Top 8 CISSP Books and Exam Prep Tips 2025

Is it like you've decided to work in IT security and aim to get CISSP certified? Or it might be that the idea of creating successful IT security architectures fascinates you. If not either, then maybe all you want to do is upgrade your skills and strengthen your resume.

Doesn't matter what your reason is behind getting CISSP certified, but once you've decided that you want to crack CISSP, the very next question comes to your mind is how? Or, how can you choose the best CISSP books and other materials you'll need to create a study schedule and begin your journey toward information security expertise?

Planning study preparation for a test as difficult as the CISSP can be a difficult undertaking, which is why we've put together a helpful list of the top CISSP books to read at each stage of the procedure. Not only this, but in this post, you will read about the best CISSP exam prep tips which will help you crack CISSP 2024.

Top 8 CISSP Study Books For 2025

Here are some of the best CISSP books you must have handy in 2024!

1. CISSP for Dummies by Lawrence C. Miller 

Published: March 2, 2022, by For Dummies

Good Reads Rating: 4

Source

The best area for people to begin their CISSP journey is thought to be with this book. This CISSP book gives you the most effective preparation plan for the CISSP certification at the outset. It includes everything and is the most recent updated version of all eight domains of the CISSP exam.

Additionally, it has a section on advice that offers significant and valuable advice that could be very useful. There is also a portion of practice exams where sample questions are provided to introduce the CISSP exam concept. 

2. Eleventh Hour CISSP®: 3rd Edition by Eric Conrad, Seth Misenar, and Joshua Feldman  

Published: September 3, 2016, by Syngress

Good Reads Rating: 4.24 

Source

For those with little time to study for the CISSP exam, this is the perfect solution. This is a great package for your needs whether you lack the time or are an excellent procrastinator. This book is well prepared to contain only core certification information and is organized for the convenience of last-minute studying.

It has been updated for the most recent version of the Certified Information Systems Security Professional exam. The best possibility for users to pass the exam is provided by the thorough and concise coverage of all CISSP domains.

3. The NIST Security and Privacy Controls Special Publication, 800-53 Revision 5

Published: August 16, 2017

 Source    

This publication explains how to choose controls to safeguard organizational operations (such as mission, functions, image, and reputation), corporate assets, people, structural flaws, and human errors. It also describes security and privacy controls for general information systems (both intentional and unintentional).

This is among the best CISSP books, which also demonstrates how to create a specialized set of controls designed for certain business tasks, technological advancements, or operational situations.

4. CISSP In 3 Weeks: The CISSP DIY Manual 

Author Name: Nichel James

Published: June 15, 2015

Good Reads Rating: 2.17 

Source

This do-it-yourself "kit," written by Security Engineer Nichel James, is more of a preparation manual for professionals taking the CISSP exam than a comprehensive manual. The good thing about this book is that it offers practical advice and information on the dos and don'ts of exam preparation. It is among the best CISSP exam books from which candidates can read.

5. CISSP Exam Cram, 3rd edition  

Author Name: Michael Gregg

Good Reads Rating: 3.72

Published: November 29, 2012 by Pearson IT Certification 

Original title: CISSP Exam Cram (2nd Edition)

Source 

Like the Eleventh Hour manual, this book is meant to serve as a refresher for applicants who have already studied for the exam. It was written by security consultant and COO of Superior Solutions, Michael Gregg. To assist candidates in memorizing the most crucial information for the exam, this latest CISSP book 2024 includes a cram sheet. Additionally, the exam includes several quizzes. 

6. How To Think Like A Manager for the CISSP Exam by Luke Ahmed 

Published: July 19, 2020

Good Reads Rating: 4.68

Source

This CISSP book will try to explain how to think like a representative of a senior management team who has the purpose of balancing risk, cost, and, most importantly, human life, using 25 CISSP practice questions with thorough answers. You will learn through the questions how to avoid adopting a technical viewpoint in favor of a more comprehensive one. 

7. CISSP: A Comprehensive Beginners Guide On The Information Technology 

Author Name: Walker Schmidt

Published: March 31, 2019

Good Reads Rating: 3.83

Walker Schmidt has written a Kindle edition of this book. Comprehensive instruction is needed to understand information security concepts like risk evaluation and mitigation. In essence, this is what you learn from this CISSP study guide. You may learn how to ensure a company's organizational structure supports a strong security system from the same site.

8. CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition”  

Author name: Shon Harri 

Published: September 15, 2005, by McGraw-Hill/Osborne Media 

Good Reads Rating: 4.08  

As its title indicates, this book thoroughly covers all the material you will need to pass the CISSP certification exam. This CISSP certification book includes learning objectives, exam tips, and more than 1400 practice questions and flashcards. It is presented thoughtfully.

9. The Official ISC2 CISSP CBK Reference, 6th Edition by Arthur Deane and Aaron Kraus

Author Name: Arthur Deane and Aaron Kraus
Published: February 15, 2023
Good Reads Rating: 4.5

Source: Amazon 

This book offers detailed coverage of all eight CISSP domains, ensuring thorough exam preparation. It includes the latest updates in the CISSP syllabus, reflecting current cybersecurity trends and practices. With numerous practice questions and answers, it helps test your readiness. Real-world examples and case studies illustrate key concepts in practical scenarios. Study aids like chapter summaries, key point highlights, and review questions reinforce learning and aid revision. This essential resource for CISSP aspirants is a must-have for your 2024 study plan.

