Did you know there are over 70,000 job openings in the U.S. for those with CISSP certification? As cyber threats grow, companies want to strengthen their defenses. This makes the CISSP certification very valuable in the tech world. This guide will help you understand CISSP training and how to get this CISSP certification.
More than 91,765 professionals have the CISSP certification. It shows you’re an expert and boosts your cybersecurity career. You’ll learn about the CISSP certification, its needs, and training options. This will prepare you for your next career step.
What is the CISSP Certification?
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is a top honor in information security. It was created in 1994 by (ISC)². It shows you know how to keep information safe and secure.
Today, over 91,765 people have this certification. It’s a big deal in the world of cybersecurity.
CISSP is key for many jobs in information security. You might work as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or a security analyst. To get the CISSP, you need five years of experience in at least two of eight areas.
- 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
Getting the CISSP is more than just a badge. It can really help your career in cybersecurity. The U.S. Department of Defense even recognizes it. With many ways to learn, getting the CISSP opens up lots of new opportunities.
Understanding CISSP Certification Requirements
To get a CISSP certification, you need to meet several key requirements. You must have at least five years of direct, full-time work in information security. This work must cover at least two of the eight domains in the certification framework.
If you have a four-year degree in a field like computer science, you can substitute one year of work experience. This helps meet the CISSP certification requirements.
Ethics are very important when getting a CISSP credential. You must follow the CISSP Code of Ethics and get endorsement from current CISSP holders. This shows the value of professional integrity in cybersecurity.
To show you know about cybersecurity, you must pass a tough exam. The CISSP exam has 250 questions and you have six hours to finish. You need a score of 700 out of 1000 to pass.
After passing, you must keep your certification by paying an annual fee. You also need to earn 20 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits each year. Every three years, you must earn 40 CPE credits for recertification.
With more jobs needing certified professionals, getting a CISSP certification boosts your job chances and pay.
Cost of CISSP Certification
The cost of getting a CISSP certification can change a lot. It depends on how you prepare and the training you choose. The official ISC2 CISSP Online Self-Paced Training costs $995.00. You can save 20% if you buy it with an exam voucher.
Training materials are available for 180 days. This gives you plenty of time to get ready for the exam.
The CISSP exam itself costs about $749. If you need to reschedule, it’s $50 extra. Canceling costs $100. So, remember to add these costs to your budget.
You also need to pay $125 every year to keep your certification. Plus, you must get 120 CPE credits every three years.
Overall, you should plan to spend around $1,000 on exam prep. This includes training and materials you’ll need. Getting your CISSP can really pay off, with certified people making about $127,000 a year.
CISSP Training Programs Overview
CISSP training sets you up for a great career in info security. It’s key to know the different training programs out there. This helps you pick the one that matches your learning style and schedule.
Types of CISSP Training Programs
There are many CISSP training programs to choose from. They cater to different learning preferences:
- Classroom-based training: Great for those who like learning with others, as it offers direct interaction with instructors and peers.
- Online instructor-led courses: Flexible and allows for real-time guidance from experienced instructors, perfect for those who need to balance learning with other commitments.
- Online self-paced courses: Ideal for busy schedules, as you can learn at your own pace without time constraints.
- Bootcamp: A short, intense program, lasting 5 to 10 days, designed to quickly prepare you for the CISSP exam.
- Private on-site sessions: Customized training at your workplace, great for team learning and convenience.
Duration and Intensity of Training
The length and intensity of training differ by format. Classroom and bootcamp programs are more intense, helping you learn key concepts quickly. On the other hand, self-paced courses let you learn over weeks or months, fitting into your life easily. Here’s a quick look:
- Bootcamps: 5 to 10 days
- Self-paced courses: Available for 6 months after signing up
Choose a format that fits your schedule and learning style. This ensures you fully understand the CISSP domains.
Online CISSP Training Options
Online CISSP training offers a variety of choices to fit different learning needs. These programs allow for flexible learning, making it easier to balance work, life, and studies. With the growth of e-learning, getting training has become easier, with many resources available.
Benefits of Online CISSP Training
Online CISSP training lets you tailor your learning path. You can pick from over 109 courses in languages like English, Arabic, Spanish, and French. This ensures you find a program that matches your language and learning style.
The self-paced nature of these courses is great for those with busy schedules. You can study at times that work for you.
The benefits include:
- Tailored Study Plans: Tools help spot knowledge gaps, so you can focus on areas needing improvement.
- Rich Content Delivery: Courses have over 170 video lessons and interactive materials like quizzes and forums. This helps you remember more.
