The First Step: Understanding the SSCP Exam

Before diving into preparation strategies, familiarize yourself with the SSCP exam’s structure. Here’s a quick breakdown.

• Exam Name: ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
• Duration: 180 minutes
• Number of Questions: 125 (Multiple Choice)
• Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
• Fee: $249 (USD)

The exam covers seven key domains.

• Security Operations and Practices (16%)
• Access Controls (15%)
• Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis (15%)
• Incident Response and Recovery (14%)
• Cryptography (9%)
• Network and Communications Security (16%)
• Systems and Application Security (15%)

Understanding the weightage of each domain will help you prioritize your preparation effectively.

Preparation Blueprint: What Every SSCP Candidate Must Know

1. Create a Targeted Study Plan

Preparation without a plan can lead to burnout and missed opportunities. Break down your study schedule as follows.

• Dedicate more time to high-weightage topics like Security Operations and Practices and Network and Communications Security.
• Allocate specific hours each week to each domain, ensuring you cover all areas thoroughly.

Pro Tip: Use the official ISC2 SSCP Exam Outline to align your study efforts with exam expectations.

2. Leverage Reliable Study Materials for the SSCP

Choosing the right resources is critical for success. Consider the following.

• Official Study Guides: The Official ISC2 SSCP Study Guide is a must-have.
• Practice Tests: Platforms like Edusum offer comprehensive SSCP practice tests that mimic the actual exam environment.
• Online Courses: Enroll in ISC2-accredited training programs to receive guidance from experts.

3. Master the Art of SSCP Practice Tests

Taking practice exams is one of the most effective ways to prepare.

• Practice tests help you identify weak areas and build confidence.
• Platforms such as Edusum provide sample questions to enhance your readiness.

Actionable Tip: Simulate exam conditions while attempting practice tests to improve time management.

4. Dive Deep Into SSCP Key Domains

Each SSCP domain has its own unique challenges. Here’s how to tackle them.

• Security Operations and Practices: Focus on operational procedures and best practices for maintaining secure systems.
• Cryptography: Understand encryption techniques and real-world applications.
• Incident Response and Recovery: Develop a robust understanding of disaster recovery and forensic investigation principles.

5. Join Study Groups and Communities

Collaboration can make a big difference in your preparation journey.

• Participate in online forums like the ISC2 Community to exchange tips and resources.
• Engage with peers preparing for the exam to clarify doubts and share insights.

Tried-and-True SSCP Exam Day Strategies

1. Optimize Your Mindset

On exam day, staying calm and focused is key.

• Arrive early to avoid unnecessary stress.
• Read questions carefully, ensuring you understand what’s being asked before answering.

2. Manage Your Time Wisely

With 125 questions in 180 minutes, you’ll have less than 1.5 minutes per question.

• Don’t dwell too long on challenging questions; mark them for review and move on.
• Allocate the last 15 minutes to revisit flagged questions.

Why SSCP Certification Is Worth It

Earning the SSCP certification is a game-changer for anyone serious about advancing their career in cybersecurity. Here’s why.

1. Validates Your Expertise in Security Practices

The SSCP is globally recognized as a mark of professionalism in the cybersecurity field. By obtaining this certification, you demonstrate that you have a solid understanding of key security practices, from incident response to network security, all of which are critical for organizations that rely on secure systems. The exam covers seven essential domains, ensuring that you are well-versed in every aspect of systems security.

2. Opens Lucrative Career Opportunities

The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. Organizations across industries are increasingly seeking certified practitioners who can safeguard sensitive data and critical systems from cyber threats. With the SSCP certification, you’re not just earning a credential—you’re opening doors to a variety of high-paying roles, such as.

• Security Analyst
• Network Security Engineer
• Cybersecurity Consultant
• Incident Response Specialist

According to recent data, certified professionals often enjoy higher salaries compared to their non-certified peers. Having the SSCP on your resume signals to potential employers that you are equipped with the latest knowledge and best practices in the field.

3. Builds Trust with Employers

Employers highly value ISC2 certifications due to their rigorous exam process and comprehensive coverage of key security principles. By earning your SSCP, you position yourself as a trusted expert capable of securing systems, identifying risks, and implementing strong security protocols. In fact, many companies require certifications like SSCP as part of their hiring process, especially when dealing with sensitive data.

