What Are the Differences Between CEH and CISM?

Introduction

CEH and CISM are among the most respected certifications in cybersecurity, but they target opposite ends of the spectrum. CEH teaches you how to hack like an attacker (offensive security), while CISM teaches you how to manage, govern, and defend an organization’s security program (defensive management). One is hands-on technical, the other is strategic and managerial. At Ethical Hacking Training Institute we offer both — CEH for freshers & technical roles, and CISM preparation for experienced professionals aiming for ₹25–60 LPA packages.

Quick Comparison Table – CEH vs CISM (2025)

Choose your path wisely.

CEH = Technical Hands-On Hacking

CEH teaches 20 modules of offensive security — footprinting, scanning, web attacks, system hacking, password cracking, privilege escalation, sniffing, social engineering, maintaining access, covering tracks. 60% of the course is practical labs using Kali Linux, Burp Suite, Metasploit, sqlmap. Perfect for freshers and anyone who wants to become a penetration tester or red teamer.

CISM = Security Governance & Management

CISM has 4 domains: Information Security Governance, Risk Management, Program Development & Management, Incident Management & Response. No tools, no hacking — only strategy, policies, compliance frameworks (ISO 27001, NIST), audit, business alignment, and leadership skills. Designed for managers, team leads, and future CISOs.

Understand governance concepts.

Syllabus & Skill Comparison

• CEH → Nmap, Burp, sqlmap, Metasploit
• CISM → Risk assessment, KPI, policy writing
• CEH → Exploit vulnerabilities
• CISM → Build controls to prevent exploitation
• CEH → Kali Linux labs
• CISM → Case studies & frameworks

Job Roles & Salary Reality India 2025

CEH opens doors to SOC Analyst, Pentester, Security Engineer roles (₹6–18 LPA). CISM opens Security Manager, GRC Head, Compliance Officer, CISO roles (₹20–60 LPA). Freshers start with CEH → gain 3–5 years exp → move to CISM for 2–3× salary jump. Our alumni follow this exact path.

Plan your career growth.

Which One Should You Do First?

• Fresher or < 3 years exp → CEH first
• 3–5+ years in IT/security → CISM
• Love hacking & tools → CEH
• Want to manage teams & policy → CISM
• Best sequence → CEH → Experience → CISM

Conclusion

If you want to break into systems — start with CEH. If you want to lead security programs — go for CISM after experience. At Ethical Hacking Training Institute we offer both:

• CEH weekend batches → clear in 4 months
• CISM preparation for experienced professionals
• 100% placement support

Join CEH today — get free CISM roadmap!

Avoid common mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CISM harder than CEH?

Yes — because of experience requirement and managerial depth.

Can freshers do CISM?

No — 5 years management experience mandatory.

Which has higher salary?

CISM — 2–3× higher than CEH.

Is CEH technical or managerial?

100% technical — hands-on hacking.

Is CISM worth it after CEH?

Yes — fastest salary growth path.

Which has more job openings?

CEH — 10× more entry-level roles.

Does your institute teach CISM?

Yes — special batch for experienced professionals.

CEH or CISM first?

CEH first → experience → CISM.

Is CISM exam only MCQ?

Yes — 150 scenario-based questions.

Can I do both?

Yes — best combination for ₹30 lakh+ salary.

Is CEH enough for manager role?

No — CISM/CISSP needed for senior positions.

Do you provide placement after CISM?

Yes — manager-level placements.

Is weekend batch for CISM?

Yes — designed for working professionals.

Experience waiver for CISM?

Yes — with certain certifications .

How to start today?

Join CEH batch — get CISM roadmap free!