Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Learn all you need to know about CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) from ISC2 - including how to get certified, the benefits of CISSP and exam preparation.
What is CISSP?
The ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is the gold standard in cyber security certifications. It is one of the most recognized and respected certifications for cybersecurity professionals. If you’re looking to establish credibility in the field or elevate your expertise, CISSP can be a career defining achievement.
What does a CISSP certification cover?
It’s not just about technical know-how, CISSP covers a broad spectrum of security topics, blending theoretical knowledge with practical application. It focuses on eight domains of cybersecurity, which collectively cover the breadth of the profession:
- Security and Risk Management – Establishing the foundations of information security and managing risk.
- Asset Security – Safeguarding assets through policies, standards, and controls.
- Security Architecture and Engineering – Implementing secure architecture, cryptography, and engineering processes.
- Communication and Network Security – Protecting information as it travels across networks.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM) – Controlling and monitoring access to systems and data.
- Security Assessment and Testing – Ensuring security controls are effective through regular testing.
- Security Operations – Managing security operations, incident response, and disaster recovery.
- Software Development Security – Incorporating security into the software development lifecycle.
These domains make CISSP a holistic certification, covering not just technical security controls but also governance, risk management, and operational aspects of security.
Why is CISSP important?
CISSP-certified professionals ensure comprehensive security and compliance, enhancing a company’s reputation and building client trust. They possess the expertise to manage evolving cyber threats and address specific challenges, making them valuable assets.
CISSP is globally recognized, ensuring leadership in cybersecurity and aligning security strategies with business goals. Employers value CISSP holders for their ability to lead security programs, conduct risk assessments, and implement compliance measures.
CISSP certification opens doors to higher salaries, leadership roles, and networking opportunities, while playing a key role in shaping the future of cybersecurity.
What are the benefits of becoming CISSP certified?
Credibility and differentiation
CISSP certified professionals are positioned as an authority within the world of cyber security. It shows they have the proficiency to keep up with the new tech and new threats and quickly convey their knowledge to others.
The highest standard
CISSP is the highest standard of cyber expertise. It requires practical and professional knowledge to pass and is therefore seen as the gold standard of certifications.
Advanced skill building
As an expert-level certification, CISSP helps to build advanced knowledge in cyber security best practices, as well as evolving technologies and mitigation strategies.
A versatile certification
CISSP is one of the most versatile cyber certifications that you can earn. It can be applied across a range of different technologies and methodologies, and is applicable to cyber security certifications across all industries.
Career and salary advancement
CISSP is the ideal certification for those that are currently in Security Manager or Analyst roles who want to further their skillset and advanced in their career. It is also reported that ISC2 members have a 35% higher salary than non-members.
Why choose a CISSP certification?
*97k vacancies – a third of all US cyber vacancies, requested CISSP cert - job roles include.
- Security consultants
- Cybersecurity specialists
- Security managers
- Cybersecurity engineers
- Security analysts
- Cybersecurity architects
- Chief information security officers
- Security auditors
*US CISSP demand is expected to grow by 33% from 2020 to 2030 which is rated as “much faster than average”.
What experience do I need to take a CISSP certification course?
This training course is intended for professionals who have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the (ISC)²® CISSP CBK.
CISSP is considered to be an expert-level course, and next step after completing (ISC)2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP).
It is best suited to those in roles such as: Security Consultant; Security Manager; IT Director/Manager Security Auditor; Security Architect; Security Analyst; Security Systems Engineer; Chief Information Security Officer; Security Director; Network Architect.
"Holding the CISSP certification proves to the world that you understand what it takes to implement and manage all aspects of modern information and cyber security controls"
That's the view of Mark Amory, our Technical Learning Consultant for Cyber Security, who is CISSP certified himself.
"The CISSP certification is one of the premier certifications to get. The course gives a fantastic insight to the complexities of the world of infosec and the breadth of knowledge it takes to successfully help an organization become compliant with legal and regulatory frameworks."
CISSP training courses
CISSP Exam Preparation
ISC2 have established eligibility requirements to sit for the CISSP exam, candidates need at least five years of paid, full-time work experience in two or more of the CISSP domains. However, a degree in computer science or a related certification can waive one year of this requirement.
Learners who do not meet the eligibility requirements are able to become an Associate of ISC2.
Study Resources
Given the depth and breadth of topics covered, preparing for CISSP requires thorough study and commitment.
QA offers official ISC2 CISSP training either vILT and e-learning, with additional study resources within the QA group platform. These programs are often designed for working professionals, balancing hands-on learning with theoretical study.
QA has long been and Official ISC2 partner, we provide official courseware, study guides, practice exams with every official CISSP training course. These resources are tailored to align with the exam’s objectives.
- Practice Exams: The CISSP exam is known for its challenging, scenario-based questions. Practice exams are a valuable resource to familiarize yourself with the exam’s format and improve your critical thinking skills.
- Community Engagement: Engaging with the cybersecurity community, through forums, Meetups, or professional networks, these can help you stay motivated and gather insights from others who have completed the certification.
CISSP Exam Tricks & Tips
Understand the Domains: The CISSP exam tests not just your knowledge but your ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. Ensure that you fully understand each domain and its practical implications.
Focus on Risk Management: A significant portion of the exam focuses on risk management and governance. Ensure you’re familiar with risk assessment processes, security governance frameworks, and compliance mandates.
Think Like a Manager: CISSP is aimed at security managers and leaders, so approach the exam with a strategic mindset. The questions often require you to think about how to align security with business objectives, manage teams, and assess risks.
The CISSP Exam
The CISSP exam is included with your QA official ISC2 CISSP certification, always taken post class, it consists of 100-150 questions, and candidates have up to three hours to complete it.
The questions are multiple-choice, and the exam uses a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format, meaning the difficulty adjusts based on your performance. To pass, candidates must score 700 out of 1,000 points. The CISSP exam covers all eight domains, but the weight of each domain varies.
Security and Risk Management carries the most weight, while Software Development Security carries the least. Understanding this breakdown can help you prioritize your study efforts accordingly.
After Certification
Once you’ve earned your CISSP certification, it’s important to maintain it.
CISSP certification holders are required to earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over a three-year period.
To maintain your certification, you must earn 120 CPE credits and pay an annual maintenance fee. This ensures that CISSP holders stay current in the field and continue to contribute to the profession. CPE activities can include attending security conferences, taking additional security courses, contributing to research, or even mentoring others in the field.
Keeping up with these activities not only helps maintain your certification but also ensures that you’re constantly evolving as a cybersecurity professional.
Why choose QA for CISSP training?
Proud partner of ISC²
QA is proud to be an official partner of ISC²®. All QA instructors are verified security experts and QA is authorized to deliver the most relevant, up-to-date course content developed by ISC²®.
Training led by cyber security experts
Our instructors are verified security experts who hold the CISSP and have completed intensive training to teach (ISC)²® content.
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