Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certification Guide
The cloud has revolutionized how businesses operate, but with great power comes great responsibility—especially when it comes to security. Enter the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification, a prestigious credential that's become increasingly vital in today's digital landscape. As organizations rapidly shift their operations to the cloud, the need for experts who can navigate and secure these complex environments has never been greater.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a CCSP. We'll cover the exam requirements, break down the six domains of knowledge you'll master, and provide actionable tips to help you prepare effectively. We'll also share our recommended study resources and insights into the career opportunities that await CCSP-certified professionals.
Whether you're a seasoned IT professional looking to specialize in cloud security or a cloud expert aiming to formalize your skills, this guide will equip you with the information you need to begin your CCSP journey and excel in the dynamic field of cloud security.
What is a CCSP Certification?
The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual's expertise and demonstrates competence in designing, managing, and securing cloud environments. Notably, the CCSP was co-created by two leading organizations in the field: ISC2 (International Information System Security Certification Consortium) and CSA (Cloud Security Alliance). This collaboration ensures that the certification represents a comprehensive and industry-aligned standard of cloud security knowledge.
The CCSP certification covers a wide range of topics across six domains, equipping professionals with the skills to tackle the complex challenges of cloud security. These domains include:
Don't worry if these sound intimidating—we'll break down each domain in detail later in this guide.
By earning the CCSP, professionals demonstrate their advanced knowledge and skills in cloud security architecture, operations, and service orchestration. This certification is particularly valuable for those who need to understand both the technical aspects of cloud security and their business implications.
Brief History of CCSP
The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification was introduced on April 21, 2015, at the RSA Conference in San Francisco. This certification was the result of a collaborative effort between ISC2 and the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), two leading organizations in the field of information security.
The CCSP was developed to address a critical market need: ensuring that cloud security professionals possess the required knowledge, competencies, skills, and abilities to audit, assess, and secure cloud infrastructures. It was designed to complement existing certifications, particularly ISC2's Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and CSA's Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK).
While the CCSK provides a baseline of cloud security knowledge suitable for various IT and security positions, the CCSP builds upon this foundation to offer deeper, more practical knowledge. It's specifically tailored for professionals whose day-to-day responsibilities involve cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration.
The certification requires candidates to demonstrate proficiency in six key domains, which were carefully crafted based on the CCSP CBK (Common Body of Knowledge). The CCSP exam became available worldwide on July 21, 2015, marking a significant milestone in the field of cloud security certifications.
Since its inception, the CCSP has grown to become a widely recognized and respected credential in the rapidly evolving landscape of cloud computing and security.
What is an ISC2 certification?
The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium ISC2 is a nonprofit membership organization for information security leaders. This organization specializes in training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals and is responsible for providing some of the most recognized certifications in the IT field.
It also created and maintains the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) on which the ISC2 certifications, such as CCSP, are based. Basically, the CBK is responsible for defining the global industry standards and best practices in cybersecurity.
ISC2 certifications provide employers the proof that a cybersecurity professional has a solid foundation of knowledge needed to protect IT infrastructures including systems and networks. All certificates issued by the ISC2 are accredited and recognized by some of the highest global standards for professional certifications including the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and the International Accreditation Forum, among others.
Apart from the CCSP certification, the organization also offers other certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP), the Certified Authorization Professional (CAP), the HealthCare Information Security and Privacy Practitioner (HCISPP) and the Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP).
CCSP Certification Requirements: How to Become a Certified Cloud Security Professional
Obtaining the CCSP certification is a significant achievement that requires time, effort, and dedication. However, the process is straightforward if you approach it systematically. To help you navigate your path to becoming a Certified Cloud Security Professional, we've outlined the key steps you need to take.
To qualify for the CCSP certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of cumulative, full-time experience in information technology. Of this, three years must be in information security, and one year must be in one or more of the six domains of the current CCSP Exam Outline.
This experience can be calculated in various ways:
If you're short on experience, there are alternative pathways to satisfy these requirements. A post-secondary degree (bachelor's or master's) in computer science, information technology, or related fields may substitute for up to one year of required experience. Additionally, certain approved credentials can help:
Not enough experience? You can still take the exam.