- Adaptable Duration: You can study as much as you can, with a suggested time of 4 to 10 weeks for working people.
- Intensive Options: If you want to learn faster, there are programs that can be done in just one week.
Training programs follow the latest ISC2 Exam Outline. This ensures you learn all about security and risk management. Most platforms use knowledge assessments to guide you, making your learning more effective.
Best CISSP Training Programs Available
Choosing the right CISSP training is key to passing the exam. Many providers offer different formats and learning styles. This variety helps you prepare for the CISSP exam’s wide range of topics.
Top Providers to Consider
Several top training providers are known for their effective CISSP courses. Here are some of the best:
- (ISC)²: Offers online training for 180 days, with 14 hours of video.
- Purdue University: Provides a 5-day online boot camp with live instruction.
- The University of Arizona: Includes a textbook and practice exam questions.
- Baylor University: Offers a self-guided prep course with flexible start times.
- Udemy: Provides self-paced courses with engaging video lectures.
- Coursera: Offers structured courses with assignments and peer interactions.
- Global Knowledge: Focuses on instructor-led courses with set schedules.
- Simplilearn: Combines self-paced learning with live sessions over 90 days.
- Learning Tree: Offers in-person and online training with set schedules.
- Destination Certification: Allows coursework completion in 4 to 10 weeks.
Course Content Overview
The best CISSP training programs cover all eight domains of the CISSP CBK. This includes:
| Domain | Coverage Percentage |
|---|---|
| Security and Risk Management | 16% |
| Asset Security | 10% |
| Security Architecture and Engineering | 13% |
| Communication and Network Security | 13% |
| Identity and Access Management | 13% |
| Security Assessment and Testing | 12% |
| Security Operations | 13% |
| Software Development Security | 10% |
Working with these providers can greatly improve your chances of passing the CISSP exam. The exam requires a minimum score of 700 out of 1000. Enrolling in a good program can help you pass the exam on your first try, saving you money on retakes.
CISSP Bootcamps: A Deep Dive
CISSP bootcamps are intensive training sessions. They are designed to get you ready fast for the CISSP exam. These programs last about 5 to 6 days and cover all eight domains needed for the certification.
You’ll learn about important topics like access controls and network security. The fast-paced learning environment helps you become proficient quickly.
CISSP bootcamps include detailed reviews, hands-on labs, and talks on real security breaches. This helps you understand complex topics better. You’ll learn from some of the top certified professionals in the field.
These bootcamps also focus on networking opportunities. Learning with industry experts can boost your career. You’ll make valuable connections and grow your network in cybersecurity.
With a 98% pass rate, you have a good chance of passing the exam on your first try. The programs offer daily lesson recordings and materials for up to 180 days. This lets you study more after the course, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the exam.
CISSP Exam Prep Strategies
To pass the CISSP exam, you need a solid plan and the right study materials. Many resources are out there, made just for CISSP prep. Mixing basic knowledge with practice can really boost your chances.
Effective Study Materials
Choosing the right study materials is key for CISSP success. Here are some top picks:
- (ISC)² Official Study Guide: It dives deep into the CISSP domains.
- Flashcards: Use them to memorize important terms and definitions.
- Online Question Banks: They offer questions that match the exam’s style and difficulty.
- Practice Exams: They help you get used to the test’s feel and find weak spots.
- Discussion Forums: Talk with others to get new ideas and insights.
Creating a Study Plan
Having a good study plan is vital. Here’s what to focus on:
- Assess Your Timeline: Figure out how much time you have and set goals.
- Dedicating Weekly Hours: Set aside time each week for studying, covering all domains.
- Incorporate Practice Exams: Taking practice exams regularly checks your understanding and timing.
- Short Quizzes: Quizzes help solidify your grasp on specific topics.
- Group Study Sessions: Studying with others can keep you motivated and help solve tough problems.
This structured way of studying ensures you’re well-prepared for the exam.
CISSP Salary Information and Career Benefits
Getting the CISSP certification can really boost your income and open up many job doors. In North America, CISSP earners make about $138,647 on average, up by over 10% from 2019. Worldwide, they make around $119,170, showing it’s a top-paying job in cybersecurity.
CISSP holders can make between $59,000 and $194,000 a year, based on their experience and job. They often see a 20% salary increase after getting certified, which is a big plus for their careers.
The need for cybersecurity experts is growing fast, leading to more job opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says there will be a 33% jump in jobs for info security analysts by 2030. With almost 60% of cybersecurity jobs needing a certification, CISSP is key for moving up in your career.
