Best CISSP Study Materials For Exam Prep In 2025

The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification is one of the most respected credentials in the field of information security. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to elevate your career or someone new to the industry, passing the CISSP exam can open doors to new opportunities and help you build a strong foundation in cybersecurity. However, preparing for this challenging exam requires the right CISSP study materials tailored to your learning style and schedule.

Key Takeaways

1. Learn the importance of practice exams and detailed study guides to build a solid foundation for the CISSP exam.
2. Choose study materials that align with your learning style, whether it’s books, videos, or practice tests.
3. We’ll review top-rated options like Kaplan, Grey Campus, and Simplilearn, helping you make an informed decision.

In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the best CISSP study materials available in 2025. We’ve tested and reviewed each option, so you don’t have to waste time searching through countless resources. Whether you prefer video lessons, practice exams, or in-depth textbooks, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the top study tools to help you pass the CISSP exam with confidence.

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Best CISSP Study Materials 2025

• Kaplan CISSP Study Materials
• Grey Campus CISSP Study Materials
• ExamPractice CISSP Study Materials
• Master of Project Academy CISSP Certification Course
• Transcender CISSP Study Materials
• Simplilearn CISSP Review Course

CISSP Courses
RANKINGS	#1	#2	#3	#4	#5
OVERALL RATING	[rating=5]	[rating=4.5]	[rating=5]	[rating=4]	[rating=3]
WEBSITE	Kaplan IT Training	CISSP ExamPractice	Grey Campus	Master of Project CISSP	Simplilearn
PRICE	$2,995	$698 $498 SAVE $200	$1,499	$335	$499
VIDEO LESSON HOUR	24 Hours +140 Short Videos	15+ Hours	32 Hours	10+ Hours	32 hours
PRACTICE TEST	1 Diagnostic Exam+ 1 Assessment Exam	10 Chapter Quizzes	Available	1 Full Length Exam	1 Full-Length
PRACTICE QUESTIONS	1000	1000+	1250	1,000	5 Simulation Exams
CPEs	None	18 CEUs	35	30 CPEs	30
FORMAT	eLearning, or On-Demand Self-Paced	Online Self-Paced	Online Self-Learning, or Live Online	Online, Self-Paced	Online Flexi-Pass
GUARANTEE	30-Day Money Back Guarantee for 180 Day Package Only	N/A	24-Hour Money Back Guarantee for Live Online and 3-Day Guarantee for Self-Learning	30 Day Money-Back Guarantee	7-Day Money Back Guarantee
PROGRESS TRACKING
MOBILE FRIENDLY
ONLINE ACCESS	12 Months	180 Days	12 Months	12 Months	Lifetime Access to Self-Paced Videos
ACCESS COURSE	GET STARTED NOW	GET STARTED NOW	GET STARTED NOW	GET STARTED NOW	GET STARTED NOW

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1. Kaplan CISSP Study Materials

OVERALL RATING: [rating=5]

Kaplan has long been a trusted name in education and professional certification, and its CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) study materials maintain this reputation. Designed for IT and cybersecurity professionals aiming to earn their CISSP certification, Kaplan provides an array of resources that cater to different learning preferences. From detailed practice exams to expert-led instruction, Kaplan ensures that candidates are well-prepared to tackle the challenging CISSP exam.

Course Overview

Kaplan’s CISSP study materials offer a mix of self-paced and instructor-led options, allowing learners to choose a method that fits their schedule and study style. The course content comprehensively covers all eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK), making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals seeking a refresher.

Key resources include:

• Interactive study tools and quizzes to reinforce learning.
• Practice exams designed to replicate the difficulty and format of the actual CISSP exam.
• On-demand video lessons and live sessions led by cybersecurity experts.
• Detailed explanations for each practice question, helping candidates understand not just the answers but also the underlying concepts.

Kaplan also offers progress-tracking tools to help learners identify weak areas and measure their readiness, ensuring a focused and effective preparation process.

