What Is OSCP Certification and Is It Worth It? 2024 Guide

In the field of cybersecurity, you may want to consider earning your OSCP certification to prove that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to be a penetration tester. Certifications are credentials you can use to certify skills in a specific industry, helping demonstrate your competency to potential employers.

In this article, we'll discuss a key security certification, the OSCP. If you're interested in a cybersecurity career, consider enrolling in the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate to begin learning about key cybersecurity practices and how to protect networks, devices, and people.

What is OSCP certification?

OSCP stands for OffSec Certified Professional. It is an ethical hacking certification offered by Offensive Security (OffSec) and designed to validate practical penetration testing skills. The OSCP is based on Kali Linux tools and methodologies. If you’re unfamiliar with Kali Linux, it’s an open-source platform used for the following information security (InfoSec) tasks:

• Computer forensics

• Pen testing

• Security research

• Reverse engineering

• Red team testing

• Vulnerability management 

Once certified, your OSCP does not expire.

Is OSCP worth it?

The OSCP is a popular and recognizable credential in the IT community. Although it’s considered a lower-level pen testing certification, it is designed for established cybersecurity professionals rather than those pursuing an entry-level position. If you’re looking for a certification that you can use to break into the field, consider looking into the CompTIA Security+ certification. 

The OSCP can prepare you for more advanced certifications, hone white-hat hacking skills, and demonstrate your Kali Linux pen testing competency. Combined with other higher-level certifications, it can help you build a robust and comprehensive portfolio of proficiencies. Whether the OSCP is worth pursuing depends on your personal and professional goals. Consider the following outcomes to aid your decision-making process:

• Job opportunities. Certifications are an excellent way to fill in the gaps in your resume, especially if you’re transitioning into ethical hacking from a related role. 

• Demonstrated commitment to continued learning. In the tech field, continued education is required for success. Pursuing certifications ensures (and proves) that you’re current on the latest tools and methodologies. 

• Proven proficiency with specific tools and procedures. Some employers ask for the OSCP certification by name or require experience with Kali Linux. 

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Careers that value OSCP certifications

• Pen tester

• Network administrator

• System administrator 

• InfoSec professionals transitioning into ethical hacking

• Cybersecurity professionals

OSCP salary

According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for an OffSec Certified Professional in the US is $119,895, as of February 2024. The salary range begins at $22,500 and ends at $168,500 [1]. 

How does the OSCP compare to other certifications?

OSCP vs. CISSP

CISSP, or Certified Information Systems Security Professional, is an ICS2 certification awarded to those who have completed CISSP training and passed the subsequent exam. The subject matter focuses more on designing and managing cybersecurity systems and components. You’ll strengthen your ability to assess, identify, and maintain systems to reduce vulnerabilities and manage risks. The content is well-suited for security managers, analysts, and engineers. In contrast, OSCP subject matter is geared toward those interested in information security, penetration testing, and ethical hacking.  

OSCP vs. CEH

CEH stands for Certified Ethical Hacker. Unlike the OSCP, which focuses on Kali Linux-based tools and methods, CEH-certified individuals are vendor neutral. The CEH is a well-rounded exam covering cloud security, cryptography, and Internet of Things (IoT) testing. Like the above-mentioned CISSP, you’ll focus on system security, risk management, and incident handling. The CEH, however, is at a more accessible level for entry-level cybersecurity professionals without penetration testing experience. The CEH is more beginner friendly than the specialized OSCP. 

OSCP vs. PNPT

PNPT, or, Practical Network Penetration Tester, is newer and lesser known than the OSCP certification. Nonetheless, it’s considered an industry-standard certification, and you’ll find it requested by name in job postings for ethical hackers, cybersecurity engineers, penetration testers, and security analysts. Like the OSCP, penetration testing comprises the bulk of the curriculum. The PNPT includes more information about open-source intelligence and web application security. It also prioritizes non-technical subjects such as report writing, scoping, test etiquette, and cleanup. 

OSCP certification requirements

OSCP cost

The PEN-200 course and exam bundle is available for $1,649 as of February 2024. It includes one course, 90 days of lab access, and one exam attempt. You also have the option to enroll in a Learn One subscription for $2,599 or Learn Unlimited for $5,499, both billed annually. The subscription options include additional classes, exams, practice, and content. You can learn more about subscription options here. 

OSCP prerequisites

• Understanding of Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) networking

• Familiarity with Python scripting and Bash on a fundamental level

• Experience with Windows and Linux administration

OSCP administration

The PEN-200 course and online lab are designed to prepare students for the OSCP certification exam. It is proctored, and the exam duration is 24 hours. You will only receive feedback on your exam attempt if you earned insufficient points to pass. If you must retake the exam, there is a cooling off period (either four or six weeks, depending on your bundle) before you can attempt again.  

Strengthen your cybersecurity skills on Coursera

You can strengthen your penetration testing expertise with an industry leader in technology by enrolling in the IBM Penetration Testing, Incident Response, and Forensics online course. The subject matter for this beginner-friendly, no-experience-required program includes incident management, scripting, penetration testing, and forensics. You’ll earn a shareable certificate for your LinkedIn profile or resume. 

Or enroll in the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. Over eight courses, you'll learn to identify common risks, threats, and vulnerabilities, as well as techniques to mitigate them, while gaining hands-on experience with Python, Linux, and SQL.