Once you pass, you’ll become an Associate of ISC2. This gives you six years to gain the necessary experience while still demonstrating your knowledge and commitment to cloud security.
This is where your CCSP journey truly begins. You'll need to immerse yourself in the six domains of the CCSP CBK. Don't worry, you're not alone in this journey. There's a wealth of resources at your fingertips, from official ISC2 study materials to third-party books and online courses. We'll explore these study strategies and resources in detail later, giving you the tools to craft a study plan that fits your learning style.
Now for the main event—the CCSP exam. This is your chance to showcase your cloud security expertise. You'll face 150 multiple-choice questions in a four-hour window, aiming for a scaled score of 700 out of 1000. Sounds challenging? It is, but with the right preparation, you've got this. We'll break down below the exam format and share some insider tips to help you tackle this hurdle with confidence.
You've passed the exam—fantastic work! But hold off on the celebrations for just a moment. Your next mission is to get endorsed by an ISC2-certified professional. Think of this as your official welcome into the cloud security community. They'll vouch for your experience and commitment to the ISC2 Code of Ethics. No worries if your network doesn't include a certified professional—ISC2 can act as your endorser. You've got 9 months to complete this step, so take a breath and plan your approach.
Congratulations, you're now a bona fide CCSP! But in the fast-paced world of cloud security, the learning never stops. Maintaining your certification is all about staying on top of the latest developments. You'll need to earn 90 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over three years and pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) of U.S. $135, due on the first-anniversary date of your membership cycle and the same date each year thereafter.
Remember, if you don't maintain your certification by earning these credits, you'll have to take the exam again—and we're pretty sure that's not an experience you're eager to repeat. Consider this ongoing education as your investment in staying at the cutting edge of cloud security expertise.
CCSP Domains: Study Guide Overview
At Destination Certification, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence you need to ace the CCSP exam. To help you along this journey, we've created comprehensive guides that cover the essential topics in each of the six CCSP domains.
These guides serve as your roadmap to CCSP success, providing you with a solid foundation to build upon.
Domain 1:
Cloud Concepts, Architecture and Design
This domain covers the fundamental concepts of cloud computing, cloud reference architectures, and cloud design principles. It also includes topics such as business continuity, storage, and network security. Domain 1 makes up 17% of the CCSP exam.
Domain 2:
Cloud Data Security
This domain focuses on data lifecycle management, data security policies, and procedures. It also covers topics such as data discovery, classification, and protection. Domain 2 makes up 20% of the CCSP exam.
Domain 3:
Cloud Platform & Infrastructure Security
This domain deals with the security of cloud platforms and infrastructure, including topics such as virtualization, containerization, and serverless computing. It also covers identity and access management (IAM) solutions and security controls for compute, storage, and network resources. Domain 3 makes up 17% of the CCSP exam.
Domain 4:
Cloud Application Security
This domain focuses on the secure software development lifecycle (SDLC), identity and access management (IAM) for applications, and the management of application vulnerabilities and threats. Domain 4 makes up 17% of the CCSP exam.
Domain 5:
Cloud Security Operations
This domain covers incident response, forensics, disaster recovery, and security monitoring in the cloud. It also includes topics such as automation and orchestration tools for cloud security operations. Domain 5 makes up 16% of the CCSP exam.
Domain 6:
Legal, Risk and Compliance
This domain focuses on identifying and assessing cloud security risks, developing risk treatment plans, and understanding compliance requirements for cloud environments. Domain 6 makes up 13% of the CCSP exam.
The CCSP Exam Guide
The CCSP exam is designed to rigorously test your knowledge and skills in cloud security. Understanding the exam structure and format is crucial for your preparation. Here's what you need to know about the CCSP examination:
Length of exam | 3 hours |
Number of questions | 125 |
Item format | Multiple choice |
Passing grade | 700 out of 1000 points |
Languages | English, Chinese, Japanese, and German |
The exam is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. Each question on the exam is designed to test your knowledge and competence in cloud security concepts and your ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.