4. Provides a Stepping Stone for Advanced Certifications

The SSCP serves as a solid foundation for those looking to pursue more advanced certifications within the ISC2 framework, such as the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or other specialized cybersecurity certifications. The skills and knowledge gained during SSCP preparation lay the groundwork for mastering these higher-level certifications, which can further boost your career prospects.

5. Ensures Continuous Professional Development

Once you earn your SSCP, it doesn’t stop there. The certification requires professionals to maintain their knowledge through Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits, ensuring you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity. This commitment to continuous learning keeps your skill set sharp and relevant in a fast-evolving industry.

The Systems Security Certified Practitioner certification is more than just an exam; it’s a powerful tool that significantly enhances your cybersecurity career. With validated expertise, increased career opportunities, and the ability to build trust with employers, SSCP is a certification worth pursuing for anyone serious about a long-term career in cybersecurity.

FAQs

Q: How many hours should I dedicate to SSCP exam preparation?

A: On average, candidates spend 100–150 hours preparing, but this varies based on your experience level.

Q: Are SSCP practice tests necessary?

A: Absolutely! They simulate the exam environment and help you identify areas for improvement.

Q: What’s the validity of SSCP certification?

A: The SSCP certification requires renewal every three years through Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.

Your Path to Success Starts Today

The journey to Systems Security Certified Practitioner certification requires dedication, strategic planning, and access to the right resources. By following these expert tips, you’ll not only pass the SSCP exam but also set the foundation for a successful career in cybersecurity.

Explore Edusum’s SSCP Practice Tests to start practicing today and ace your exam on the first attempt.

The post Mastering Your SSCP Certification: Top Tips for First-Time Candidates appeared first on iSecPrep.

Is the SSCP Certification Worth It?

There are numerous certification alternatives out there for people working in the IT field who don’t have sufficient experience to qualify for one of the advanced certifications. The SSCP certification is one of the most worthwhile options for those beginning careers in information technology or security. With the SSCP certification, you will acquire:

• Great Career Prospects– The SSCP certification not only has the capability to help you certify for more suitable jobs, but it can also be a determining factor in promotions, higher paychecks, more inspiring and thought-provoking work, and leadership positions.
• Knowledge and Improvement — The SSCP certification assures that you have the knowledge to execute, monitor, and manage IT infrastructures, as well as bigger you acquire new skills that can be applied to your day-to-day tasks.
• Respect — The SSCP certification confirms your experience and knowledge. It will get you more respect from those in the industry. It often carries off more impact and significance within the organization where you work.

Also Read: Quick Comparison: CISSP VS SSCP

Who Should Obtain SSCP Certification?

IT professionals who are performing on the below job profiles and have experience of 1–2 years can opt for the ISC2 SSCP exam to prove their skills on a global scale.

Freshers who wish to commence their career in the security domain also opt for this ISC2 exam.

• System Engineer
• System/Network Analyst
• Security Consultants/Specialist
• System Administrator
• Security Analyst
• Security Administrator
• Network Security Engineer
• Database Administrator

Information About ISC2 SSCP Exam

The Systems Security Certified Practitioner — SSCP exam comprises 125 Multiple choice questions that need to be completed in 3 hours. The SSCP exam cost is $249 USD. Also, the exam is available in English and Japanese languages.

Experience: Candidates must have at least one year of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP CBK. A one-year requirement pathway will be granted for applicants who received a degree (bachelor’s or master’s) in a cybersecurity program.

SSCP Exam Domains

• Domain 1. Security Operations and Administration.
• Domain 2. Access Controls.
• Domain 3. Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis.
• Domain 4. Incident Response and Recovery.
• Domain 5. Cryptography.
• Domain 6. Network and Communications Security.
• Domain 7. Systems and Application Security.

Step-By-Step Preparation Guide for SSCP Exam

It is generally said that good preparation fetches good scores. So, to enable you to prepare well for the ISC2 SSCP exam, we cover this preparation guide. This guide is aimed at preparing you to crack the certification exam on the first attempt. Let’s explore the preparation journey for the SSCP certification exam –

1. Know the SSCP Exam In and Out

Before registering for the SSCP certification exam, it is advised to know the exam thoroughly. For this, you are expected to have an overview of the exam, a blueprint of the exam, and also get all the essential information from the ISC2 official website. Register for the exam only when you know the exam details completely. You can also read the FAQs to understand sufficiently.

