Introduction
Cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, and salaries in the industry continue to rise. However, not all certifications offer the same earning potential.
Two of the most recognized penetration testing certifications are:
- CPENT (Certified Penetration Testing Professional) – Offered by EC-Council, focused on real-world enterprise security testing.
- OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) – Offered by Offensive Security, known for exploit-based hacking techniques.
If you’re wondering which certification will help you earn more, this guide will compare CPENT vs. OSCP salaries, job market demand, and ROI to help you make the best choice.
What is CPENT?
CPENT (Certified Penetration Testing Professional) is a high-level cybersecurity certification that teaches enterprise-level penetration testing and real-world attack scenarios.
CPENT Certification Overview:
✔ Exam Format: 24-hour hands-on hacking challenge
✔ Skills Covered:
- Network security testing
- Web application penetration testing
- Operational Technology (OT) security
- Privilege escalation techniques
✔ CPENT Certification Cost: Ranges from $1,000 to $1,500, depending on the training package
CPENT is the best choice for professionals seeking high-paying jobs in corporate cybersecurity.
What is OSCP?
OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) is an ethical hacking certification focused on exploit development and privilege escalation techniques.
OSCP Certification Overview:
✔ Exam Format: 24-hour penetration testing exam
✔ Skills Covered:
- Buffer overflow attacks
- Active directory exploitation
- Privilege escalation methods
✔ OSCP Certification Cost: Starts at $1,499 and increases with additional training packages
While OSCP is well-respected, it is also extremely difficult, and candidates risk getting OSCP banned for violating OffSec’s policies.
CPENT vs. OSCP: Salary Comparison
| Feature | CPENT | OSCP |
|---|---|---|
| Average Salary | $100,000 – $150,000 | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| Job Roles | Senior Security Analyst, Red Team Operator, Enterprise Penetration Tester | Penetration Tester, Red Team Lead |
| Industry Demand | Growing rapidly | High, but highly competitive |
Which Certification Pays More?
- CPENT salary is generally higher because it focuses on enterprise-level penetration testing, which is in high demand.
- OSCP salary is competitive, but many OSCP holders still need additional certifications to reach top-paying jobs.
CPENT Certification Cost & ROI
- CPENT certification cost: $1,000 to $1,500
- Return on Investment (ROI): CPENT holders can earn back their investment quickly with a high-paying cybersecurity job.
- CPENT training: Includes structured courses, practice labs, and study materials.
If you’re looking for an affordable certification with strong earning potential, CPENT is the better choice.
OSCP Certification Cost & ROI
- OSCP certification price: Starts at $1,499
- OSCP exam cost: Includes only one exam attempt (additional attempts cost extra)
- OSCP study guide & training: Requires extensive self-study
The high cost and difficulty of OSCP make it a riskier investment compared to CPENT.
CPENT vs. OSCP: Job Market Demand in 2025
- CPENT jobs are increasing, especially in enterprise security roles.
- OSCP jobs remain competitive, but many companies now prefer CPENT due to its real-world cybersecurity applications.
If you want a higher salary and better job security, CPENT is the smarter investment.
Final Verdict: CPENT vs. OSCP – Which One Helps You Earn More?
Choose CPENT if:
✔ You want higher-paying enterprise penetration testing jobs
✔ You prefer structured training and practical experience
✔ You want better ROI on your certification investment
Choose OSCP if:
✔ You enjoy exploit-based hacking challenges
✔ You have strong self-study skills
✔ You’re willing to take a high-risk, high-reward approach
Final Recommendation:
For cybersecurity professionals looking to maximize their earning potential in 2025, CPENT is the better choice. It offers higher salaries, better job opportunities, and a more structured learning path than OSCP.
FAQs
1. How much does CPENT cost?
The CPENT certification cost ranges from $1,000 to $1,500, depending on the training package.
2. Is CPENT better than OSCP for salary growth?
Yes, CPENT salary levels are generally higher because CPENT focuses on enterprise penetration testing, which is in high demand.
3. What is the OSCP certification price in 2025?
The OSCP exam cost starts at $1,499 but can increase with additional training and lab access.
4. Where can I find CPENT training materials?
You can ask for CPENT training at CPENT SecureValley .
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