Cybersecurity remains a top priority for organizations worldwide as they seek to protect their critical systems and assets against sophisticated cyber threats. This imperative underscores the increasing value of certifications that validate the skills required to proactively address and mitigate cybersecurity challenges.
ISC2 sets the gold standard among these credentials. According to the 2023 IT Skills and Salary Report, it is recognized as a leading authority in cybersecurity certifications. These esteemed certifications are designed to bolster organizational defenses and bridge skills gaps—a pertinent outcome given that cybersecurity is one of the most challenging fields for talent acquisition. Moreover, the benefits for individuals are unmatched, offering a pathway to greater visibility, credibility, and salary potential.
Start your journey today by exploring the top ISC2 certifications. Learn about core focus areas, understand requirements, and discover preparation training to equip yourself with the tools to excel as a security expert.
SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner
The SSCP is ideal for IT administrators, managers, directors, and network security professionals responsible for the operational security of their organization’s assets. It validates advanced technical skills and knowledge to implement, monitor, and administer IT infrastructure using security best practices, policies, and procedures. Certification holders can gain versatile, vendor-neutral competencies applicable to several technologies and methodologies, enabling them to counter cyberattacks and foster a secure cyber world.
The SSCP exam covers seven domains: Security Operations and Administration; Access Controls; Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis; Incident Response and Recovery; Cryptography; Network and Communications Security; and Systems and Application Security.
How to get certified:
- Have at least one year of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the seven SSCP domains. Learn more.
- Take the SSCP Certification prep course.
- Pass the SSCP exam. View training.
CGRC – Certified Governance, Risk and Compliance
The CGRC certification, previously known as CAP, demonstrates expertise in risk assessment and security authorization within the Risk Management Framework (RMF) using best practices, policies, and procedures. The comprehensive curriculum included in the CGRC Common Body of Knowledge ensures relevance across all disciplines of information security. By earning this credential, professionals can effectively support an organization’s mission and operations while meeting legal and regulatory requirements.
The CGRC exam covers seven domains: Information Security Risk Management Program; Categorization of Information Systems; Selection of Security Controls; Implementation of Security Controls; Assessment of Security Controls; Authorization of Information Systems; and Continuous Monitoring.
How to get certified:
- Have at least two years of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the seven CGRC domains. Learn more.
- Pass the CGRC exam. View training.
CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional
The CISSP is a highly sought-after credential, often required for senior and leadership roles. It demonstrates the technical and managerial knowledge necessary to design, engineer, and manage premier cybersecurity programs. Achieving this qualification can significantly accelerate careers, showcasing professionals’ ability to improve an organization’s overall security posture. Notably, it ranks among the highest-paying cybersecurity certifications, with an average salary of $140,069.
The CISSP exam covers eight domains: Security and Risk Management; Asset Security; Security Architecture and Engineering; Communication and Network Security; Identity and Access Management; Security Assessment and Testing; Security Operations; and Software Development Security.
How to get certified:
- Have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight CISSP domains. Learn more.
- Take the CISSP Certification prep course.
- Pass the CISSP exam. View training.
CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional
The CCSP sets the benchmark for excellence in cloud security expertise and commands one of the highest salaries, averaging $104,987. It recognizes IT and information security leaders capable of applying best practices to cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration. This credential equips professionals to protect sensitive data in a global environment across various cloud platforms, positioning them as authority figures in their fields.
The CCSP exam covers six domains: Cloud Concepts, Architecture, and Design; Cloud Data Security; Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security; Cloud Application Security; Cloud Security Operations; and Legal, Risk, and Compliance.
How to get certified:
- Have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in information technology. Three years must be in information security, and one year must be in one or more of the CCSP domains. Alternatively, earning the ISC2 CISSP credential can substitute for the CCSCP experience requirement. Learn more.
- Take the CCSP Certification prep course.
- Pass the CCSP exam. View training.
Investing in the right certification can be a game-changer for your career and organization. With ISC2, you will gain a high level of competency in specific, industry-defining technical domains essential for navigating complex cybersecurity landscapes. As a trusted training partner, Skillsoft Global Knowledge is ready to help you prepare for the ISC2 exams. Access live, expert instruction and additional practice materials, ensuring you have well-rounded resources to reach your certification goals.
Ready to get started? Explore our cybersecurity training and join over 138,000 ISC2 members dedicated to creating a secure cyber world.