Introduction
In today’s digital age, the significance of cyber security cannot be overstated. As technology continues to evolve, so do the threats that target our sensitive information. For individuals seeking to establish a career in the field of cyber security, the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is a gold standard. While it’s known for its advanced-level rigor, there are CISSP certifications tailored for beginners that provide an excellent entry point into this dynamic field. In this article, we will explore the six best CISSP certifications for beginners in 2023.
(ISC)² CISSP
The traditional CISSP certification offered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, or (ISC)², is a well-recognized and respected credential. While it is often considered more suitable for experienced professionals, it still holds immense value for beginners who are eager to dive deep into the world of cyber security. The CISSP curriculum covers eight domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security architecture, and more. Beginners can benefit from the comprehensive knowledge offered in these domains, laying a strong foundation for a successful cyber security career.
CISSP Associate
For those who want to gain a CISSP certification without meeting the full experience requirements, the CISSP Associate certification is an excellent option. It allows beginners to take the CISSP training exam and earn an “Associate of (ISC)²” title while they work towards fulfilling the experience requirements. This certification serves as a bridge, enabling newcomers to showcase their commitment to cyber security and their progress toward becoming full-fledged CISSP-certified professionals.
CompTIA Security+
While not a CISSP certification per se, the CompTIA Security+ certification is a popular entry-level option for individuals looking to start a career in cyber security. It covers a wide range of foundational topics, including network security, cryptography, risk management, and more. The knowledge gained from Security+ can serve as an excellent stepping stone towards more advanced certifications like CISSP. Moreover, holding a Security+ certification can potentially waive one year of the required work experience for CISSP certification, making it an appealing choice for beginners.
CCSP: Certified Cloud Security Professional
As cloud computing continues to reshape the IT landscape, professionals with expertise in cloud security is in high demand. The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification, also offered by (ISC)², is an ideal choice for beginners interested in specializing in cloud security. With domains covering cloud concepts, architecture, governance, risk management, and more, CCSP equips individuals to tackle the unique security challenges posed by cloud environments. This certification can be a valuable addition to a beginner’s skill set, opening doors toexciting career opportunities.
CISSP-ISSAP: Information Systems Security Architecture Professional
Cyber security is not only about implementing security measures but also about designing secure systems from the ground up. The CISSP-ISSAP certification focuses on information systems security architecture, making it an intriguing option for individuals interested in combining their technical skills with a knack for designing secure systems. This certification covers topics such as access control systems, security architecture analysis, and design concepts. Beginners who are passionate about both cyber security and system design can find the CISSP-ISSAP certification to be a perfect fit.
CISSP-ISSEP: Information Systems Security Engineering Professional
Similar to the ISSAP certification, the CISSP-ISSEP certification targets individuals who want to specialize in the engineering aspects of cyber security. It’s designed for those who are interested in integrating security into various stages of the system development lifecycle. The domains covered include security engineering principles, secure system design, and risk management. For beginners who want to contribute to the creation of secure software, applications, and systems, the CISSP-ISSEP certification can provide valuable insights and expertise.
Conclusion
In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, the demand for skilled cyber security professionals continues to grow. CISSP certifications, known for their rigorous standards and comprehensive coverage of security domains, remain a prestigious achievement. For beginners, these certifications provide an excellent starting point to build a solid foundation in cyber security. Whether you’re aiming for the traditional CISSP, exploring cloud security with CCSP, or focusing on architectural and engineering aspects, there’s a CISSP certification tailored to your interests and career goals. Whichever path you choose, embarking on the journey to become CISSP-certified is a step towards securing the digital landscape of the future.