As of July 2022, there are 156,054 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) holders worldwide. This figure reflects the global population of cybersecurity professionals who have achieved this esteemed certification.
Understanding the CISSP Certification
The CISSP is an independent information security certification granted by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)². It is widely recognized as one of the most respected and comprehensive certifications in the cybersecurity industry. Achieving CISSP status signifies a deep understanding and advanced expertise across a broad range of information security domains.
The Significance of CISSP Holders
The number of CISSP holders is a key indicator of the global pool of highly qualified cybersecurity experts. These professionals are crucial for protecting sensitive data, managing risks, and implementing robust security frameworks within organizations of all sizes.
Key aspects of CISSP professionals:
- Broad Expertise: CISSP holders are knowledgeable across eight domains of cybersecurity, including 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, and Software Development Security.
- Experience Requirement: To earn the CISSP, candidates must not only pass a challenging exam but also possess a minimum of five years of cumulative paid work experience in at least two of the eight CISSP domains. This experience ensures that certified professionals have practical, real-world skills.
- Commitment to Professionalism: CISSP holders must adhere to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics and participate in continuing professional education (CPE) to maintain their certification, ensuring their skills remain current with evolving threats and technologies.
The Growing Demand for Cybersecurity Expertise
The consistent growth in the number of CISSP holders underscores the increasing global demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals. As cyber threats become more sophisticated and prevalent, organizations across industries are prioritizing robust security measures.
Why CISSP certification is highly valued:
- Industry Recognition: It is a globally recognized standard for information security expertise.
- Career Advancement: Many leadership and senior-level cybersecurity roles require or strongly prefer CISSP certification.
- Enhanced Skill Set: The certification validates a comprehensive understanding of critical security concepts and best practices.
- Higher Earning Potential: CISSP holders often command higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge and experience.
CISSP professionals are vital in various roles, from security architects and consultants to chief information security officers (CISOs), playing a critical part in safeguarding our digital world.
Example Roles for CISSP Holders:
- Security Consultant
- Security Manager
- IT Director/Manager
- Security Analyst
- Security Auditor
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
- Network Architect
- Security Systems Engineer
For more information about the CISSP certification and its domains, you can visit the official (ISC)² website.