It's important to note that the exam is quite challenging, requiring not just memorization of facts, but also the ability to analyze complex situations and apply your knowledge effectively. The questions are sometimes scenario-based, reflecting the kind of decision-making you'd need to do in a real cloud security role.
The CCSP Exam Outline
The CCSP exam outline provides a detailed breakdown of the topics covered in each domain. It serves as a roadmap for your study, ensuring you cover all the necessary material. The outline is regularly updated to reflect the evolving landscape of cloud security, so it's crucial to always refer to the most current version available on the ISC2 website.
Each domain in the outline is further divided into subtopics, giving you a clear picture of the specific areas you need to master. The outline also indicates the relative weight of each domain in the exam, helping you prioritize your study efforts.
Remember, while the outline tells you what to study, it doesn't dictate how to study. That's where our comprehensive CCSP book comes in, providing you with in-depth explanations, examples, and practice questions for each domain. Use the exam outline in conjunction with our study materials to ensure you're fully prepared for success on exam day.
CCSP Exam FAQs
The CCSP exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions. These questions are designed to test your knowledge across all six domains of the CCSP CBK. They include both straightforward knowledge-based questions and more complex scenario-based questions that assess your ability to apply cloud security concepts in real-world situations.
The CCSP exam is allotted 3 hours for completion, regardless of the language you take it in.
The CCSP exam is considered challenging, requiring not only knowledge of cloud security concepts but also the ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios. It tests your understanding across six domains of cloud security, demanding a comprehensive grasp of the field.
The time needed to prepare for the CCSP exam varies depending on your background and experience. On average, candidates spend 3-6 months studying. However, those with significant cloud security experience might prepare in less time, while those new to the field may need longer.
As of 2024, the CCSP exam costs U.S. $599. However, prices may vary by region and are subject to change. Always check the official ISC2 website for the most current pricing information.
Yes, the CCSP is a highly respected certification in the field of cloud security. It's recognized globally and can significantly enhance your career prospects in cloud security roles. It also demonstrates competence in security as it applies to cloud environments.
For professionals focusing on cloud security, the CCSP certification is definitely worth it. It validates your expertise in this rapidly growing field and can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. It also provides benefits to the organization you work for, as it demonstrates competence in protecting sensitive and valuable assets to your clients, customers and other stakeholders.
While both are challenging, the CCSP is more specialized, focusing solely on cloud security. The CISSP, on the other hand, covers a broader range of information security topics. Whether one is harder than the other often depends on your background and experience.
While there's some overlap, the CCSP provides in-depth knowledge specifically about cloud security. If your work involves or will involve cloud environments, the CCSP can be a valuable addition to your CISSP, providing specialized expertise in this area.
An added benefit is that if you hold an active CISSP certification, it can be substituted for the entire experience requirement for the CCSP. This means you can focus solely on passing the exam, potentially fast-tracking your path to becoming a CCSP.
After passing the exam, you have 9 months to complete the endorsement process. Once you submit your endorsement application, ISC2 typically processes it within 4-6 weeks. However, this can vary based on the volume of applications and the completeness of your submission.
How To Prepare for the CCSP Exam?
Preparing for the CCSP exam is a significant undertaking that requires a strategic approach. However, the most effective strategy can vary depending on the individual: how they learn best, their time constraints, and their existing knowledge of cloud security concepts.
Some aspirants thrive in a structured classroom environment, while others prefer self-study for greater control over their schedule. Some may benefit from a combination of methods. Your best approach? Understanding your own learning style, available time, and current expertise in cloud security.
Once you've assessed these factors, you'll be better equipped to choose the right preparation methods and resources. To help you on this journey, we've compiled a list of recommended CCSP resources that cater to various learning preferences:
CCSP Training Course
One of the most important components in preparing for the CCSP exam is a comprehensive training course. A well-structured course provides you with a systematic approach to learning the six domains of the CCSP CBK, ensuring you cover all necessary topics. It also offers expert insights, practical examples, and valuable study strategies that can significantly enhance your understanding of complex cloud security concepts.