Pros of Kaplan CISSP Study Materials

1. Comprehensive Coverage of CISSP Domains

Kaplan’s materials provide in-depth coverage of all eight CISSP domains, ensuring that learners gain a solid understanding of every topic required for the exam. This makes it a well-rounded resource for exam preparation.

2. Realistic Practice Exams

Kaplan’s practice exams are structured to closely mirror the actual CISSP exam in both format and difficulty. This helps candidates build confidence and familiarity with the exam style, reducing surprises on test day.

3. Flexible Learning Options

Kaplan offers a variety of learning formats, including self-paced online courses and live, instructor-led sessions. This flexibility allows learners to choose a method that best suits their schedule and learning preferences.

4. In-Depth Question Explanations

Every practice question comes with detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answers. This approach helps learners understand the reasoning behind each solution and improves their ability to apply concepts in different scenarios.

5. Mobile-Friendly Access

Kaplan’s study platform is optimized for mobile devices, enabling learners to access their materials and study on the go. This is particularly beneficial for busy professionals who need to fit studying into their daily routine.

Cons of Kaplan CISSP Study Materials

1. High Cost

Kaplan’s study packages are on the pricier side compared to other CISSP prep resources. While the quality is undeniable, the cost might deter budget-conscious learners from opting for Kaplan.

2. Intense Content Depth

The comprehensive nature of Kaplan’s materials can feel overwhelming for those new to cybersecurity concepts. Beginners may need additional time and effort to absorb the dense material.

3. Limited Free Resources

Unlike some competitors, Kaplan offers very few free resources or trial options. This makes it harder for prospective students to evaluate the course before committing to a purchase.

4. Fast-Paced Live Sessions

For learners who prefer live instruction, Kaplan’s sessions may feel rushed. The pace is designed for intermediate to advanced learners, which could leave beginners struggling to keep up.

5. No Offline Access

Kaplan’s materials are primarily accessible online, with limited options for offline study. This can be inconvenient for learners who have unreliable internet access or prefer to study without distractions.

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2. CISSP ExamPractice Study Materials

OVERALL RATING: [rating=4.5]

CISSP ExamPractice provides an essential set of study tools designed to help candidates prepare effectively for the CISSP certification exam. Known for offering practice exams, quizzes, and study guides, this platform focuses on helping candidates reinforce their knowledge, identify weak areas, and gauge their readiness before taking the actual exam. The emphasis is on providing a practical, hands-on approach to studying, with realistic exam simulations that mirror the structure and difficulty of the official CISSP test.

Course Overview

CISSP ExamPractice offers a range of study resources that can be customized based on an individual’s progress and learning goals. This includes hundreds of practice questions, detailed answer explanations, and performance-tracking tools to help students fine-tune their exam strategy. Designed for learners of all levels, the platform emphasizes testing and re-testing knowledge to ensure comprehensive preparation.

Key features include:

• Extensive database of CISSP practice questions and mock exams.
• Timed exam simulations to help you manage time effectively during the real exam.
• Answer explanations that provide insights into why a particular answer is correct or incorrect.
• Progress tracking tools that help learners focus on areas of weakness.
• Ability to revisit difficult questions and review the material as often as needed.

CISSP ExamPractice is an ideal solution for candidates who want to test their readiness and improve their exam-taking skills through repeated practice and self-assessment.

Pros of CISSP ExamPractice Study Materials

1. Comprehensive Question Bank

CISSP ExamPractice offers an extensive database of practice questions that cover all eight CISSP domains. This broad selection ensures that candidates are exposed to a wide range of topics, increasing their chances of success on the actual exam.

2. Realistic Exam Simulations

The platform’s practice exams are timed and structured to closely mimic the actual CISSP exam, providing a realistic testing experience. This helps candidates adjust to the exam’s format and time constraints, reducing anxiety on the test day.

