Many people working in information technology (IT) pursue certifications to learn more about their industry, develop a specialty, or find new employment prospects. (ISC)2 certifications are among the most well-known credentials for a cybersecurity professional. You can develop your information security abilities and advance in your IT profession by obtaining these certifications.
Obtaining Cyber Security certifications requires in-depth domain knowledge and exam preparation. It is always good to start preparing in advance.
This article about (ISC)2 certifications, lists the fifteen types of certifications that are offered, and explains how to pick the best one for your profession.
What is (ISC)²
International Information System Security Certification Consortium is a nonprofit organization that focuses on cybersecurity and offers certificates to individuals who want to work in this sector. It goes by the name (ISC)2.
You can be job-ready in the industry thanks to the thorough training provided by (ISC)2. Its credentials are among the best you can obtain in IT security and are acknowledged on a global scale. These certificates may attest to a candidate's knowledge and abilities to keep the organization's networks and systems secure. Many companies look to hire people in cybersecurity roles with these credentials.
What is (ISC)² Certification?
(ISC)2 certifications are widely regarded as being marks of competence in IT security. Employers and IT professionals alike greatly value the (ISC)2 Certified Information Systems Security (CISSP) and (ISC)2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) credentials in particular.
Employers can verify that potential employees have the cybersecurity abilities required to safeguard their company's systems, networks, and information by looking at their (ISC)2 certifications.
CISSP Concentrations have been developed by (ISC)2 for career cybersecurity professionals who wish to advance their (ISC)2 CISSP certification by demonstrating proficiency in one or more information security specializations.
The ISC certifications set also includes the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), the Certified Authorization Professional (CAP), and the Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP), in addition to the certifications for information systems security professionals (CISSP) and cloud security professionals (CCSP). The HealthCare Information Security and Privacy Practitioner (HCISPP) is a certification offered by (ISC)2, which takes into account the specific security and compliance requirements in the healthcare industry.
Benefits of (ISC)² Certifications in Cyber Security field
In the world of online safety, or cybersecurity, having the right certification can make a big difference. Getting certified with (ISC)² can offer many advantages for your career. Some of the benefits are listed below:
- Credibility – Boost your reputation and show off your skills.
- Career Opportunities - Learn the essentials of cybersecurity that top employers are looking for, thanks to trusted training.
- Skill Growth – Improve and add to your daily work skills by continuously learning.
- Pathway to Expertise - Set a strong foundation for a cybersecurity career and get to know how to ace tests for top (ISC)² certifications, like the CISSP®.
- Networking - Connect with other professionals and access ongoing learning resources.
- Better Earnings - Being a member of (ISC)² can mean earning up to 35% more than those who aren't.
With an (ISC)² certification, you're seen as a trusted expert, you learn more, connect with other pros, and can earn a better salary. It's a valuable step for anyone serious about a career in online safety.
Different (ISC)² Certification Levels
Building on the foundation of (ISC)²'s reputation in cybersecurity, it's essential to understand the diverse certification levels they offer, each tailored to specific career stages and areas of specialization.
Beginner Stage: Embark on your cybersecurity journey with certifications like SSCP, laying down the basics for newcomers.
Mid-level Expertise: If you're further along in your career, CISSP can provide an expansive view of security, ideal for those settled into their roles.
Specialized Knowledge: For those seeking deeper expertise, CCSP and CSSLP cater specifically to cloud security and software lifecycle professionals.
No matter where you stand in your cybersecurity career, (ISC)² has a certification level to help enhance your skills and open doors to new opportunities.
7 Best (ISC)² certifications in 2024
Let’s look at the (ISC)² certifications list:
1) Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Certification
Certification Overview
Among the (ISC)2 certificates, the CISSP is one of the most well-known and regarded. The best candidates for this certification are individuals who have at least five years of relevant experience, have held executive or management positions in information technology or cybersecurity, or both. A person who has obtained the CISSP certificate is knowledgeable about a variety of subjects, including security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering, communication and network security, and security operations.
Who can get it and prerequisites
Candidates must have a minimum of five (5) years of paid work experience across at least two of the eight CISSP CBK domains. Candidates who possess a four-year college degree or an equivalent credential from the list of (ISC)2 recognized experience may satisfy one year of the necessary experience.