Here’s what we recommend:
Preparing for the CCSP exam can be overwhelming. Many aspirants find themselves buried under a mountain of study materials - books, videos, practice questions, and often conflicting resources. It's easy to get lost in this chaos, unsure of what to focus on or how to structure your study time effectively.
While many CCSP training courses simply offer a set of videos, Destination Certification provides everything you need to pass the exam confidently. Our CCSP MasterClass cuts through the confusion, offering clarity and direction in your certification journey. We consolidate all necessary materials into one comprehensive package, so you'll know exactly what to focus on each day.
But we don't stop there. Our MasterClass adapts to your knowledge and schedule, ensuring you study as effectively as possible. Think of it as a personalized CCSP coach, constantly adjusting your study plan based on your progress and areas of improvement.
Here's what you'll get with our comprehensive CCSP MasterClass:
- Adaptive learning system that focuses on your weak areas
- A personal mentor to guide your studies
- Customized study schedule that fits your life
- Weekly live Q&A sessions with CCSP experts
- Comprehensive study materials, including our CCSP Guidebook and Workbook
- Flashcard app to help you memorize the terminology you need for the exam
- Visual MindMaps to connect complex concepts
- Proven CCSP exam strategies
- 1-on-1 mentoring calls for Preferred and Premier plans
- Realistic practice exams that mirror the actual CCSP test
CCSP Books
While training courses are valuable, books remain a cornerstone of effective CCSP exam preparation. They offer in-depth explanations, allow for easy reference, and provide a structured approach to learning. Whether you prefer physical books or e-books, these resources can help solidify your understanding of cloud security concepts:
Other CCSP Materials
Apart from the basic things you'll need to pass the exam, there's a wealth of resources at your disposal that can help you prepare for this huge undertaking. From free to paid resources, here are materials you can use to supplement your journey:
- Destination Certification CCSP app: Our CCSP app is a comprehensive 2-in-1 tool featuring flashcards and practice questions. Designed by experts, it streamlines your exam preparation by allowing you to track progress per domain, focus on areas needing improvement, and access thousands of critical terms and expertly written questions. This intuitive app develops your knowledge and exam strategies, making it an essential resource for on-the-go CCSP preparation.
- YouTube offers a wealth of free videos explaining various CCSP concepts. While it's rare to find comprehensive exam coverage, many cybersecurity professionals provide valuable insights on different CCSP topics, offering diverse perspectives to supplement your study.
- Platforms like Reddit and Discord connect you with fellow CCSP aspirants and certified professionals. These communities are goldmines for real-world advice, from study tips to exam strategies. Engaging with these groups can provide valuable insights and support throughout your CCSP journey.
CCSP certification vs other certifications
If you're considering the CCSP, you might be wondering how it compares to other popular certifications in the industry. This section will help you understand the unique value proposition of the CCSP and how it stacks up against other well-known credentials.
The CCSP and CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) are both offered by ISC2 and are highly respected in the cybersecurity field. While the CISSP covers a broad range of information security topics, the CCSP focuses specifically on cloud security.
The CISSP is ideal for those aiming for senior security management roles across various domains, while the CCSP is tailored for professionals specializing in cloud security architecture, design, and management. Both require significant experience, but the CCSP's experience must include specific cloud security work. If you already hold a CISSP, it can satisfy the experience requirement for the CCSP, potentially streamlining your path to this cloud-specific certification.
The CCSP and the CCSK (Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge) are both cloud security certifications, but they serve different purposes. The CCSK, offered by the Cloud Security Alliance, is a vendor-neutral credential that demonstrates baseline knowledge of cloud security. It's a good starting point for those new to cloud security and has no experience prerequisites.
The CCSP, being more comprehensive and requiring more experience, builds upon this foundation to provide deeper, more practical knowledge in cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration. Many professionals find value in obtaining both, using the CCSK as a stepping stone towards the more advanced CCSP.
The CCSP and the SSCP (Systems Security Certified Practitioner) are both ISC2 certifications but target different career stages and specializations. The SSCP is an entry to intermediate level certification covering general IT security practices, requiring only one year of experience.