2. Enroll in SSCP Training

To master the SSCP domains, it is advised to register for the online training. You can use the ISC2 training finder to view and register for official instructor-led training seminars delivered by ISC2. You can also take up online self-paced training offered by ISC2 to prepare for the exam at your convenience.

3. Obtain Appropriate Books

Books play an important role in any exam preparation, and the selection of books is evenly important. Though you have registered for online training, learning from books is of utmost importance. You can get information about appropriate books from the ISC2 official website.

4. Take SSCP Practice Tests

When you find yourself thoroughly prepared for the exam through online training and reading study guides, it’s time to attempt SSCP practice tests. Preparing through SSCP practice tests will let you evaluate your preparation level. You will find your weak areas and thus can work on them. You can also practice through practice exams that will give you a feeling of the actual exam. Edusum is one of the best websites that offers practice tests for ISC2 certification exams.

Proven Tips to be Followed For ISC2 SSCP Exam Preparation

• Concentrate on the exam during every second of your preparation time. It is a must to stay focused during the preparation and while acing the SSCP exam.
• Only remembering the exam concepts is not enough; you should be aiming to acquire more and more knowledge. Try to master the concepts from the basic level.
• Time management is crucial while preparing for the ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner exam. You should set your time as per the weightage of the exam domains. It is better to split time between the exam objectives during preparation and the SSCP exam questions during the exam.
• Last but foremost, stay calm and composed during the exam preparation phase. Yes! This point is evenly important as the points mentioned above. Don’t panic; stay cool, and be confident.

At the End

To pass the SSCP exam, you must give your best shot. Hope this article will help you in your exam preparation journey and, thus, will be mean to your success in the exam. Edusum website is dedicated to helping you become an ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner and thus offer practice tests. The practice tests on this site offer result history to track your performance. So, follow this preparation guide and become a successful Systems Security Certified Practitioner.

The post How Hard is the SSCP Exam? appeared first on iSecPrep.

What Is the SSCP Certification?

The SSCP certification is a globally recognized credential bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated their IT security administration and operations proficiency. This certification is a testament to your expertise in implementing, monitoring, and administering IT infrastructure while adhering to the best security practices, policies, and procedures established by the cybersecurity experts at ISC2.

Who Earns the SSCP?

The SSCP certification is tailored for individuals responsible for ensuring the hands-on operational security of an organization’s critical assets. This includes a diverse range of professionals, such as.

• Network Security Engineer
• Systems Administrator
• Security Analyst
• Systems Engineer
• Security Consultant/Specialist
• Security Administrator
• Systems/Network Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Health Information Manager
• Practice Manager

Regardless of your specific role within the IT infrastructure, if you are tasked with safeguarding an organization’s valuable assets, the SSCP certification is highly relevant to your career.

ISC2 SSCP Exam Structure

Before embarking on your journey to earn the SSCP certification, it’s crucial to understand the exam details. Here’s a quick overview.

• Exam Title: ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner
• Exam Code: SSCP
• Exam Price: $249 (USD)
• Duration: 240 minutes
• Number of Questions: 150
• Passing Score: 700/1000

What to Expect on the SSCP Exam

The SSCP exam covers many topics, and understanding the exam structure is essential for successful preparation. The exam is divided into domains, each with its respective weightage.

• Security Operations and Administration: 16%
• Access Controls: 15%
• Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis: 15%
• Incident Response and Recovery: 14%
• Cryptography: 9%
• Network and Communications Security: 16%
• Systems and Application Security: 15%

By knowing the weightage of each domain, you can allocate your study time effectively and ensure comprehensive coverage.

Benefits of Earning the SSCP Certification

The SSCP certification provides numerous advantages that can enhance your career and unlock doors to exciting prospects within cybersecurity.

1. Validate Your Skills and Commitment to Cybersecurity

Earning the SSCP certification demonstrates your expertise and dedication to the cybersecurity field. It serves as tangible proof of your advanced technical skills and knowledge. By showcasing this certification, you signal potential employers that you are competent to excel in cybersecurity roles. Moreover, it positions you as a professional who follows best practices and is committed to upholding security standards.

2. Enhance Your Resume

Your resume is often the first point of contact with potential employers. A robust resume highlighting your cybersecurity skills, experience, and achievements can make you a more attractive candidate. A well-structured resume should detail your relevant work experience, educational background, certifications, and any notable projects or accomplishments in the cybersecurity domain. An impressive resume significantly increases your chances of getting noticed and being called for interviews.

