CISSP or Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification is globally considered as the golden standard for an active professional in cyber security and is widely known to be very difficult to clear. This blog is dedicated to clarifying CISSP and breaking down the myths and misconceptions about the barriers faced by professionals attempting to obtain this certification. To learn more about the top 8 CISSP domains and in-depth concepts covered in CISSP, checkout our CISSP Training .
What is CISSP Certification?
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional Certification encompasses all critical aspects of any infrastructure and exists to showcase a professional’s ability to oversee and manage operations that involve Incidents, Security Analysis and Development of the organization as it scales.
(ISC)² is a non-profit organization that issues multiple professional cyber security certifications one of which is CISSP.
CISSP can be broken down into 8 parts or 8 domains:
- 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
Each of the domains can be considered as a security pillar which holds an infrastructure.
The objective of this certification is to prove that a professional is capable of working with various teams, handling different operations, and most importantly be actively making decisions regarding potential or imminent threats
Also Read: CISSP Certification Vs, CEH Certification
The Responsibilities of a CISSP Certified Professional are:
- Must be aware of latest technologies
- Have an infrastructure completely mapped out
- Identify endpoints (physical and virtual) which could pose as a Risk
- Understand the severity of a threat
- Devise mitigation solutions
The 2 core goals of a CISSP Professional must be:
1. Developing a secure environment:
A qualified professional must be capable of creating and managing the security of an entire infrastructure.
2. Handling Cyber Attacks and Incidents:
Being prepared for any event that would impact the enterprise monetarily by cyber terrorists is also a part of the job.
For whom is CISSP intended?
CISSP is designed to simulate multiple scenarios to test the decision making and critical thinking of a professional all the while managing different teams, leading Secure Development and Managing Risks or Threats.
A professional who wants to earn the CISSP certification must posses the following requirements:
- 5+ years of paid work experience
- The experience must showcase activity in a minimum of 2 domains of CISSP
Note: To pass the Exam the pre-requisites are not required, but to get officially certified, the (ISC)² board will review and validate the candidate’s history to issue the certification.
If you are interested in starting or advancing a career in Systems administration, you should definitely check out the CompTIA Security+ Certification Training.
To know more about the CISSP Certification Exam the CISSP Exam preparation – Set Yourself Up for CISSP Exam Success is a valuable blog.
Common Misconceptions
1. CISSP Course is a purely technical program:
No, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is not solely a technical certification, as it covers a broad range of information security domains including technical, managerial, and operational aspects.
The CISSP exam is conducted in a multiple-choice format, where candidates are required to select the correct answers from a set of options.
2. CISSP guarantees a high-paying job:
CISSP is a certification that can enhance your professional credentials. However, it is important to note that obtaining a CISSP certification alone may not guarantee a job or determine the salary. Factors such as your experience, skills, and market demand also play a crucial role in your career success.
3. CISSP is only for Technical Professionals:
No, CISSP is applicable to a wide range of professionals beyond IT, including managers, auditors, consultants, and other security practitioners. Individuals with sufficient experience in at least two of the eight domains covered by CISSP are eligible to pursue the certification.
Individuals in the roles mentioned below may consider pursuing CISSP certification:
- Risk Manager
- Compliance Officer
- Project Manager
- Legal Counsel
- IT / Infrastructure Auditor
4. CISSP is a one-time certification
CISSP certification is valid for a period of three years, after which the certification holders are required to renew their certification by fulfilling the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements set by (ISC)² to stay updated with the latest standards.
Obtaining the CISSP certification demonstrates an individual’s expertise and skillset, even if the certificate’s validity has expired.
5. CISSP is an easy certification to obtain
While CISSP is a challenging exam that demands thorough preparation, experience, and understanding of various security domains, with proper training, preparation, and ample practice, it is possible for experienced individuals to successfully clear the exam and obtain the certification.
Edureka!’s CISSP course has been developed in collaboration with actively certified professionals, taking into account the aforementioned factors. Check out the CISSP Course.
6. CISSP is only for large organizations or government agencies
CISSP is relevant to organizations of all sizes, ranging from small businesses to large enterprises, and across various industries, not limited to government agencies.
A cybersecurity breach can have severe consequences on an organization, resulting in significant financial losses. A Chief Security Officer plays a crucial role in preventing such incidents and minimizing their impact to the lowest possible extent.
7. CISSP is a standalone solution for cybersecurity
CISSP is a valuable certification, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution for all cybersecurity needs. It is just one piece of the puzzle and should be complemented with other certifications, skills, and best practices for a comprehensive security approach.
Check out our CEH v12 and CompTIA Security+ Programs.
8. CISSP is outdated and not relevant in modern cybersecurity
CISSP is a well-established and respected certification that has evolved over time to remain relevant in the ever-changing field of cybersecurity. It covers fundamental concepts that are still applicable in modern cybersecurity practices.
As new technologies such as cloud and AI continue to grow and be adopted daily, the CISSP certification covers the latest topics essential for handling any technology. However, the credibility of this certification may be undermined if fundamental aspects such as the way applications, networking, and electricity are reinvented.
9. CISSP guarantees 100% security
CISSP is a certification that focuses on risk management and best practices, but it does not guarantee absolute security. Cybersecurity is an ongoing process, and no certification can provide complete protection against all threats.
CISSP prepares an individual with concepts and techniques that will help prevent and mitigate any possible cyber attack.
Summary
| Key Points |
| CISSP is a globally recognized certification that showcases a professional’s ability to oversee and manage operations that involve incidents, security analysis, and development of an organization as it scales. |
| The certification comprises eight domains, which can be considered security pillars that hold an infrastructure. |
| CISSP certification is not only for technical professionals but also applicable to a wide range of professionals beyond IT, including managers, auditors, consultants, and other security practitioners. |
| While CISSP is a challenging exam that demands thorough preparation, experience, and understanding of various security domains, it is possible for experienced individuals to successfully clear the exam and obtain the certification. |
| Factors such as experience, skills, and market demand also play a crucial role in career success. |
| Compared to other certifications, skills, and best practices in the cybersecurity industry currently available, CISSP is the most comprehensive and versatile certification, making it a valuable asset for professionals seeking a one-size-fits-all solution to their cybersecurity skillset. |
In conclusion, achieving the CISSP certification is feasible with sufficient practice and training. If you are specifically interested in preparing for the CISSP certification, the CISSP Certification Training is an excellent starting point. Additionally, for those specifically interested in knowing more about the CISSP Exam the CISSP Exam preparation – Set Yourself Up for CISSP Exam Success is a valuable resource to consider.