The CCSP, on the other hand, is for more experienced professionals, requiring five years of experience with a focus on cloud security. While the SSCP provides a broad foundation in information systems security, the CCSP offers in-depth, specialized knowledge in cloud security. For those starting their career in IT security, the SSCP could be a good first step, potentially leading to the CCSP as they gain more experience and specialize in cloud environments.
CCSP Salary and Careers
Obtaining the CCSP certification can significantly impact your career trajectory and earning potential in the cloud security field. While the certification itself doesn't guarantee a specific salary or position, it does demonstrate your expertise and commitment to cloud security, which many employers value highly.
Let's explore the potential financial benefits and career opportunities associated with the CCSP certification.
Average Salary of CCSP
It's important to note that many factors influence a CCSP holder's salary, including location, industry, company size, years of experience, and additional skills or certifications. However, generally speaking, CCSP-certified professionals tend to command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
Here’s how much you’ll earn as a CCSP according to ISC2 Cyber Workforce Study 2022.
Region | Average CCSP Salary |
|---|---|
Globally | $114,211 |
Asia-Pacific | $83,017 |
Europe | $111,665 |
Middle East and Africa | $51,959 |
North America | $148,009 |
CCSP Jobs
So, what roles can you get with a CCSP certification? Here are some of them:
Cloud Security Architect | Cloud Risk and Compliance Manager |
|---|---|
Cloud Security Engineer | Cloud Network Security Engineer |
Cloud Security Consultant | Cloud Data Security Specialist |
Information Security Manager | DevSecOps Engineer |
Cloud Security Analyst | Cloud Security Auditor |
What Happens After You Pass the CCSP Exam?
Congratulations! You've conquered the CCSP exam. But don't pop the champagne just yet—there are a few more steps to officially earn your certification. Let's walk through what comes next on your journey to becoming a fully-fledged CCSP.
The CCSP endorsement process
The endorsement process verifies your professional experience and adherence to the ISC2 Code of Ethics. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll need to submit your endorsement application within 9 months of passing the exam.
- As mentioned, you’ll need to choose an endorser, which is another ISC2-certified professional in good standing, who can vouch for your experience. If you don’t know any ISC2 members, you can opt for ISC2 to endorse you.
- Then, you’ll need to complete the online application and provide details of your work history. This also includes listing any relevant education or credentials that will cover some of the required experience.
- After that, your endorser will receive an email to confirm your experience. ISC2 will review your application (typically within 4-6 weeks).
- Upon approval, you’ll need to pay your first Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) and then you'll receive your official CCSP credential. If you hold other ISC2 certifications, you won’t be required to pay an additional AMF for your new certification.
CCSP CPE Requirements
Once you've earned your CCSP certification, there's more work to do to maintain it. ISC2 requires 90 CPE credits every three years to ensure you stay current with the latest developments in cloud security.
ISC2 categorizes these CPEs into two groups: Group A and Group B. Of the 90 required CPEs, 60 must come from Group A , while the remaining 30 can be from either Group A or B. Let's break down what each group entails:
These credits directly relate to the CCSP domains, focusing on cloud security-specific knowledge and skills. Group A activities should enhance your expertise in areas like cloud concepts, data security, platform and infrastructure security, application security, operations, and legal/compliance issues.
Examples include:
- Reading or publishing whitepapers, books, or articles on cloud security topics
- Attending or presenting at cloud security conferences, seminars, or workshops
- Completing advanced training courses in cloud security technologies or practices
- Participating in cloud security research or development projects
- Contributing to cloud security open-source projects or standards development
While not directly tied to CCSP domains, Group B credits contribute to your overall professional development as a cloud security expert. These activities broaden your skill set and perspective, which can indirectly enhance your cloud security practice.
Examples include:
- Attending general IT or business conferences
- Completing courses in leadership, project management, or communication skills
- Participating in professional organizations or committees
- Mentoring other professionals in IT or security fields
- Volunteering for cybersecurity education initiatives in your community
Both types of CPEs are crucial for maintaining a well-rounded skill set in the rapidly evolving field of cloud security. By balancing technical expertise with broader professional development, you'll be better equipped to tackle complex challenges and advance your career.