3. Fulfill Requirements for Security Clearance

Security clearance is mandatory in specific cybersecurity roles, especially in government or defense-related sectors. Obtaining the necessary security clearance attests to your trustworthiness and suitability for positions that handle sensitive information. Achieving this clearance may involve background checks, investigations, and meeting specific eligibility criteria.

4. Gain Access to a Professional Community

Becoming part of a professional community in the cybersecurity field can be highly advantageous. It provides opportunities to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices with peers. This networking can lead to job referrals, access to valuable resources, and insights contributing to your career growth. You can join cybersecurity organizations, attend conferences, or engage in online forums and communities to establish these valuable connections.

By leveraging these benefits collectively, you can establish yourself as a highly competent and desirable cybersecurity professional in the eyes of recruiters, hiring managers, and peers in the field.

Preparation Tips for SSCP Certification

Earning the SSCP certification demands dedicated preparation. To help you succeed, here are some valuable preparation tips.

• Familiarize Yourself with the SSCP Syllabus: Review the SSCP exam syllabus thoroughly. This document outlines the exam’s topics and domains, giving you a clear study roadmap.
• Know About the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure of the SSCP exam. Understand the number of questions, the time limit, and the passing score required. This information will help you plan your study strategy.
• Create a Study Schedule: Develop a study plan with a timeline for your exam preparation. Allocate specific time slots for each domain or topic to ensure comprehensive coverage. Be realistic about the time you can dedicate each day or week.
• Find a Study Partner: Studying with a partner can be beneficial. It allows you to discuss concepts, ask questions, and provide mutual support. Choose someone equally committed to passing the SSCP exam.
• Register for a Training Course: Consider enrolling in an official SSCP training course or using reputable study materials. These courses often provide structured content and practice exams to help you prepare effectively.
• Create Flashcards: Make flashcards for key terms, definitions, and essential concepts. Flashcards are a convenient aid for rapid review and strengthening of your understanding.
• Take SSCP Practice Tests: Practice tests are crucial for assessing your readiness. Engage in mock trials to familiarize yourself with the exam and pinpoint your areas of proficiency and areas needing improvement. Many SSCP study resources include sample questions and practice exams.
• Identify Your Weaknesses: Analyze the results of your practice tests to identify areas where you need improvement. Focus your efforts on strengthening your knowledge and skills in these weak areas.
• Repeat Practice Tests: Retake practice tests to gauge your progress after addressing your weaknesses. Continuously practicing and refining your knowledge is essential for success.
• Ace the Exam: On the exam day, arrive well-prepared, well-rested, and confident. Manage your time wisely during the exam, and carefully read and answer each question. If you’ve followed the previous steps diligently, you’ll be able to perform well and pass the SSCP exam.

Conclusion

The SSCP certification is your gateway to a successful career in cybersecurity. This globally recognized certification demonstrates your advanced technical skills and signifies your commitment to implementing security best practices, policies, and procedures. As the proliferation of cyber threats persists, the demand for proficient cybersecurity experts has never been greater. By following the preparation tips and leveraging the benefits of the SSCP certification, you can establish yourself as a highly competent and desirable cybersecurity professional.

The post Why SSCP Certification Matters in IT Security appeared first on iSecPrep.

Who Benefits from SSCP Certification?

The SSCP is tailored for professionals involved in the hands-on operational security of an organization’s critical assets. This includes individuals in roles such as.

• Network Security Engineer
• Systems Administrator
• Security Analyst
• Systems Engineer
• Security Consultant/Specialist
• Security Administrator
• Systems/Network Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Health Information Manager
• Practice Manager

Meeting the Requirements

To obtain the SSCP certification, candidates must not only pass the rigorous exam but also possess a minimum of one year of growing work experience in one or more of the seven domains outlined in the ISC2 SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).