3. Detailed Answer Explanations

For every question, CISSP ExamPractice provides clear, detailed explanations of both the correct and incorrect answers. This ensures that learners not only know the right answer but also understand the reasoning behind it, reinforcing their knowledge.

4. Customizable Study Plan

CISSP ExamPractice allows learners to tailor their study plans based on their progress. By focusing on weaker areas and adjusting their practice questions accordingly, candidates can create a personalized approach to studying that suits their needs.

5. Cost-Effective

Compared to other CISSP study resources, CISSP ExamPractice offers a more affordable pricing structure, making it an attractive option for learners who want quality materials at a reasonable cost.

Cons of CISSP ExamPractice Study Materials

1. Lack of In-Depth Content

While CISSP ExamPractice excels at providing practice questions and simulations, it lacks the depth of theory and detailed study materials that some other platforms offer. Learners may need to supplement this course with additional resources for a more comprehensive understanding of the topics.

2. No Live Instruction

CISSP ExamPractice is a self-guided platform and does not offer any live classes or instructor support. Some learners may miss the interactive, real-time feedback and explanations that come with live teaching.

3. Limited Supplementary Resources

The platform mainly focuses on practice exams and question banks, with fewer supplementary materials like video lessons or in-depth guides. Learners seeking a wider variety of learning formats may find this limitation challenging.

4. No Mobile App

CISSP ExamPractice does not currently offer a mobile app, which means learners need to rely on a desktop or laptop to access the materials. This may be inconvenient for those who prefer to study on the go.

5. Requires Consistent Self-Motivation

Since CISSP ExamPractice is a self-paced study tool, it requires a high degree of self-motivation and discipline. Learners who struggle with staying on track may find it difficult to keep up with their study schedule without external accountability.

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3. Grey Campus CISSP Study Materials

OVERALL RATING: [rating=5]

Grey Campus is known for its specialized training programs, and its CISSP study materials are tailored for individuals aiming to pass the Certified Information Systems Security Professional exam. With a focus on practical application and in-depth analysis, Grey Campus offers a structured approach to mastering the CISSP exam. The course is designed for both aspiring and seasoned cybersecurity professionals looking to enhance their skills and earn their certification.

Course Overview

Grey Campus provides a range of study materials to cater to different learning preferences, including both self-paced and instructor-led formats. The course covers all eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK), ensuring that learners are well-prepared for the challenges of the CISSP exam.

Key features of Grey Campus CISSP study materials include:

• Instructor-led training with experienced cybersecurity professionals.
• Self-paced learning with access to comprehensive study materials and practice exams.
• A detailed review of all eight CISSP domains, ensuring complete coverage of the exam content.
• Access to a community of learners and experts for support throughout the preparation journey.
• Real-world examples and case studies that provide a practical understanding of cybersecurity concepts.

The Grey Campus approach emphasizes a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making it a solid choice for individuals who seek to build a robust cybersecurity foundation while preparing for the CISSP exam.

Pros of Grey Campus CISSP Study Materials

1. Instructor-Led Training Options

Grey Campus provides the opportunity for live, instructor-led training, which can greatly enhance the learning experience. Students can interact directly with experts, ask questions, and clarify doubts in real time, making the learning process more dynamic and engaging.

2. Comprehensive Coverage of CISSP Domains

The course covers all eight CISSP domains in detail, ensuring that learners are well-versed in the material they need to know for the exam. Grey Campus provides an in-depth breakdown of each domain, which is crucial for mastering the topics that will be tested.

3. Practical Case Studies and Real-World Examples

Grey Campus incorporates practical case studies and real-world examples into the course material. This helps learners relate theoretical knowledge to practical situations, improving their ability to apply concepts in the cybersecurity field and on the exam.

4. Flexible Learning Options

Whether you prefer self-paced online courses or live instructor-led sessions, Grey Campus offers both options. This flexibility makes it easier for students to choose a format that aligns with their schedule and learning style.

