List of computer security certifications

In the computer security or Information security fields, there are a number of tracks a professional can take to demonstrate qualifications. Four sources categorizing these, and many other credentials, licenses, and certifications, are:

Schools and universities Vendor-sponsored credentials (e.g. Microsoft, Cisco) Association- and organization-sponsored credentials Governmental (or quasi-governmental) licenses, certifications, and credentials Quality and acceptance vary worldwide for IT security credentials, from well-known and high-quality examples like a master's degree in the field from an accredited school, CISSP, and Microsoft certification, to a controversial list of many dozens of lesser-known credentials and organizations. In addition to certification obtained by taking courses and/or passing exams (and in the case of CISSP and others noted below, demonstrating experience and/or being recommended or given a reference from an existing credential holder), award certificates also are given for winning government, university or industry-sponsored competitions, including team competitions and contests.