A Certified Information Security Systems Professional (CISSP) Certification helps show that you can design, create, and run information security programs. It also helps you achieve more experience in information security, so anyone considering a career in this field should also consider getting one. Remember that you will need to pass a difficult exam and plenty of employment experience to obtain a CISSP Certification. Nonetheless, you can expect job growth and a higher CISSP certification salary under your belt.
In fact, a career in information security can pay as high as $103,000 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In May 2020, the median pay for an information security analyst was $103,590 a year, at $49.80 an hour. Even more impressive is that, in a world growing more and more digital, experts expect the information security field to grow 33% in the next ten years. As of now, it is the fastest-growing career field in the world.
Is the CISSP Exam Difficult?
The CISSP exam is known for being challenging and comprehensive, a true test of knowledge and experience in information security. It’s designed to verify that candidates have a deep understanding of the field, which is why it requires a minimum of five years of professional experience before sitting for the test. This requirement alone hints at the level of difficulty: the exam isn’t just for anyone interested in cybersecurity but for those with established expertise.
While exact pass rates aren’t disclosed, estimates suggest that fewer than half of the candidates pass on their first attempt. This low pass rate reflects the exam’s rigor, as it demands a thorough understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical applications across a wide range of cybersecurity topics.
What Does the CISSP Exam Cover?
The CISSP exam evaluates knowledge across eight essential domains, each a pillar in the foundation of cybersecurity. These domains collectively ensure that CISSP-certified professionals are equipped to protect information assets and implement effective security measures.
Below is a more detailed overview of each domain and the key skills covered.
1. Security and Risk Management
This domain is the cornerstone of information security and encompasses risk management, governance, compliance, and legal frameworks.
- Key Areas:
- Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA) principles form the foundation of data protection strategies.
- Risk management processes, including threat identification, risk assessments, and mitigation techniques.
- Governance and compliance: Aligning security practices with regulatory standards (such as GDPR and HIPAA) and company policies.
- Ethics and legal issues: Understanding the legal implications of security practices and adherence to ethical guidelines.
- Importance: Security professionals must understand how to balance business objectives with security requirements and legal obligations.
2. Asset Security
This domain focuses on managing and protecting information assets across their lifecycle.
- Key Areas:
- Data classification: Categorizing data based on sensitivity to ensure appropriate protection levels.
- Asset management: Tracking and controlling data from creation to disposal, including secure storage, access, and destruction.
- Privacy and retention policies: Ensuring that data is only retained for as long as necessary and complies with privacy regulations.
- Importance: Proper asset management reduces data exposure risk and ensures that only essential data is retained and secured.
3. Security Architecture and Engineering
This domain involves creating secure infrastructure and system designs that are resilient to threats.
- Key Areas:
- Security models and principles: Applying architectural models (e.g., Bell-LaPadula, Clark-Wilson) to build secure systems.
- Cryptography: Understanding encryption methods, key management, and cryptographic protocols to protect data.
- Physical security: Integrating physical safeguards, such as surveillance and access control, to secure facilities and equipment.
- Importance: Designing security into systems from the ground up prevents unauthorized access and fortifies the system against potential attacks.
4. Communications and Network Security
This domain addresses the security of networks and communication channels.
- Key Areas:
- Network architecture: Building secure network designs that isolate sensitive systems and prevent unauthorized access.
- Secure communication protocols: Implementing protocols like HTTPS, TLS, and IPsec to protect data in transit.
- Wireless security: Securing wireless networks through encryption, authentication, and network segmentation.
- Importance: Protecting data while it is transmitted across networks ensures information remains confidential and integral during transport.
5. Identity and Access Management (IAM)
This domain covers the management of user identities and access to systems, which is crucial for minimizing unauthorized access.
- Key Areas:
- Authentication and authorization methods: Utilizing password policies, multifactor authentication (MFA), and biometrics.
- Access control models: Applying models like Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) and Mandatory Access Control (MAC) to govern permissions.
- Identity management tools: Using IAM solutions to centralize user access and simplify permission management.
- Importance: Proper IAM practices prevent unauthorized access, ensuring that only authorized users can access sensitive data.
6. Security Assessment and Testing
This domain emphasizes evaluating and testing security systems to identify vulnerabilities and validate protective measures.
- Key Areas:
- Vulnerability assessments: Conducting scans and assessments to detect system weaknesses.
- Penetration testing: Simulating attacks to evaluate system defenses and response capabilities.
- Security audits and assessments: Regularly auditing security practices to ensure compliance with policies and standards.
