Are you ready to take your cybersecurity career to the next level? Look no further than the CISSP certification because it is the industry standard pathway to this career. As one of the most sought-after credentials in the industry, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) can open doors to promising roles and exciting opportunities in cybersecurity domain.
In this comprehensive guide on CISSP, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the CISSP certification. From the cost and requirements to the exam and duration, we have got you covered with all the needed details coupled with our viewpoint.
Whether you are an experienced professional looking to enhance your skills or a newcomer wanting to break into the field, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions and succeed in your CISSP journey.
Join us as we demystify the CISSP certification process and empower you to take the next step towards a rewarding career in cybersecurity. Let’s dive in and explore the world of CISSP together.
Previously we had also compared two leading information security management certifications in our post titled CISM vs CISSP. We have also published a detailed post about CISM certification, and now we will look at CISSP certification in more detail, including CISSP certification cost.
Working as an information system security professional is a job that requires a person to have a sense of responsibility and credibility and be able to handle pressure in hard times. However, companies have little time to confirm an interviewee’s qualifications during the interview process.
Therefore, there are certification tests that show the credibility of a person’s qualifications related to a job role. By becoming certified with such a certificate, the company you are applying for the job will be able to judge your skills much more accurately. The same goes for Certified information systems security professional (CISSP) certification.
Importance and benefits of CISSP Certification
The CISSP certification is highly regarded in the field of information security and is often viewed as a gold standard among cybersecurity credentials that employers are seeking. One of the primary reasons for its importance is its recognition globally by various organizations and institutions, which positions CISSP holders as industry leaders in designing and implementing information security management systems.
The certification adds a visible validation to a professional’s knowledge and expertise in various domains of information security, such as risk management, asset security, security architecture, and engineering, among others. This broad scope of this certification ensures that certified individuals are well-equipped to handle various security challenges in diverse environments, making them invaluable assets to their organizations for fighting off and keeping information security threats at bay.
Moreover, earning a CISSP certification can significantly enhance career prospects with associated pay raise in most of the cases. Organizations increasingly look for professionals who hold this credential when hiring for security-related positions or promoting internal candidates. Statistics show that CISSP-certified professionals often command higher salaries compared to their non-certified counterparts.
The certification not only boosts an individual’s resume but also provides a competitive edge in a crowded job market, allowing career advancement opportunities in various sectors, from finance to healthcare to government.
In addition to career advancement and salary benefits, CISSP certification also offers personal growth and experience enrichment. The process of preparing for the exam encourages professionals to deepen their understanding of cybersecurity principles from a theoretical view and practices from a practical viewpoint.
This knowledge contributes to greater confidence in their skills and capabilities, enabling them to make informed decisions and lead information security initiatives within their organizations. Furthermore, the CISSP community is vast and supportive, providing networking opportunities with other professionals who share similar interests and challenges.
Once you are certified by CISSP certification, you will be able to handle the responsibility of the information system security manager. In other words, you can say that the CISSP is an information security certificate that focuses on a person’s ability to handle information system security by designing, implementing, and managing it.
The Certification was developed by International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)². It is one of the foremost requirements for personnel of information security. It is valid in more than 160 countries and is proof of your skills and expertise in Information security.
CISSP Certification requirements
To become a certified information systems security professional, you must register at https://home.pearsonvue.com/isc2. After getting your registration done, you must take a CAT (Computer Adaptive Testing) exam available in 8 languages, including English, French, German, Brazilian Portuguese, Korean, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese. The exam is also available for visually impaired candidates in Visually impaired Testing Centres.
Like every other certification, there are some required criteria that you must complete to take the CISSP certification exam. Let’s take a look at what are the criteria for taking the examination:
- Candidates are required to have a minimum of five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the 8 domains of the CISSP CBK.
- This means your total work experience must add up to at least 5 years, either full-time (must have worked a minimum of 35 hours/week for four weeks for accruing one month of work experience). If you are not meeting these criteria, then there is another option. You can also have part-time experience (should not be less than 20 hours a week and no more than 34 hours a week).
Domains of the CISSP CBK
There are seven domains of the common body of knowledge (CBK) that are tested in the CISSP exam:
1. Security and Risk Management
2. Software Development Security
3. Asset Security
4. Security Assessment and Testing
5. Identity and Access Management (IAM)
6. Security Operations
7. Communication and Network Security
8. Security Architecture and Engineering
Relevant Education or Certifications Held
Out of the total 5 years of experience required, either the 4-year educational degree or its regional equivalent degree can satisfy one year of experience.
However, paid as well as unpaid internships are also acceptable. But you will need it written on the company/organization letterhead, ensuring your position as an intern. The documentation can be the registrar’s stationery if you are an intern at a school.