5. Access to a Community of Learners and Experts

Students gain access to a community of learners where they can exchange tips, ask questions, and discuss challenging concepts. This sense of community can be a great motivator and help reinforce learning through peer support.

Cons of Grey Campus CISSP Study Materials

1. Higher Cost for Instructor-Led Training

While the self-paced options are reasonably priced, the instructor-led training comes at a premium. The higher cost might be a barrier for some learners, especially those on a tight budget.

2. Course Content Can Be Dense

The in-depth coverage of all CISSP domains can feel overwhelming for beginners. The content is extensive and may require significant time and effort to absorb, which could be challenging for those new to cybersecurity.

3. Limited Mobile Access

Grey Campus’s study materials are largely accessible through desktop platforms, with limited mobile compatibility. This can be inconvenient for learners who prefer studying on the go or those without consistent access to a desktop computer.

4. Occasional Technical Issues

Some users have reported technical issues with the online platform, such as slow load times or glitches during the video lectures. While this is not universal, it may affect the overall learning experience for some learners.

5. No Free Trial

Grey Campus does not offer a free trial or demo version of its course, making it difficult for potential students to assess the content before committing. This lack of trial access can make it harder to evaluate if the course matches their learning style.

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4. Master of Project Academy CISSP

OVERALL RATING: [rating=4]

The Master of Project Academy offers a CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) course aimed at individuals looking to advance their careers in cybersecurity. With a focus on providing accessible, high-quality training, this course is designed to help candidates master the essential concepts required for the CISSP certification exam. Through video lessons, practice exams, and detailed study materials, the course aims to equip learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the exam and succeed in the field of information security.

Course Overview

The Master of Project Academy CISSP course provides comprehensive coverage of all eight CISSP domains. The course materials are structured to be beginner-friendly while still providing enough depth to help more experienced professionals reinforce their knowledge. It includes on-demand video lectures, downloadable resources, and multiple practice tests to ensure that students are well-prepared for the exam. Additionally, the course offers lifetime access to the materials, allowing students to study at their own pace.

Key resources and features include:

• Over 50 hours of on-demand video content, allowing learners to study whenever and wherever they choose.
• Practice tests and quizzes to reinforce learning and track progress.
• Study materials that include lecture slides, notes, and summaries.
• Lifetime access to all course content, including future updates, ensuring students can review as needed until exam day.
• A money-back guarantee, which offers learners peace of mind in case they feel the course isn’t the right fit.

Pros of Master of Project Academy CISSP

1. Comprehensive and Beginner-Friendly Content

This course covers all eight CISSP domains in depth while ensuring that the content is approachable for beginners. The structured learning path helps users gradually build their knowledge, making it suitable for both newcomers to cybersecurity and those with more experience.

2. Lifetime Access to Materials

One of the standout features of this course is the lifetime access to all course content, including future updates. This gives students the flexibility to return to the material whenever they need to refresh their knowledge or study for future exams.

3. Money-Back Guarantee

Master of Project Academy offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing students with the assurance that if they’re not satisfied with the course, they can request a full refund. This makes it a low-risk option for those unsure about the course.

4. Clear and Concise Video Lessons

The video lessons are well-organized and presented in an easy-to-understand format. The course avoids jargon, making it accessible even for those new to cybersecurity. This clarity helps learners grasp complex topics without feeling overwhelmed.

5. Practice Tests for Exam Readiness

The course includes several practice tests that simulate the real CISSP exam environment. These tests help learners assess their progress and identify areas of weakness, allowing them to focus their efforts more effectively as exam day approaches.

Cons of Master of Project Academy CISSP

1. Limited Instructor Interaction

While the course includes on-demand video lessons, it lacks live instructor-led sessions or direct interaction with instructors. Some learners may prefer more personalized guidance or the ability to ask questions in real time.

2. Lack of In-Depth Focus on Real-World Scenarios

Although the course covers the exam material thoroughly, it may not delve deeply into real-world applications and scenarios. Learners may need additional resources to gain hands-on experience in cybersecurity environments.

