The rise in cyber threats and data breaches in recent years has highlighted the urgent need for professionals with specialized knowledge in cybersecurity, risk management, and information security.
Two of the perhaps most prominent certifications that actively address these critical areas are CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control) and CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional). The CRISC and CISSP certifications are both widely recognized certifications in the IT industry.
In this article, we will explore the differences between these two certifications to help aspiring cybersecurity professionals make informed decisions about their career paths. Let’s get started!
CRISC Certification
The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification is offered by ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association). This certification has been designed specifically for IT professionals to help them manage and implement information system controls effectively and identify and manage any related risks.
CRISC focuses primarily on assessing, mitigating, and managing IT risk in line with an organization’s business objectives. The certification is considered ideal for individuals looking to get involved in risk management, control assurance, and IT governance roles.
CISSP
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)². The CISSP is considered by many to be the gold standard in information security certifications.
CISSP has been aimed at professionals who design, implement, and manage a secure business environment. It covers a broad range of information security topics and domains, making it suitable for security managers, consultants, and IT auditors.
CRISC | CISSP | |
Certification Provider | ISACA | (ISC)2 |
Number Of Questions | 150 questions | 150 questions |
Exam Time | 4 hours | 3 hours |
Type Of Questions | Multiple choice questions | Multiple choice questions |
Exam Language | English Spanish Chinese Simplified | Chinese German Japanese Korean Spanish |
Passing Score | 450 out of 800 | 700 out of 1000 points |
Testing Center | PSI testing centers | Pearson VUE Testing Centers |
Exam Cost | $575 (Member) $760 (Non-member) | $749 |
Domain Variations For CRISC and CISSP
CRISC Domains
To earn the CRISC certification, candidates must pass the CRISC exam and demonstrate at least three years of cumulative work experience in at least three of the four CRISC domains:
- Governance (26%)
- IT Risk Assessment (20%)
- Risk Response and Reporting (32%)
- Information Technology and Security (22%)

CISSP Domains
To obtain the CISSP certification, candidates must pass the CISSP exam and have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) domains:
- Security and Risk Management (15%)
- Asset Security (10%)
- Security Architecture and Engineering (13%)
- Communication and Network Security (13%)
- Identity and Access Management (IAM) (13%)
- Security Assessment and Testing (12%)
- Security Operations (13%)
- Software Development Security (11%)

Benefits Of CRISC Certification
Improved Risk Management Skills:
CRISC equips professionals with comprehensive knowledge and skills to identify, control, and manage IT risks effectively. This, in turn, helps safeguard the organization’s information assets.
Career Advancement Opportunities:
CRISC-certified individuals are highly sought after by organizations looking to strengthen their cybersecurity risk management capabilities. This certification can lead to better job opportunities and career advancement.
Industry Recognition:
CRISC is a globally recognized certification. Obtaining such a certification will validate their knowledge and expertise in risk management and control assurance.
Read more: CRISC certification Importance
Benefits of CISSP Certification
Comprehensive Updated Security Knowledge:
CISSP covers a wide range of information security topics, providing professionals with a deep understanding of various security domains.
Enhanced Credibility:
CISSP is recognized globally and is highly valued by employers, making it a prestigious certification to hold in the cybersecurity industry.
Networking Opportunities:
CISSP certification connects professionals to a vast network of security experts, enabling them to collaborate and learn from industry leaders.
Compliance with Industry Standards:
Many organizations and government agencies require CISSP certification for certain cybersecurity positions, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Read more: CISSP Certification Exam Guide
Key Differences Between CRISC And CISSP
Focus and Scope
CRISC Certification:
The CRISC certification is primarily centered on risk management and control assurance in the context of information systems. It covers topics related to risk identification, assessment, response, and monitoring, enabling professionals to effectively manage IT-related business risks.
CISSP Certification:
The CISSP certification addresses a broader spectrum of information security domains, encompassing various areas of cybersecurity. It covers topics related to security and risk management, asset security, communication and network security, security operations, and more.
Read more: CRISC vs CISM
Target Audience
CRISC Certification:
CRISC is ideal for professionals involved in risk management, control assurance, IT governance, and compliance-related roles that emphasize on identifying, assessing, and managing IT risks to achieve business objectives. These could include GRC consultant, IT and Risk Assessment Specialist, Cybersecurity Analyst, etc.
CISSP Certification:
The CISSP certification is suitable for professionals looking to design, implement, and manage a secure business environment. CISSP focuses on a wide range of security domains, including security architecture, IAM, security assessment, software development security, and more. The job roles for CISSP could include security managers, consultants, and IT auditors, etc.
Read more: CISSP vs CCSP
Work Experience Requirements
CRISC Certification:
In order to earn the CRISC certification, applicants must demonstrate at least three years of cumulative work experience in at least three of the four CRISC domains.
