly sit for the exam. But they have to submit their record of at least 2 years of cybersecurity or related experience.
CompTIA PenTest+
CompTIA PenTest+ is a globally recognized professional certification. This focuses on penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. Here, your ability would be checked in terms of identifying weaknesses of the system, any threats, and managing them with proper strategies and techniques. PenTest+ involves hands-on skills with knowledge-based questions. Key areas which will be covered:
- Planning and scoping penetration tests
- Gathering information and vulnerability scanning
- Exploiting networks, applications, and devices
- Post-exploitation techniques
- Writing reports and communicating findings
This certification is best for candidates who want to be Penetration Testers, Vulnerability Assessment Analysts, Security Consultants, and Network or Cloud Security Analysts. Apart from that, this exam contains multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions. The exam would be for 165 minutes and will contain 85 questions or more. This certification ensures you are job-ready and able to think like an attacker while acting ethically.
Why Choose PenTest+?
- Well-rounded content covering both offensive and defensive tactics
- Recognized globally across industries
- Great stepping stone for advanced certifications like OSCP or GIAC GPEN
Certified Security Testing Associate (CSTA)
It is a foundational-level certification. It is offered by CREST (Council of Registered Ethical Security Testers). CSTA validates the fundamental skills required to identify and exploit common vulnerabilities in networks and applications in a legal and ethical manner. It is ideal for those starting in penetration testing, security auditing, or vulnerability assessment roles. This course provides a solid understanding of how real-world attacks occur. It also prepares candidates for more advanced certifications. In this certificate course, you’ll learn:
- Fundamentals of TCP/IP networking
- Common vulnerabilities (e.g., OWASP Top 10)
- Scanning and enumeration
- Exploitation techniques
- Web and network security basics
- Reporting and documentation best practices
The exam for this course is a fully practical exam, typically containing 2.5 to 3 hours. These exams are held in a fully controlled setup.
Why Choose CSTA?
- Recognized stepping stone into the CREST certification pathway
- Practical and skill-focused assessment
- Globally respected in the UK, Asia-Pacific, and Middle East security sectors
OSCP – Offensive Security Certified Professional
This is another one of the most respected and challenging certifications in ethical hacking and penetration testing. It is offered by Offensive Security, OSCP focuses on hands-on, real-world skills rather than theory. It tests your ability to identify vulnerabilities, exploit systems, and document findings through a practical exam.
Candidates are required to complete the “Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PWK)” course before attempting the exam. The exam itself is a 24-hour, proctored test where you must compromise multiple machines in a controlled environment and submit a professional penetration test report. The key skills this course covers:
- Vulnerability assessment
- Exploitation and privilege escalation
- Buffer overflows
- Linux and Windows attacks
- Custom script development
Professionals who want to prove their technical skillset in real-world penetration testing environments can join this course.
GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
This certification is offered by GIAC or Global Information Assurance Certification. It validates a professional’s ability to conduct ethical hacking and penetration testing using industry-standard techniques. It is often paired with the SANS SEC560: Network Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking course. But the course is not mandatory to attempt the exam. GPEN focuses on understanding the full penetration testing process. From reconnaissance to exploitation and post-exploitation activities, ensuring that candidates can assess systems. Key Skills Covered:
- Reconnaissance and scanning
- Password and hash attacks
- Exploiting web applications
- Post-exploitation techniques
- Penetration testing methodologies
Who It’s For:
- Security analysts, penetration testers, and red teamers
GPEN is ideal for professionals seeking a certification that help in their ethical hacking career.
Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)
It is offered by EC-Council. CHFI is designed for professionals involved in detecting hacking attacks. This is also advantageous for professionals collecting digital evidence and conducting investigations for prosecution. It focuses on the forensic side of cybersecurity. Also, it teaches how to trace cybercriminal activity and preserve digital evidence legally. Key Skills Covered:
- Computer and network forensics
- Data acquisition and recovery
- File system and operating system forensics
- Email, mobile, and cloud forensics
- Investigative and legal procedures
Who It’s For:
- Forensic analysts and cybersecurity investigators. Law enforcement and security professionals can also join this course.
CHFI is a valuable certification in both public and private sector security roles. Hence, people looking to build a career in digital forensics and cybercrime investigation can join this.
Conclusion
The need for certified and skilled ethical hackers is increasing with the rise in cybercrime. So, if you’re just starting or looking to upskill, choose the right certification and the right training. With this, you can launch your cybersecurity career to new heights. If you’re searching for the best ethical hacking course in Lucknow, join Cyber Hunterz. For any queries, contact us. We have a support team to assist you.