For those who may not meet the full five years of experience , there is an option to earn a CISSP Associate designation which still requires passing the CISSP exam. This allows candidates to take the exam without the requisite experience, provided they commit to gaining the necessary work experience within six years. The Associate designation will serve as a stepping stone for individuals who are early in their careers or transitioning into cybersecurity from another field, emphasizing that the certification is accessible to a broader audience.
In addition to work experience and qualifying the highly competitive examination, candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to high standards of ethics and integrity. (ISC)² has a strict Code of Ethics that all certified professionals must adhere to during their practice, which underscores the importance of ethical behavior in the cybersecurity profession.
Candidates are required to agree to this code upon certification and are also subject to ongoing continuing education requirements to maintain their CISSP status. This commitment to professional development ensures that CISSP holders remain equipped with latest knowledge about emerging trends and threats in cybersecurity.
Can you pass CISSP without experience?
We saw how experience is required to have the certification. However, if you meet the above mentioned criteria, you can still take the exam and get certified. However, candidates who don’t have the required experience may become an associate of ISC² by passing the CISSP exam. Then they, as associates, will have 6 years to get 5 years of work experience.
This means that they can first pass the exam and then earn experience while working in the industry, and after getting enough experience, they can get their certificate. So, it’s a more proactive way to get the certificate than the traditional way. This way, students and young professionals who want to achieve greatness but lack experience can still achieve their dreams.
Plus, the associate of ISC² can also apply for any other ISC² certificate without the required experience for the same.
What to do after completing the exam
After completing the exam, you must subscribe to the ISC² code of ethics (https://www.isc2.org/Ethics) and fill out the endorsement form. Another ISC² professional must sign your endorsement form to verify the authenticity of your work experience. The entire process must be completed within 9 months after the exam.
How long is CISSP valid?
Getting yourself certified by CISSP doesn’t mean that you are certified for life. Like most of the popular & worldwide recognized certifications, CISSP ensures that you are also up to date with the industry’s current standards.
This is why, once you have earned a certification of CISSP, your CISSP credentials are valid for up to three years.
Once your certification is expired, and you want to continue the certificate, you can choose to continue the certification by getting 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits because ISC² demands its certified members to hold a minimum of 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.
Professionals can have 3 years to maintain their credentials. Everyone has to earn at least 40 Continuing Professional Education credits every year. Plus, an annual maintenance fee of $85 is also required to be paid.
CISSP Certification cost
Understanding the financial investment involved in obtaining the CISSP certification is crucial for prospective candidates . The costs associated with the certification can be broken down into various subheads, which includes exam registration fees, study materials, and additional training that you may liked to undertake for preparation. As of the latest information, the CISSP exam registration fee is approximately $749, but prices may vary by location and any applicable taxes at the country where you will like to register from. It’s also essential to factor in the cost of retaking the exam if necessary, which can add to the overall expense.
In addition to the exam fee, many candidates choose to invest in official and unofficial study materials to ensure they are well-prepared for the exam. This can include books, online courses, practice exams, and other resources.
The cost for these materials can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the format and comprehensiveness of the study aids and the type of training and support you seek for your exam preparation. Some candidates may opt for boot camps or intensive training programs, which can significantly increase costs but often provide structured learning and direct access to instructors.
It’s worth noting that many employers recognize the value of CISSP certification and may offer financial support for employees pursuing it. This might include reimbursement for exam fees, funding for training courses, or even providing time off to prepare for the exam.
Therefore, it is advisable for candidates to check with their employers regarding potential financial assistance and other options that may be available, which can alleviate some of the burdens associated with the cost of pursuing this certification.
CISSP Certification costs are updated as on 16.12.2024
Source: https://www.isc2.org/Register-for-Exam/ISC2-Exam-Pricing
CISSP Certification exam details
The CISSP exam is a rigorous exam which is designed to measure a candidate’s knowledge and skills in cybersecurity and its associated knowledge. It consists of 250 multiple-choice questions, with a time limit of six hours to complete the exam.
The questions cover a wide variety of topics based on the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). These domains include Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security.
The exam is delivered in a computer-based format, and candidates will encounter a mix of scenario-based questions and traditional multiple-choice items. The passing score for the CISSP exam is 700 out of 1000 points, which reflects a certain level of proficiency across the various domains of knowledge. The exam is definitely challenging, and candidates are encouraged to take their preparation seriously, as it tests not only theoretical knowledge but also practical application of security concepts in real-world situations.
Additionally, candidates should be aware of the exam’s adaptive nature. The CISSP exam employs a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format for English-language exams, meaning that the difficulty of questions adjusts based on the candidate’s performance as they progress through the exam. This adaptive approach helps tailor the assessment to the individual’s knowledge level, making it essential for candidates to be well-prepared for a range of question difficulties.
