How do employers evaluate cybersecurity certifications compared to experience?

In my experience, including candidates trained through h2kinfosys and similar programs, employers view certifications as validation of baseline cybersecurity knowledge but rely more heavily on hands-on experience when making hiring decisions. Certifications like Security+, CEH, or CISSP help candidates pass HR screening and demonstrate commitment to the field. However, practical exposure gained through labs, internships, or cybersecurity jobs with training shows real ability to detect threats, analyze logs, and respond to incidents. I have seen employers prioritize candidates who can explain tools like SIEM, Wireshark, and vulnerability scanners over those who only hold certifications without applied experience alone effectively.