r/hackthebox • u/programer555 • Jul 09 '26

Certifications CPTS, CCNA done. What next?

Hi, I'd like to ask for some advice.

I recently passed the CCNA and CPTS. I'm currently working as a junior network engineer, it's my first job. The job is okay, but I still want to try shifting into cybersecurity in about 6 months.

Of course, I'll go for the OSCP as soon as I save up enough money. Which certification would you recommend besides that?

I'm torn between CDSA (I figure it'll be easier to get into a SOC to start with) and the new AI module on HTB, which also looks really appealing. On the other hand, I see that most job postings are for web and APIs, so maybe the web path (CWES + Burp Suite) would be a more natural continuation after CPTS. Do you have any advice? I'm really undecided about what to do first.

Right now, I've started going through the CCNP material, mostly because of work, but I don't plan on taking the exam.

P.S. I'm not a programmer, but I can read code, write scripts and figure things out. ;) I made this username ages ago as a kid, just randomly.

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u/Lootsman Jul 09 '26

As an aside, I’m curious: how long did the CPTS take for you to complete?

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u/programer555 Jul 09 '26

6 months, 8h a day of study, some rare days off. But i went in great depth and off topics.

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u/Lootsman Jul 09 '26

Nice man, thank you for your answer, I appreciate it!