CISSP certification is highly sought-after in the IT industry; it requires passing an exam and meeting an extensive qualification list.

A fully accredited CISSP can earn between $120,552 and $135,510 in the U.S. and $92,639 to $123,490 globally. 

Alternate ways to meet CISSP certification requirements include becoming an (ISC)²  Associate, applying for CompTIA certifications, and becoming an SSCP.

This article is for IT professionals considering pursuing CISSP certification.

As all facets of society rely more on technology, information security has become paramount. With information readily available online, businesses must do everything possible to prevent data breaches and cyberattacks while safeguarding critical systems and data. 

With so much at risk, businesses need qualified people to manage their information systems. CISSP certification indicates professional excellence, assuring hiring managers that candidates have the in-demand career skills necessary to manage IT security.

We’ll explore what it takes to become a CISSP when navigating your career path in the IT industry.

What is a CISSP?

CISSP stands for Certified Information Systems Security Professional. It’s a globally recognized certification offered by the International System Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)². CISSP is considered one of the best infosec and cybersecurity certifications around. 

Individuals seek CISSP certification to answer the call for experienced, highly capable IT professionals who can effectively manage an enterprise’s cybersecurity by applying IT security-related concepts and theories.

After passing the certification exam (which usually takes around six hours), CISSPs can take on various job titles, including the following: 

• Security Manager
• Security Analyst
• Chief Information Security Officer

No matter the job title, a CISSP always focuses on upholding a top-notch IT security system.

How much does a CISSP make?

There are relatively few CISSPs in the industry, so those who pass the certification exam and meet the requirements are well-compensated.

Reports differ regarding how much CISSPs earn. For example, the Global Knowledge 2020 IT Skills and Salary Report said CISSPs are the third-highest earners in the IT industry worldwide while ranking fifth in the North America Region.

An (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce study shows that the global average security manager’s salary is $92,639. Below are the figures for different regions based on the latest available information.

Region Wise Average salary (in U.S. dollars)

• Global: $92,639
• Asia-Pacific: $57,179
• Europe, Middle East, and Africa: $81,568
• Latin America: $22,014
• North America: $120,552

The average global salaries from (ISC)² and CertMag differ; CertMag’s values combined U.S. and non-U.S. salaries. Additionally, while CertMag’s values were based on a study of only 55 respondents, (ISC)²’s statistics are derived from an industry-wide study and may be more representative of actual averages.

What experience do you need to become a CISSP?

Despite the increasing demand for CISSPs, the (ISC)² imposes strict qualifications to ensure that only the most capable and experienced professionals earn the title. The industry is lucrative, but the requirements CISSPs must fulfill are extensive.

First, CISSP applicants must have at least five years of valid working experience relevant to the IT security field. The (ISC)² requires that work experience falls under the eight domains of the (ISC)² CISSP CBK:

• Security and Risk Management
• Asset Security
• Security Architecture and Engineering
• Communication and Network Security
• Identity and Access Management (IAM)
• Security Assessment and Testing
• Security Operations
• Software Development Security

Additionally, to satisfy these domains, the (ISC)² requires experience in any of the following positions:

• Chief Information Security Officer
• Chief Information Officer
• Director of Security
• IT Director/Manager
• Security Systems Engineer
• Security Analyst
• Security Manager
• Security Auditor
• Security Architect
• Security Consultant
• Network Architect

Work experience can come from full-time employment, part-time employment, or an internship. Requirements may vary depending on your employment terms.

What does the CISSP exam entail?

Work experience is only part of what you need to become a CISSP. To be certified, you’ll also need to prepare for and pass the CISSP exam, which costs $699 and requires a minimum score of 700 out of 1,000 points.

Besides passing the certification exam, you must also undergo an endorsement process to become a CISSP. You can do this by subscribing to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics. The endorsement form must be completed within nine months after passing the exam to fully certify your status as a CISSP.

What are other paths toward achieving the CISSP title?

Not everyone meets CISSP certification requirements – in fact, very few do. However, there are ways to bypass or fast-track your way into the industry. 

Conclusion 

Becoming a CISSP is challenging, and the necessary qualifications require extensive time and effort. However, compared to almost any other employment type – even in the IT sector

– CISSP certification is profitable and affords many opportunities