Certified Forensic Computer Examiner
Research the different certifying bodies in the computer forensic/computer security arena. The report will need to list the process of obtaining the certificates from prerequisites, obtaining the certification, and maintaining or recertification.
The research paper for this course is designed to have the student research computer/digital forensics professional certifications. The following are the minimum guidelines for completing the paper:
• The paper will need to contain three (3) professional certification bodies related to computer forensics or cyber crime.
• What are the certifying bodies’ pre-certification requirements?
-Education
-Testing
-Experience in the field
-Open to civilian and law enforcement?
• What are the certifying bodies testing procedures to gain certification?
• Cost of certification
• Renewal of certification.
-Continued education requirements?
-Cost of renewals
Compare the available certifications and the value they may have in a career in computer forensics or cyber security.
This research paper needs to be at least 4-5 pages, not counting the title page and reference pages. The paper should be in APA format. You only need the title page, body, and references.
The three certifications chosen:
1) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)
2) Certified Digital Forensics Examiner (CDFE)
3) Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)
Sample Solution
When it comes to computer forensics and cyber security, there are a number of certifying bodies that offer credentials based on their particular area of expertise. The three most widely recognized organizations in this field are the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants (EC-Council), and the SANS Institute. Each has its own unique set of requirements for pre-certification which must be met before an individual can earn their respective credential.
The GIAC offers several certifications related to digital forensics such as Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE) and Security Incident Handler (GCIH). To become certified through this organization, applicants must first hold at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field with experience in information security or digital forensics; have completed training courses provided by the organization; and pass four exams demonstrating mastery over multiple domains including investigation procedures, incident handling, networking concepts and operating systems (GIAC Certifications 2021).
The International Council of E-Commerce Consultants also provides various cyber security certifications such as Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) and Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator (CHFI). Before being eligible for these credentials however individuals need to have at least two years working with networks/systems administration as well as relevant knowledge in data communication/network protocols/cyber crime along with completing approved training programs from EC-Council prior to taking their certification exams(EC Council 2021).
Finally, The SANS Institute is renowned for its Cyber Defense Initiative certification program featuring six different certificates ranging from Network Security Professional to Digital Forensics Expert. Prerequisites required for obtaining any one of these credentials include attending official training courses offered by SANS; passing three separate examinations within twelve months period; possessing five years’ worth industry experience in IT security; submitting verifiable references from past employers attesting your qualifications as well having at least one published article appearing on SANS website prior to applying (SANS Certificates 2021).
In conclusion, each of these organizations requires individuals meet certain criteria before they can begin taking steps towards becoming certified professionals within the world digital forensics or cyber security fields. Therefore, if you intend pursue any one if not all these entities make sure familiarize yourself what those expectations so prepare accordingly ahead time should decide move forward down path achieving any given credential.