CISSP Certification:
As for the CISSP Certification, candidates need to have at least five years’ worth of cumulative work experience in two or more of the eight CISSP CBK domains. It is important to note, however, that alternatively, a four-year degree or an approved credential can substitute for one year of work experience.
Read more: CISSP Salary in 2023
Difficulty Level
CRISC Certification:
In order to pass the CRISC certification, candidates need to score at least 450 or higher out of a total score of 850. Crisc is considered to be a relatively difficult certification exam to pass.
CISSP Certification:
For candidates to pass the CISSP certification exam, they need to obtain at least 700 out of 1000. This translates to 70% and can prove quite tough to pass due to its complex course consisting of deep knowledge of both technical and non-technical topics.
The CISSP certification exam is considered to be slightly more tough than the CRISC certification exam and it requires a significant investment of time and effort.
Certification Renewal
CRISC Certification:
The CRISC certification is valid for three years and will need to be renewed after that
CISSP Certification:
The CISSP certification is also valid for 3 years and requires renewal after that time is over.
CRISC vs CISSP: Job Roles
CRISC | CISSP |
IT Audit Risk Advisor | Chief Information Security Officer |
Technology Risk Analyst | Director of Security |
Risk Professionals | IT Director/Manager |
Project Managers | Security Manager |
Business Analysts | Network architect |
CRISC vs CISSP: Salary Prospects
CRISC
According to ZipRecruiter, the average yearly salary for a CRISC-certified professional in the U.S. is $132,266. It also has provided the annual salary according to different regions within the US.
City/ Region | Annual Salary |
San Buenaventura, CA | $139,508 |
Bellevue, WA | $41,789 |
Brooklyn, NY | $40,046 |
Berkeley, CA | $45,415 |
Riverton, WY | $39,981 |
CISSP
(ISC)² often benchmarks salaries in its Cybersecurity Workforce Study. And according to it, a CISSP can expect to earn an average salary of:
Region | Annual Salary |
Globally | $92,639 |
North America | $120,552 |
Europe, Middle East, and Africa | $81,568 |
Asia Pacific | $57,179 |
Latin America | $22,014 |
CPE (Continuing Professional Education) Required for CRISC And CISSP
Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits are important to attain if an applicant wishes to keep their certification valid. These can be achieved through various courses, conferences, and other materials that are essential to keeping your knowledge up-to-date.
CRISC
In order to maintain their CRISC certification, candidates are required to earn a minimum of 20 CPEs annually and a total of 120 CPEs over a 3-year period.
CISSP
Candidates must earn 40 continuing professional education (CPE) credits annually, and 120 credits over a three-year period to maintain (ISC)² membership.
CRISC vs CISSP: The Better Option
CRISC and CISSP certifications cater to distinct aspects of cybersecurity and information risk management. While CRISC focuses on risk identification, assessment, and control assurance, CISSP offers a broader coverage of information security domains. Professionals seeking careers in risk management, control assurance, and IT governance might find CRISC more suitable, while those aspiring to become security managers, consultants, or IT auditors may prefer CISSP.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue CRISC or CISSP certification depends on an individual’s career aspirations, existing skill set, and the specific cybersecurity role they wish to pursue. Whichever path they choose, obtaining either of these prestigious certifications will undoubtedly enhance their expertise and contribute significantly to their cybersecurity career advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is CRISC certification worth it?
The CRISC certification is well renowned in the GRC space and can help validate your knowledge and skills in this area. Additionally, by aiding you in displaying your competence in the field, you may have a better chance at a lucrative future as it may improve your job prospects and marketability.
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Is CRISC for beginners?
The CRISC certification is aimed at professionals looking to become risk management experts. However, it may not be appropriate for security and risk audit beginners since it requires comprehensive prior knowledge and experience in the areas of risk management and internal controls.
How to prepare for the CRISC Certification Exam?
In order to prepare for the CRISC certification exam, you can take help from the official resources available on their website. However, oftentimes, that on its own is not enough. Hence, you can get help from our CRISC exam dumps that contain real exam questions with verified answers to aid candidates in leaving no stone unturned when preparing for the CRISC exam.
How to prepare for the CISSP Certification Exam?
The CISSP exam is considered to be a relatively difficult exam and hence, it is essential to appear in it with good preparation. (ISC)² provides candidates with multiple study resources and guides, especially an official study guide for the CISSP certification exam.
In addition, you can always use exam dumps to prepare better for your certification exam. Our 2023 CISSP exam dumps at Dumpsgate provide genuine exam questions supported by verified answers. These can help candidates appear more confidently in their actual CISSP exam.
Is the CISSP certification worth it?
The CISSP certification is a highly valued certification in the IT and cybersecurity space. CISSP certification can help professionals demonstrate their updated knowledge and skills, resulting in better job opportunities, improved salary packages, and enhanced marketability in the cybersecurity sector.
Is CISSP for beginners?
While beginners in the IS security space can work towards getting their CISSP, it is usually not recommended. However, you can always complete your five years of industry experience after getting your CISSP certification.