Differences between the CISSP and SSCP certifications – Which one is worth to earn?
The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and SSCP (Systems Security Certified Practitioner) are both certifications offered by (ISC)², but they cater to different levels of expertise and roles within the field of information security.
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
Target Audience
The CISSP certification is designed for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives who want to demonstrate their deep knowledge and experience across a broad array of information security practices and principles.
Experience Requirement
To qualify for the CISSP exam, candidates must have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight CISSP domains. If a candidate has a four-year college degree or an approved credential, one year of experience can be waived, reducing the requirement to four years.
Domains
The CISSP exam covers eight domains, which are comprehensive and wide-ranging:
Security and Risk Management: Information security governance and risk management concepts.
Asset Security: Protecting and securing organizational assets.
Security Architecture and Engineering: Designing and managing secure architectures.
Communication and Network Security: Securing network architecture and ensuring the integrity of communications.
Identity and Access Management (IAM): Controlling access to information and resources.
Security Assessment and Testing: Evaluating and testing security measures.
Security Operations: Ensuring operational security and incident response.
Software Development Security: Securing software development processes and environments.
Exam Details
Length: The exam is 3 hours long.
Questions: 100-150 questions using a Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format, which adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your previous answers.
Format: Multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions.
Focus
The CISSP focuses on a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity principles, management, and leadership. It is suitable for those who aim to take on senior roles that require strategic decision-making and oversight of security programs.
SSCP (Systems Security Certified Practitioner)
Target Audience
The SSCP certification is geared towards IT administrators, security analysts, and professionals in operational roles who implement and manage security policies and procedures.
Experience Requirement
Candidates need at least one year of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven SSCP domains. If you lack the experience, you can still take the exam and become an Associate of (ISC)², giving you up to two years to earn the required experience.
Domains
The SSCP exam focuses on seven domains, emphasizing practical and technical aspects of security:
Access Controls: Implementing mechanisms to restrict access to information.
Security Operations and Administration: Administering and managing security policies and procedures.
Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis: Identifying and analyzing security risks.
Incident Response and Recovery: Responding to and recovering from security incidents.
Cryptography: Applying cryptographic techniques to secure information.
Network and Communications Security: Ensuring the security of network infrastructure.
Systems and Application Security: Securing applications and systems.
Exam Details
Length: The exam is 3 hours long.
Questions: 125 questions.
Format: Multiple-choice.
Focus
The SSCP focuses on hands-on skills and practical implementation of security measures. It is ideal for those working directly with security technologies and managing day-to-day security operations.
Which Certification to Earn?
Career Goals
CISSP: If you aim to move into leadership or executive roles within cybersecurity, the CISSP is highly valuable. It is also beneficial for those who want to understand security principles comprehensively and manage security programs.
SSCP: If you are early in your security career or prefer to work in technical roles, the SSCP is a great fit. It provides foundational knowledge and hands-on skills crucial for operational security tasks.
Industry Recognition
CISSP: This certification is highly recognized globally and often required for senior-level positions. It is considered the gold standard for cybersecurity certifications.
SSCP: While not as widely known as the CISSP, the SSCP is still well-regarded and respected in the industry, especially for technical and operational roles.
Earning Potential
CISSP: Typically commands a higher salary due to its advanced nature and the significant experience required. CISSP holders are often found in high-level positions with substantial responsibilities.
SSCP: While it may not lead to the same earning potential as the CISSP, it still offers a solid salary and can serve as a stepping stone toward higher-paying roles and certifications.
Choosing between the CISSP and SSCP depends on your current level of experience, career goals, and the type of roles you are targeting in the cybersecurity field. The CISSP is ideal for those with significant experience looking to advance into senior or managerial positions, while the SSCP is perfect for those early in their careers or focusing on technical security roles. Both certifications provide valuable knowledge and skills that are highly regarded in the cybersecurity industry.