3. No Mobile App for Learning on the Go

Currently, the course lacks a dedicated mobile app for on-the-go learning. While the course materials can be accessed via a browser, a mobile app would enhance the learning experience for students who prefer to study using their smartphones or tablets.

4. Video Length Can Be Intimidating

The 50+ hours of video content may seem like a lot for some learners. While the material is comprehensive, some students may find it overwhelming or difficult to manage such a large volume of content.

5. Not Enough Advanced-Level Resources

For professionals with more experience in cybersecurity, the course may not offer enough advanced-level resources. Some more experienced candidates might find the material too basic or feel that it doesn’t go deep enough into complex topics.

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5. SimpliLearn CISSP Study Materials

OVERALL RATING: [rating=3]

SimpliLearn has earned a reputation as a leading provider of professional certification training, and their CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) study materials are no exception. Designed for IT professionals looking to advance their cybersecurity expertise, SimpliLearn’s CISSP course offers an all-inclusive learning experience. With a focus on real-world applications, the course helps candidates master the eight domains of the CISSP exam and prepares them to pass the exam with confidence.

Course Overview

SimpliLearn’s CISSP study materials provide an interactive, engaging, and flexible approach to exam preparation. The course includes a combination of video lectures, hands-on labs, quizzes, and practice exams that cover all eight domains of the CISSP CBK. Learners can access the materials on demand, allowing them to study at their own pace.

Key resources include:

• Video tutorials taught by industry experts with years of experience.
• Practice tests that simulate the CISSP exam environment and difficulty.
• A robust learning management system with progress tracking and performance analytics.
• Hands-on labs and case studies to provide real-world, practical experience.

SimpliLearn also offers a 100% money-back guarantee for learners who don’t pass the exam after completing the course, demonstrating their confidence in the effectiveness of their training.

Pros of SimpliLearn CISSP Study Materials

1. Comprehensive Curriculum

SimpliLearn’s CISSP materials cover all eight domains of the CISSP CBK in detail. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that learners are fully prepared for every aspect of the exam, from security and risk management to software development security.

2. Hands-On Labs for Practical Learning

Unlike many study materials that rely solely on theory, SimpliLearn provides practical learning experiences through hands-on labs. These labs allow learners to apply their knowledge in real-world situations, enhancing their understanding and retention.

3. Expert-Led Video Lessons

The video lessons are taught by industry experts with extensive experience in cybersecurity. These instructors provide in-depth explanations of complex concepts, making it easier for learners to grasp challenging topics.

4. Flexible Learning Pace

SimpliLearn’s self-paced study format gives learners the flexibility to complete the course according to their schedule. Whether you’re a full-time professional or a student, you can work at your own pace without pressure to finish by a set date.

5. Money-Back Guarantee

SimpliLearn’s 100% money-back guarantee is a standout feature. If you don’t pass the CISSP exam after completing the course, they will refund your entire course fee, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring your success.

Cons of SimpliLearn CISSP Study Materials

1. Costly Compared to Other Resources

SimpliLearn’s CISSP course is on the expensive side, especially when compared to some other online training providers. While the high-quality materials justify the price, it may not be affordable for all learners.

2. Self-Paced Approach May Lack Structure

While the self-paced approach is flexible, some learners may find the lack of a set schedule or deadlines challenging. Without a structured timeline, staying motivated and on track can be difficult, especially for those new to online learning.

3. Limited Live Interaction

Although SimpliLearn offers a wealth of pre-recorded video content, the course does not include live instruction or instructor office hours. This could be a downside for learners who prefer direct interaction with instructors to clarify doubts or discuss complex topics.

4. Longer Course Duration

The comprehensive nature of SimpliLearn’s materials can make the course longer than other options. Some students may find the amount of content overwhelming, especially if they are looking to prepare for the CISSP exam within a short time frame.

5. Technical Difficulties with Platform

Some learners have reported technical issues with SimpliLearn’s platform, such as difficulty navigating the site or encountering glitches during video lectures. While these issues are not frequent, they can be frustrating for learners trying to focus on their studies.

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CISSP Certification Tips & Tricks

The IT landscape is evolving rapidly, and with it, the need for strong cybersecurity has never been more critical. Cyberattacks, like the recent WannaCry ransomware attack, have exposed vulnerabilities, costing businesses billions. A key factor in these breaches is the lack of competent security professionals who can align technical skills with business objectives. This is where certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) stand out.

CISSP is globally recognized as the gold standard for cybersecurity professionals. It blends deep technical knowledge with essential business skills, making it the ideal certification for those looking to design and manage robust security programs. ISC2, the certifying body, states that CISSP is for professionals who have proven expertise in both technical and managerial domains of information security.

How Can I Pass the CISSP?

To earn the CISSP certification, you need 5 years of experience in at least two of the eight domains covered in the exam. These domains include:

1. Security and Risk Management
2. Asset Security
3. Security Engineering
4. Communications and Network Security
5. Identity and Access Management
6. Security Assessment and Testing
7. Security Operations
8. Software Development Security

If you meet the experience requirement, you’re on the right path. However, keep in mind that preparation is key—CISSP is a comprehensive exam, and you’ll need to invest both time and money in study materials and training.

Tips for Preparing

1. Understand the Exam Format: The CISSP exam includes 100-150 multiple-choice and scenario-based questions. You have 3 hours to complete it, with a passing score of 700/1000.
2. Use Updated Study Materials: Ensure your study resources reflect the current 8-domain framework. Invest in guides, video courses, or CISSP boot camps that provide up-to-date content.
3. Join Study Groups: Learning with others can deepen your understanding and provide valuable insights into complex topics.
4. Focus on the CISSP CBK: Study the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) for each domain. This provides a structured outline of required knowledge.
5. Practice Regularly: Take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the question format and improve your time management.
6. Gain Hands-On Experience: Practical experience in the domains will help you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
7. Manage Your Time: The exam is lengthy, so practice pacing yourself to ensure you can answer all questions in time.

The Investment: Worth the Effort?

Earning the CISSP certification is an investment of both time and money, but it’s a valuable credential in the cybersecurity field. CISSP-certified professionals are trusted to design and implement security strategies that protect organizations from sophisticated cyber threats. With proper preparation, passing the CISSP exam can significantly enhance your career and open doors to higher-paying, more advanced opportunities.

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What Is On The CISSP Test?

A journey is successful if the goals are well-defined and understood. Understanding the CISSP test, what it is, how it tests you, and how tough it is can really set you on a strong base for the gigantic task. The long 6 hours and 250 multiple-choice questions test your knowledge, patience, and persistence. It requires a lot of study, practice tests, practical experience, and a strong conceptual grasp of CISSP knowledge areas. The test consists of multiple choice questions with the following distribution percentage of questions.

Domains	Weightage
1. Security and Risk Management	16%
2. Asset Security	10%
3. Security Engineering	12%
4. Communication and Network Security	12%
5. Identity and Access Management	13%
6. Security Assessment and Testing	11%
7. Security Operations	16%
8. Software Development Security	10%
Total	100%

Courtesy ISC2 As you witness, the inquiries will be well spread over all spaces, and true endeavors must be made to ace every one of the 8 domains. All the questions in CISSP don’t carry equal marks. The value of every question depends on its difficulty level. In addition to these, 25 questions are experimental, which are included for test purposes. These questions are not rated for the calculation of your last score. In any case you can’t separate between these test questions and the evaluated ones.

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How to prepare for the CISSP Test

Preparing for the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) exam requires a strategic approach, as it covers a wide range of topics. The exam tests your knowledge in eight domains, so you’ll need a well-rounded study plan that includes diverse resources. Below are the four primary resources you’ll need to prepare for the CISSP exam:

1. Books

Books are essential for building a solid foundation in the concepts covered by the CISSP exam. Choosing the right book will guide your study process and help you focus on the important topics.

