CEH Classes: What You Need to Know to Prepare for Certification | Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Classes: Complete Preparation Guide

Table of Contents

1. What is CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)?
2. Why Choose CEH Certification?
3. CEH Class Options in 2025
4. CEH Course Content Overview
5. Modes of Training for CEH
6. CEH v12 vs v13: What's New?
7. CEH Exam Details
8. How to Prepare for CEH Exam
9. CEH Course Cost and Duration
10. Skills You’ll Gain From CEH Classes
11. Job Opportunities After CEH
12. Top CEH Training Providers
13. Online vs Classroom CEH Classes
14. Free vs Paid CEH Resources
15. Is CEH Right for Beginners?
16. Certification Validity and Renewal
17. Common Mistakes to Avoid
18. Bonus Tips to Crack CEH Exam
19. FAQs
20. Conclusion

What is CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)?

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a globally recognized credential offered by the EC-Council. It validates your skills in identifying system vulnerabilities, penetration testing, and securing digital infrastructures against malicious attacks. Ethical hackers use the same tools and techniques as cybercriminals—but in a legitimate and lawful manner to protect organizations.

Why Choose CEH Certification?

CEH certification opens doors to numerous cybersecurity roles. Here's why CEH is worth your time:

• Recognized globally in government and private sectors
• Accepted by DoD (U.S. Department of Defense)
• Practical, real-world cybersecurity knowledge
• Better job prospects and higher salary
• Foundation for advanced certifications (e.g., ECSA, LPT)

CEH Class Options in 2025

There are multiple CEH class formats depending on your needs:

• Instructor-led classroom training
• Live online interactive sessions
• Self-paced video learning
• Corporate group training

CEH Course Content Overview

Topics covered in CEH v12/v13 include:

1. Information Security & Threat Landscape
2. Footprinting and Reconnaissance
3. Scanning Networks
4. Vulnerability Analysis
5. System Hacking
6. Malware Threats
7. Sniffing & Social Engineering
8. Denial of Service
9. Session Hijacking
10. Web Application Hacking
11. Cloud & IoT Security
12. Cryptography

Modes of Training for CEH

You can choose between:

• Online (Live or Self-paced): Ideal for working professionals
• Offline/On-campus: Best for hands-on learners
• Bootcamps: Intensive, short-term learning programs

CEH v12 vs v13: What's New?

CEH v13 is expected to launch with more practical labs and AI-integrated modules. However, CEH v12 remains the most widely accepted version in 2025 with features such as:

• Global CEH Challenge platform
• 180-day lab access
• 20 modules with 350+ attack techniques
• Multiple skill-based challenges

CEH Exam Details

• Duration: 4 hours
• Questions: 125 multiple-choice
• Passing score: ~70% (varies)
• Proctoring: Pearson VUE or online
• Exam Code: 312-50 (ANSI format)

How to Prepare for CEH Exam

To pass the CEH exam on your first try, follow this approach:

• Join an accredited training partner
• Use the official EC-Council eBook
• Practice using labs like iLabs or CyberQ
• Take mock tests regularly
• Watch CEH-specific YouTube tutorials

CEH Course Cost and Duration

• Course Fee: ₹35,000 – ₹85,000 (varies by mode & provider)
• Exam Fee: ~$1199 (international rate)
• Duration: 40 – 60 hours of training

Skills You’ll Gain From CEH Classes

After completing CEH classes, you'll gain:

• Real-world penetration testing skills
• Understanding of cyber kill chains
• Advanced reconnaissance techniques
• Network scanning and vulnerability analysis
• Web, cloud, and IoT exploitation knowledge

Job Opportunities After CEH

CEH certification can land you in roles such as:

• Penetration Tester
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Security Consultant
• Network Security Engineer
• Ethical Hacker

Top CEH Training Providers

WebAsha Technologies in Pune is:

• An EC-Council accredited, hands-on training center for CEH v13 and related courses

• Well-regarded by students for quality instruction, lab infrastructure, and strong placement support

• Conveniently located and provides flexible training schedules to fit various needs.

Online vs Classroom CEH Classes

Online learning is flexible, often more affordable, and ideal for self-paced learners. Classroom training offers structured learning, interaction with instructors, and better discipline for many students.

Free vs Paid CEH Resources

• Free: Cybrary, OWASP Juice Shop, TryHackMe, Hack The Box (limited)
• Paid: EC-Council’s official courseware, iLabs, third-party instructor-led classes

Is CEH Right for Beginners?

Who is Considered a Beginner?

A beginner in this context typically refers to:

• Someone with basic or no prior experience in cybersecurity

• Possibly from an IT background (networking, system admin, or software)

• Students or fresh graduates entering the cybersecurity domain

Why CEH Is Beginner-Friendly:

1. Structured Curriculum:
   CEH offers a step-by-step foundation—from reconnaissance to system hacking, web app vulnerabilities, and cryptography.

2. Official Training Requirement:
   If you don’t have 2 years of InfoSec experience, EC-Council allows you to take the CEH exam as long as you complete official training from an EC-Council Accredited Training Center (like WebAsha, Koenig, etc.).

3. No Coding Required (Initially):
   While scripting can help, you don’t need to be a programmer. Tools like Nmap, Metasploit, and Burp Suite require more logical thinking than hardcore coding.

4. Hands-On Labs Included:
   Through iLabs (now CyberQ), even beginners can simulate real-world ethical hacking scenarios in a guided, safe environment.

When CEH Might Be Challenging for Beginners:

• If you don’t have basic knowledge of:

• Computer networks (TCP/IP, ports, protocols)

• Operating systems (Linux/Windows commands)

• Cybersecurity fundamentals

• If you're only studying theory without practical labs

• If you're skipping official training and trying to self-study without a plan

Best Path for Beginners:

Start with a foundational course, like:

1. CompTIA Security+

2. Introduction to Networking (CCNA-level)

3. Google Cybersecurity Certificate (optional prep)

4. Enroll in an EC-Council accredited CEH course to qualify for the exam and access structured labs.

5. Practice tools like Nmap, Wireshark, and Metasploit in a virtual lab (TryHackMe, WebAsha labs, or Hack The Box).

Certification Validity and Renewal

CEH is valid for 3 years. You must earn 120 Continuing Education Credits (ECEs) during this period to maintain the certification.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping hands-on labs
• Underestimating the exam's complexity
• Using outdated study materials
• Relying only on free resources

Bonus Tips to Crack CEH Exam

• Set a structured study plan
• Join discussion forums (e.g., Reddit, LinkedIn)
• Attend webinars and hackathons
• Focus on scenario-based questions
• Stay updated with cybersecurity trends

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is CEH certification?

CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) is a globally recognized certification offered by EC-Council that validates skills in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and cybersecurity defense.

2. Is CEH suitable for beginners?

Yes, CEH is suitable for beginners who have a basic understanding of networking and cybersecurity. Official training is recommended for those without prior experience.

3. What is the duration of CEH training?

The average duration of CEH classes ranges from 40 to 60 hours, depending on the training mode (online, classroom, bootcamp).

4. What is the CEH exam format?

The CEH exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 4 hours. It tests both theoretical and practical knowledge.

5. What score do I need to pass the CEH exam?

The passing score varies by exam version and difficulty but is typically around 70%.

6. What is the difference between CEH v12 and v13?

CEH v12 includes structured learning paths and labs. CEH v13 (expected late 2025) may introduce AI and cloud-focused modules with updated vulnerabilities and challenges.

7. Can I take CEH online?

Yes, EC-Council allows candidates to take CEH training and the certification exam online through accredited platforms and remote proctoring.

8. What is the cost of the CEH course and exam?

Training can cost between ₹35,000 to ₹85,000 in India. The exam voucher alone costs around $1199 globally. Prices may vary based on provider and country.

9. How long is the CEH certification valid?

CEH certification is valid for 3 years. You must earn 120 ECE (Continuing Education) credits during this period to renew it.

10. What are ECE credits?

ECE (EC-Council Continuing Education) credits are earned through learning, teaching, writing, or participating in cybersecurity events and are required for CEH renewal.

11. What kind of jobs can I get with a CEH certification?

CEH can lead to roles such as Ethical Hacker, Penetration Tester, SOC Analyst, Security Consultant, and Cybersecurity Analyst.

12. Are CEH classes available on weekends?

Yes, most training institutes offer weekend, evening, and fast-track CEH batches to accommodate working professionals.

13. Is CEH better than CompTIA Security+?

Both are valuable; Security+ is more foundational, while CEH is focused on offensive security and practical hacking techniques.

14. Can I study CEH on my own?

Self-study is possible with books and online labs, but official training is required if you don’t have two years of security work experience.

15. What are the prerequisites for CEH?

Either 2 years of work experience in IT security or completion of official EC-Council training is required to sit for the CEH exam.

16. What is iLabs (CyberQ) in CEH training?

iLabs or CyberQ is EC-Council's virtual lab environment where learners can practice hacking techniques on live systems legally and safely.

17. Is CEH recognized globally?

Yes, CEH is a globally respected certification, accepted by many government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).

18. Can CEH help in freelancing or bug bounty?

Yes, CEH provides foundational knowledge that is highly useful in freelancing, consulting, and participating in bug bounty programs.

19. Does CEH include cloud or IoT hacking topics?

Yes, CEH v12 includes modules on cloud security, IoT hacking, and web application vulnerabilities.

20. Do training institutes like WebAsha provide job assistance?

Yes, top CEH training providers like WebAsha Technologies offer placement assistance, interview preparation, and career counseling after course completion.

Conclusion

CEH classes provide a comprehensive pathway into ethical hacking and cybersecurity careers. With the growing demand for skilled professionals, CEH offers not just knowledge but also a competitive edge in the job market. Whether you choose online or offline training, the key is consistent learning, hands-on practice, and understanding the hacker’s mindset. Prepare strategically, choose the right training provider, and take your first step toward becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker today.