Exam details
The CISSP exam covers eight areas of information security, including Asset Security, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security. Security and Risk Management is also covered.
Up to 150 difficult, innovative multiple-choice questions can be found on the CISSP exam. Exam completion time is limited to three hours. It is advisable to prepare thoroughly for the exam of CISSP certification by getting training from the experts.
Cost - $749
Where would you use it
Information security experts with CISSP certifications are in high demand. The need to protect digital assets and manage cybersecurity risks is critical in all fields and sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology.
Advantages of CISSP Certification
- Expertise: Confirms in-depth expertise across a range of security domains, boosting credibility.
- Better career opportunities: Opens doors to high-paying positions like security analyst, consultant, and manager.
- Industry Recognition: Respected on a global scale, acknowledged by colleagues and clients.
- Networking: Access to a large international group of security professionals and resources.
- Compliance: Fulfils criteria for security certifications required by numerous organizations.
Career opportunities and Salary
A CISSP certification opens a variety of job options in the cybersecurity industry. Professionals can pursue jobs such as chief information security officer (CISO), chief information security analyst (CISA), information security manager, network security engineer, and other highly sought-after positions. Employers all over the world value it and look for it, which opens doors to fulfilling and lucrative professions.
Those with the CISSP certification are also among the highest-paid IT specialists, with salaries ranging from $59,000 to $194,000 USD.
2) CISSP Concentrations
Certification Overview
Your cybersecurity career will have new prospects if you earn your Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) designation. Although it's a terrific initial step, you might want to focus on CISSP concentrations instead. In many ways, these specialties surpass the CISSP certification as a whole. With these qualifications, you might increase your appeal to employers, rise in your profession, make more money, and take on more responsibility.
Who can get it and prerequisites?
Candidates must already hold an active CISSP certification to be eligible for CISSP concentrations.
Additionally, you'll need to have at least two years' worth of related paid work experience, depending on your area of concentration:
- One of more of the six domains that make up the CISSP-ISSAP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK)
- The CISSP-ISSEP CBK's five domains, one or more of them.
- The CISSP-ISSMP CBK's six domains, one or more of them.
Exam details
For CISSP holders to prove their expertise in a variety of fields, this (ISC)2 cybersecurity certification offers different concentrations. There is a specific exam for each concentration. Here is a summary of CISSP Concentrations and the information related to those exams:
1) CISSP-ISSAP (Information Systems Security Architecture Professional):
- Focus: Information security architecture and design.
- Exam Format: Approximately 125 multiple-choice questions.
- Duration: Up to 3 hours.
2) CISSP-ISSEP (Information Systems Security Engineering Professional):
- Focus: Security engineering principles and processes.
- Exam Format: Approximately 150 multiple-choice questions.
- Duration: Up to 3 hours.
3) CISSP-ISSMP (Information Systems Security Management Professional):
- Focus: Security management and leadership.
- Exam Format: Approximately 125 multiple-choice questions.
- Duration: Up to 3 hours.
Cost -$599
Where would you use it
Industry sectors that place a strong focus on cybersecurity and information protection, such as banking, healthcare, government, and technology, can benefit greatly from CISSP concentrations.
Advantages of CISSP Concentrations
- Specialized Expertise
- Industry recognition
- Career progress
- Niche opportunities
- Industry relevance
- Networking
Career opportunities and Salary
CISSP Concentrations enhance career opportunities by enabling professionals to excel in specialized cybersecurity roles. Graduates can pursue careers as Security Architects, Engineers, Managers, Consultants, or even Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), with the added advantage of industry recognition and higher earning potential in their respective domains.
Average salary of CISSP professionals globally is $92.639.
3) Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) Certification
Certification Overview
Cybersecurity experts entrusted with keeping an eye on information systems and responding to security problems can earn the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) credential. In order to succeed in your cybersecurity profession, you may want to become an SSCP to show prospective employers that you possess the necessary technical abilities.
Who can get it and prerequisites
A minimum of one year of cumulative paid work experience in one or more of the seven SSCP CBK domains is required of candidates. For applicants with a degree (bachelor's or master's) in a cybersecurity programme, a one-year prerequisite pathway will be made available.
