Introduction
If you’re just getting into cybersecurity and want a certification that proves your hands-on skills, two big names are leading the charge: TryHackMe’s SA1L (Security Analyst Level 1) and Hack The Box’s CDSA (Certified Defensive Security Analyst). Both are practical, and both come from respected training platforms. But they’re not the same. Here’s how they stack up.
Overview of HackTheBox CDSA
HackTheBox CDSA is an intermediate-level certification designed for individuals looking to deepen their knowledge of defensive cybersecurity practices. It focuses on practical and theoretical skills needed to identify, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity threats and incidents.
The target audience usually covers Entry level Security Analysts, Entry level Forensics Analysts and even IT Administrators.
HackTheBox CDSA cover SIEM Operations, Log Analysis, Malware Analysis and other domains such as Network Traffic Analysis.
The official course content contains Hands-on labs that simulate defensive cybersecurity challenges and is structured to build Security Operations Center analyst skills
Overview of TryHackMe SAL1 Certification
SA1L is designed for beginners looking to break into SOC (Security Operations Center) roles. The focus is defensive: threat detection, incident response, SIEM usage, log analysis, and MITRE ATT&CK.
Developed in collaboration with industry leaders like Accenture and Salesforce, this certification emphasizes practical, hands-on experience within a virtual SOC environment.
2. Exam Format & Tips
HTB CDSA Exam
HackTheBox CDSA exam lasts for 7 days, so be sure to take detailed notes throughout. Document every step carefully, as you’ll need to explain everything in your final report. You are required to create two reports. It’s advisable not to work on both simultaneously,complete one before starting the other.
Make sure you thoroughly understand all the modules in the course material. Go through the final assessments for each module and attempt to solve them without referring to the solutions or explanations beforehand.
I strongly recommend exploring TryHackMe’s Security Operations Center Level 1 path. It provides an opportunity to analyze security incidents involving a substantial volume of logs, helping you refine your methodology,an essential skill for the exam. If you encounter difficulties, you can also refer to the walkthrough videos linked in the video descriptions.
THM SAL1 Exam
The certification includes three main segments: 80 multiple choice questions (1 hour), and two separate SOC simulator scenarios (2 hours each). While the exam lasts up to 24 hours, actual hands-on time is about 5 hours. No formal prerequisites are required.
If you don’t pass the first time, every certification purchase includes one free retake!
The SOC simulator demands attention to detail. The user is expected to identify true positive alerts, differentiate between legitimate and malicious traffic, and craft detailed reports with all technical identifiers (e.g., hostname, IP address, user activity).
A strong grasp of cybersecurity lingo, acronyms, and protocols is essential. Many questions rely on understanding what specific terms mean in context. Review security operations vocabulary and be familiar with common cybersecurity tools and their functions.
The platform provides training rooms and paths tailored for the SAL1 exam. These modules build foundational knowledge and offer practical exercises that mirror the exam structure, making them ideal prep tools.
Bottom line:
CDSA’s exam is tougher and more immersive. SA1L is more accessible and less time-consuming.
Career Impact and Industry Recognition
HTB CDSA
HackTheBox CDSA is becoming widely recognized as an intermediate-level certification, CDSA is highly regarded for its focus on real-world defensive scenarios. It positions candidates for higher-level roles, including security operations center analysts and threat hunters, and provides the tools necessary to work in complex cybersecurity environments.
THM SA1L
TryHackMe is well-known in the beginner space and widely used by educators and early-career professionals. SA1L is respected but still relatively new, so it’s building its reputation.
Cost and Accessibility
- SA1L: SAL1 costs $349 with training included or $297 for existing premium subscribers.
- CDSA: The price of an exam voucher is $210 (exam only; HTB Academy subscription not included)
Course Material
HTB CDSA
The CDSA curriculum is delivered through a series of modules, each focusing on specific defensive security domains. Key areas covered include:
- SOC Processes & Methodologies: Understanding the frameworks and procedures essential for effective SOC operations.
- SIEM Operations (ELK/Splunk): Utilizing Security Information and Event Management systems for monitoring and analyzing security events.
- Tactical Analytics: Applying analytical techniques to identify and respond to security threats.
- Log Analysis: Examining system logs to detect anomalies and potential security incidents.
- Threat Hunting: Proactively searching for threats within a network before they manifest into breaches.
- Active Directory Attack Analysis: Investigating and mitigating attacks targeting Active Directory environments.
- Network Traffic Analysis (including IDS/IPS): Monitoring and analyzing network traffic to identify malicious activities.
- Malware Analysis: Studying malware behavior to understand its impact and develop countermeasures.
- Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR) Operations: Conducting forensic investigations and responding effectively to security incidents.
Each module comprises detailed explanations, practical examples, and assessments to reinforce learning. Hands-on labs simulate real-world defensive cybersecurity challenges, enabling learners to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.
Upon completion of the course modules, candidates are eligible to undertake a rigorous 7-day examination. This assessment involves performing actual security analysis, SOC operations, and incident handling activities against real-world, heterogeneous networks. Candidates are also required to compose a commercial-grade security incident report, demonstrating their ability to communicate findings effectively.
THM SAL1
The certification encompasses foundational courses such as Pre-Security, Cyber Security 101, and SOC Level 1, covering essential topics like Linux and Windows fundamentals, network security analysis, and incident response. Completing the recommended TryHackMe learning paths and practicing with free SOC scenarios can enhance exam readiness.
5. Which Certification to Pursue?
Choose HTB CDSA if:
- You have prior experience or foundational knowledge in cybersecurity.
- You’re aiming for mid-level or specialized defensive roles like incident responder or threat hunter.
- You want to tackle more advanced and realistic challenges that reflect complex cybersecurity environments.
Choose THM SAL1 if:
- You’re new to the field of cybersecurity or the blue team domain.
- You want to build both foundational & practical skills in soc enviroments and blue teaming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the HTB CDSA and THM SAL1 certifications offer valuable insights into cybersecurity, each with its unique approach. Both emphasize practical, hands-on experience through real-world scenarios, making them ideal for those seeking to enhance their defensive security skills.
