The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is a globally recognized credential in the field of information security. This prestigious certification, offered by (ISC)², validates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a best-in-class cybersecurity program.
What is CISSP?
CISSP stands for Certified Information Systems Security Professional. It’s a vendor-neutral certification that covers a broad range of security topics, making it ideal for senior security managers, executives, and consultants who want to demonstrate their comprehensive understanding of information security.
CISSP Domains
The CISSP certification exam covers eight domains:
- 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
These domains ensure that CISSP-certified professionals have a well-rounded knowledge of information security principles and practices.
- Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Certificate Focus: Covers all cybersecurity domains
- Exam Voucher Pricing: $749 USD
- Training Pricing: Varies
CISSP Requirements
To qualify for the CISSP certification, candidates must:
- Have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains.
- Possess a four-year college degree or regional equivalent, which can substitute for one year of required experience.
- Pass the CISSP exam.
- Subscribe to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics.
- Complete the endorsement process.
CISSP Certification Cost
The CISSP certification cost includes:
- Exam fee: $749 (as of 2024, subject to change)
-
Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF): $125 (after certification)
Additional costs may include study materials and training courses.
CISSP Exam Format
The exam consists of 100-150 questions and lasts up to three hours. It’s a adaptive test, meaning the difficulty of questions adjusts based on the candidate’s performance.
CISSP Training
While not mandatory, CISSP training can significantly improve your chances of passing the exam. Options include:
- Self-study using books and online resources
- Instructor-led courses (in-person or virtual)
- Boot camps
-
Practice exams
A popular resource is the Official (ISC)² CISSP Study Guide, which covers all exam domains in depth.
CISSP Salary
The CISSP certification can lead to substantial salary increases. According to recent surveys:
- The average CISSP certification salary in the US ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 per year.
- Experienced CISSP professionals in senior roles can earn over $200,000 annually.
- Salaries vary based on location, industry, and experience.
The A+ is a big exam. Two separate tests and a lot of content coverage makes this test simple: memorize, memorize, memorize.
How Hard is CISSP?
The CISSP exam is known for its difficulty. It requires:
- Extensive knowledge across all eight domains
-
The ability to apply concepts to real-world scenarios
-
Strong time management skills during the exam
However, with proper preparation and experience, passing the exam is achievable.
How Many CISSP Certified Professionals Are There?
As of 2024, there are over 150,000 CISSP-certified professionals worldwide. This number continues to grow as the demand for cybersecurity experts increases globally.
Conclusion
The CISSP certification is a valuable asset for cybersecurity professionals looking to advance their careers. While challenging, the benefits of obtaining this certification include higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and recognition as an expert in the field. If you’re serious about a career in information security, pursuing the CISSP certification is a step worth considering.
Off the Record
HR’s favorite certificate. The CISSP validates your knowledge in all cybersecurity domains. This certificate has immense value on a resume and is a top 3 requested certificate on job postings. Regardless of where you take your cybersecurity career, you’ll likely have to consider this certificate for the immense value it brings to your career at a fairly decent price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CISSP certification recognized globally?
Yes, the CISSP is globally recognized and valued in the information security industry worldwide.
Can I retake the CISSP exam if I fail?
Yes, you can retake the exam after a waiting period. The retake policy allows for:
- A 30-day wait for the first retake
- A 90-day wait for the second and subsequent retakes
Is work experience required for CISSP certification?
Yes, five years of full-time paid work experience in two or more CISSP domains is required, with some exceptions for education.
Can I take CISSP training courses online?
Yes, many providers offer online CISSP training courses, including self-paced and instructor-led options.
How often is the CISSP exam updated?
The CISSP exam is regularly updated to reflect current practices and technologies, typically every 2-3 years.