From Code to Cyber Defense: Start Your Journey with CCPA and CCPA-D
As businesses of all sizes face growing threats from cybercriminals, the demand for skilled professionals who can think like attackers and build secure systems from the ground up has skyrocketed. For those looking to break into the world of ethical hacking or secure DevOps, Check Point offers two valuable entry-level certifications:
156-401 Check Point Certified PenTesting Associate (CCPA) – Hacking 101
156-407 Check Point Certified PenTesting Associate – DevSecOps (CCPA-D)
These certifications not only introduce core concepts of penetration testing and secure software development but also provide hands-on experience with real-world tools and techniques.
156-401 CCPA – Hacking 101
This certification is designed to introduce the basics of ethical hacking in a hands-on, accessible way. If you’re new to offensive security, CCPA (Hacking 101) helps you build a strong foundation by covering key topics such as:
Understanding attack vectors and threat actors
Reconnaissance and information gathering
Basic exploitation techniques
Common vulnerabilities (e.g., SQL injection, XSS)
Using penetration testing tools (e.g., Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark)
The 156-401 exam validates your ability to perform basic penetration testing tasks, making it a great credential for aspiring ethical hackers, SOC analysts, and anyone curious about how hackers think.
156-407 CCPA-D – DevSecOps
As DevOps continues to dominate modern software development, security must be integrated at every stage of the CI/CD pipeline. The CCPA-D (DevSecOps) certification focuses on secure coding practices, automation, and tool integration across the software development lifecycle.
Topics include
Secure coding principles (OWASP Top 10, etc.)
DevOps vs. DevSecOps mindsets
CI/CD pipeline security
Container and Kubernetes security
Tooling for DevSecOps (e.g., SonarQube, Snyk, GitHub Actions)
Passing the 156-407 exam shows employers that you not only understand security, but that you can embed it into development workflows — a critical skill in today’s fast-paced software world.
Who Should Consider These Certifications?
Both certifications are geared toward:
Students and career changers new to cybersecurity
IT professionals seeking a move into ethical hacking or DevSecOps
Developers who want to better understand application security
Security enthusiasts looking to validate their foundational knowledge
You don’t need to be a security expert to get started. These certs are designed with learners in mind, providing hands-on labs, engaging content, and relevant tools to help you gain practical experience.
Why Get CCPA Certified?
Build confidence in security concepts through guided learning
Validate your knowledge with a recognized certification
Stand out in entry-level security job applications
Create a pathway to advanced certs like CEH, OSCP, or Check Point’s own CCTE (Threat Prevention Expert)
Whether you’re taking your first steps into ethical hacking with CCPA 156-401, or you’re ready to embed security into DevOps workflows with CCPA-D 156-407, these certifications offer a modern, practical, and industry-aligned path to cybersecurity excellence. Check Point’s focus on hands-on labs, real-world tools, and clear learning pathways makes their PenTesting Associate certifications a smart investment in your future.
