In the cybersecurity industry now, credibility matters a lot. And among the numerous accreditations available, one stands out as a gold standard – CREST. Recognized globally, it sets apart top-tier professionals and companies. Whether you’re an expert looking to validate your skills or a business striving for cybersecurity excellence and systems safety, CREST provides a industry-recognized pathway to success. In this blog, we explore the key perks, and certification levels.
What is CREST Certification?
The Council for Registered Ethical Security Testers is an internationally recognized non-for-profit certification body that provides recognition for cybersecurity professionals and companies. These accreditations validate expertise in penetration testing services, threat intelligence, incident response, and cybersecurity operations systems. One of the main perks of the certification is the guarantee for a high standard of competency, professionalism, business processes and ethical practices among experts and firms in the cybersecurity industry.
Key Benefits of CREST Certification
For Cybersecurity Professionals
- Industry Recognition: Globally recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in cybersecurity.
- Career Advancement: CREST registered professionals could gain better job opportunities, promotions, and salary prospects. Provides a recognised career path and a competitive edge, enhancing credibility in penetration testing services, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity.
- Practical Knowledge: The assessments focus on real-world cybersecurity challenges, ensuring that certified individuals can handle complex tasks.
- Continuous Learning: Requires individuals to regularly update their proficiency on cybersecurity trends and best practices.
For Companies & Organizations
- Proven Security Standards: Ensures that evaluations and cyber incident response are handled by highly qualified personnel, security experts, and processes.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many industries require organizations to meet compliance standards (e.g., PCI DSS, NIS2, DORA), and CREST accreditation body is recognized by many regulators as a benchmark for high-quality testing methodologies.
- Customer Trust: Boosts confidence among clients and stakeholder companies by demonstrating a commitment to high cybersecurity standards.
- Competitive Advantage: Accredited organizations (such as CREST certified penetration testing services providers) gain a market advantage and more clients by proving their expertise and credibility in cybersecurity.
CREST Certification Levels & Requirements
It provides a structured accreditation pathway for cybersecurity professionals looking to validate their skills and competence. The certification framework is structured into three primary levels – Practitioner, Registered, and Certified – based on experience and competency.
1. Practitioner Level
The Practitioner level serves as the entry point for individuals beginning their journey in cybersecurity. It is designed for professionals with approximately 2,500 hours (around two years) of relevant experience.
- Who is it for? Those new to cybersecurity, looking to establish a foundation in the field.
- Competency level: Candidates should be able to perform routine tasks under supervision within structured environments.
- Example certification: CREST Practitioner Security Analyst (CPSA).
2. Registered Level
The Registered level is aimed at professionals with at least 6,000 hours (three years or more) of hands-on experience. At this stage, individuals can can undergo testing projects by themselves.
- Who is it for? Professionals who have moved beyond the entry level and can provide security services independently.
- Competency level: Candidates should be able to conduct assessments and cybersecurity-related tasks without supervision and with limited sign-off authority.
- Example certification: CREST Registered Penetration Tester (CRT).
3. Certified Level
The Certified level represents the highest standard in the hierarchy. It is intended for senior professionals with extensive experience, typically around 10,000 hours (five to six years) of relevant work in cybersecurity.
- Who is it for? Seasoned specialists with extensive experience.
- Competency level: Candidates should be able to run major projects, sign off on cybersecurity tests, and provide expert-level guidance.
- Example certification: CREST Certified Infrastructure Tester (CCT INF).
The Cost of Getting CREST Certified
The cost varies depending on the level, with exam fees typically ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Additionally, candidates should budget for training courses, which may be required or recommended for preparation, adding extra cost. Recertification fees also apply, ensuring certified professionals stay current with evolving threats.
For organizations, the cost includes the examination fees, which depend on company size and scope of services. There may also be ongoing costs for audits, compliance renewals, maintaining staff certificates, preparation to submit policies and procedures. While the process involves an investment, the value far outweighs the price – CREST recognition enhances credibility, shows a commitment to excellence, and serves as a powerful differentiator in the competitive cybersecurity market.
CREST Specialized Certifications
CREST offers specialized credentials in different areas cater to individuals seeking expertise in specific cybersecurity domains.
- Penetration Testing: Assess capabilities in ethical hacking and vulnerability testing.
- Threat Intelligence: Focuses on cyber threat detection and mitigation.
- Incident Response: Covers digital forensics and response to cyber incidents.
- Security Operations Centre (SOC): Evaluate the skills needed to monitor, detect, and respond to threats in real-time.
The CREST Accreditation Process
For Individuals
Individuals must pass rigorous examinations to obtain CREST accreditation. The process includes several key steps: first, candidates must meet experience and training prerequisites based on the certification level. Next, they must complete a structured training program, either through self-study or accredited providers, to prepare for the exam. The exam itself is a combination of multiple-choice theoretical questions and hands-on practical assessments that examine real-world problem-solving capabilities. Ethical considerations, technical proficiency, and adherence to industry best practices are also assessed. Upon passing, certified professionals must commit to continuous learning to stay up-to-date with evolving cybersecurity threats and security testing methodologies. Each CREST certification exam is valid for three years, after which the candidate has to retake the exam.