CISSP Certification exam preparation tips
Preparing for the CISSP certification exam requires a strategic approach, given the exam’s breadth and complexity. One of the most effective preparation strategies is to develop a structured study plan that allocates time for each of the eight domains of the CISSP CBK. A well-organized schedule enables candidates to focus on their weaker areas while ensuring comprehensive coverage of all topics. Setting specific goals for each study session can help maintain motivation and track progress throughout the preparation process.
Incorporating a variety of study resources is crucial to effective preparation for CISSP exam. Candidates are strongly encouraged to using official (ISC)² materials, such as the CISSP study guide and practice exams, as they provide authoritative content aligned with the exam objectives and come directly from the administrators of this certification.
Additionally, many candidates benefit from joining study groups or online forums where they can discuss challenging concepts, share resources, and gain insights from others who are also preparing for the exam. Engaging with peers can enhance understanding and retention of complex topics.
Practice exams are an invaluable tool in the preparation process for any certification. Taking practice tests helps candidates familiarize themselves with the exam format and question types, and it allows them to identify areas where they might be doing not that great and that may require further study.
Many candidates find that simulating the exam environment by timing themselves while taking practice tests can reduce anxiety and improve time management skills which helps during the actual exam session. This practice ensures that they are not only knowledgeable but also comfortable with the format and pacing of the actual exam.
Duration of CISSP Certification process
The duration of the CISSP certification process can vary significantly based on the individual’s background, preparation strategy, and prior knowledge of cybersecurity concepts. For candidates who meet the experience requirements and are well-versed in the CBK domains, the time from registration to certification can be relatively shorter compared to those who will start from zero. Many professionals dedicate around three to six months to prepare adequately for the exam, depending on their familiarity with the material and their ability to commit study hours each week.
For those who may need additional time to build their knowledge about IT systems and information security or gain relevant work experience, the process could extend beyond six months. Candidates who choose to pursue the CISSP Associate designation will have a total of six years to accumulate the required experience, allowing them to take the exam earlier in their careers. This flexibility can be advantageous for individuals transitioning into cybersecurity or those who are still developing their professional experience.
Once candidates pass the CISSP exam, they must complete the endorsement process to receive their official certification. This endorsement requires a current (ISC)² certified professional to verify the candidate’s work experience and adherence to the code of ethics. The endorsement process can take a few weeks, depending on the availability of the endorsing professional and any additional documentation needed to be verified by endorser. Overall, the CISSP certification process can range from a few months to even several years, depending on the candidate’s unique circumstances and career goals.
CISSP Certification career opportunities
Earning the CISSP certification opens up a multitude of career opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. The credential is highly respected among employers and can lead to roles such as Information Security Manager, Security Analyst, Security Architect, and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), among others. These positions often come with significant responsibilities related to securing information systems at enterprise levels, including developing security policies, managing security programs, and leading teams of cybersecurity professionals.
The demand for CISSP-certified professionals continues to grow as organizations increasingly recognize the importance of cybersecurity in protecting their assets and data.
According to industry reports, the global shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals has led to a surge in job openings, making it an opportune time for individuals with CISSP certification to enter or advance within the field. Many industries, including finance, healthcare, and government, actively seek certified individuals to help navigate complex IS security challenges and compliance requirements coming from regulators and governments.
Moreover, CISSP certification not only enhances job prospects but also provides opportunities for career advancement in the information security arena. Many employers view the certification as a prerequisite for higher-level positions, and individuals who hold the credential are often considered for leadership roles within their organizations, preferring over those who do not have CISSP certification.
The knowledge and skills acquired during the certification process provide a solid foundation for professionals looking to specialize further in areas such as penetration testing, incident response, or compliance management which all open wide doors of career advancement.
Conclusion
The CISSP certification represents a significant milestone for professionals in the cybersecurity field. It not only helps validate an individual’s expertise and commitment to the field but also opens up a host of career opportunities and advancement potential within and outside the enterprise. By understanding the requirements, costs, exam details, and preparation strategies outlined in this guide, candidates can approach their CISSP journey with confidence and clarity.
As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve because of its link with the IT landscape which is evolving at breakneck speeds, the importance of certified professionals in safeguarding information systems cannot be overstated. The CISSP certification equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle complex security challenges and contribute meaningfully to their organizations efforts to secure systems and data. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out in your cybersecurity career, pursuing CISSP certification is a valuable investment in your future.
Embarking on the CISSP certification path may seem daunting at start, but with the right resources, preparation, and determination, success is within reach. Join the ranks of CISSP-certified professionals and take the next step in your cybersecurity career, empowering yourself to make a significant impact in this critical field.
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