CISSP (ISC)² Certified Information Systems Security Professional Official Study Guide (7th Edition) is highly recommended. This guide is considered one of the best in the market, with numerous 5-star reviews on Amazon. It’s concise, well-organized, and focused on the CISSP exam objectives. It breaks down the complex topics into manageable chapters, making it easier to understand and retain the material. This book consists of 21 chapters, each dedicated to a specific domain of the CISSP exam. What makes it stand out is its focus on the exam itself—there’s no unnecessary information that could distract you.

If you need more in-depth explanations of certain topics, the CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide is a good additional resource. This book is more detailed and can help you address weak areas in your knowledge. However, it’s best used as a supplementary resource rather than your primary study material, as it’s more expansive and may introduce more information than needed for the exam.

Additionally, books by Eric Conrad, such as his CISSP Study Guide, are highly praised by CISSP candidates. Conrad’s books offer clear and easy-to-understand explanations, making complex security concepts more digestible.

2. Video Lectures

Video lectures are another excellent resource for CISSP preparation. They offer a more engaging way to understand the material, especially if you are a visual learner. Many high-quality video lectures are available for free and for a fee.

One of the best sources of video lectures is Kelly Handerhan’s CISSP videos on Cybrary. Kelly’s lectures are known for being brief, to the point, and highly effective in preparing candidates for the exam. She explains the concepts in a way that sticks and builds the right mindset for answering CISSP questions. Since CISSP exam questions often require you to think like a risk manager, Handerhan’s approach helps you focus on this mindset, where every decision you make is based on risk analysis.

The best part is that these lectures are free on Cybrary, so you can access high-quality content without spending a dime. Kelly’s teaching style creates a strong foundation that will guide you through the CISSP domains.

3. CISSP Boot Camps

CISSP boot camps are intensive training programs designed to give you a focused and structured approach to your exam preparation. These boot camps are available both online and in-person, with many organizations offering them. They are great for candidates who prefer a fast-paced, hands-on approach to learning.

A CISSP boot camp will walk you through all the domains in an accelerated format. The classes are led by experienced instructors who break down complex topics into digestible parts. These camps are especially useful for learners who are already familiar with IT security concepts and need to solidify their understanding of the CISSP domains.

The CISSP Boot Camps provide a great way to kickstart your preparation and ensure that you cover all areas of the exam in a structured way. Many boot camps offer additional resources like study materials, practice tests, and study groups. Check out reviews and compare boot camp options to find one that suits your needs.

4. Practice Tests for CISSP Training

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the CISSP exam is through practice tests. The CISSP exam is known for its high difficulty level, and the only way to get comfortable with it is by practicing. Practice tests help you familiarize yourself with the exam format and improve your test-taking skills.

It’s crucial to use subject-wise practice questions to understand each domain’s key concepts and then blend them together with full-length practice exams to simulate the real exam experience. The goal is not just to memorize answers but to reinforce your understanding of security principles.

Sybex Test Bank is a great resource. It comes with the official CISSP study guide and offers 20 questions for each chapter, along with four full-length exams containing 250 questions each. This gives you a comprehensive practice experience that mirrors the real exam.

McGraw Hill practice exams, developed by Shon Harris and the Logical Security team, are another valuable tool. These exams, combined with audio lectures, create a well-rounded study experience that helps reinforce the key concepts. The comprehensive set of questions prepares you for the breadth and depth of the CISSP exam.

Using multiple sources for practice tests, such as these, ensures you don’t face any surprises on the actual exam. The more diverse the practice questions, the better you’ll be prepared.

By following these preparation strategies and utilizing the recommended resources, you’ll have a structured, effective approach to studying for the CISSP exam. Whether you prefer self-study, video lectures, or boot camps, there are plenty of options to suit your learning style. Remember, consistent practice and a strong understanding of the CISSP domains are the keys to success.

