The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is a globally recognized cybersecurity certification offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)². It validates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive information security program.
CISSP is suitable for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives who want to prove their knowledge in security principles and practices. The certification covers eight domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security architecture, and engineering. To become CISSP certified, candidates need at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of these domains, along with passing the CISSP exam and adhering to ISC² Code of Ethics.
Who should get the CISSP certification?
The CISSP certification is suitable for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives who are looking to advance their careers and demonstrate their expertise in information security. Professionals who can benefit from CISSP certification include:
- IT security professionals seeking career growth and credibility in the cybersecurity field.
- Those working in roles such as IT Director, Security Analyst, Security Consultant, Security Auditor, and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
- Professionals wanting to expand their knowledge across different cybersecurity domains and stay up-to-date with the latest security practices.
- Individuals aiming for higher-level security positions, higher earning potential, and increased marketability in the job market.
- Professionals planning to work in international roles, as the CISSP certification is globally recognized.
However, candidates should have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the ISC² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) before pursuing the certification.
What are the benefits of getting a CISSP certification?
There are several benefits of obtaining a CISSP certification, including:
- Enhanced credibility: CISSP certification acts as a validation of your skills and expertise in cybersecurity, making you stand out amongst your peers and proving your competence to employers.
- Career growth: CISSP-certified professionals are in high demand due to the ever-increasing need for strong cybersecurity practices in organizations. This certification helps you advance your career towards higher-level security positions.
- Increased earning potential: CISSP-certified individuals tend to earn higher salaries compared to their non-certified counterparts, as the certification signifies expertise in the cybersecurity field.
- Networking opportunities: Obtaining CISSP certification connects you to a global community of cybersecurity professionals, enabling you to network and share knowledge with others in the industry.
- Professional development: CISSP certification requires continuous learning and professional development to maintain the certification, ensuring that you stay up-to-date with the latest security trends and practices.
- Global recognition: CISSP certification is recognized worldwide, increasing your marketability and potential for international job opportunities in the cybersecurity field.
- Organizational benefits: Companies employing CISSP-certified professionals demonstrate their commitment to strong security practices and send a positive message to their stakeholders, employees, and clients.
- Access to resources: CISSP-certified professionals have access to exclusive (ISC)² resources, educational materials, and tools that help them stay updated with the latest industry developments.
What salary can a CISSP earn?
The salary for a CISSP-certified professional can vary depending on factors such as geographical location, years of experience, job role, and industry. In North America, the average salary for CISSP-certified professionals is over $120,000 per year. However, in some cases, CISSP professionals may earn salaries exceeding $130,000 annually. Globally, CISSP holders can expect to earn between $92,639 and $123,490 per year, based on various surveys and reports.
It is important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of individual professionals. CISSP certification typically leads to higher earning potential compared to non-certified counterparts, as it demonstrates expertise in the cybersecurity field.
What experience do you need to become a CISSP?
To become a CISSP-certified professional, you need a minimum of five years of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience in at least two of the eight domains of the ISC² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). These domains are:
- Security and Risk Management
- Asset Security
- Security Architecture and Engineering
- Communication and Network Security
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Security Assessment and Testing
- Security Operations
- Software Development Security
If you hold a relevant four-year college degree or an approved credential, you may qualify for a one-year experience waiver, reducing the required work experience to four years. Note that any part-time work in the field is not equivalent to full-time experience for CISSP requirements.
If you don’t meet the experience requirements, you can still take the CISSP exam and become an Associate of (ISC)². You will then have six years to gain the necessary work experience to upgrade your certification to CISSP.
What are the requirements to get the CISSP certification?
To obtain the CISSP certification, you need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Work Experience: Have a minimum of five years of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience in at least two of the eight domains of the ISC² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). A relevant four-year college degree or an approved credential can be used to satisfy one year of the required work experience.
- Pass the CISSP Exam: Take the CISSP certification exam and achieve a minimum passing score of 700 out of 1000 points. The exam covers the eight domains of the CISSP CBK and consists of 100-150 test items, with a 3-hour time limit.
- Endorsement: Once you have passed the CISSP exam, you need to complete the (ISC)² endorsement process. This involves providing proof of your professional experience and having your qualifications endorsed by an active (ISC)²-certified professional.
- Agree to the Code of Ethics: You must agree to abide by the (ISC)² Code of Ethics as part of the certification process.
- Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF): Maintain your (ISC)² membership by paying the required Annual Maintenance Fees.
Once you become CISSP certified, you need to maintain your certification by earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. You are required to earn 120 CPE credits every three years to keep your certification active and submit the credits to (ISC)² for verification.
What training do you need to get the CISSP certification?
While formal training is not a mandatory requirement to obtain the CISSP certification, it can be beneficial in preparing yourself for the exam. Training options include:
- Official (ISC)² Training: (ISC)² offers official training courses in various formats, such as classroom-based training, online instructor-led training, online self-paced training, and private onsite training. These courses are specifically designed to cover the eight domains tested in the CISSP exam.
