GIAC Security Leadership credential artwork

GIAC Security Leadership (GSLC) Courses

Validates knowledge of managing security programs, including policy, risk, projects, vendors, SOC management and incident response.

A good GSLC course teaches you to run a security program and gives you the books you will use in the open-book exam. We compared the one official option, SANS LDR512, on content, format and price.

Take SANS LDR512 if your employer funds training: it is GIAC's affiliated course, and its books are what the exam is written from. If you pay yourself and hold CISSP or CISM, check the exam with GIAC's practice test before spending $8,260.

Official SANS course

SANS LDR512: Security Leadership Essentials for Managers

SANS's five-day course, or 30 hours self-paced, on building and running a security program, with 25 labs built around the Cyber42 leadership simulation game. It includes 30 CPEs and four months of OnDemand access.

Great fit if your employer funds training and you want the books the exam is written from

Poor fit if you already hold CISSP or CISM and only need the exam; check a practice test first

How to choose a GSLC course

  • Decide whether you need the course. No course is required. You can buy the $999 GSLC attempt on its own, and LDR512 costs $8,260 on top.
  • Build your index from the course books. GSLC is open book for printed books and notes, with 115 questions in three hours. The LDR512 books give you the material for your index.
  • Match the format to your time. LDR512 runs five days live, in person or online, or 30 hours self-paced with four months of OnDemand access.
  • Weigh your background. If you already manage a security program or hold CISSP or CISM, you may need only practice tests. Plan for about 85 hours otherwise.

Recommended GSLC course combinations

  • Employer pays: LDR512 live ($8,260) with the GSLC attempt (+$999), which includes two GIAC practice tests.
  • Self-paced: LDR512 OnDemand ($8,260) with the attempt (+$999), for 30 hours of material and two included practice tests.
  • Already hold CISSP or CISM: The GSLC attempt alone ($999) and a GIAC practice test ($399) to check your index and weak objectives.

Compare all GSLC practice tests →

GSLC course FAQ

What is the best GSLC course?

SANS LDR512 is GIAC's affiliated course, and the only course on our list. Its books are what the exam is written from.

Do I need LDR512 to take GSLC?

No. You can buy the $999 attempt on its own. LDR512 costs $8,260 and suits candidates whose employer pays.

How long does an LDR512 course take?

Five days live, or about 30 hours self-paced with four months of OnDemand access. Plan for about 85 hours of preparation in total.

Is the GSLC exam open book?

Yes, for printed books and notes. Laptops, phones, electronic files and printed practice questions are not allowed.