Top 10 Cloud Security Certifications [2024]

The importance of cloud computing is apparent since it shifts the organizational and IT world’s dynamics continuously; thus, it is essential to secure cloud environments now more than ever. Getting certified in cloud security is a good idea to improve one’s skills and advance in this growing area of IT. In 2024, an industry analysis revealed the list of Cloud security certifications.

1. (ISC)2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

This cloud-security certification is one of the most popular in the market and is offered jointly by (ISC)2 and Cloud Security Alliance. It expresses that you learned how to think and build structures for data, applications, and other structures in the cloud environment, as well as being able to protect them. Because one will be paid an average of £62,500 per year, CCSP is a worthy professional certification for Cloud Security Specialist.

2. Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer

This certification evaluates your ability to design, set up, and implement a secure infrastructure on the Google Cloud Platform. It shows your comprehension of security needs and top strategies in cloud security engineering, such as setting up access, applying network security, safeguarding data, and overseeing operations.

3. Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer Associate

With the AZ-500 exam passed, one gets a Microsoft Azure certificate that proves your skills in scripting, automation, networking, virtualization, cloud architecture and related skills. The certification includes securing access to Azure Active Directory, applying platform protection measures, and overseeing security operations with Azure Monitor, Security Center, and Sentinel.

4. AWS Certified Security - Specialty

The cloud platform’s business is dominated by Amazon, which has the maximum share of the market, 34%. Microsoft owns 10% of Azure and 9% of Google from Google Cloud. Earning AWS Certified Security certification confirms your capacity to design and manage an efficient security system based on AWS tools. Secondly, it underlines knowledge of different categories of information in the AWS environment. Professionals looking for positions like cloud security engineers, security and compliance engineers, and security architects will find it advantageous.

5. CompTIA Cloud+

The certification of CompTIA Cloud+ confirms your skill in efficiently strategizing, implementing, and automating safe cloud environments. Although there are no specific requirements, the certification is most suitable for individuals with a background of one to two years in roles like Cloud Developers, System Administrators, and Network Engineers.

6. Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK)

Awarded by the Cloud Security Alliance, CCSK certification testifies to your understanding of the security concepts and practical implementation. It includes areas like the cloud’s architecture, governance, risks and compliance, making this certification important for improving cloud security experts.

7. Google Associate Cloud Engineer

While security is not the main focus, the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification proves your skills in deploying apps, overseeing operations, and supporting business solutions with Google Cloud tools. It acts as an important precursor, especially for individuals who intend to specialize in cloud security, revealing working knowledge of important concepts and the functioning of clouds.

8. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Like the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification, the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is a fundamental certification that establishes the holder’s understanding of the AWS Cloud and its functions and important cloud computing principles. It is an important starting point for individuals seeking expertise in AWS cloud security.

9. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Microsoft provides Azure Fundamentals courses for learners new to Azure, mostly those in the field of cloud computing, as well as for learners who want to restart as a base of cloud computing and Azure services. It does not specifically cover security, but it gives information to those interested in cloud security certificates specialized in Azure.

10. GIAC Cloud Security Automation (GCSA)

The certification evaluates your skills in automating cloud security tasks and deploying security controls in cloud settings. The certification covers topics like cloud architecture, automated security tools, and programming languages, making it helpful for individuals interested in specializing in automation in cloud security.

Conclusion

There is a predicted demand for experienced security professionals in cloud computing development. Passing at least one of these four leading cloud security certifications is recommended, as it can open opportunities, prove your skills, and secure cloud environments in your company. Choose the certification you are most interested in based on your career goals, the cloud hosting services you want to focus on, and your experience level because this field is fast-growing and constantly evolving.