- Importance: Routine assessments help maintain a robust security posture by uncovering vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
7. Security Operations
This domain includes the day-to-day practices that uphold security, incident response, and system resilience.
- Key Areas:
- Incident management: Identifying, managing, and learning from security incidents to improve responses.
- Disaster recovery and business continuity planning: Ensuring that critical functions continue during disruptions and that systems can be restored promptly.
- Forensic investigations: Conducting investigations after incidents to understand attack methods and prevent future breaches.
- Importance: Efficient security operations keep systems secure, respond to incidents quickly, and support ongoing business processes.
8. Software Development Security
This domain addresses securing software development practices to mitigate risks in application design and coding.
- Key Areas:
- Secure coding principles: Adopting practices to minimize vulnerabilities like SQL injection or buffer overflow attacks.
- Software development lifecycle (SDLC) security: Integrating security checks throughout development, from requirements gathering to deployment.
- Risk mitigation in software: Proactively addressing security issues in design and testing to minimize risks in production.
- Importance: By securing software from the beginning, security teams reduce the chances of introducing vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
Why Mastering These Domains is Essential for CISSP Candidates
Each CISSP domain covers critical areas that reflect the practical challenges and complexities of information security. Mastering these domains ensures that professionals are prepared to handle a wide range of security responsibilities, from designing secure systems and managing risks to ensuring that daily operations are resilient against attacks.
Why is the CISSP Exam So Challenging?
The CISSP exam’s difficulty stems from the breadth of knowledge and the complexity of questions. It’s a six-hour test with 250 multiple-choice questions covering the eight domains, each of which includes detailed, specialized concepts. Additionally, the questions are often scenario-based, requiring candidates to apply their knowledge to real-world situations. This format tests not only memorization but also the candidate’s ability to think critically, analyze scenarios, and make informed decisions based on best practices.
CISSP exam questions are designed to be challenging, with many requiring careful consideration and elimination of distractor answers. Some questions might have multiple plausible answers, but only one is correct according to best practices or industry standards. This approach evaluates the candidate’s judgment and decision-making skills, which are essential in real-world cybersecurity roles.
How to Prepare for the CISSP Exam
Due to the exam’s scope, preparation can take several months to years, depending on your background and familiarity with each domain. Some candidates study independently, using resources such as textbooks, online courses, and practice exams, while others attend formal training programs or boot camps. Below are key strategies for preparing effectively:
- Create a Study Plan
A well-structured study plan is crucial. Break down each domain and schedule time to review each area thoroughly. Allocate extra time to domains you find more challenging and ensure a balanced review across all eight. - Use Multiple Study Resources
The CISSP curriculum is broad, so using multiple resources can help fill knowledge gaps. Popular resources include the (ISC)² Official CISSP Study Guide, CISSP flashcards, video lectures, and official practice exams. Diversifying study materials can also help reinforce information through different formats. - Join Study Groups or Forums
Studying with others can provide additional insights and help clarify complex topics. Joining online CISSP forums or study groups, like those on Reddit or LinkedIn, can give you access to a supportive community of other test-takers. - Take Practice Exams
Practice exams are one of the most effective ways to prepare. They help you gauge your understanding, identify areas where you need more study, and familiarize you with the exam format. Practice questions can also improve your test-taking speed and confidence. - Leverage Professional Experience
Hands-on experience in information security is invaluable. Use your professional knowledge to link concepts from the exam domains to practical applications. This real-world insight can deepen your understanding and make it easier to answer scenario-based questions. - Focus on Weak Areas
As you study, focus on areas where you feel less confident. The CISSP exam demands a well-rounded knowledge of all domains, so strengthening your weaker areas will increase your chances of passing.
How Long Does it Take to Prepare for the CISSP Exam?
Preparation time varies based on experience level and study habits. Experienced professionals might need a few months, while those newer to certain domains could take up to a year or more to feel ready. Many professionals balance their studies with a full-time job, so committing to a study schedule can be essential. Consistency is key: studying a few hours every day or several days a week often leads to better results than cramming close to the exam date.
- Experienced Professionals (3-6 Months):
If you have substantial experience in cybersecurity or a related field, you might be able to prepare in 3 to 6 months. Having a solid grasp of core topics—such as network security, risk management, and security architecture—can speed up the preparation process. You might need to focus only on refreshing specific areas you’re less familiar with. - Intermediate-Level Professionals (6-9 Months):
For professionals with some background in security or IT but limited exposure to certain domains covered in the CISSP, preparation might take around 6 to 9 months. A structured study plan that dedicates time each week to new topics, along with regular review sessions, can make this time frame achievable without overwhelming your schedule. - Newer Professionals (9-12 Months or More):
If you’re relatively new to the cybersecurity field, you may need 9 to 12 months or more. The CISSP covers eight broad domains, and building foundational knowledge in each one is essential. Those newer to the field often benefit from structured learning programs, online courses, and study groups to tackle the exam’s depth.
