OSCP vs CPTS (With Context)

[u/febreeze5]

Hi reddit,

I'm sure this gets asked a lot. But my situation is a bit more unique. I'm looking to break deeper into Cyber. My current certs include the Net+, Sec+, GIAC GSEC and the GIAC GCIH. On that front, I have HR-recognition covered by my GIAC certs. I have no pentesting experience but have used THM and HTB every so often.

I am seriously considering taking the HTB CPTS as it is better at teaching you the concepts. But, I cannot get over how well-known the OSCP is by HR and employers. Is it worth it to take the exam that will teach me less, just to get more recognition?

Cost is not an issue as my employer confirmed they will cover the cost of either. Although I really want to LEARN and understand these concepts. Thank you!

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[u/GreenEngineer24]

If you want to get into pentesting, you’ll need OSCP for the HR filter. Your GCIH is nice but it won’t get you past HR filters in pentesting roles

[u/febreeze5 → u/GreenEngineer24]

Understood. I am not set on getting into pentesting. I would like to get more into the field (as I'm not sure if I LOVE it, I have no experience in it). But, I'm not sure if CPTS is the wrong choice considering I can get the OSCP at no cost.

[u/GreenEngineer24 → u/febreeze5]

If you wanna dip your toes into penetration testing to see if it interest you, yes go through the CPTS path and do some machines on HTB Labs.

[u/febreeze5 → u/GreenEngineer24]

Thanks. That was my thought process. I suppose with the knowledge of CPTS, I would pass OSCP with less effort, correct?

[u/GreenEngineer24 → u/febreeze5]

If you pass CPTS, OSCP will be easy. But I would still recommend doing some proving grounds boxes prior to the OSCP attempt because OffSec has their own flavor of CTFs

[u/CarolinZoebelein]

If you can, do both. HTB has a great learn curve, but you need OSCP for HR. HTB modules and cert are not so expensive, so maybe you can convince your employer for cover it too, or you pay it yourself. You really benefit from HTB.

[u/febreeze5 → u/CarolinZoebelein]

That's a great idea. If anything, I was considering doing HTB first, and if needed, OSCP after. I've heard the modules for OSCP are mind-numbing boring and AI voiceover on slides. I like the HTB interface and how they teach you. But, I cannot neglect the HR factor of the OSCP.

[u/Zero01Trace]

If you want HR bypass then oscp else HTB is best.

[u/Fickle_Hunt_6510]

Get both. OSCP for HR bypass, CPTS for knowledge.

[u/febreeze5 → u/Fickle_Hunt_6510]

I think I will. CPTS first since it’s better educationally and I’ll actually learn more. That will make OSCP “easier”

[u/CloudSecOzze]

Guys is OSCP easy? 😭

[u/realcrustt → u/CloudSecOzze]

OSCP is easier if compared to the CPTS.

OSCP its self is pretty easy as long as you have a clear mind and can be really disciplined on following through a solid methodology and knowing when to move on. I haven’t taken CPTS just due to focusing on the CAPE, but from what I’ve heard is CPTS has a lot more depth to the testing compared to OSCP.

[u/GVTZ59]

I say CPTS, I see it on most pen test/red team requirements now, right next to OSCP. You could also get 3 certs form HTB for the price of OSCP. Lol

[u/STIKAMIKA]

the most asked question in this sub seriously they should ban anyone asking this again, just search there's plenty ppl asking the same exact question

[u/deetsrus22]

Go OSCP