At Hacker School, we know that many learners face the same question: which is the respected option between CEH vs CPENT when choosing their certification path? CEH and CPENT are both respected options, but they serve different purposes. CEH introduces you to ethical hacking methods and security concepts, while CPENT measures your ability to carry out real penetration tests in a controlled environment.
Both certifications hold value, but the way they test your skills is very different. To help you understand better, let’s break down what each certification brings and why your career goals should guide your choice.
CEH is a knowledge-based certification. It covers hacking tools, common attacks, and security countermeasures through a structured theory exam. This makes it a suitable entry point for those just beginning their cybersecurity journey.
CPENT, on the other hand, is a practical approach. It asks you to perform real penetration testing across networks, applications, and even cloud environments. The exam itself is a 24-hour challenge that requires you to demonstrate actual skills, not just theoretical knowledge.
When considering career growth, CEH suits beginners aiming for entry-level analyst roles, while CPENT appeals to those ready for advanced testing and red teaming positions.
Choosing the proper certification depends on your current skills and plans.
Both are recognised, but your career stage matters most in deciding.
We ensure that our ethical hacking course strikes a balance between theory and practice. Learning about attack methods is essential, but applying them in simulated labs makes a bigger impact. Our training style focuses on giving you the confidence to not only clear exams but also use the skills in the workplace.
A Penetration testing course is valuable because security threats are not just textbook examples; they are real-world scenarios that require practical application. Organisations deal with real vulnerabilities every day, and they want professionals who can test their defences in practice. With proper hands-on training, you learn how to break into networks, secure them, and present your findings just like in real projects.
CEH is a good starting point, but for penetration testing roles, you usually need something more practical, such as CPENT.
Yes, it is best taken after you have gained some hands-on experience with ethical hacking.
CPENT is more challenging because it is practical, whereas CEH focuses on theory.
Both certifications have their place, and your choice depends on your goals. CEH builds your knowledge while CPENT proves your skills. At Hacker School, our focus is on preparing you for both learning and practice, so that whichever path you choose, you feel well-equipped for the challenges of cybersecurity.