The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is the baseline of for the U.S. National Security Agency’s ISSEP program, and is the globally recognized certification for those in the field of IT security. This independent information security certification is governed by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium – or (ISC)². The CISSP curriculum covers a range of subject matter related to information security topics, so are you up to the task? Can you pass the CISSP test?
Here are a few questions to see how you’ll do.
The CISSP is often considered the ‘gold standard’ of security certifications. But it is far from the only certification held by information security professionals. Yet, chances are, if you’re progressing through a cybersecurity career with the government, in particular, you will be asked to take the CISSP exam. For most professionals, taking an in-person class is often a critical step toward passing the exam. But there are also a number of online resources available. If you’re planning to take the CISSP exam, you’ll want to consult a variety of resources, and also get some advice from someone who’s already taken it.
What are the benefits of the CISSP?
While many certifications are vendor specific, the CISSP certification is vendor-neutral. That makes it a useful certification for defense contractors and security professionals who may work on a variety of different platforms, and be responsible for a security baseline for all.
After the exam?
If you’ve taken the CISSP, it’s important to keep up the certification with Continuous Professional Education (CPE) credits each year. If you’re currently employed, your company likely has a representative responsible for tracking employee certifications and ensuring personnel are up with requirements. But don’t depend on someone else to track your status (especially if you’re unemployed!) Know when you took the test and what you can do to earn new credit each year.