The ISC2 CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification is a globally recognized credential for cybersecurity professionals, validating expertise in designing, implementing, and managing security programs. Below is a summary of the CISSP training and exam:
CISSP Training
- Purpose: Prepares candidates for the CISSP exam by covering the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
- Training Options:
- Official ISC2 Training: Instructor-led (in-person or online), self-paced eLearning, or hybrid formats offered by ISC2 or authorized providers.
- Third-Party Providers: Boot camps, online courses, and study guides from providers like Simplilearn, Cybrary, or Udemy.
- Self-Study: Using resources like the official CISSP CBK, practice exams, and books (e.g., “CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide” by Shon Harris).
- Content Covered (8 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
- Duration: Varies (e.g., 5-day boot camps, 6-12 weeks for self-paced).
- Cost: $500–$3,000+, depending on format and provider.
- Prerequisites: No formal requirements, but ISC2 recommends 5 years of professional experience in at least two CBK domains (or 4 years with a qualifying degree).
CISSP Exam
- Format: Computer-based, adaptive testing (CAT) for English exams; linear for non-English.
- Length: 100–150 questions (adaptive) or 250 questions (linear), up to 3 hours (CAT) or 6 hours (linear).
- Question Types: Multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions.
- Passing Score: 700/1000 points.
- Cost: $699 (standard fee, may vary by region).
- Testing Centers: Pearson VUE or approved proctors for online exams.
- Domains Tested: Same 8 CBK domains as training, with varying weight (e.g., Security and Risk Management ~15%).
- Eligibility: Candidates must agree to the ISC2 Code of Ethics and pass a background check post-exam.
- Certification Maintenance:
- Submit 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits every 3 years.
- Pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) of $135.
Key Benefits
- Validates advanced cybersecurity knowledge.
- Enhances career prospects (e.g., roles like Security Architect, CISO).
- Meets requirements for certain government and enterprise jobs.
- Access to ISC2 resources and professional network.
Tips for Success
- Use multiple study resources (books, videos, practice exams).
- Join study groups or forums (e.g., Reddit, ISC2 Community).
- Focus on weaker domains through targeted practice.
- Schedule the exam only after consistent practice test scores of 75%+.
Contact Ascentix Partners for current pricing or training options: