Certifications: What’s Important, What’s Needed?
19 February, 2025
Understanding ICT & Cybersecurity Certifications
In an era where cyber threats are constantly evolving, businesses need robust security measures to protect sensitive data, maintain compliance, and build trust with clients. One of the most effective ways to demonstrate security expertise and adherence to industry standards is through cybersecurity certifications. But with so many options available, how do businesses know which ones matter most?
The array can be overwhelming - but the good news is that you don’’t have to decide alone! This guide will break down exactly what cybersecurity certifications are, why they’re needed, who requires them, and which ones are essential or optional.
What are cybersecurity certifications?
Cybersecurity certifications are formal accreditations that validate an individual’s or organisation’s expertise in cyber risk management, network security, compliance, and threat mitigation. These certifications are awarded by recognised bodies and often require passing an exam, meeting experience requirements, and maintaining ongoing education.
Some certifications focus on technical skills, while others are tailored to compliance, governance, and risk management. Depending on business needs, different certifications may be required to meet industry regulations or demonstrate security best practices.
Why are certifications needed?
Cybersecurity certifications can be required for a range of reasons, and the most common are:
Compliance and legal requirements
Many industries, such as finance, healthcare, and government, require specific certifications to comply with laws like GDPR, ISO 27001, NIST, or PCI DSS. Without these, businesses risk fines, reputational damage, and potential breaches.
Building trust and competitive advantage
Having certified cybersecurity professionals reassures clients, investors, and stakeholders that the organisation is committed to data security. Certifications also serve as a competitive edge in bidding for contracts, particularly in government or high-risk sectors.
Risk management and incident prevention
Certified professionals are trained to handle cyber threats, identify vulnerabilities, and implement security frameworks that reduce the likelihood of attacks. Certifications ensure employees stay up to date with emerging threats and technologies.
Who needs cybersecurity certifications?
There are a few business and industry types for whom cybersecurity certifications are mandatory, and these include:
Businesses handling sensitive data
Any business that processes potentially sensitive data such as financial transactions, stores customer data, or operates in regulated industries needs certified professionals to ensure compliance and mitigate cyber risks.
IT and security professionals
IT staff, security analysts, and compliance officers benefit from certifications that enhance their technical and risk management skills, enabling them to respond effectively to security threats.
Third party vendors and service providers
Companies that provide cloud services, managed IT solutions, or cybersecurity products often need certifications to prove their security capabilities when working with clients.
Essential certifications for all businesses
So, now that we have established the why and the who, it it time to delve into the details of exactly which certifications are needed for all businesses, and which are only for those in specific industries. As noted, some certifications are widely recognised and essential across industries. These include:
- ISO/IEC 27001 – International standard for information security management.
- Cyber Essentials (UK) – A mandatory certification for organisations working with UK government contracts, demonstrating basic cyber hygiene.
- CompTIA Security+ – A foundational cybersecurity certification for businesses that need entry-level security knowledge across IT teams.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Recognised globally, ideal for professionals managing enterprise security strategies.
So, now that we have established the why and the who, it's time to delve into the details of which certifications are essential for all businesses and which are industry-specific.
No matter the industry, cybersecurity is a fundamental concern for all organisations. The certifications listed below are widely recognised and essential across industries, ensuring that businesses have the right security frameworks in place, meet compliance requirements, and maintain best practices.
ISO/IEC 27001 – International Standard for Information Security Management
ISO/IEC 27001 is an internationally recognised standard that provides a structured framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS).
Why is it important?
- Ensures businesses can identify, assess, and manage information security risks.
- Helps protect sensitive customer, employee, and business data.
- Demonstrates compliance with regulatory requirements such as GDPR.
- Enhances customer and stakeholder trust by proving a commitment to data security.
Who should get it?
Any business handling sensitive or personal data—from SMEs to multinational corporations. It is particularly crucial for companies working in finance, healthcare, and technology or those handling customer data at scale.
How is it obtained?
To gain certification, businesses must:
- Implement an ISMS that aligns with ISO/IEC 27001.
- Undergo a formal audit by an accredited certification body.
- Demonstrate ongoing compliance and improvements to maintain certification.
Cyber Essentials (UK) – Basic Cyber Hygiene Certification
Cyber Essentials is a UK government-backed scheme designed to help organisations guard against the most common cyber threats and demonstrate a baseline level of cybersecurity.
Why is it important?
- Mandatory for businesses handling UK government contracts.
- Helps organisations protect against phishing, malware, and basic cyber threats.
- Provides a clear security framework for SMEs that may not have a dedicated IT security team.
- Boosts customer confidence by showing that security controls are in place.
Who should get it?
- UK businesses of all sizes—particularly those in the public sector supply chain.
- Any organisation looking to improve cyber resilience and reduce the risk of basic attacks.
How is it obtained?
- Businesses complete a self-assessment questionnaire (Cyber Essentials) or undergo a technical assessment by an accredited body (Cyber Essentials Plus).
- Certification must be renewed annually to maintain compliance.
