Hey everyone! I recently started a new job in infrastructure, but my Cysa+ certification is set to expire in six months, followed by my Security+ shortly after. I'm interested in transitioning into a security role someday, but the thought of studying for another certification right now feels overwhelming, especially with the pressures of a new job.
I'm torn between renewing my Cysa+ or possibly going for the CASP+, but I didn't do so hot when I first tried for Cysa+ (barely missed passing) and the whole certification renewal system frustrates me. It seems like a money-making scheme, and I honestly question how much these certifications are valued today in hiring processes. In all my job interviews, they rarely mention my certifications, despite me trying to highlight them.
Should I suck it up and renew Cysa+, pursue CASP+, or just not worry about it at all? I've been in pure infrastructure roles for over a decade, though I see a lot of potential job security in cybersecurity. I wonder if it's worth keeping my certifications on my resume and mentioning them even if they're expired? What do you all think?
6 Answers
Honestly, I'd let them expire. Now that you've got work experience, that's what's really important on your resume, not just the certs. They’re often more like footnotes unless a specific job is fixated on them.
I think you should definitely consider renewing your Cysa+. If you opt for the CASP+, it will actually renew your other certifications, which could be beneficial. In today's tough job market, having certifications can give you an advantage, even if it's just to ask for a raise or reimbursement from your employer later.
True, but I wouldn't bank on a raise just because you get a cert. Any edge in the job market right now can be helpful, though!
Remember, certifications don’t need to be current unless your job demands them. Gaining a cert is essentially yours forever. However, if you’re regularly engaged in courses and can track CEUs, you can avoid stressing too much about expiry.
Don't sweat the certifications too much. Your practical experience often trumps them. But if renewing is as simple as taking an open book exam, I'd say just go for it—it can only help!
I wouldn't let them expire unless you're absolutely sure you won't need them. Your experience is valuable, but certifications can still impact job opportunities. They make a difference for many roles, even if they seem like a hassle.
Renewing them is usually not that hard or costly, so I’d go for it. You might even be able to get the Pentest+ to renew both Cysa+ and Security+. It's worth keeping your certs active for future opportunities.
But he has Ops experience, not Security experience. If he wants to get into security, he may still need those certs. I was in a similar boat, and getting my certs helped me transition.