Introduction

Cybersecurity is more critical than ever in 2025. With cyber threats increasing, companies need highly skilled ethical hackers to secure their systems. The best way to prove your skills? A top-tier penetration testing certification.

Among the most respected options are:

1. CPENT (Certified Penetration Testing Professional) by EC-Council
2. OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) by Offensive Security

If you’re trying to decide between OSCP or CPENT, you might be wondering:
✔ Which certification is more valuable?
✔ Which has a better return on investment (ROI)?
✔ Which one is more practical for real-world hacking?

Let’s explore both CPENT and OSCP in detail and determine which is the best choice for ethical hackers in 2025.

What is CPENT?

CPENT (Certified Penetration Testing Professional) is a hands-on penetration testing certification designed for advanced cybersecurity professionals. It focuses on enterprise-level penetration testing, including real-world attack scenarios.

CPENT Certification Overview:

✔ Exam Duration: 24-hour performance-based exam
✔ Skills Covered:

• Network security
• Web application penetration testing
• Operational Technology (OT) security
• Advanced privilege escalation
  ✔ CPENT Certification Cost: The CPENT exam cost varies but typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,500

CPENT is ideal for ethical hackers who want to simulate real-world cyber attacks on enterprise networks.

What is OSCP?

OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) is a penetration testing certification focused on exploit-based hacking techniques.

OSCP Certification Overview:

✔ Exam Duration: 24-hour hacking exam
✔ Skills Covered:

• Buffer overflow attacks
• Privilege escalation techniques
• Exploit development
  ✔ OSCP Certification Cost: The OSCP exam cost starts at $1,499, depending on the training package

While OSCP is highly respected, it has a high failure rate and strict policies, including the risk of getting OSCP banned if OffSec’s rules are violated.

CPENT vs. OSCP: Key Differences

If you want enterprise-level real-world experience, CPENT is the better choice in 2025.

CPENT vs. OSCP: Job Opportunities & Salary

• CPENT Salary: $100,000 – $150,000 per year
• OSCP Salary: $90,000 – $130,000 per year
• CPENT Jobs: Security Analyst, Advanced Penetration Tester, Red Team Operator
• OSCP Jobs: Penetration Tester, Red Team Lead

CPENT is more focused on corporate security, making it more relevant for high-paying enterprise cybersecurity jobs.

CPENT vs. OSCP: Which One Should You Choose in 2025?

Choose CPENT if:

✔ You want enterprise penetration testing skills
✔ You need real-world cybersecurity training
✔ You prefer a structured learning path

Choose OSCP if:

✔ You are interested in exploit-based hacking
✔ You have experience with ethical hacking and scripting
✔ You are ready for an extremely challenging exam

Final Recommendation:

If you’re looking for the best penetration testing certification in 2025, CPENT is the smarter choice. It offers better real-world application, structured training, and more career opportunities.

FAQs

1. Is CPENT worth it in 2025?

Yes! CPENT is one of the best penetration testing certifications for ethical hackers looking to work in enterprise cybersecurity.

2. What is the CPENT certification cost in India?

The CPENT certification cost in India ranges between ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000, depending on the training provider.

3. What is the OSCP certification price?

The OSCP certification price starts at $1,499 but varies based on lab access and training packages.

4. CPENT vs. OSCP: Which is easier?

CPENT is slightly easier than OSCP and offers structured training, making it a better option for professionals.

5. Where can I find CPENT Training for practice?

You can access CPENT Taining at CPENT SecureValley.