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Last Updated On: April 3, 2024

Ever found yourself deep in thought about getting the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification? We get it. In this tech-filled world, CISSP might sound like just another fancy acronym to add to your resume. But trust us, it's a big deal in the cybersecurity realm.

Think of it this way: you wouldn't dive into deep waters without solid diving gear, right? Similarly, if you're pondering over navigating the thrilling yet complex world of cybersecurity, CISSP could be that essential gear for you.

But don't just take our word for it. We've rounded up some solid CISSP facts to help you see the bigger picture. By the end of this article, you'll have a sharper lens to decide if this certification journey is the right fit for your tech aspirations.

Ready to dive in? Let's roll.

The CISSP certification is globally recognized

When we say the CISSP certification is globally recognized, we're not just throwing around impressive words. This certification is acknowledged and respected in an astounding 232 countries and territories around the world. That's almost everywhere you can think of on our planet!

Now, why does global recognition even matter? Here's the scoop:

  • Mobility and Flexibility: Imagine you decide to relocate for personal reasons or job opportunities. A globally recognized certification like CISSP means you're not starting from scratch. Your expertise is acknowledged no matter where you set foot.
  • Broader Opportunities: Companies everywhere value the CISSP. Whether you're eyeing a cybersecurity role in Tokyo, London, or New York, this certification can open doors for you.
  • Shared Knowledge and Networking: Being a part of a global community means you get to connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. It’s not just about job opportunities but also about growing together and learning from CISSP success stories across continents.
  • Consistent Standards: No matter where you are, the CISSP certification implies a consistent and high standard of knowledge and ethics in cybersecurity. It's a testament to your dedication and proficiency in the field.

So, while diving into the world of CISSP, remember you're not just earning a certification; you're joining a global community. A community that’s filled with CISSP success stories, and with the right effort and dedication, you could be one of them.

CISSP Holders are on the rise

If there's a tangible way to gauge the increasing demand and stature of the CISSP certification, it's by observing the rising number of its holders. The CISSP community isn't just a small, exclusive club anymore. It's a booming global fraternity, and the numbers are there to prove it.
As of July 2022, there are a whopping 156,054 CISSP members worldwide. The surging numbers can be attributed to several factors.

First, there's the undeniable industry demand. As cyber threats become more intricate and challenging, industries worldwide are in a race to find qualified professionals who can shield their digital assets, making CISSP an emblem of assurance and capability.

Then, on a personal front, individuals continuously seek avenues for career advancement, and CISSP often appears as a beacon of growth and potential.

Lastly, the benefits of CISSP certification are echoing louder than ever before, as the certification offers a competitive edge, greater job opportunities, and a recognition of one's expertise and commitment in the dynamic arena of cybersecurity.

The growth in the number of CISSP holders is not just a trend. It mirrors a collective recognition of the certification's unparalleled value in the dynamic arena of cybersecurity.

The CISSP certification can be a gateway to higher earnings

If you've ever wondered about the financial benefits of achieving the CISSP certification, you're not alone. Many professionals consider the potential salary hike as a significant motivator in their journey towards getting CISSP-certified and for a good reason!

For example, the average CISSP salary in North America is an impressive $120,552 annually. That's not a figure to be taken lightly, especially when you stack it against the average earnings of non-certified professionals in the field.

Now, it's essential to remember that salaries can vary, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all number. Factors like the region you're in, your years of experience, and your specialization within cybersecurity can influence your earning potential.

For instance, a CISSP-certified individual with a niche specialization in a high-demand area might command an even higher salary. Similarly, while North America offers a generous average, other regions might have different benchmarks, reflecting local economic conditions and demand for cybersecurity expertise.

But even with these variations, one thing is clear: being CISSP-certified does give you an edge. It's not just about the letters behind your name; it's about the doors those letters can open for you in terms of career opportunities and financial rewards.

CISSP professionals are in high demand

It's one thing to acquire a certification, but it's entirely another when that certification makes you a hot commodity in the job market. The demand for CISSP-certified professionals isn't just anecdotal; it's backed by substantial data.

For starters, a heatmap by CyberSeek showed the prominence of CISSP in the employment landscape. Over a specific period, CISSP found its place among the top 5 certifications requested in cybersecurity job postings. That's a powerful indicator of how much businesses and organizations value CISSP-certified individuals.

But that's not all. In 2017, a thorough study by Cyber Security Degrees took an even deeper dive into the job market. They surveyed a staggering 10,000 current and historical cybersecurity job listings that had a penchant for CISSP-certified candidates.

