Certified Ethical Hacker: How to Become One and What It Means | How to Get CEH Certified and Start a Career in Ethical Hacking

Introduction

The digital landscape is expanding rapidly, and so are cyber threats. As businesses struggle to defend their data, **ethical hackers** play a vital role in identifying security flaws before malicious attackers exploit them. Becoming a **Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)** not only proves your expertise but opens the door to high-paying jobs and global opportunities in cybersecurity.

What is a Certified Ethical Hacker?

The CEH certification qualifies professionals to ethically hack networks and systems in order to identify security flaws. Unlike black-hat hackers, they operate with consent and within legal frameworks. They think like a hacker—but work for the good side.

Role of Ethical Hackers in Cybersecurity

• Conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments
• Simulate real-world cyberattacks to test defense mechanisms
• Identify and fix weaknesses in web apps, servers, and firewalls
• Educate organizations on security practices
• Support compliance efforts like PCI-DSS, ISO, or GDPR

What is CEH Certification?

Offered by **EC-Council**, the **Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)** certification validates your ability to detect weaknesses and protect against cyber threats using modern tools and techniques. It’s one of the most recognized ethical hacking certifications worldwide, especially by government and defense sectors.

Eligibility for CEH Certification

CEH exam eligibility can be achieved through one of two options:

• By attending official EC-Council training (no prior experience needed)
• By self-studying, with at least 2 years of InfoSec experience and an approved application (plus $100 non-refundable fee)

CEH Exam Overview

• Exam Code: 312-50
• Format: 125 multiple-choice questions
• Duration: 4 hours
• Passing Score: Varies (60%–85%)
• Delivery: Pearson VUE / EC-Council iLabs

What’s New in CEH v13?

• MITRE ATT&CK framework integration
• New cloud and IoT security modules
• Hands-on labs using Parrot Security OS
• Real-world attack vectors and case studies
• Updated to reflect current hacking techniques and countermeasures

How to Become a Certified Ethical Hacker

1. Gain foundational knowledge (networking, Linux, cybersecurity basics)
2. Enroll in a CEH training program or self-study
3. Strengthen your penetration testing skills with hands-on challenges from TryHackMe and Hack The Box.
4. Apply for the CEH exam via EC-Council
5. Pass the exam and get certified

Key Skills Needed for CEH

• Understanding of networks and protocols
• Knowledge of operating systems and scripting (Python, Bash)
• Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing
• Understanding tools like Metasploit, Nmap, and Burp Suite is crucial for ethical hacking and penetration testing.
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking

Career Benefits of CEH Certification

• Global recognition and credibility
• Access to high-paying cybersecurity roles
• Entry into government, defense, and Fortune 500 jobs
• Proof of practical, hands-on hacking knowledge
• Networking through EC-Council’s certified member base

Job Opportunities After CEH

• Ethical Hacker / Penetration Tester
• Security Analyst / Cybersecurity Consultant
• Red Team Operator
• Incident Response Specialist
• Information Security Auditor

CEH Salary Expectations

• India: ₹6 LPA to ₹25 LPA
• USA: $75,000 to $135,000 annually
• UK: £40,000 to £90,000 annually

Top Training Providers for CEH

Self-Study vs Official Training

Self-Study: Flexible and cost-effective; ideal for experienced professionals.
Training: Structured, includes labs, mentorship, and guarantees exam eligibility.

CEH Exam Preparation Tips

• Use the CEH Official Study Guide
• Enroll in labs like iLabs, Hack The Box, or TryHackMe
• Practice past exam questions and mock tests
• Join CEH communities and forums
• Stay current with cybersecurity news and vulnerabilities

Recertification and ECE Credits

CEH is valid for 3 years. To maintain certification:

• Earn 120 ECE (EC-Council Continuing Education) credits
• Submit them via the Aspen Portal
• Pay an annual maintenance fee (~$80/year)
• Participate in trainings, webinars, teaching, research, or publishing

Is CEH Globally Recognized?

Yes. CEH is acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Defense, global cybersecurity firms, and top hiring companies like IBM, Accenture, and Deloitte.

Ethical Responsibilities of a CEH

• Never hack without permission
• Respect privacy and confidentiality
• Disclose vulnerabilities responsibly
• Act with integrity and professionalism

What’s Next After CEH?

• CEH (Practical): Advanced hands-on exam
• CPENT: Certified Penetration Testing Professional
• OSCP: Offensive Security Certified Professional
• CISSP: Managerial-level security certification

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the full form of CEH?

Certified Ethical Hacker.

2. Is CEH hard to pass?

It depends on your preparation. With hands-on practice and theory, it’s manageable.

3. How much does the CEH exam cost?

Typically around $1199 USD, plus training or application fees.

4. How long is the CEH certification valid?

Three years. Requires 120 ECE credits for renewal.

5. Can I take CEH without training?

Yes, if you have 2 years of InfoSec experience and EC-Council approves your application.

6. What topics are covered in CEH?

Footprinting, scanning, enumeration, system hacking, malware, web hacking, cloud, and more.

7. Which is better: CEH or OSCP?

CEH is foundational; OSCP is more advanced and hands-on.

8. Is CEH good for beginners?

Yes, if you have basic networking and security knowledge.

9. What is CEH (Practical)?

An advanced lab-based version of CEH for demonstrating real hacking skills.

10. Do I need to know coding for CEH?

Basic scripting (Python, Bash) is helpful but not mandatory.

11. Is CEH recognized by the U.S. DoD?

Yes, CEH meets DoD 8570 and 8140 compliance requirements.

12. Can I get a job with just CEH?

Yes, especially for entry-level ethical hacking roles.

13. Which OS is used in CEH labs?

Primarily Parrot OS and Kali Linux.

14. What is EC-Council?

A global cybersecurity certification body and the creator of CEH.

15. What are ECE credits?

Continuing Education Credits needed to renew CEH every 3 years.

16. How many questions are on the CEH exam?

125 multiple-choice questions.

17. How do I apply for CEH?

Via EC-Council’s website or authorized training partners.

18. What’s the best book for CEH?

CEH Certified Ethical Hacker All-in-One by Matt Walker.

19. Does CEH teach cloud hacking?

Yes, CEH v13 includes cloud security and hacking modules.

20. Can I learn CEH online?

Absolutely. EC-Council iClass, Udemy, and other platforms offer online options.

Conclusion

Becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker is a gateway to a powerful and impactful career in cybersecurity. Whether you're just starting out or are already in IT, the CEH equips you with the mindset and tools of a hacker—but used ethically and legally. With a globally recognized credential and increasing demand for skilled professionals, CEH certification is a wise step toward becoming a cybersecurity expert who truly makes a difference.