What is CISSP®?
The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is an information security certification established in 1988 by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)².
The CISSP is a globally recognised standard for those who work in information security. It is designed to validate a person’s knowledge and experience in the field. CISSP holders are expected to have a deep understanding of security concepts and be able to apply them in a real-world setting.
As well as passing a rigorous exam, you need at least five years of experience in two or more of the eight CISSP domains to become a CISSP.
However, if you don’t have the necessary experience, you can still sit the exam. If you pass, you will become an associate of (ISC)². You will then have six years to acquire the necessary experience.
Who is CISSP for?
The CISSP certification is ideal for those working in positions such as (but not limited to):
- Security consultant
- Security analyst
- Security manager
- Security systems engineer
- IT director/manager
- Chief information security officer
- Security auditor
- Director of security
- Security architect
- Network architect
What is a CISSP certification salary?
According to (ISC)², which benchmarks salaries in its Cybersecurity Workforce Study, a CISSP can expect to earn an average salary of:
Region
|
Average CISSP salary (US$)
|
|
Globally
|
$92,639
|
|
North America
|
$120,552
|
|
Europe, Middle East and Africa
|
$81,568
|
|
Asia Pacific
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$57,179
|
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Latin America
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$22,014
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Is CISSP hard?
CISSP is a difficult exam, and passing it requires a significant investment of time and effort. However, the payoff is considerable, as the CISSP is one of the most highly respected and sought-after certifications in the information security field.
What does the CISSP cover?
The CISSP curriculum comprises an information security CBK (common body of knowledge), which is divided into eight domains:
- Security and Risk Management
- Asset Security
- Security Architecture and Engineering
- Communications and Network Security
- Identity and Access Management
- Security Assessment and Testing
- Security Operations
- Software Development Security
The CISSP certification
The (ISC)² CISSP certification has become a prerequisite for anyone developing a senior career in information security.
It provides information security professionals with an objective measure of competence and a globally recognised standard of achievement.
How long does it take to get CISSP qualified?
To qualify for the CISSP certification, you must:
- Have a minimum of five years’ experience in two or more of the eight CBK domains;
- Pass the CISSP examination;
- Complete the endorsement process and subscribe to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics; and
- Maintain certification through CPE (continuing professional education) credits.
If you do not have enough experience, you can still take the exam, but will be an Associate of (ISC)² rather than a CISSP if you pass. You will then have six years to earn the necessary experience to become a CISSP.
How much does the CISSP exam cost?
The standard registration fee for the CISSP certification exam is £585 in the UK.
Information about all (ISC)² exam fees can be found on the (ISC)² website.
You can schedule your exam through Pearson VUE, the global administrator for all (ISC)² exams.
Get in touch
If you’re an IT professional looking to advance your career with the CISSP qualification but have some questions, call our training team on +44 (0)333 800 7000, or request a call back using the form below. Our experts are ready and waiting with practical advice.
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