By passing the SSCP test, a candidate who lacks the necessary experience to become an SSCP can instead become an Associate of (ISC)2. The Associate of (ISC)2 will thereafter have two years to acquire the necessary one year of experience.
Exam details
- Exam Format:
- There are up to 125 multiple-choice questions on the SSCP exam.
- Candidates have up to three hours to finish the test.
- The minimal passing score for the SSCP test is normally about 700. The passing score is determined on a scale of 0 to 1000.
- Cost : $249
Where would you use it
The SSCP certification is useful for information security professionals in a variety of positions and fields where protecting data and systems is a concern.
The SSCP certification displays fundamental information security knowledge and abilities, making it useful in a variety of fields such as banking, healthcare, government, technology, and more.
Advantages of SSCP Certification
- Credential recognition
- Industry respect
- Skill enhancement
- Career opportunities
- Employment demand
- Networking
Career opportunities and Salary
Security analyst, network administrator, systems engineer, compliance officer, and other positions are among the many careers that the SSCP certification opens. Professionals can work in a variety of sectors, protecting digital assets and supporting effective cybersecurity initiatives, with the potential for professional development and specialization.
If you have an SSCP certificate, your average salary would be in the range of $93,240.
4) Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certification
Certification Overview
The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, or (ISC)2, addresses the best practises for cloud-based cybersecurity.
The CCSP's broad subject coverage makes it easier to demonstrate a person's depth of knowledge and expertise in a given field.
In addition to meeting the demand for cloud security professionals with the necessary knowledge and abilities, the CCSP exam was created to complement and build on CISSP and CCSK.
Who can get it and prerequisites
The CCSP certification is designed for seasoned IT professionals with at least five years of industry experience, three of those years in information security, and one year in each of the six CCSP areas. The certification expands upon the Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK) from the Cloud Security Alliance and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) from (ISC)2. The necessary year of domain experience can be replaced with CCSK certification. All required prior experience is covered by the CISSP certification.
Exam details
The CCSP certification exam consists of up to 125 multiple-choice questions. Candidates are given up to 4 hours to complete the exam. The passing score for the CCSP exam is on a scale of 0 to 1000, with a minimum passing score usually around 700.
Cost - $599
Where would you use it
The need for CCSP-certified workers is high in a variety of sectors, including IT, finance, healthcare, government, telecommunications, e-commerce, energy, manufacturing, technology, consulting, education, transportation, entertainment, retail, insurance, and pharmaceuticals. Their proficiency in cloud security enables the secure and legal application of cloud services across many industries.
Advantages of CCSP Certifications
- Expertise in Cloud
- Career opportunities
- Elevated earnings
- Industry recognition
- Adaptability across various environments
- Networking
Career opportunities and Salary
Professionals who have earned a CCSP certification can pursue a variety of careers, including those as cloud security architects, engineers, consultants, compliance managers, risk analysts, and IT managers. They contribute to cybersecurity and help organisations develop their digital transformation goals by securing data, applications, and services in cloud environments across industries.
Average salary of CISSP professionals globally is $80717.
5) Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC) certification
Certification Overview
Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance credential, attests to your knowledge of and expertise in the GRC profession. It attests to your proficiency in determining security requirements, assessing risk, and producing documentation while utilising a variety of security frameworks. It is perfect for U.S. government employees who oversee the security of information systems for the Department of Defence (DoD), and it complies with DoD Directive 8570. Because it demonstrates a solid understanding of tying company objectives with risk management and regulatory compliance, private sector risk managers will also value the certification.
Who can gt it and prerequisites
You must pass the exam and have two years of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the seven areas of the (ISC)2 CGRC Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) in order to be eligible for this cybersecurity certification.
Exam details
Length of exam: 3 hours
125 multiple choice questions. Passing grade is 700 out of 1000 marks.
Cost - $599
Where would you use it?
The CGRC accreditation is useful for ensuring that organizations follow legislation, manage risks, and uphold ethical practices in a variety of sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology.
Advantages of CGRC Certification
- Career opportunities
- Industry recognition
- Organizational integrity
- Professional credibility
- Problem solving skills
Career opportunities and Salary
Career options as compliance officers, risk analysts, internal auditors, governance specialists, and consultants are all available with CGRC certification. CGRC professionals support organisational integrity and success by ensuring ethical practises, regulatory conformity, and efficient risk management across industries.