Balancing Work and Study
Most CISSP candidates prepare while working full-time, making it essential to commit to a regular study schedule. Consistency is crucial; studying for a few hours each day or dedicating several days a week to focused study is usually more effective than cramming. Creating a balanced plan that covers each domain thoroughly while allowing time to review and test your knowledge can increase your chances of success.
Final Tips for CISSP Exam Success
Passing the CISSP exam requires a deep understanding of cybersecurity concepts and the ability to apply them in real-world scenarios. Here are some final preparation tips to set you up for success:
Understand, Don’t Memorize
- The CISSP exam is designed to test your comprehension of cybersecurity principles, not just your memory of facts. Rather than memorizing details, focus on understanding how each concept applies to practical situations. This approach helps when faced with complex questions that assess your ability to think critically about security challenges.
Think Like a Security Professional
- The CISSP exam often presents questions from the perspective of a security expert addressing a specific scenario. Practicing with mock questions that place you in a security professional’s role can help you anticipate how to respond logically and ethically, reflecting the professional mindset expected in real-world situations.
Use Practice Exams and Mock Tests
- Practice exams are essential in gauging your preparedness and highlighting areas where you need more review. Timed mock tests simulate the actual exam experience and help you get accustomed to the format, pacing, and pressure. These tests also reveal specific domains or topics where you may need more focused study.
Join Study Groups or Online Communities
- Joining a CISSP study group can provide motivation, support, and access to shared resources. In group settings, you can discuss difficult topics, exchange study materials, and benefit from different perspectives on complex subjects. Online forums dedicated to CISSP preparation, such as Reddit and (ISC)² forums, are also valuable resources for tips and strategies.
Schedule Regular Breaks
- While it’s essential to cover all domains, allowing time for breaks and mental rest improves focus and retention. Incorporating breaks into your study routine helps prevent burnout, keeping you motivated and sharp for longer.
Rest Before Exam Day
- The CISSP exam is long and requires sustained mental focus, so make sure you’re well-rested. Avoid cramming the night before; your performance will benefit more from a clear, refreshed mind than from a last-minute study.
With consistent study, a thorough understanding of security principles, and strategic preparation, passing the CISSP exam is achievable. Obtaining this certification can be a transformative milestone, not only boosting your earning potential but also opening doors to advanced roles in cybersecurity and enhancing your professional reputation in the field.
How Much Does a CISSP Certification Boost Your Salary?
A CISSP certification can significantly increase your earning potential. On average, professionals who obtain this certification see at least a 20% increase in their salary compared to peers without it. This boost comes from the added credibility, specialized skills, and industry knowledge that CISSP-certified individuals bring to their roles.
Factors That Influence the Salary Boost from a CISSP Certification
Job Title and Responsibilities:
- CISSP-certified professionals often qualify for higher-level roles, such as Security Manager, Information Security Officer, Security Consultant, or even Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Each of these positions generally commands a salary premium, as they involve greater responsibilities, decision-making power, and often supervisory duties.
- Entry-level security roles (e.g., Security Analyst) typically see a smaller boost, around 10-15%, while more senior roles could see increases closer to 30% or more.
Experience Level:
- The CISSP certification requires a minimum of five years of experience, which already places certified professionals in mid- to senior-level roles. Salary increases tend to be larger for those with more extensive experience. For example, a CISSP-certified professional with 10+ years in the field may command significantly higher compensation than someone at the five-year mark.
- Some professionals use the CISSP as a way to transition to a specialized area within cybersecurity, such as threat analysis or network architecture, which can offer additional salary boosts.
Industry Demand:
- Industries like finance, healthcare, government, and technology have a high demand for cybersecurity due to regulatory requirements and the critical need to protect sensitive data. In these industries, CISSP-certified professionals often see even greater salary increases due to the specialized security skills required. For example, a CISSP in finance might see a 25-30% boost because financial institutions prioritize risk management and compliance.
Geographic Location:
- In metropolitan areas where cybersecurity expertise is in high demand, such as San Francisco, New York, and Washington D.C., CISSP professionals can see an even greater pay increase. In some cases, these areas may offer salaries 30-40% higher than the national average for the same role due to the higher cost of living and the competitive job market.
