In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, cybersecurity professionals must go beyond textbook knowledge and demonstrate real, practical skills. The OSCP+ Certification, a next-level credential by Offensive Security, is designed to validate those capabilities with intense, hands-on experience in penetration testing. Whether you’re a seasoned security expert or a mid-level professional ready to level up, OSCP+ is emerging as the new benchmark for excellence in the cybersecurity domain.
What is OSCP+ Certification?
The OSCP+ Certification (Offensive Security Certified Professional Plus) is a rigorous, hands-on certification that builds upon the original OSCP. Tailored for cybersecurity experts, OSCP+ emphasizes advanced penetration testing, red teaming strategies, and post-exploitation techniques.
Unlike traditional certifications focused on theoretical assessments, OSCP+ involves real-world hacking simulations. Candidates are required to exploit vulnerabilities in sophisticated environments and generate comprehensive reports, closely mirroring professional penetration testing engagements.
Who Should Take OSCP+ Certification?
The OSCP+ is not for beginners. It is designed for:
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OSCP holders looking to deepen their skills
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Penetration testers with 2+ years of experience
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Red team professionals
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Security consultants handling enterprise clients
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Cybersecurity analysts aiming to transition into offensive roles
If you are comfortable with tools like Nmap, Burp Suite, Metasploit, and scripting in Python or Bash, OSCP+ is your natural next step.
Key Skills You’ll Learn with OSCP+
The OSCP+ Certification is structured to provide real-world offensive security skills. By the end of the course and exam, you’ll master:
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Advanced Network Exploitation: From privilege escalation to lateral movement across networks
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Red Team Tactics: Evading detection, bypassing EDR, and simulating APT-like behavior
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Post-Exploitation Mastery: Data exfiltration, persistence, and environment domination
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Active Directory Attacks: Exploiting misconfigurations in enterprise networks
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Buffer Overflow & Exploit Dev: Writing your own exploits, not just using existing ones
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Effective Reporting: Writing professional security assessment documents
OSCP+ Certification Syllabus Overview
The OSCP+ course typically includes the following advanced topics:
1. Advanced Enumeration
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Deep service discovery
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DNS zone transfers
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Manual banner grabbing and custom scanning techniques
2. Windows & Linux Privilege Escalation
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Kernel exploits
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Abusing SUID/SGID binaries
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Token impersonation
3. Active Directory & Domain Exploitation
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Kerberoasting
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Pass-the-Hash
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AS-REP Roasting
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BloodHound analysis
4. Web Application Attacks
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Advanced SQL Injection
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Remote Code Execution (RCE)
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Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF)
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XML External Entity (XXE)
5. Custom Exploit Development
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Fuzzing and analyzing binaries
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Writing shellcode
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Developing payloads from scratch
6. Security Bypass Techniques
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Antivirus and EDR evasion
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Living off the land binaries (LOLBins)
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Obfuscated scripting in PowerShell and Python
7. Post Exploitation & Reporting
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Harvesting credentials and sensitive data
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Building persistence mechanisms
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Crafting executive-level and technical reports
OSCP+ Exam Structure: What to Expect
The OSCP+ exam is a 48-hour challenge followed by a 24-hour reporting window. It involves:
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Access to a simulated enterprise network
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Exploiting multiple machines with varying difficulty levels
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Maintaining stealth and using evasion tactics
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Completing red team-style objectives
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Submitting a full penetration test report with proof and recommendations
Scoring Criteria:
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Points are awarded based on the complexity and completeness of exploitation
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Partial credit for partial exploitation or incomplete privilege escalation
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Reporting accounts for a significant portion of the score
A passing score is typically around 80%, but this may vary slightly depending on version.
Benefits of OSCP+ Certification
✅ Stand Out in Job Applications
Recruiters recognize OSCP+ as proof of top-tier offensive skills. It’s a differentiator on any resume, especially for high-paying roles.
✅ Access to Red Team Roles
Most red team jobs demand experience in stealthy attacks and enterprise penetration. OSCP+ trains you exactly for that.
✅ Increase in Earning Potential
Cybersecurity professionals with advanced certifications like OSCP+ can command salaries ranging from $120,000 to $180,000+, especially in the U.S., U.K., and Europe.
✅ Global Recognition
Offensive Security’s credentials are valued worldwide. OSCP+ holders are often recruited by Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and cybersecurity consultancies.
✅ Real-World Readiness
You’re not just learning how tools work—you’re learning how real attackers think and act.
How to Prepare for OSCP+ Certification
Step 1: Build a Strong Foundation
If you haven’t already earned your OSCP, do that first. The OSCP+ assumes deep familiarity with core hacking tools and concepts.
Step 2: Practice in Realistic Labs
Use training platforms like:
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Offensive Security’s Proving Grounds
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Hack The Box — Advanced Pro Labs
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TryHackMe — Red Team Rooms
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CyberSecLabs or VulnHub
Step 3: Master the Tools
You should be highly proficient with:
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Nmap, Netcat, and Wireshark
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Burp Suite and OWASP ZAP
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PowerShell and Python scripting
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Metasploit and custom exploit scripts
Step 4: Join Study Groups and Forums
Collaboration is key. Join Reddit communities, Discord servers, or LinkedIn groups dedicated to OSCP+ preparation. Share tactics, methodologies, and practice labs.
Step 5: Develop Reporting Skills
Set up a documentation template to capture your process, screenshots, commands, and findings. Use Markdown, LaTeX, or Word—whatever makes your reporting clean and clear.
OSCP+ Certification Cost and Duration
As of 2025, the pricing typically looks like:
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60 days lab + 1 exam attempt: $2,199
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90 days lab + 1 exam attempt: $2,499
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Extension labs available for additional fees
Check Offensive Security’s official site for the latest pricing and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is OSCP+ harder than OSCP?
Yes. OSCP+ involves more complex scenarios, stealth tactics, and reporting. It is built for experienced professionals.
Q2: Can I skip OSCP and go directly to OSCP+?
Not recommended. OSCP+ assumes you’re already well-versed in basic and intermediate penetration testing techniques.
Q3: Is the exam proctored?
Yes, Offensive Security uses proctors and logging systems to ensure exam integrity.
Q4: What’s the pass rate for OSCP+?
Estimated to be lower than OSCP, possibly around 40-50%. Preparation and time management are crucial.
Final Thoughts: Why OSCP+ is Worth the Challenge
The OSCP+ Certification is not just another checkbox on your resume—it’s a career-changing achievement. In an industry where practical skills outweigh theoretical credentials, OSCP+ gives you the edge. It’s the perfect choice for ethical hackers, penetration testers, and red teamers looking to prove their mettle.
If you’re ready to take your cybersecurity journey to the elite level, OSCP+ will challenge, reward, and elevate your expertise like no other certification.
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