CompTIA Security+ – Foundational Cybersecurity Knowledge
CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level cybersecurity certification that validates knowledge of fundamental security concepts, including threat detection, risk management, and secure network design.
Why is it important?
- Covers essential security principles, making it ideal for IT professionals working in network security, compliance, and threat analysis.
- Vendor-neutral—applicable to a wide range of industries and security tools.
- Recognised globally as a baseline cybersecurity certification for IT teams.
- Helps organisations standardise security knowledge across teams.
Who should get it?
- IT staff and system administrators looking to develop cybersecurity skills.
- Businesses wanting to train internal teams to handle basic cybersecurity risks.
How is it obtained?
- Requires passing the CompTIA Security+ exam (SY0-701).
- No formal prerequisites, but candidates benefit from prior IT/networking experience.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Advanced Security Strategy & Management
The CISSP certification is a globally recognised credential for cybersecurity professionals managing enterprise security strategies. It covers risk management, security architecture, cryptography, and compliance frameworks.
Why is it important?
- Recognised as a gold standard for security professionals.
- Validates expertise in security strategy, governance, and operations.
- Essential for businesses managing complex cybersecurity frameworks.
- Helps organisations comply with regulatory frameworks such as ISO 27001, GDPR, and NIST.
Who should get it?
- IT managers, CISOs, security consultants, and network architects responsible for enterprise security.
- Large businesses handling critical infrastructure, sensitive data, or high-risk environments.
How is it obtained?
- Candidates must have at least five years of work experience in cybersecurity.
- Passing the CISSP exam, which covers eight security domains.
- Certification must be renewed every three years through continuing professional education (CPE) credits.
These essential certifications provide baseline cybersecurity protection, compliance, and risk management for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're a small business handling customer transactions or a multinational corporation managing enterprise security, investing in these certifications can help prevent cyber threats, maintain compliance, and strengthen trust with clients.
Up next, we’ll explore industry-specific certifications tailored for finance, healthcare, government, and other sectors, as well as optional but valuable certifications that can give your business an extra layer of security expertise.
Industry specific certifications
In addition to the widely recognised cybersecurity certifications, certain industries have specific security and compliance requirements. Businesses operating in these sectors must adhere to industry-specific certifications to meet legal, regulatory, and security standards. Here are some of the most important certifications by industry:
Finance & Payment Industry
The financial sector is a prime target for cybercriminals due to the volume of sensitive customer data and financial transactions it handles. To reduce fraud risks, prevent data breaches, and ensure regulatory compliance, financial institutions and payment processors must meet strict security standards.
- PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)
Any business that stores, processes, or transmits credit card information must comply with PCI DSS. This certification sets security requirements to protect cardholder data and reduce credit card fraud. Failure to comply can lead to hefty fines, reputational damage, and potential loss of the ability to process card payments. - Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The CISA certification is highly regarded in the financial sector, focusing on auditing, compliance, and governance. Professionals with this certification are skilled in assessing vulnerabilities, managing IT controls, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. This certification is especially important for internal auditors, risk managers, and cybersecurity consultants working in banks, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies.
Healthcare & Data Protection
The healthcare industry deals with highly sensitive patient data, making it a frequent target for cyberattacks, ransomware, and data breaches. Compliance with data protection regulations is critical to ensuring patient privacy and trust.
- Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)
The CIPP certification is essential for professionals handling data privacy laws and compliance frameworks such as GDPR (Europe) and HIPAA (US). It ensures that organisations properly collect, store, and manage personal data while adhering to legal requirements. This certification is especially valuable for compliance officers, legal teams, and IT security professionals in the healthcare sector. - Health Information Trust Alliance (HITRUST)
HITRUST certification is a widely recognised framework designed to help healthcare organisations meet security, privacy, and risk management standards. It integrates multiple regulatory frameworks, including HIPAA, NIST, and ISO 27001, to provide a comprehensive approach to data security. Many healthcare providers and insurers require third-party vendors to have HITRUST certification to demonstrate compliance with industry standards.
Government & Public Sector
Government agencies and public sector organisations handle sensitive national security, defence, and citizen data, making cybersecurity a top priority. These organisations require specific security frameworks and accreditation processes to manage risks effectively.
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework is a widely adopted security standard used by US federal agencies and recommended globally. It provides guidelines for identifying, protecting, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber threats. While it is not a certification, organisations that align with NIST guidelines enhance their security posture and regulatory compliance. Many government contractors and critical infrastructure providers use the NIST framework as part of their security strategy. - Crest Accreditation
For businesses providing penetration testing, incident response, and cybersecurity consulting services to the UK government, Crest Accreditation is often required. This certification ensures that cybersecurity professionals meet high standards of expertise, ethics, and testing methodologies. It is particularly important for organisations conducting security assessments, penetration testing, and red teaming exercises for government agencies.
Final Thoughts
Getting your head around cybersecurity certifications can be tricky - but with our handy guide, you will be able to work out what you need in no time. Of course, the basis of great cybersecurity is first-class training, so check out our range of resources and training courses to ensure that you and your business remain fully protected.
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