- Third-Party Training Providers: Some reputable training providers offer CISSP training courses, which can be helpful in preparing for the exam. Make sure to choose a reputable provider with positive reviews and a proven track record.
- Self-Study: Many candidates prefer self-study to prepare for the CISSP exam. For this, you can use various resources, such as the Official (ISC)² CISSP Study Guide, practice test books, and online video courses dedicated to CISSP training.
- Study Groups or Peer Support: Joining study groups or connecting with other professionals preparing for the CISSP exam can be helpful in sharing knowledge and gaining insights from others’ experiences.
- Free Resources: There are numerous free resources available online, such as blogs, discussion forums, podcasts, and webinars, that can aid in your preparation for the CISSP exam.
Regardless of the training method you choose, it is essential to dedicate time and effort to study various security concepts, practice using mock exams or question banks, and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the CISSP CBK domains before attempting the certification exam.
How do you prepare for the CISSP exam?
Preparing for the CISSP exam is a multi-step process that requires diligence, commitment, and a comprehensive understanding of the CISSP CBK domains. Here are some strategies to help you prepare for the CISSP exam:
- Understand the exam objectives: Familiarize yourself with the eight domains of the CISSP CBK, as the exam questions will be based on these domains.
- Create a study plan: Develop a realistic study plan that outlines the time and resources you will dedicate to each domain. Include milestones and assessment points to check your progress.
- Acquire study materials: Obtain the Official (ISC)² CISSP Study Guide, practice test books, and other supplementary materials such as video courses, podcasts, and articles.
- Leverage official (ISC)² training: Consider enrolling in an official (ISC)² CISSP training course tailored to your preferred learning style. Options include classroom-based, online instructor-led, online self-paced, and private onsite training.
- Participate in study groups: Join study groups or online forums where you can discuss concepts, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of other CISSP candidates.
- Use practice exams: Practice exams or question banks are essential in determining your readiness for the main exam. Use these resources to identify areas where you need to improve and adjust your study plan accordingly.
- Review and revise: Regularly review the CISSP CBK domains to ensure a thorough understanding of each concept. Repeat this process until you feel confident in your grasp of the material.
- Develop time management skills: The CISSP exam has a strict time limit. Practice managing your time effectively as you complete practice exams to ensure you can answer questions efficiently during the actual test.
- Stay updated with industry news: Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. Keep yourself updated with the latest trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to ensure your knowledge is current.
- Maintain a healthy balance: While preparing for the CISSP exam, make sure to maintain a healthy balance between study, work, and personal life. Don’t neglect your physical and mental well-being as they are crucial for academic success.
With proper preparation and dedication, you can effectively prepare for the CISSP exam and increase your chances of passing it on your first attempt.
What does the CISSP exam cover?
The CISSP exam covers the eight domains of the (ISC)² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK), which are:
- Security and Risk Management: This domain covers topics such as security policies, compliance, risk, threats, vulnerabilities, legal and regulatory issues, and ethics in information security.
- Asset Security: This domain addresses the protection of various information and physical assets, including classification, ownership, data retention, and handling requirements.
- Security Architecture and Engineering: This domain involves the design and implementation of secure systems, including concepts related to security models, cryptography, secure system life cycle, and secure network components.
- Communication and Network Security: This domain focuses on securing communication and network infrastructure to protect data in transit. It covers topics such as network architecture, secure communication protocols, and network attacks.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM): This domain deals with managing and controlling access to resources, including topics like access control models, authentication, authorization, and access management.
- Security Assessment and Testing: This domain covers the processes and techniques used to evaluate and test the effectiveness of security controls and identify vulnerabilities. It includes topics like security assessment strategies, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and security audits.
- Security Operations: This domain addresses operational aspects of security, including incident management, disaster recovery, business continuity, and monitoring/logging of security events.
- Software Development Security: This domain focuses on applying security principles and best practices throughout the software development life cycle. Topics covered include secure coding techniques, software security assessment, and security integration in development, deployment, and maintenance.
The CISSP exam consists of 100-150 test items, which can be multiple-choice or advanced innovative questions. Candidates have 3 hours to complete the exam, and a minimum score of 700 out of 1000 points is required to pass.
How much does the CISSP certification cost?
The cost of obtaining the CISSP certification primarily includes the exam fee, which is $749. However, additional expenses may come from purchasing study materials, participating in training courses, and paying the Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) to maintain your certification.
Training costs can vary depending on the course format and provider. Official (ISC)² training courses can range from $2,499 to over $4,400. Third-party training providers may offer courses at different price points. Study materials, such as the Official (ISC)² CISSP Study Guide and practice test books, could cost around $100, whereas online video courses may be priced around $300.
Once you become CISSP certified, you are required to pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) of $125 to maintain your (ISC)² membership. Additionally, you must earn and report 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits every three years to keep your certification active.
It is essential to consider all these costs when planning your budget for CISSP certification.