ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner

There are no formal prerequisites to attend the SSCP course. However, it is recommended that students have some knowledge of other IT domains, including a basic working knowledge of Network technologies.

Achieving the CompTIA Security+ certification, while not required, would also be beneficial.

Target audience

This course is designed for professionals with at least one year of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the SSCP domains.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Network security engineers
• Systems and network administrators
• Security analysts
• Systems engineers
• Security consultants and specialists
• Security administrators
• Systems and network analysts
• Database administrators

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Align asset management practices with risk management strategies
• Apply access control mechanisms to protect organisational assets
• Implement cryptographic techniques to secure communications and data
• Secure software, endpoints, and data across IT environments
• Design and maintain secure network and communication systems
• Evaluate cloud and wireless security considerations
• Implement incident detection, response, and recovery processes
• Support the ongoing improvement of organisational risk management practices

Module 1: Security operations and administration

• Understand core security concepts and principles
• Align asset management with risk management practices
• Identify risks, threats, and vulnerabilities
• Apply appropriate risk treatment strategies

Module 2: Access controls

• Implement access control models and mechanisms
• Manage identity lifecycle processes
• Apply authentication and authorisation techniques
• Enforce security policies and controls

Module 3: Risk identification, monitoring and analysis

• Identify and assess risks across IT environments
• Monitor systems for vulnerabilities and threats
• Apply risk analysis methodologies
• Support ongoing risk management processes

Module 4: Incident response and recovery

• Detect and respond to security incidents
• Implement incident response plans and procedures
• Support forensic investigations
• Apply data loss prevention strategies

Module 5: Cryptography

• Apply fundamental cryptographic concepts
• Implement symmetric and asymmetric encryption
• Manage keys and certificates
• Secure communications using cryptographic protocols

Module 6: Network and communications security

• Understand OSI model layers and associated threats
• Secure network protocols and services
• Implement network defence strategies
• Apply best practices for secure network design

Module 7: Systems and application security

• Secure software, applications, and endpoints
• Identify and mitigate malware threats
• Manage mobile device and virtual environment security
• Implement controls for data protection

Module 8: Integrated security operations

• Apply cloud and wireless security practices
• Support business continuity and disaster recovery planning
• Implement change management and operational controls
• Develop security awareness and training initiatives

Hands-on learning

This course emphasises practical, real-world application through interactive and scenario-based learning.

• Structured learning activities focused on operational security tasks
• Applied scenarios reflecting real-world security challenges
• Hands-on exercises across all SSCP domains
• Case studies exploring incident response, risk, and system security
• Expert-led walkthroughs of operational security implementations
• Peer discussions to explore different approaches to security challenges

This hands-on approach ensures learners can immediately apply knowledge within operational IT and security environments.

Exams and assessments

This course includes a comprehensive range of assessments designed to reinforce learning and prepare learners for the SSCP certification exam.

• Official ISC2 SSCP exam voucher included, aligned to seven domains of the Common Body of Knowledge
• Exam duration of three hours
• Total of 125 multiple-choice questions
• Passing score set at 700 out of 1000

Learners will leave the course with a clear understanding of their strengths and areas for further study, ensuring a focused and effective approach to certification.

What's included

• Expert instruction delivered by an authorised official ISC2 instructor
• Official ISC2 student training guide
• Content-specific learning activities and applied scenarios
• Hands-on activities including six case studies
• End-of-chapter quizzes with detailed explanations