The findings? Not only were these jobs keen on having CISSP-certified individuals on board, but they also offered salaries that were above the average for cybersecurity roles. The implication is clear: holding a CISSP certification might not only enhance your chances of landing a prestigious job but also command a higher paycheck.

The rising tide of cybersecurity professionals

In today's digital age, with cyber threats looming large, the demand for cybersecurity staff is skyrocketing, and for a good reason. But here's the kicker: it's not just CISSP-certified pros that are in demand. The entire cybersecurity domain is witnessing a surge in demand, creating a workforce gap that's beckoning for skilled individuals to fill.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Services, there are 163,000 Information Security Analysts in the U.S. alone. But what's interesting about this number? Almost all of them had jobs. The employment rate in this niche was practically perfect. And they expect this demand to go up by 35% come 2031. That's tens of thousands of new roles just waiting for people like you

But this is just one job title. There are tons of other job positions in the cybersecurity industry waiting to be filled. In fact, while the cybersecurity workforce has been expanding—with over 464,000 new roles filled in just the past year—the demand has been outpacing this growth at an even more rapid clip.

According to a Cyber Workforce Study by ISC2, the gap in the cybersecurity workforce surged by a whopping 26.2% year-over-year. So, even with all the new roles being filled, the industry's appetite for skilled professionals is far from satiated.

This trend isn't just a statistic on paper; it's palpable in the field. A significant 70% of cybersecurity professionals believe their teams are understaffed. They feel the pinch, especially in sectors like aerospace, government, education, insurance, and transportation.

With such a deficit, the foundational functions of cybersecurity—think risk assessment, system patching, and essential oversight—are left on shaky ground. It's no surprise, then, that over half of those employed in this sector feel their organizations are at a moderate to extreme risk of a cyberattack.

The silver lining? This soaring demand presents a golden opportunity for those aspiring to make a mark in the cybersecurity domain. Whether you're eyeing that CISSP certification or considering another specialization within the field, there's no denying it. There's a vast digital frontier out there waiting for you to explore and defend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the CISSP so valuable?

CISSP is highly valued for its rigorous assessment of comprehensive security knowledge and practices, signifying a high level of professionalism and expertise recognized worldwide. The CISSP is a measure of competence rather than just knowledge.

What is the success rate of CISSP?

Exact success rates for the CISSP exam are not publicly disclosed by ISC2. However, it is widely regarded as a challenging exam, with anecdotal evidence suggesting varying pass rates. Success largely depends on the candidate's background in information security, preparation, and familiarity with the exam's content domains.

Why is the CISSP certification considered prestigious in the cybersecurity industry?

The CISSP certification is globally recognized and is seen as a gold standard in the cybersecurity realm. One reason for its prestige is the stringent CISSP certification exam requirements, which ensure that certified professionals possess in-depth knowledge and skills in information security. When you learn about the CISSP certification, it's evident that it's not just a badge of honor but a testament to an individual's commitment and expertise in the field.

Is the demand for CISSP-certified professionals expected to rise in the future?

Yes, as cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals, especially those with recognized certifications like CISSP, is projected to grow. Data suggests that there's a significant workforce gap in the cybersecurity field, which means organizations are actively seeking certified experts to safeguard their digital assets.

Be CISSP-certified!

It's clear as daylight: the CISSP certification holds tremendous value in the cybersecurity realm. From being globally recognized across numerous countries to consistently being a top-requested certification in job listings, the CISSP stands out as a beacon for all aspiring cybersecurity professionals. The numbers don't lie: CISSP-certified individuals not only have a better salary advantage but also find themselves in a prime position to fill the increasing workforce gap in the industry.

But getting CISSP certified sounds intimidating, right? Well, not anymore. With Destination Certification CISSP MasterClass, the journey towards achieving this prestigious certification becomes a whole lot smoother. Designed with you in mind, this online training platform adapts to your knowledge base. Instead of slogging through generalized content, you're presented with a curated learning experience tailored just for you.

Each module zeroes in on the areas you need to focus on, bridging any knowledge gaps and strengthening your grasp on critical CISSP concepts. And the best part? You're not going through it alone. Destination Certification provides an engaging community of fellow aspirants and seasoned professionals, all cheering you on toward your goal.

So, why wait? With the increasing demand and the vast opportunities that come with being CISSP-certified, now's the perfect time to dive in and set your sails towards a brighter cybersecurity future.

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