What is the CISSP Exam?

The CISSP is one of the world's most prestigious credentials in information technology and information security. It can be seen as a real testament to your knowledge and experience in cybersecurity.

Key Points :

• If you're not aware, then you should know that the certification was launched in 1994 and is the security certification that LinkedIn most frequently requests.
• The exam is offered in 882 locations throughout 114 nations and in eight languages.
• You need at least five years of professional information security experience and the recommendation of another CISSP-certified expert to obtain the CISSP certification.
• You may be eligible for a one-year waiver if you hold a four-year degree or achieve (ISC)2 certified credentials.
• There are 250 multiple-choice questions in the test. To pass the test, you must receive at least 70%.

Tips To Prepare for the CISSP Certification Exam

Look at CISSP preparation tips and prepare to crack this exam in 2024.

1. Make A Structured Plan 

You must first choose the strategy you'll employ to pass the CISSP exam. The questions you are certain about answering must be completed because they have a 100% accuracy rate. Then, concentrate on the questions that confound you, give them some thought, and come up with a good solution by consulting CISSP books.

Finally, you must answer questions about which you are unsure. Since you have already finished answering other questions, you have more time to think about and properly respond to these questions. Therefore, take your time and think as much as you want. This is the first step when talking about CISSP exam prep 2024.

2. Skip Rote Learning 

Since most candidates who apply this strategy fail the CISSP exam, you should never employ memory learning for the exam. It has been discovered that many exam questions emphasize using knowledge rather than irrelevant details.

You can find questions in practice tests that are based on cybersecurity lore. Candidates that experience this dispute will not pass the test. Make sure you are skilled at applying knowledge rather than rote learning.

3. Focus on All Domains 

Before taking the CISSP exam, make sure you have studied material for all 8 of the domains. Some candidates choose the top 5 domains they believe to be the most significant and concentrate on those, but this leaves them unprepared for questions from other domains they choose to ignore. It's crucial that you learn about all eight areas, acquire proficiency in them, and develop the endurance to take the exam for six hours because it can be very taxing.

4. Prefer Mock Exams 

There should be no CISSP candidate who attempts the test without using practice questions. Mock tests are almost as crucial for determining strengths and weaknesses and focusing study efforts accordingly. Additionally, they must become accustomed to the brisk pace required to complete all questions within the allocated time.  

Any of the official (ISC)2 best CISSP study guides is an excellent place to start when choosing your question database source, but be sure to also consider additional options from trustworthy companies.  

5. Get In Touch With Online Community 

Being one of the most sought-after credentials, the CISSP has given rise to a vibrant and supportive online community with forums and personal blogs where applicants may find answers to their queries and certified professionals can share their experiences.

These are great resources for learning what to expect on test day, but as always, make sure to check the validity of any source you use. Posting your query to an internet forum like Reddit or TechExams can be very beneficial if you're seeking general guidance. When you sit for the CISSP certification exam, this extra effort to study with like-minded people will be more than worthwhile.

6. Choose Exam Preparation Course   

Even though choosing to simply employ a self-study approach could seem daring, it might not be the wisest course of action. It's important to realize that, even for entry-level credentials, passing exams necessitates in-depth knowledge of multiple different topics. By enrolling in a certification preparation course, candidates can spend time learning from an instructor who has passed the exam before.

Many courses offer Cyber Security training online, which helps in the CISSP exam prep even more. If the training is in-person, it's a great opportunity to network, share experiences, and get all your queries addressed. Hence, you have a higher chance of passing any certification exam.

How Much Time Do You Need For CISSP Exam Prep?

It's important to understand that there is only a shaky correlation between the course material's nature and the candidate's professional background when it comes to the CISSP exam: 

• Professionals in risk management find that 60 to 70 hours of study time is more than enough to pass the CISSP exam. 
• IT specialists would require less time to study; 40–50 hours should be sufficient to pass the test. 
• Professionals from all backgrounds must possess ISC2 material. 

Looking to become an ITIL expert? Join our unique and catchy ITIL courses for expert training. Enhance your skills and boost your career with our specialized training. Don't miss out, enroll today!

CISSP Online Study Materials  

If you loathe reading books or simply need more study methods, you might want to have a look at these other excellent resources.  

1. Boot Camps   

Although several businesses provide in-person CISSP training, the KnowledgeHut’s CISSP exam prep boot camps are arguably the greatest available method for getting ready for your CISSP. Everything you need to prepare for your exam and earn your certification is offered at this boot camp.  

2. CISSP On-demand Training   

Additionally, you can complete self-paced, on-demand training to earn your CISSP. This is a terrific alternative to live instruction for individuals with busy schedules because it is more reasonably priced. However, for certain people, following the workout plan may be more challenging due to the absence of strict guidelines. 

Bottom Line

The CISSP is a top-tier certification that calls for proper preparation and dedication. However, every candidate has a fair chance of success if they have a decent strategy, reliable materials, and a commitment to CISSP exam prep. The best way to study for CISSP is to study the right CISSP books, thoroughly going through CISSP study guides, and all the above points.

Furthermore, always remember that CISSP promotes continual learning; passing the exam is only the first step. You must renew your CISSP certification every three years and continue your professional education if you want to keep it. Hope this post has been helpful to you.