CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Introduction
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is a globally recognized certification in the field of information security. The certification is offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)². The CISSP certification is designed to validate a candidate's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing information security programs to protect organizations from cybersecurity threats. This article will discuss the process, syllabus, and all other relevant information about the CISSP exam and certification.
CISSP Exam Overview
The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions that must be completed in six hours. The exam tests the candidate's knowledge in various domains of information security, including:
- 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
The exam is computer-based and can be taken at any (ISC)² authorized testing center worldwide. Candidates must achieve a passing score of 700 out of 1000 to obtain the certification.
CISSP Certification Process
To obtain the CISSP certification, candidates must follow the below process:
- Meet the Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Candidates with a four-year college degree or equivalent can waive one year of the required experience. Candidates can also opt for the Associate of (ISC)² program, allowing them to take the CISSP exam and become an Associate of (ISC)² until they meet the work experience requirements.
- Register for the Exam: Candidates must register for the CISSP exam with (ISC)² and schedule a date to take the exam at an authorized testing center.
- Prepare for the Exam: Candidates must prepare for the exam by reviewing the CISSP CBK, attending training courses, and utilizing study resources provided by (ISC)², including the CISSP Official Study Guide and CISSP Online Self-Paced Training.
- Take the Exam: Candidates must take the CISSP exam at an authorized testing center and achieve a passing score of 700 out of 1000.
- Obtain the Certification: Candidates who pass the CISSP exam must complete the endorsement process to obtain the CISSP certification. Candidates must have their application endorsed by an (ISC)² certified professional, subscribe to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics, and pay the annual maintenance fee.
CISSP Exam Syllabus
The CISSP exam tests a candidate's knowledge in eight domains of information security, including:
- Security and Risk Management: This domain covers the principles of information security and risk management, including security governance, compliance, and legal issues.
- Asset Security: This domain covers the protection of information assets, including data classification, privacy, and asset retention.
- Security Architecture and Engineering: This domain covers the design and implementation of secure systems and architecture, including security models, architecture, and design principles.
- Communication and Network Security: This domain covers the principles of network security and communication security, including network architecture, protocols, and encryption.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM): This domain covers the management of user access to systems and data, including access control models, authentication, and authorization.
- Security Assessment and Testing: This domain covers the principles of security testing and assessment, including vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and security control testing.
- Security Operations: This domain covers the principles of security operations, including incident response, disaster recovery, and business continuity.
- Software Development Security: This domain covers the principles of software development security, including secure software development, testing, and deployment.
Each domain is weighted differently on the exam, and candidates must have a broad understanding of all eight domains to pass the exam. The following table outlines the weight of each domain on the exam:
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Security and Risk Management | 15% |
| Asset Security | 10% |
| Security Architecture and Engineering | 13% |
| Communication and Network Security | 14% |
| Identity and Access Management (IAM) | 13% |
| Security Assessment and Testing | 12% |
| Security Operations | 13% |
| Software Development Security | 10% |
CISSP Certification Renewal
The CISSP certification is valid for three years, and candidates must earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits to renew the certification. CPE credits can be earned through various activities, including attending security conferences, presenting security research, and participating in security-related volunteer work. Candidates must also pay an annual maintenance fee to maintain the certification.
Conclusion
The CISSP certification is a globally recognized certification in the field of information security. The certification validates a candidate's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing information security programs to protect organizations from cybersecurity threats. To obtain the certification, candidates must meet the eligibility requirements, register for the exam, prepare for the exam, take the exam, and complete the endorsement process. The exam tests a candidate's knowledge in eight domains of information security, and candidates must earn a passing score of 700 out of 1000 to obtain the certification. The certification is valid for three years, and candidates must earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits to renew the certification.