From Google’s Cybersecurity Professional Certificate to CompTIA Security+: My Journey Towards Cybersecurity Proficiency

To preface this, I want to mention that I have had the tremendous honor of working in various tech-related roles spanning multiple technical disciplines. Working in Information Technology has always been an exciting realm characterized by constant learning and adaptation. However, there came a moment when I felt the urge to diversify my skill set and delve deeper into a specific field, a sector gaining significant momentum — Cybersecurity. This decision led me on a remarkable journey, beginning with Google’s Cybersecurity Professional Certificate and a deep dive into the CompTIA Security+ certification. I hope this will inspire other IT professionals to consider taking a similar path in cybersecurity.

Diving Into Google’s Cybersecurity Professional Certificate

Google’s Cybersecurity Professional Certificate program on Coursera appeared as an intriguing challenge that promised to equip me with foundational knowledge and practical skills in threat intelligence, mitigation, vulnerability assessment, beginner-level Python, Linux, SQL, SIEM management tools, and IDS. These are skills that are vital to have in the realm of cybersecurity. The course material was robust, comprehensive, and had approximately 180+ hours of content. I appreciate that the design and structure of the program made it accessible and manageable, allowing me to learn at my own pace.

There was a mix of theory and hands-on labs that helped in comprehending the abstract concepts of cybersecurity. However, the real challenge was to implement those concepts in a real-world setting, which they executed beautifully as they included a lot of real-world scenarios and use cases for the material covered. Having and maintaining a rigorous study schedule, I completed this course in under a month.

While the program gave me a solid understanding of various cybersecurity facets in a real-world sense, it also gave me a fantastic foundation to prime myself for CompTIA’s Security+ Certification Exam. The Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate was a stepping stone and an excellent platform.

Making the Leap: CompTIA Security+

After acquiring my Google Cybersecurity certificate, I took a deep breath and plunged into studying for the CompTIA SY0–601 Security+ exam.

The transition was challenging. Despite the base that Google’s program provided, the breadth and depth of the CompTIA Security+ exam required a significant increase in time commitment, effort, and perseverance.

I found myself not only learning new concepts but also delving deeper into subjects introduced by the Google certificate. The vast array of topics felt limitless, with new layers of complexity and nuance becoming apparent as I delved deeper.

Study materials I used throughout my studies

I had initially started with Jason Dion’s Udemy course. Still, I quickly transitioned to watching Professor Messer’s Security+ Youtube Playlist, as his videos covered the exam objectives in order and in great detail. I also paired this with his course notes, as I could look them over while watching his videos without pausing to write things down every few minutes.

To make sure I was as prepared for this exam as possible, I used Professor Messer’s Practice Exams, Boson’s ExSim-Max Practice Exams, Passemall’s Security+ App (which allowed me to study and review questions based on domains), Josh Madakor’s Security+ Anki Deck (which had over 1000 questions!), and I was an active part of study sessions on Professor Messer’s Discord Server.

Exam Costs

Since I had previously completed Google’s Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, I could get 30% off the exam voucher!

So after the discount was applied, I ended up only paying approximately $274 for my voucher as opposed to what it would normally cost (Approximately $392).

Exam Day

After studying for a month and a half, I finally decided to book my exam. I opted to take mine in person at a testing center as I felt it worked better for my needs than having it proctored remotely.

The exam itself was certainly an experience as I really had to focus to make sure I fully grasped what was being asked of me on some of these questions.

Reaping the Rewards

When I finally received the notification that I had passed the CompTIA Security+ exam with a 782 (Minimum passing score is 750 out of 900!) , a wave of relief washed over me. The countless hours of studying, practice exams and more than a few sleepless nights had finally paid off. This part of my journey had come to an end, leaving me with a strong sense of accomplishment! (But does it really ever end?)

Although challenging, the journey from the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate to the CompTIA Security+ certification was a rewarding one. I would definitely say this has broadened my skill set and has left me with a strong sense of accomplishment.

My advice to anyone looking to tread a similar path is to embrace the challenge. Both programs, while demanding, offer in-depth and practical insights into the world of cybersecurity. Use Google’s program as your springboard and CompTIA’s as your deep dive. The journey will be tough, but the rewards are worth it.

Remember, cybersecurity is not a destination but a journey. It requires continuous learning, staying updated with the latest threats, and constantly upgrading your skills. As I continue my journey in this dynamic and exciting field, I hope my story will inspire others to embark on their own.

As they say in the cybersecurity world, stay vigilant, and keep learning!