SSCP Certification Exam Overview

• Test Title: ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
• Exam Code: SSCP
• Exam Price: $249 (USD)
• Duration: 240 mins
• Number of Questions: 150
• Passing Score: 700/1000

Domains Covered in the SSCP Certification Exam

• Security Operations and Administration – 16%
• Access Controls – 15%
• Risk Identification, Monitoring and Analysis – 15%
• Incident Response and Recovery – 14%
• Cryptography – 9%
• Network and Communications Security – 16%
• Systems and Application Security – 15%

Unveiling the Value of SSCP Certification

1. Cybersecurity Knowledge Expansion

The SSCP certification spans various cybersecurity domains, offering a comprehensive understanding of access controls, cryptography, network security, and security operations. This expansive knowledge equips professionals to tackle diverse security challenges.

2. Career Advancement

A certified SSCP professional stands out in the competitive job market. Employers seek accredited individuals to fill cybersecurity roles, recognizing the commitment to excellence the SSCP certification represents.

3. Progression in the Career Ladder

For those aspiring to climb the career ladder in cybersecurity, SSCP certification serves as a pivotal stepping stone. It opens doors to roles such as security analyst and network security administrator.

4. Access to Promotions

Certified individuals often become frontrunners for promotions within their organizations. The SSCP certification demonstrates expertise, showcasing readiness for increased responsibilities and leadership roles.

5. Higher Salaries

In cybersecurity, the demand for skilled professionals is on the rise. Holding the SSCP certification positions individuals for higher earning potential, as employers acknowledge and reward the value it brings.

6. (ISC)² Accreditation

Issued by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, the SSCP certification holds global recognition. (ISC)² certifications are highly esteemed in the industry, enhancing the professional profile of certified individuals.

7. Beginner-Level Qualification

The SSCP certification is tailored for those entering the cybersecurity field. It provides a strong foundation, making it an excellent choice for individuals new to the industry or transitioning from related IT roles.

Strategies for SSCP Certification Exam Success

1. Understand the Exam Domains

Please familiarize yourself with the seven ISC2 SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) domains and allocate study time based on their weightage.

2. Leverage Study Materials

Utilize official study materials provided by (ISC)², including the SSCP Study Guide and practice exams, designed to align with exam objectives.

3. Gain Hands-On Experience

The SSCP exam evaluates practical knowledge. Acquire hands-on experience in implementing and managing security measures across various domains.

4. Develop a Study Plan

Create a structured study plan based on strengths and weaknesses. Dedicate time to each domain, regularly reviewing the material to reinforce understanding.

5. Take Practice Exams

By taking practice exams, practice exams, familiarize yourself with the exam format, question types, and time management. Identify areas needing attention and build confidence.

6. Engage in Interactive Learning

Participate in discussions, forums, or study groups for interactive learning. Sharing knowledge with peers enhances understanding and provides different perspectives.

7. Stay Updated

Keep up to date on the latest developments in cybersecurity. The SSCP exam may include questions on current trends, making staying informed crucial.

8. Master Time Management

Practice time management during your preparation to ensure you can answer questions within the assigned duration on exam day.

9. Review and Reinforce

Periodically review studied material to reinforce understanding, aiding retention and optimal performance on the exam.

10. Seek Guidance

See guidance from professionals who have earned the SSCP certification. Their insights and experiences provide valuable advice for exam preparation.

Conclusion

The SSCP certification is not just a credential; it’s a gateway to success in the cybersecurity realm. Issued by (ISC)², this certification signifies advanced technical skills, offering a foundation for career growth, promotions, and increased earning potential. With global recognition and Accreditation, the SSCP certification is a beacon guiding cybersecurity professionals toward excellence. This article has provided comprehensive details about the certification, including exam insights and preparation tips, emphasizing its paramount importance in the cybersecurity industry.

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Overview of ISC2 Certifications

In today’s digital era, information security skills are in great demand than ever before. Confirm your skills with ISC2 certifications — the leading vendor in information security certifications! With ISC2 certification, you join a globally recognized family of more than 150,000 cyber and IT security professionals. You’ll get admittance to a vast range of exclusive resources, educational tools, peer-to-peer networking opportunities, conference and event discounts, and much more to advance your career.

CISSP – Certified Information Systems Security Professional

This most sought-after of ISC2 certifications retains the excellence of being the first information security certifications approved by the American National Standards Institute and the International Organization for Standardization. It demands you to have five or more years of work experience in the IT security field.

CAP – Certified Authorization Professional

ISC2 CAP certification helps systems professionals better greater and control risk. It needs work experience in information security policy, systems administration, information assurance, or one of many other domains.

CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional

Earning the globally recognized CCSP cloud security certification is a confirmed way to develop your career and better secure important assets in the cloud. The CCSP proves you have the cutting-edge technical skills and expertise to design, maintain and secure data,  infrastructure, and applications in the cloud employing best practices, strategies, and procedures defined by the cybersecurity experts.

Read: Aim High in a Cloud Security Career with ISC2 CCSP Certification

SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner

The SSCP is designed for IT administrators, managers, directors, and network security professionals responsible for the hands-on operational security of their organization’s important assets. It confirms you have the advanced technical skills and expertise to implement, monitor, and administer IT infrastructure utilizing security best practices, policies, and procedures.

CSSLP – Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional

This ISC2 certification is suited to software developers who are interested in application vulnerabilities and cybersecurity. This CSSLP certification recognizes the skill of an applicant in the SDLC- software development lifecycle and web application security.

HCISPP – HealthCare Information Security and Privacy Practitioner

The HCISPP certification is geared towards consultants and employees that manage and secure healthcare information. A successful HCISPP applicant has proved expertise in managing, evaluating, or executing countermeasures and controls that guarantee sensitive data remains private.

CISSP – ISSAP – Information Systems Security Architecture Professional

The CISSP-ISSAP is the best certification if you’re a chief security architect or analyst. As a CISSP-ISSAP, you confirm your skills in designing, developing, and evaluating security solutions. You also outshine at providing risk-based guidance to senior management in order to meet organizational goals. The ISSAP certification adds an additional badge of skills and experience for CISSP professionals. An ISSAP certified architect takes on a lead role in the IT security department and has duties that lie at the upper managerial level of the organization.

CISSP-ISSEP Information Systems Security Engineering Professional

The ISSEP is one of the CISSP concentration certification exams. The vendor-neutral CISSP-ISSEP certification validates a CISSP’s distinguished knowledge and experience in the practical application of systems engineering principles and procedures to establish secure systems. This is one of the absolute ISC2 certifications for demonstrating you know how to consolidate security into all aspects of business operations.

CISSP-ISSMP – Information Systems Security Management Professional

The CISSP-ISSMP cybersecurity management certification confirms that you are skilled in presenting, establishing, and governing information security programs. You also prove profound management and leadership skills, whether you’re performing incident handling and/or a breach mitigation team.

Associate Of (ISC)2

The Associate of ISC2 certification is geared towards professionals who want to enter into the security field (think students and persons changing their careers) but still do not have the required years of experience that are needed to achieve a full ISC2 certification.

To be eligible for the Associate of ISC2, you must:

• Subscribe to the ISC2 Code of Ethics
• Pass the SSCP, CAP, CISSP, CSSLP, HCISPP or CCSP certification exam

Advantages of ISC2 Certifications for IT Security Professionals:

• ISC2 certified professionals are acknowledged as knowledgeable, serious, and committed to promoting their IT security career to the next levels.
• ISC2 certifications unlock the door to rewarding government information security job opportunities, where these certifications are a strict job requirement.
• ISC2 certified professionals are among the highest-paid professionals in the IT industry, receiving, on average, over $100,000 per year.
• ISC2 certifications include membership in a global network of information security managers, IT business executives, and like-minded professionals.
• ISC2 certified professionals relish deep discounts on information security publications, physical & virtual conferences, and pre-release learning materials.
• ISC2 certified professionals are internationally recognized as thought-leaders and creators at the forefront of the information security industry.

ISC2 Certifications are Just the Begining

Obtaining ISC2 certifications will give you the confidence to know that you’re doing accurately what you need to be doing to guarantee that your client’s confidential information is secure. ISC2 certifications will also give you extra marketability as an expert, possibly helping you get that promotion or prove to an examiner or auditor your skills.

The post ISC2 Certifications: Inspire a Safe and Secure Cyber World appeared first on iSecPrep.

Their standard security certification is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), questionably one of the most valuable and challenging security certifications.

Early-career security professionals could find the CISSP appalling and consider the ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), or another certification, as their road to certification.

