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Cyber Security & Computing
Industry-recognised certifications in cyber security, networking, and IT support. From CompTIA Security+ to ethical hacking, designed for career switchers and IT professionals.
At a glance
- CertificationsCompTIA, EC-Council, BCS
- RolesSOC, Pen Tester, Net Admin
- Duration3–9 months
- Study mode100% online
- Salary upliftUp to £15k typical
How do I start a career in cyber security?
Start with CompTIA Security+ and progress through specialist certifications
The standard UK entry route into cyber security is CompTIA Security+, the vendor-neutral foundation certification recognised by employers, the NCSC, and government departments. From there, learners specialise into roles: CySA+ for SOC analyst, PenTest+ or CEH for offensive security, Network+ for infrastructure, or Cloud+ for cloud security. learndirect delivers the official syllabus, mock exams, and exam vouchers.
Your route into cyber security
Three stages from foundation to specialist role.
Foundation – CompTIA Security+
The industry-standard entry certification. Covers threats, attacks, vulnerabilities, identity management, cryptography, and risk. Required or preferred by most UK SOC entry-level roles.
Specialise
CySA+ for SOC analyst and threat hunting. PenTest+ or CEH for ethical hacking and offensive security. CASP+ for senior security architecture. Cloud+ and Network+ for infrastructure security.
Progress
Senior roles typically combine certifications with experience. Most UK cyber roles look for two to three certifications plus relevant SOC, IT, or DevOps experience for £45k to £80k salary bands.
All Courses
Explore Cyber Security courses
Filter by level or awarding body. Sort by price. All courses are 100% online and start any day of the year.
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Free Download
The 2026 Cyber Security Career Guide
A 32-page guide to switching into cyber security in 6 to 12 months, with certification ladders and UK salary data.
- Step-by-step roadmap: zero IT to SOC analyst in 12 months
- CompTIA, EC-Council, BCS certifications compared
- UK cyber salary data by role and region (2026)
- How to land your first SOC interview
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From the Guides
Helpful guides for Cyber Security
Detailed explainers covering qualifications, careers, and progression routes.
Security+ Roadmap
How to pass CompTIA Security+ in 8 weeks, and which certifications to pursue after it.
Read the guide →SOC Analyst Career Guide
Day-to-day in a SOC, salary ranges, certification stack, and how to get your first role.
Read the guide →Pen Tester vs Defender
Offensive vs defensive cyber careers compared. Skills, certifications, salary, and lifestyle.
Read the guide →Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about studying Cyber Security with learndirect.
Do UK employers recognise CompTIA certifications?
How long does it take to pass Security+?
Can I get into cyber without an IT background?
What salary can I expect as a SOC analyst?
Is the exam included in the course fee?
Are these courses Ofqual-regulated?
How do I take the exam?
Start your cyber security career
Speak to an adviser about which certification fits your background and where you want to specialise.
Speak to a Course Advisor
Not sure which course is right for you? Our advisors can walk you through your options, check your funding eligibility, and help you get started.
- Personalised course and pathway guidance
- 100% funded through Student Finance
- Help with your application and enrolment
- No obligation, no pressure
“It's been a great journey so far. I have learnt at my own pace and learndirect have been very supportive all the time.”
Emaan B. · Verified review on Trustpilot
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