CISSP Certification: The Complete Guide for 2023
By Alex • Updated Jan 15, 2023
Are you looking to take your cybersecurity career to the next level?
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is one of the most respected and recognized certifications in the industry.
In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about CISSP certification, including what it is, the jobs you can get with it, the salary you can expect, the requirements to earn it, the cost of the certification, and how to maintain it.
About: What is the CISSP certification?
The CISSP is a globally recognized certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of information security.
It is a vendor-neutral certification that demonstrates a professional's ability to design, implement, and manage a best-in-class cybersecurity program.
CISSP is the gold standard for information security professionals and is often required for senior-level positions in government and private sector organizations.
Jobs: Which jobs can you get with a CISSP certification?
According to Credly, there are 31,813 job openings related to the CISSP Certification in the US alone. The 5 job titles with the most openings are:
- Assessment Authorization Lead: 194 job postings
- Senior Information Technology Auditor: 180 job postings
- Security Engineer: 178 job postings
- Senior Manager Technology Risk: 175 job postings
- Information Security Analyst: 174 job postings
Salary: Which salary can you expect with a CISSP certification?
As a certified CISSP professional, you can expect a competitive salary that reflects your valuable skillset.
According to data from ZipRecruiter, as of January 8, 2023, the average annual pay for a CISSP professional in the United States is $130,185 per year. This works out to be approximately $10,848 per month.
It's worth noting that the salary range for CISSP professionals is quite broad. The lowest salary reported by ZipRecruiter is $74,500, while the highest is $195,500.
However, the majority of salaries for this profession fall between $107,500 and $148,500, with top earners making as much as $171,000 per year.
The average pay range for a CISSP varies greatly (by as much as $41,000), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience.
Requirements: What are the requirements for the CISSP certification?
To be eligible for the CISSP certification, you must have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
If you do not have the required work experience, you can still take the exam and become an Associate of (ISC)² by passing the exam.
After earning the associate status, you can then work to earn the required experience to become a full CISSP.
Cost: How much does the CISSP certification cost?
The cost of the CISSP certification can vary depending on factors such as your location and whether or not you are an (ISC)² member.
The exam fee for non-members is $699, while the fee for members is $599.
Additionally, you will need to pay an annual maintenance fee of $125 to maintain your certification.
Recertification: How can you maintain your CISSP certification?
To maintain your CISSP certification, you will need to earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits and pay an annual maintenance fee.
You are required to earn 120 CPEs in a three-year cycle. The CPEs can be earned through various activities such as attending conferences, completing training courses, and publishing articles.
FAQs
Who is the CISSP certification for?
The CISSP certification is for professionals in the field of information security who have at least five years of experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
The certification is designed to demonstrate a professional's ability to design, implement, and manage a best-in-class cybersecurity program and it is particularly relevant for those in senior-level positions in government and private sector organizations.
Is the CISSP certification worth it?
Yes, the CISSP certification is worth it.
It is one of the most respected and recognized certifications in the field of information security, and it demonstrates a professional's knowledge and expertise in the field.
Additionally, earning a CISSP certification can have a significant impact on your salary and open up new opportunities for advancement within your organization.
How can you get the CISSP certification?
To get the CISSP certification, you must have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
If you do not have the required work experience, you can still take the exam and become an Associate of (ISC)² by passing the exam.
After earning the associate status, you can then work to earn the required experience to become a full CISSP.
What are the benefits of obtaining the CISSP certification?
The benefits of obtaining the CISSP certification include being able to take on a wide range of roles, earning a higher salary, and opening up new opportunities for advancement within your organization.
Additionally, having a CISSP certification can help you stand out to employers, as it demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in the field of information security.
How difficult is it to obtain the CISSP certification?
The CISSP certification is considered to be a challenging exam, but it is not impossible to pass. It requires a significant amount of study and preparation, as well as relevant work experience.
Many professionals choose to take a training course or study with a study group to prepare for the exam.
How long does it take to get the CISSP certification?
The amount of time it takes to get the CISSP certification will vary depending on factors such as your level of experience and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying.
On average, it takes most professionals several months to prepare for the exam.
What are the best CISSP certification alternatives?
Some alternatives to the CISSP certification include the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and the GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH).
Each of these certifications focuses on a specific area of information security, and they may be a better fit for some professionals depending on their specific area of expertise and career goals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CISSP certification is a valuable asset for anyone looking to advance their cybersecurity career.
It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in the field.
With a CISSP certification, you can take on a wide range of roles, earn a higher salary, and open up new opportunities for advancement within your organization.
While the certification process can be a bit costly, the long-term benefits are definitely worth it.