If you earned your CGRC certification you can expect to earn on an average $124,610.
6) Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP) Certification
Certification Overview
The CSSLP certification enahnces cutting-edge application security abilities. It validates that you possess the advanced technical skills and knowledge required for authentication, authorisation, and auditing across the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), following the best practises, policies, and procedures set forth by the cybersecurity specialists at (ISC)2.
For those in charge of implementing best practises during each stage of the software development life cycle (SDLC), from software design and implementation to testing and deployment, the CSSLP is the right certification.
Who can get it and prerequisites
Candidates must have a minimum of 4 years of cumulative, paid full-time Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) professional work experience in one or more of the eight domains of the (ISC)2 CSSLP CBK, or 3 years of cumulative, paid full-time SDLC professional work experience with a 4-year degree leading to a baccalaureate, or regional equivalent, in computer science, information technology (IT), or related fields.
A candidate who lacks the experience necessary to pass the CSSLP exam can nonetheless become an Associate of (ISC)2 by passing the CSSLP test. The Associate of (ISC)2 will thereafter have five years to complete the four years of experience required.
Exam details
The CSSLP exam consists of up to 125 multiple-choice questions and candidates are given up to 4 hours to finish the exam. The passing marks for CSSLP exam is 700 out of 1000.
Cost - $599
Where would you use it
Professionals with CSSLP certification are in high demand in a variety of sectors, including technology, banking, healthcare, and government. As secure software developers, architects, consultants, and managers, they play key roles in making sure that applications are created, built, and maintained with strong security measures to safeguard sensitive data and avoid vulnerabilities.
Advantages of CSSLP Certification
- Industry recognition
- Specialized expertise
- Career advancement
- Regulatory compliance
- Comprehensive knowledge
- Organizational benefits
Career opportunities and Salary
Professionals with the CSSLP certification are successful as secure software engineers, architects, consultants, and managers. They are sought after to design, construct, and maintain safe software systems, assuring protection against vulnerabilities and advancing strong cybersecurity practices, in technology, finance, healthcare, government, and other industries.
Average salary of CISSP professionals globally is $75611.
7) Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) from (ISC)²
Certification Overview
With the vendor-neutral CC credential, beginners can begin the journey towards advanced cybersecurity certifications and eventual leadership positions. It demonstrates to organizations that newly certified team members have the knowledge necessary to execute at a level that meets or exceeds expectations in their initial responsibilities. All of this enables businesses to create a more robust line of defense.
Who can get it and prerequisites
No experience is needed to get Certified in cybersecurity. This (ISC)2 entry level certification is relevant for IT professionals, fresh college graduates or a professional looking to enter the cybersecurity domain.
Exam details
The Certified in Cybersecurity exam will have 100 total multiple-choice items. The exam is made up of five topics. The topics and their weights are:
- Security Principles – 26%
- Network Security – 24%
- Access Controls Concepts – 22%
- Security Operations – 18%
- Business Continuity (BC), Disaster Recovery (DR) & Incident Response Concepts – 10%
The exam duration is 2 hours and you passing marks in 700 out of 1000.
Cost - $199.
Where would you use it
Professionals with a certification in cybersecurity (CC) can find work in a variety of sectors, including consultancy, retail, defence, aerospace, healthcare, government, telecommunications, energy, manufacturing, and education. They help to ensure security and compliance by securing infrastructure, systems, and data against online threats.
Advantages of Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
- Enhanced skills
- Networking
- Understanding of compliance and regulatory standards
- Career opportunities
- Exposure to various industries
- Professional development
Career opportunities and Salary
Professionals who have earned (ISC)2 entry level cybersecurity certification succeed in their roles as cybersecurity analysts, consultants, engineers, managers, and architects, protecting digital assets, putting best practices into practice, and advancing solid cybersecurity strategies.
Average salary of Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) professionals is $87711.
Choosing the Ideal (ISC)² Certification for Your Career Journey
Consider your abilities, interests, career goals, and the particular cybersecurity specializations you wish to pursue when selecting the best (ISC)2 certs for your professional path. Here are the suggestions to assist you in reaching a decision:
- Determine Your Goals: Establish your short- and long-term career goals. Are management, technical positions, or a particular cybersecurity area of interest to you?
