With so many information technology certifications available, it can become confusing as to what they mean and what precisely those with the certification do. The world of cybersecurity is vast, with many different job titles. Some overlap responsibilities, while others focus on a particular task or function. So what does a Certified Information Systems Security Professional do?
If you think this is the career for you, DestCert can help you turn your dream into a reality. However, you’ll first have to become CISSP certified. We’ll cover all you need to know about what a Certified Information Systems Security Professional does and what you’ll need to do to become one.
How to Become a Certified Information Systems Security Professional
You’ll need to become certified before becoming a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. However, this step isn’t something you can do early in your IT career. The ISC2 (International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium) is a nonprofit worldwide association that administers cybersecurity exams and issues different types of certifications. In this case, it’s the CISSP.
There are strict prerequisites for candidates who want to pursue a career as a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. The ISC2 requires that you first have a 4-year college degree and have five years or more of paid employment with experience in at least two of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge. These eight domains are:
- 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
Once candidates have met all the requirements, they can apply for the CISSP exam. Upon successfully completing the exam, candidates must complete the certification process by agreeing to ISC2’s Code of Ethics and paying the Certified Members Fee.
CISSP certification is the gold standard of cybersecurity excellence. Once certified, you’ll be connected to thousands of others who’ve devoted their careers to protecting information.
What Does a Certified Information Systems Security Professional Do?
Certified Information Systems Security Professionals are known as the best in the world of cybersecurity. The CISSP certification proves that they have extensive industry knowledge and are dedicated to continuing their education, which is a required part of remaining certified.
Typical job responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of protecting data from breaches and cyberattacks and implementing, analyzing, and managing platforms and infrastructure. Positions that Certified Information Systems Security Professionals hold can include:
- Security systems administrator
- Chief information security officer
- IT security engineer
- Senior IT security consultant
- Information assurance analyst
- Senior information security assurance consultant
- Principal cybersecurity manager
- Information security assurance analyst
- Senior information security risk officer
- Senior IT security operations specialist
- Chief information security consultant
Which career path you’ll choose once certified will depend on where your interests lie and what opportunities are available in your area. Median salaries for CISSPs in the United States typically cost $125,000 annually. Salaries can vary depending on position, location, and experience.
Current Job Market for CISSPs
On average, cyberattacks and data breaches have increased by fifteen percent each year. Big and small companies are vulnerable to attacks, putting Certified Information Systems Security Professionals in demand. Since there are many requirements and commitments to becoming certified, more jobs are typically available than experienced candidates. IT professionals with a love of cybersecurity could greatly benefit by becoming certified.
In the United States, there are approximately 94,000 members with CISSP certification. Knowing that many are currently employed explains why the demand for CISSPs is high.
Certified Information Systems Security Professionals: The Bottom Line
If you love the world of cybersecurity and see it as a lifelong passion, obtaining CISSP certification is something you should look into. Cyberattacks are rising, and all types of businesses are at risk. CISSP certification places you in the upper realms of the IT community and is much needed in today’s world of information technology.
Once certified, a new world of high-paying and prestigious career opportunities will open. If you’ve met all of the CISSP exam criteria, pursuing this highly sought-after accreditation could be quite beneficial.
Ethical and Professional Conduct in Information Security
Ethical conduct in information security encompasses a set of principles that guide professionals in making responsible and moral decisions. These principles include:
1. Integrity: CISSPs should demonstrate honesty, trustworthiness, and reliability in all aspects of their work. They should maintain the confidentiality and privacy of sensitive information, avoiding conflicts of interest and acting in the best interest of their organizations and clients.
2. Objectivity: CISSPs should approach their work with impartiality, avoiding biases and ensuring that their assessments and recommendations are based on sound professional judgment and objective analysis.
3. Professional Competence: CISSPs should continuously enhance their knowledge and skills to stay current with evolving technologies, threats, and best practices in information security. They should strive to maintain a high level of professional competence and provide accurate, reliable, and effective advice and solutions.
4. Confidentiality: CISSPs must respect the confidentiality of information entrusted to them. They should handle sensitive data with care, only disclose it when necessary and authorized, and protect it from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
5. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: CISSPs should have a solid understanding of relevant laws, regulations, and standards related to information security and privacy. They should ensure that their practices align with these requirements and take appropriate measures to address legal and regulatory obligations.
6. Professional Responsibility: CISSPs have a responsibility to promote and contribute to the overall security and well-being of their organizations, clients, and the broader society. They should strive to create a culture of security awareness, educate others about potential risks, and encourage the adoption of best practices.
7. Ethical Decision Making: CISSPs may encounter situations where they face ethical dilemmas. In such cases, they should apply ethical decision-making frameworks and seek guidance from relevant professional organizations or colleagues to ensure that their actions align with ethical standards.
Adhering to these principles of ethical conduct helps maintain the trust and confidence of stakeholders, promotes a secure and reliable information infrastructure, and upholds the reputation and professionalism of CISSPs and the information security industry as a whole.
