Vendor-neutral ethical hacking certification covering reconnaissance, scanning, system hacking, malware threats, sniffing, social engineering, web app attacks, and AI-driven hacking. v13 introduces AI-augmented hacking modules. Knowledge-based MCQ exam, with optional CEH Practical hands-on add-on.
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Sign in to RateAggregated from CEH-vs-OSCP comparison threads
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May 9, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
Sharply divisive cert. HR signal exists especially in DoD / govcon (8570 compliance) but technical-community respect is low. OSCP regarded as superior for actual penetration testing skills at similar/lower cost.
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May 9, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
High cost ($1,199 USD) is the biggest complaint — most expensive non-SANS security cert at this level. EC-Council voucher discounts (50%+ via partners) common. Knowledge-based MCQ — minimal hands-on testing in core CEH.
Aggregated from v13 review threads
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May 9, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
v13 (released 2024) added AI-augmented hacking modules — ChatGPT prompt-injection, ML poisoning. Content currency improving but some find new modules surface-level. CEH Practical add-on ($550) recommended for credibility.
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May 9, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
For HR-filter purposes works well — many job postings list "CEH or equivalent". Recommended approach: pay only with employer reimbursement or significant voucher discount.
Aggregated from cert-pathway recommendation threads
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May 9, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
Technical reputation: "CEH cracks the door, OSCP gets you the seat". For self-funding learners, TCM PNPT ($399), HTB CPTS ($490), or OSCP all considered better $/skill ratio.
Official course required to qualify for the exam without 2yr experience proof.
Comprehensive textbook covering all 20 modules.
Cheaper alternative covering CEH content with hands-on labs.
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Multiple Choice
Exam Duration
4h
Pass Score
70%
Remote Proctored
Yes — remote or test center
Exam Languages
Study Time
~80 hours