For Companies
Organizations seeking CREST accreditation must undergo a rigorous multi-step assessment to verify their methodologies, compliance, and employee training programs. This process includes an in-depth review of internal policies, technical capabilities, and demonstration that industry standards are met. Companies must also show a commitment to continuous improvement and ongoing staff development to maintain accreditation. The assessment ensures that accredited organizations provide high-quality cybersecurity services that align with CREST’s global standards for cybersecurity services. CREST requires evidence that the organization uses quality methodologies across the penetration testing assessment lifecycle, including scoping, assessing and reporting.
How CREST Compares to Other Cybersecurity Certifications
It stands out due to its hands-on, practical assessment approach, unlike other certifications that rely more on theoretical knowledge. Here’s how it compares to some of the other well-known cybersecurity certifications:
CREST vs. OSCP: OSCP is highly regarded for its practical penetration testing exam, where candidates must exploit vulnerabilities in a controlled lab. While OSCP is more suitable for clients looking for offensive sec, CREST provides a broader range of certifications covering penetration testing, cyber incident response, and threat intelligence.
CREST vs. CISSP: CISSP is more management-oriented, covering a wide range of cybersecurity topics such as risk management, governance, and compliance. CREST, on the other hand, is more technical and hands-on, making it better suited for cybersecurity practitioners rather than managers.
CREST vs. CEH: CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) is an entry-level accreditation that focuses on ethical hacking techniques, primarily through multiple-choice questions. CREST, especially at the higher levels of certification, require candidates to demonstrate real-world capabilities in penetration testing and cybersecurity assessment through rigorous practical exams.
Choosing a CREST-Accredited Partner for Security Testing
Not all MSSPs follow the same standards, which can create risks when providing access to sensitive information and data. When selecting a technical information security services provider, working with CREST member companies ensures high professional standards of cybersecurity testing, compliance and expertise. Organizations access verified methodologies and globally recognized assessments.
AMATAS is a CREST-accredited penetration testing services provider, delivering comprehensive security assessments to evaluate and strengthen your organization’s cybersecurity posture. Our team includes certified penetration testers holding the CREST Practitioner Security Analyst (CPSA) and CREST Registered Penetration Tester (CRT) certifications, ensuring expert-led assessments that adhere to the highest industry standards.
- Web Application Pen Test: This assessment focuses on identifying weaknesses and potential flaws in web applications, ensuring that they are secure from potential exploitation.
- Infrastructure Pen Test: The infrastructure test examines network components, servers, and network devices to uncover flaws that could compromise the overall network security.
- Wireless Pen Test: With the proliferation of wireless devices, this test ensures that wireless networks are robust against unauthorized access.
- Mobile Application Pen Test: In a mobile-first world, mobile app security is paramount. This assessment identifies flaws within mobile applications.
- Cloud Environment Security Assessment: As businesses migrate to the cloud, this assessment ensures that cloud environments are fortified against threats.
Book a meeting with our experts today to learn how we can help strengthen your defenses and ensure your organization’s safety:
Is CREST Certification Worth It? Final Verdict
For penetration testers, it is a powerful credential that enhances career growth and credibility. For companies, it ensures the highest standards of cybersecurity services and compliance as well as business development. Whether you’re an individual aiming for professional growth or a business seeking cybersecurity excellence, CREST certification is a worthwhile investment.
For more details on specific certifications and their exam formats, visit the official CREST website.
FAQs
What are the levels of CREST certification?
There are three levels: Practitioner (entry-level), Registered (mid-level), and Certified (expert-level), each covering specific CREST requirement. Each level assesses increasing competency in cybersecurity, from foundational knowledge to advanced penetration testing and cybersecurity analysis skills.
Is the Certified Protection Professional certification worth it?
Yes, the CPP certification is valuable for cybersecurity experts focusing on risk management, security principles, and crisis management. It is globally recognized and often required for senior cybersecurity management roles.
Is it worth it to get a Cisco certification?
Yes, Cisco certifications, such as CCNA and CCNP, are beneficial for technical information security providers and networking professionals. They validate knowledge in network security, routing, and switching, making them highly regarded in IT and cybersecurity roles.
Why should businesses choose a CREST-accredited penetration testing provider?
CREST-accredited companies follow strict security penetration testing methodologies and ethical standards, ensuring high-quality penetration testing projects. This accreditation demonstrates knowledge, reliability, and adherence to globally recognized best practices.
Does CREST accreditation help with regulatory compliance?
Yes, the accreditation aligns with regulatory standards such as PCI DSS, NIS2, and DORA, helping companies meet compliance requirements while ensuring thorough and reliable data security testing.
How does CREST certification impact penetration testing quality?
The certification ensures that penetration testers possess validated skills and follow standardized methodologies, leading to consistent, high-quality, and actionable assessments.
How does CREST-certified penetration testing improve healthcare cybersecurity?
It identifies vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, ensuring compliance with industry regulations like HIPAA while protecting sensitive patient data from cyber threats.
Why is CREST-certified penetration testing essential for banks?
Banks face constant cybersecurity threats, and CREST-certified provides rigorous assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities, ensuring regulatory compliance and financial data security.
How does CREST-accredited security testing benefit SaaS companies?
It strengthens cloud security, ensures compliance with data protection laws, and safeguards customer information by identifying and mitigating potential flaws.