Let’s delve deeper into these two distinct ISC2 certifications. We’ll take a look at what’s involved in acquiring them, their career value, and the ‘advantages and disadvantages’ of each.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

CISSP certification is intended for experienced cybersecurity professionals — managers, technicians, and administrators. To earn CISSP certification, applicants must pass a three-hour, 125 questions computer adaptive testing exam. Moreover, they must offer valid proof of five years of full-time employment — or work experience — in two or more of the following eight CISSP security domains specified by ISC2:

1. Security and Risk Management (15%)
2. Asset Security (10%)
3. Security Architecture and Engineering (13%)
4. Communication and Network Security (14%)
5. Identity and Access Management (IAM) (13%)
6. Security Assessment and Testing (12%)
7. Security Operations (13%)
8. Software Development Security (10%)

And that’s not all. Once the applicant has passed the CISSP exam, they must be verified by an active ISC2 certification holder before they are given their CISSP certification.

Note that if you pass the CISSP exam, but do not have the expected years of experience, ISC2 will acknowledge you as a CISSP Associate while you acquire the required domain experience.

Given all this work, it’s reassuring that in their current Guide to the CISSP, ISC² demands that salaries for CISSP-certified professionals average over $130,000. CISSP was the security certification most desired, As reported by the CyberSeek interactive cybersecurity supply/demand map of job postings.

Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

While CISSP is for experienced professionals, the SSCP is an early-career certification from ISC2, which needs only a single year of relevant cybersecurity experience. SSCP varies in that its emphasis is on technical, practical aspects of security, while the CISSP emphasizes process.

According to ISC2, SSCP certification is designed for people in planning and admin positions, while CISSP is for high-level IT leaders — auditors, architects, and consultants, along with IT managers and executives. The SSCP is equivalent to, but not as prominent as, CompTIA’s Security+ certification.

SSCP applicants must pass a three-hour, 125-question exam that evaluates their expertise of the following domains:

1. Access Controls 16%
2. Security Operations and Administration 15%
3. Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis 15%
4. Incident Response and Recovery 13%
5. Cryptography 10%
6. Network and Communications Security 16%
7. Systems and Application Security 15%

SSCP applicants must have a minimum one year of valid work experience in one or more of the SSCP security domains. If you hold a degree in a cybersecurity program, then you may be provided an exemption for the year of experience.

As with the CISSP certification, SSCP applicants must be verified by an active ISC2 certified holder before they are assigned their certification.

CISSP vs. SSCP

Candidly, it is not a matter of one certification versus the other. They stand for distinct spaces on the range of cybersecurity skills and experience.

If you’re in a beginning career security position and are seeking for a way to develop credibility, then SSCP is a perfect certification to start with.

If you have made up your mind to pursue an IT leadership position, then the ISC2 CISSP must be your long-term objective! You should first earn the SSCP first and later go for the CISSP as you receive the work experience in the cybersecurity domain.

But hold on, if the CISSP is your target, then you can pass the CISSP exam and become a CISSP expert. While it’s not the same as a comprehensive CISSP, the associate-level certification is acknowledged in the U.S. government sector and may also be affirmed by some organizations.

Note that all ISC2 certifications are valid for three years and must be renewed through required continuing professional education. Certified professionals must also be contemporary with their ISC2 annual membership fees.

CISSP vs SSCP: Opportunities in Government Sector

Both SSCP and CISSP are acknowledged as U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) benchmark certifications, which recognize specific certifications for different levels of IT technician, manager, and architect/engineer jobs in the Federal Government.

SSCP is recognized for Levels I and II Information Assurance Technician (IAT) jobs. CISSP (or CISSP Associate) is a benchmark certification for Level III IAT jobs, along with for jobs at Level II or III Information Assurance Manager (IAM) and Level I and II IA System Architects and Engineers (IASAE).

Level III architect/engineer jobs require the next level CISSP architecture or engineering concentrations.

Salary Outlook

As you might anticipate, you’ll ask for a bigger salary if you’re CISSP-certified. ISC2 itself demands an average CISSP salary of $131,030 in contrast to $93,240 for an SSCP.

A survey carried out for full-time jobs demanding CISSP certification returned an average salary of $94,000 but revealed almost one-half offering from $100,000 to $125,000 or more.

A search for SSCP jobs returned an average salary of approximately $82,000, with just under half offering $90,000 or more. The ISC2 brand must increase the value because jobs for the corresponding CompTIA Security+ certification revealed an average salary of only $72,395.

Summing It Up

So, what’s the heart of the matter in comparision of CISSP vs SSCP? Both CISSP and SSCP are important, well-paying cybersecurity certifications. Market for CISSP in distinct is apparently higher than the number of professionals certified.

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