If you want to demonstrate your proficiency in accomplishing IT system security tasks, you should think of achieving the GSEC certification offered by GIAC. This GIAC certification will help you prove your knowledge of IT security through the simple memorization of cybersecurity newsbreaks.
The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification confirms a practitioner’s understanding of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts. GSEC certification professionals prove that they are eligible for hands-on IT systems roles regarding security tasks.
Targeted Audience
- People who are new to information security who has some experience in information systems & networking
- Security professionals
- Operations personnel
- Security managers
- Forensic analysts
- Penetration testers
- IT engineers and supervisors
- Security administrators
- Auditors
GSEC Exam Format
- Duration: 300 mins
- Number of Questions: 106-180
- Passing score: 73%
- Exam Price: $2499 (USD)
- GSEC certification exam syllabus topics – Click Here.
How to Study for the GSEC Certification Exam?
As the GSEC exam is an open book exam, applicants must depend solely on their memory of exam topics; GIAC certification exams allow exam takers to take reference materials (notes, textbooks, etc.) during exams. But don’t be fooled. The GSEC exam is an open book doesn’t suggest it will be easy or any less complicated than a closed book exam, the contrary is often valid. The tips mentioned below will help improve your performance on the GSEC exam.
1. Preparation is the Key
GIAC exams emphasize “higher-level learning.” What does this mean? It suggests that you don’t focus on rote memorization or recollection. The GSEC exam aims to measure your understanding of a subject matter, and you’ll be asked to acquire, analyze, compare, evaluate, or combine information rather than remember it.
Consequently, open-book exams are often more challenging than other tests – even with a plethora of reference materials at your fingertips. Since open book tests can be more complex than other tests, you must adequately prepare. Approach your preparation for a GSEC exam like any other exam.
2. Stick to Study Schedule
Adequate preparation demands a schedule that you can follow. Thus, you should develop a realistic study schedule and strictly follow it. Failure to do so may delay or even slow your learning down. To avoid this, it’s good to know the best time to read through the reference material for the GSEC certification exam and when you’re less likely to be distracted. Finally, assure to stick to the routine you specify if you wish to optimize the usage of your time.
3. Take Up Training
Enrolling in a relevant training course is one of the best ways to prepare for a certification exam, and the GIAC Security Essentials exam is no exception. You’ll find the SEC401: Security Essentials: Network, Endpoint, and Cloud training is well designed to equip you with all the essential information security skills and strategies you need to defend and secure your critical information and technology assets, whether on-premise or in the cloud.
4. Become Familiar with Key Concepts
Many applicants do not familiarize themselves with key concepts before the GSEC exam as it is an open book exam. Exam takers can often figure that they can look up answers while taking the exam. However, the GSEC certification exam usually covers more information and takes more preparation than closed-book exams. You’ll likely be behind time if you depend on your book for every answer. Your book and notes should only be utilized as reference resources for challenging questions or questions that need specific information.
5. Make Index
A vital part of the studying process is making your index. An index is an organized, color-coded guide that you make, allowing you to find the information you need during the exam quickly. The most significant advantage of the index beyond being a temporary directory? Creating your index is ensured to help you learn and master the concepts you require for your exam.
6. Use GSEC Practice Test
Excelling in the GSEC certification exam demands adequate preparation and with frequent practicing, passing this exam on your first try becomes more straightforward. Take a GSEC practice test to measure your knowledge of the exam concepts and emphasize your weak and strong areas before the final exam arrives.
7. Relax
The definitive way to pass the test that you cannot ignore is getting thoroughly relaxed. You notice that stress can cause failing the exam. As long as you feel completely prepared for the exam, there’s no requirement to worry about the GIAC Security Essentials exam. On an exam day, answer every question carefully with your composed mind and ensure you answer all the questions correctly.
Conclusion
Whether an open book or a closed book, you are always required to study the subject. GSEC certification exam – is an open book exam designed to measure the applicants’ understanding level and application ability. So the exam-takers must learn and apply the knowledge in the examination.