- Remote work options can also affect salary, as some companies may offer higher pay for certified professionals who work remotely to attract talent from various regions.
Company Size and Type:
- Larger corporations and multinational organizations often have greater resources to compensate CISSP-certified professionals and may offer benefits like stock options or bonuses tied to security-related goals.
- Smaller firms, while potentially offering slightly lower salaries, may provide accelerated career growth and direct involvement in decision-making, which can be advantageous for someone looking to expand their expertise quickly.
Promotion Opportunities and Career Growth with a CISSP
- Promotion Readiness: The CISSP certification demonstrates your deep understanding of complex security topics and your ability to design and manage a secure environment. This can make you a preferred candidate for leadership roles and promotion opportunities, as companies are always in need of trusted experts to take on more strategic responsibilities.
- Career Mobility: The CISSP is recognized worldwide, and having it can facilitate job opportunities abroad or in multinational corporations. Many global organizations, especially those based in the U.S. and Europe, prioritize CISSP-certified candidates for international roles due to the certification’s reputation and comprehensive coverage of global security standards.
- Networking and Professional Development: The CISSP certification gives you access to (ISC)²’s network of professionals and resources, including conferences, continuing education, and exclusive job boards. Being part of this network can expose you to potential job opportunities and keep you up-to-date on industry trends, further advancing your career.
Long-Term Financial Benefits Beyond Salary
- Increased Job Stability: In a rapidly growing industry where cybersecurity threats are evolving, a CISSP certification makes you more adaptable and valuable to employers, which can translate into job stability and long-term employment benefits. This can protect against layoffs and provide leverage in salary negotiations.
- Bonuses and Incentives: Many companies offer performance bonuses or additional compensation for meeting cybersecurity objectives or achieving a high level of security compliance. CISSP professionals are often eligible for these incentives, which can add a significant boost to overall income.
- Retirement and Equity Benefits: In certain industries, CISSP-certified professionals may receive additional benefits, such as employer-contributed retirement plans, stock options, and profit-sharing opportunities, especially within tech firms or financial institutions.
With a CISSP certification, you can expect not only a higher salary but also broader career prospects, job stability, and an enhanced professional reputation in the cybersecurity field. For many, the CISSP is a pivotal investment in both short-term earnings and long-term career growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about CISSP Certification Salary
Now that you understand the x’s and o’s of the boost the CISSP certification offers to your salary let’s delve deeper into more specific questions.
Who qualifies for a CISSP certification?
As mentioned, you need five years of experience as a security analyst to take the CISSP exam. Students and college graduates may qualify for the exam if their credits are ISC (Systems Security Certification Consortium) approved.
How many people currently have a CISSP certification?
Over 140,000 people globally have a CISSP certification.
Does a CISSP certification salary vary from state to state?
Depending on where you live, your salary with a CISSP certification can change. Larger metropolitan areas, such as Washington D.C., Los Angeles, or Chicago, for example, may offer the highest salaries available in the United States. You might earn the absolute highest CISSP certification salary working in California, which can pay over $140,000 annually.
Does a CISSP certification salary vary based on experience?
Yes. An entry-level security analyst’s CISSP certification salary might be $60,900 a year, which will steadily increase with their experience. You will also have a different salary based on where you are employed. The government or the military might pay a lower-range compensation, whereas private companies might pay slightly more. Neither one goes above the current median wage of $103,000.
How often does the CISSP exam material change?
The CISSP exam gets updated every three years to keep up with changes in technology and information security protocol changes. These changes are usually small, though you may consider updating your study materials if you have an extended study plan for the CISSP exam.
Final Words: Which Certification Yields a Higher Salary—CISSP or CISA?
When choosing between a CISSP and a CISA certification, it ultimately depends on your career goals. The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) credential demonstrates expertise in auditing and a risk-based approach to protecting customer data, with skills in privacy, compliance, and system auditing. The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), on the other hand, is ideal for those focused on information security, covering areas like network security, cryptography, and disaster recovery to protect organizational data from threats.
According to the CISA certification website, CISA holders can see a 22% salary boost and a significant improvement in job performance. While CISSP holders earn an average of $120,000 annually, CISA professionals may earn slightly more, around $122,000. Both certifications are highly respected, but your choice should align with your primary focus: CISSP for designing and implementing security measures and CISA for auditing IT systems.
Adding both certifications can enhance job stability and career growth. Pursuing the CISSP first and then adding the CISA later can strengthen your credentials and open new opportunities. Either certification will substantially increase your job prospects and industry credibility, so select the one that best aligns with your goals but consider expanding your expertise over time.