Ongoing CISSP Certification

Once you pass the CISSP exam, your certification will be valid for three years. To maintain your certification, you’ll need to earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. This means that CISSP-certified professionals are expected to stay up-to-date with evolving security trends by attending training, seminars, or other educational activities. Additionally, a yearly membership fee of $85 is required to keep your certification active.

CISSP Salaries

The demand for CISSP-certified professionals continues to grow, and this is reflected in their salaries. A survey shows that CISSP holders earn some of the highest salaries in the IT security field. On average, a CISSP professional earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on their experience, location, and industry. The salary for a CISSP can vary, but the certification is universally recognized and highly valued in the cybersecurity industry, which ensures job security and growth opportunities.

CISSP Certification Concentrations

Holders of CISSP certifications can earn additional certifications in areas of specialty. There are three possibilities:

1. Information Systems Security Architecture Professional (CISSP-ISSAP). The architect plays a vital role within the information security department with responsibilities that functionally fit between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program.
2. Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (CISSP-ISSEP), an advanced information security certification issued by (ISC)2 that focuses on the engineering aspects of information security. ISSEP is the guide for incorporating security into projects, applications, business processes, and all information systems.
3. Information Systems Security Management Professional (CISSP-ISSMP), an advanced information security certification issued by (ISC)2 that focuses on the management aspects of information security. An ISSMP establishes, presents, and governs information security programs demonstrating management and leadership skills

Sample Sybex Test Questions

Q. What security flaw conveys information by writing data to a common storage area where another process can read it ?

1. Covert timing channel
2. Buffer overflow
3. Covert storage channel
4. Maintenance hook

Answer: C A covert storage channel conveys information by writing data to a common storage area where another process can read it. Securing data in such a way introduces a security flaw that allows unauthorized users to access the data.

Q. Generally, a privacy policy is designed to protect what?

1. A user’s privacy
2. The public’s freedom
3. Intellectual property
4. A company’s right to audit

Answer: D The purpose of a privacy policy is to inform users where they do and do not have privacy benefit of the protection of the company’s right to audit and monitor user activity.

Sample CCCure Quizzer question

Q. Jean is an internal auditor who consistently uses the audit logs of various network systems to produce reports. In an email to the VP of IT, she stresses how important it is that proper protection controls are put in place to protect the audit logs. Of the justifications listed below, which is the weakest?

1. Unprotected audit logs can be easily altered by an intruder after committing a crime.
2. Unapproved changes to audit logs hurt the consistency and efficiency of automating reporting.
3. Audit logs often contain sensitive information and must be protected.
4. In the event of an investigation, an unprotected audit log may be deemed inadmissible in court.

Answer: B Unapproved changes to audit logs, which can negatively affect the automation process of reporting, are not the main concern of security. Audit logs are protected to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of logs.

Sample McGraw Hill question

Q. What is the first step in developing a DRP (Disaster Recovery Plan)

1. Identify all critical systems and functions of the company
2. Decide if the company needs to perform a walk-through, parallel, or simulation test.
3. Perform a BIA(Business Impact Analysis)
4. Interview a representative from each Department

Answer: C A BIA includes identifying critical systems and functions of a company and interviewing representatives from each department. Once management’s support is solidified, a business impact analysis needs to be performed to identify the threats the company faces and the potential costs of these threats.

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In Conclusion

Selecting the right CISSP study materials is key to successfully preparing for the exam and achieving certification. With so many options available, it’s important to choose materials that align with your learning style and schedule. Whether you prefer detailed books, video lectures, boot camps, or practice tests, each of the resources we’ve discussed offers unique benefits to help you strengthen your knowledge across all eight CISSP domains. By carefully evaluating each option and sticking to a consistent study plan, you’ll be well-equipped to pass the CISSP exam and advance in your career as an Information Systems Security Professional. Good luck, and remember, consistent effort and the right study tools will set you up for success!