- Examine the certification options: (ISC)2 offers various certification such as the CISSP, CCSP, CSSLP, etc. Do some research on the areas covered, the jobs they correspond to, and the sectors that value each credential.
- Match your present skills: Consider your present skills and interests when matching skills and interests. Pick a certification that fits with what you are good at and like.
- Review the experience and eligibility requirements for each certification to see if you meet them. Make sure you have the necessary skills or can get them.
- Study Resources: Research the books, websites, and training programmes that are available for each certification. Make sure you have access to reliable study tools.
- Research the demand for each qualification in the industry or job market that you are interested in. Pick a skill that employers value and are interested in hiring.
Keep in mind that every person has a different desired certification. It's crucial to choose one that matches your job goals and provides the best value for your professional development.
Preparing for (ISC)² Certifications
Effective preparation for (ISC)² certifications involves a multifaceted approach, combining online courses, practice exams, professional networking, and a commitment to maintaining and renewing your certification. These elements form the foundation for success in the dynamic realm of cybersecurity.
Online Courses and Training Providers
Resources are crucial to mastering the complex topics of these certificates, and online courses and training providers provide these resources. These sites offer thorough study materials, engaging learning opportunities, and qualified advice. Online courses improve comprehension and retention by including well-structured curriculum covering all exam topics as well as fun quizzes, simulations, and practice exams.
Your learning will be deeper thanks to the experience of seasoned educators, and different schedules can be accommodated by the adaptability of self-paced options. Immersing oneself in these courses gives you the courage to take on the difficult tests. To assure your readiness to acquire (ISC)2 certificates and succeed in the dynamic sector of cybersecurity, it is essential to supplement online learning with practical application, authorized study materials, and real-world scenarios.
Practice Exams and Mock Tests
The ISC2 practice exams and mock tests are one of the most significant components of your certification study strategy for improving your time management skills, discovering your strengths and limitations, and getting an idea of the score you may expect on the real ISC2 exam. You can utilize practice test results to discover your ineffective areas, and focusing on them will help you achieve your goals faster. The simulated practice test has shown to be a very dependable and successful way of training and preparation in thousands of sectors throughout the world.
Professional Networking and Study Groups
Professional networking and study groups carry lot of weight and importance in your preparations towards achieving (ISC)² certifications. When you engage with peers and experts, it fosters a valuable exchange of knowledge, insights, and experiences. Networking will offer opportunities to learn from the success stories of others which in turn let you gain diverse perspectives on various topics.
Study groups create a great environment where members can discuss concepts, share study materials, and crack problems together. By regularly taking part in professional networks and study groups, candidates improve their understanding of certification domains and also develop a close community that encourages continuous learning and professional growth. Discussing relevant topics with individuals having similar goals keeps motivation high and accelerates speed in meeting study goals. In addition to that discussing practical situations and applications with peer group enhances understanding and supports in revising key concepts.
Maintaining and Renewing Certification
Maintaining and renewing (ISC)² certifications is as critical as obtaining them. It validates that the professional is upholding his/her professional credibility and staying up to date in the rapidly changing industry.
The renewing process by (ISC)² typically involves earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits by engaging in training sessions, conferences, webinars, and contributing to the relevant field of operation. Throughout the process, professionals can participate in community development, write and publish articles, and engage in knowledge-sharing meetups. By renewing the certification, the candidate shows that he/she commuted to continuous learning and wants to continue to benefit from the value of the certificate. Renewing certification is a great way for professionals to always be updated about the latest developments in the field, best industry practices, and growing cyber risks.
Mastering (ISC)² certifications requires not only dedicated study but also a holistic strategy that encompasses learning, practice, collaboration, and continuous growth. By embracing these principles, you can not only achieve your certification goals but also thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity.
Conclusion
(ISC)2 certificates demonstrate excellence in the cybersecurity domain, recognizing professionals' knowledge and dedication. These certifications help candidates unlock their true potential and perform to their best capability in numerous areas, from governance to secure software development. All this is possible due to their existing high standards and current content. With a focus on ongoing education and renewal, (ISC)2 guarantees that certified professionals are at the top levels of cybersecurity, protecting digital assets, and fostering innovation.
