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The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification has set the standard for security certifications since its launch in 1994. However, adding those letters to resumes is no easy task for cybersecurity professionals. The certification exam for the CISSP is typically described by those who have taken it as difficult. Additionally, the certification requires at least five years of full-time paid work experience in a relevant security field.

However, despite the challenges of attaining CISSP certification, it is well worth the time and effort it takes to get it. Information security professionals who hold the CISSP credential have job security due to the current shortage of cybersecurity professionals worldwide, and they earn higher than average salaries for the roles they perform.

What is the CISSP Certification?

The CISSP certification is a credential awarded by the Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2 to validate certified professionals’ skills and knowledge in cybersecurity. The credential is proof that the individual can proficiently design, engineer, implement, and manage information security systems to protect a company from potential cyber threats and attacks.

The CISSP was the first certification to meet the requirements of the ISO/IEC Standard 17024. In addition, it is a vendor-neutral certification that provides information security professionals with technical skills and hands-on experience. As a result, the CISSP certification is recognized and sought-after in Washington, DC, and worldwide.

What Does a CISSP Professional Do?

CISSPs are responsible for the safety of the information that is kept on an organization’s computer system. They must ensure that all data pertaining to the organization, its employees, and its customers remains private and protected.

Certified information system security professionals may research, design, implement, manage, and review an organization’s information security systems to prevent unauthorized use. They will typically be responsible for informing users about security processes, explaining potential threats, installing software, applying security policies, and monitoring networks. Additionally, CISSPs will analyze security systems to identify potential faults, recommend enhancements to mitigate vulnerabilities, implement modifications, and document improvements.

The exact role and responsibilities of a CISSP depend upon the organization. In larger organizations, CISSPs may have additional duties and may supervise a team of other security professionals and be responsible for the team’s management.

What Is the Average Salary of a CISSP in Washington, DC?

According to the 2020 IT Skills and Salary Report – Salary and Certifications, IT professionals who have information security certifications earn about 10% more than uncertified professionals with the same experience. Specifically, CISSP certification holders earn an average of $143,673 annually in Washington, DC, which is 34% higher than the national average of $107,606 in the US, overall.

Looking globally, as the CISSP is highly regarded worldwide, some of the average salaries in other areas include:

• Asia-Pacific   $91,631
• Europe, Africa, and the Middle East   $100,538
• Global average   $119,170

TrainACE Can Help You Prepare for the CISSP Certification Exam

Because the CISSP Certification was the first to meet the rigorous ISO/IEC 17024 standard, it’s not surprising that many organizations trust the professionals who earn it to define their security structure and strategy and design, manage, and manage controlling it.

Experienced CISSP professionals are highly regarded, have abundant job and advancement opportunities, and, as mentioned, earn salaries that are among the highest in the IT industry. The first step to attaining the CISSP certification is gaining work experience in the field. Students who have that on-the-job experience are ready to take the next step – preparing for the certification exam.

The CISSP certification exam is challenging, but with the help of TrainACE’s Certified Information Security Systems Professional Training and Certification course, students will gain the knowledge they need to successfully pass the exam. If you live in Washington, DC, or the surrounding metropolitan area and you’re looking to advance your IT career, this is it. Let one of our experienced instructors help you prepare for the CISSP certification exam and go on to earn your credential – and a lucrative salary. Sign up for this course today to prepare for your CISSP exam.