Google Cybersecurity vs Security+ for Beginners (ft. @JoshMadakor)

Summary

In this video discussion, the hosts compare Google's Cyber Security certification with CompTIA's Security Plus, concluding that Google's program is more comprehensive and practical. They critique the overreliance on certifications, particularly CompTIA's, which they view as overpriced and theoretically focused. The conversation emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and the ability to perform in interviews over mere certification titles. The hosts also touch on the role of certifications in job hunting, suggesting strategies to leverage certification studies for career advancement without necessarily incurring high exam costs.

Takeaways

• 📢 The speaker asserts that Google's cybersecurity certification is superior to CompTIA Security Plus, based on a detailed comparison.
• 👨‍🏫 There's criticism of CompTIA's reliance on multiple-choice questions, which the speaker believes devalues the certification's worth.
• 📈 The script discusses the importance of certifications for keyword matching in applicant tracking systems (ATS) and as a baseline for knowledge.
• 💼 The speaker shares personal experiences in the cybersecurity industry, noting that many professionals do not hold or prioritize certifications.
• 💼 It's highlighted that practical skills and experience are often more valued in the industry over certifications.
• 💼 The discussion points out that certifications are just one of many factors that can help in securing a job in cybersecurity.
• 💰 The cost of CompTIA Security Plus is criticized as overpriced, especially when compared to the broader and more practical content offered by Google's program.
• 🔒 The script touches on the historical reasons behind CompTIA's inclusion in US Department of Defense requirements and how it may not be as relevant today.
• 🔑 The importance of hands-on experience is emphasized, with Google's program providing practical lab work that is lacking in CompTIA's curriculum.
• 🎯 For job seekers, the script suggests a strategy of listing certifications 'in progress' on resumes to navigate the ATS and secure interviews.

Q & A

What is the main comparison discussed in the video?

The video compares the Google Cyber Security Professional Certificate with CompTIA Security Plus, discussing their relative merits and effectiveness in the cybersecurity field.

Why did the speaker conclude that Google's program is better than CompTIA Security Plus?

The speaker concluded that Google's program is better due to its broader content, hands-on components, and practical sections such as using a SIEM and job hunting strategies.

What is the speaker's opinion on the value of recognized certifications in the cybersecurity industry?

The speaker believes that while certifications can help with keyword matching for applicant tracking systems and provide a baseline of knowledge, they are not the only way to demonstrate competency and are sometimes overemphasized.

Why might someone choose to get both Google Cyber Security and CompTIA Security Plus certifications?

Someone might choose to get both certifications to gain a broader understanding of cybersecurity concepts, acquire hands-on skills, and to potentially meet specific job requirements that list CompTIA Security Plus.

What is the speaker's view on the importance of hands-on experience in cybersecurity certifications?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, stating that cybersecurity is a practical job and certifications should reflect that by including practical labs and real-world applications.

How does the cost of CompTIA Security Plus compare to Google Cyber Security in the discussion?

The cost of CompTIA Security Plus is criticized as being overpriced for the value it offers, with a one-time exam fee of $400, whereas Google Cyber Security offers a more comprehensive curriculum for a monthly fee that can be completed within a month.

What is the significance of the Department of Defense (DOD) requirements in the discussion about certifications?

The DOD requirements are significant as they have historically influenced the demand for certain certifications like CompTIA Security Plus. However, the speakers argue that these requirements do not necessarily reflect the quality of the certification and are more a result of historical availability.

Why might someone in the cybersecurity industry not have certifications or not care about them?

Some professionals in the cybersecurity industry may not have certifications or care about them because they prioritize real-world experience, skills, and continuous learning over certification titles, and because certifications can sometimes be passed without deep understanding.

What is the speaker's advice for someone new to the cybersecurity field regarding certifications?

The speaker advises new entrants to the cybersecurity field to focus on acquiring practical skills and knowledge, possibly starting with the Google Cyber Security curriculum for its comprehensive and affordable approach, and not to be overly concerned with having a specific certification.

What is the ethical stance of the speaker regarding the representation of certifications on a resume?

The speaker suggests that it is acceptable to list certifications as 'in progress' on a resume to help secure an interview, as long as the candidate is actively studying and intends to complete the certification, and is capable of performing in the interview and on the job.