CISSP holders have a lot of experience, with over 72% having more than 10 years in the field. This experience helps them get into roles like security architects and info security managers. It makes their job more rewarding and helps them advance in their careers.
Almost all CISSP holders, 96.8%, work full-time, showing it’s a smart career move. To keep your certification, you must earn 120 continuing education credits every three years. The curriculum keeps getting updated, keeping certified pros ahead in cybersecurity.
| Region | Average CISSP Salary | Job Growth Rate (2020-2030) |
|---|---|---|
| North America | $138,647 | 33% |
| Worldwide (EMEA & Asia-Pacific) | $119,170 | 33% |
How to Choose the Right CISSP Training Program
Choosing the right CISSP training program is key for your career in cybersecurity. It’s important to evaluate different providers and courses. This will impact your learning and success on the CISSP exam.
Evaluating Training Providers
When looking at CISSP training providers, consider a few important things:
- Reputation: Check the provider’s reputation in the industry. Look for reviews from others to see if they were happy and passed the exam.
- Instructor Qualifications: Make sure instructors are CISSP certified and have real-world experience.
- Course Content: Make sure the course covers all the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) domains. This includes important topics like Security and Risk Management and Software Development Security.
- Post-Course Support: See if the provider offers ongoing support after the course. This could include updated materials or mentorship.
- Access to Resources: The best programs offer extra tools like study guides, practice exams, and interactive resources. These can help you learn more.
Factors to Consider Before Enrolling
When choosing a course, think about a few important factors:
- Training Format: Decide if you prefer in-person, live online, or self-paced learning. Choose what fits your style and schedule best.
- Cost: Consider the cost of the training. It can range from $1500 to $5000. Think about how much you might earn more after getting certified.
- Study Time: Plan to spend about 50% of your study time on practice exams. This will help you feel ready for the CISSP exam.
- Provider’s Success Rate: While providers may claim high pass rates, check these claims through independent reviews. Don’t just trust what they say.
- Flexible Options: Look for programs that offer flexible schedules. This could include weekend classes or classes that fit around your job.
Conclusion
Getting the CISSP certification is a smart choice for those aiming high in cybersecurity. It’s a top credential that shows you know a lot about keeping information safe. About 88% of employers look for this certification when they hire.
The training covers important areas like managing risks and keeping assets safe. This makes sure you know the key parts of cybersecurity well.
There are many ways to get CISSP training, from online courses to bootcamps. You can pick what works best for you. Online training is flexible, so you can do it while working. Many programs are affordable, making top-notch training available to more people.
By choosing the right training and studying hard, you can pass the CISSP exam. This will help you move up in your career.
The need for cybersecurity experts is rising fast. Getting the CISSP certification can lead to new chances and roles. It shows you have both technical skills and leadership abilities. Get ready to grow in the fast-changing world of information security.
Source Links
- The complete CISSP certification guide
- CISSP Training and Certification
- ISC2 CISSP Full course & Practice Exam
- CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional | ISC2
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (Online Self-Paced)
- LDR414: SANS Training Program for CISSP® Certification™
- How to Earn the CISSP Certification (Training & Requirements)
- CISSP certification cost and requirements (2024) | Essential information
- Official ISC2 CISSP Online Self-Paced Training – 180-day Materials Access
- Is CISSP Worth It? Certification Costs and Salary | BestColleges
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- ISC2 CISSP® Certification Boot Camp — get certified, guaranteed
- CISSP Masterclass – Easily pass the CISSP exam
- Best CISSP Courses & Certificates [2025] | Coursera Learn Online
- The Top 10 Training Courses Online to Become a Certified Information Systems Professional So You Can Pass Your CISSP Certification Exam
- Best CISSP Training Programs for Certification Prep
- CISSP Certification Training 2024
- CISSP Certification Boot Camp – 5 Day Intense Training Class
- What It’s Really Like: A CISSP Boot Camp Experience Review
- CISSP Exam Prep: Proven Strategies to Study and Pass with Confidence
- ISC2 CISSP® Training Boot Camp
- CISSP Career Benefits and Salary
- CISSP Certification Cost, Salary, and Jobs
- Uncover CISSP Certification Benefits & Cybersecurity Career Prospects
- 9 Keys to Choosing the Best CISSP Training – CISO Global (formerly Alpine Security)
- How to Choose the Best CISSP Training Program for Your Needs – Blendspace
- CISSP Certification Course & Training Online – Cybrary
- Top 6 Best Online CISSP Certification Training Providers
- Summary of the CISSP Certification Training Session
