CEH v13: Exam Format, Eligibility and Syllabus Explained

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) from EC-Council is one of the most recognized entry-to-intermediate security certifications. If you are thinking about CEH v13, these are the questions people ask first. EC-Council updates its rules and fees from time to time, so always confirm current details on the official EC-Council website before you register.

What Is CEH v13?

CEH teaches you to find weaknesses in systems the way an attacker would, but with permission. The v13 curriculum is organized into 20 modules that follow the stages of an attack, and it adds AI-related content to the established topics. Our CEH v13 course page lists the modules.

Exam Format

• The knowledge exam is multiple choice, with 125 questions in a 4-hour window.
• The passing score is set by EC-Council and can vary between exam forms, so check the current figure on their site.
• EC-Council also offers a separate practical exam, CEH Practical, where you solve hands-on challenges in a lab. It is a different test that measures applied skill.

Who Can Take the Exam?

EC-Council has historically allowed candidates to qualify in two ways: by completing official training through an EC-Council Accredited Training Center, or by showing relevant work experience and applying through EC-Council. Rules and fees can change, so ask a counselor to explain the current route for your situation.

Do You Need Coding Skills?

No. Programming is not a prerequisite. Basic networking knowledge and some comfort with Linux make the course much easier. If you are new to both, read our beginner roadmap first.

The 20 Modules at a Glance

Introduction to Ethical Hacking, Footprinting and Reconnaissance, Scanning Networks, Enumeration, Vulnerability Analysis, System Hacking, Malware Threats, Sniffing, Social Engineering, Denial-of-Service, Session Hijacking, Evading IDS, Firewalls and Honeypots, Hacking Web Servers, Hacking Web Applications, SQL Injection, Hacking Wireless Networks, Hacking Mobile Platforms, IoT and OT Hacking, Cloud Computing, and Cryptography.

How Long Is the Certification Valid?

EC-Council certifications are valid for a fixed period and are renewed by earning continuing education credits. Check the current validity and renewal rules on EC-Council's website, because they are updated.

What to Study Next

CEH is a broad foundation. To go deeper on web applications, look at WAHS. For advanced, hands-on penetration testing, look at CPENT AI.