In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity is more critical than ever. As organizations and individuals alike become increasingly reliant on digital technology, the need for skilled professionals to protect sensitive information and systems has grown exponentially. Two of the most respected certifications in the field are the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). In this blog, we will explore the differences between these two certifications to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for your career path.
| SSCP | CISSP |
| For people in operational IT jobs who have demonstrated technical proficiency and practical, hands-on security knowledge, the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification is the best option. It demonstrates a practitioner's capacity to implement, oversee, and manage IT infrastructure in line with information security policies and practices that guarantee data confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility. | The information security industry's most widely recognized qualification is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). The CISSP certifies an information security professional's profound technical, managerial, and engineering knowledge and expertise to successfully design, engineer, and manage an organization's total security state. |
| SSCP | CISSP CAT | CISSP LINEAR |
| 150 | 125 - 175 | 250 |
| SSCP | CISSP CAT | CISSP LINEAR |
| Multiple choice | Multiple choice and advanced innovative items | Multiple choice and advanced innovative items |
| SSCP | CISSP CAT | CISSP LINEAR |
| 4 hours | 4 hours | 6 hours |
Read more: A Critical Analysis of CISSP and CCSP
| SSCP | CISSP CAT | CISSP LINEAR |
| 700 out of 1000 points | 700 out of 1000 points | 700 out of 1000 points |
| SSCP | CISSP CAT | CISSP LINEAR |
| English, Chinese, German, Japanese, Korean and Spanish | English | Chinese, German, Japanese, Korean, Spanish |
Read more: CISSP vs CISM: Which one is right for you
| SSCP | CISSP CAT | CISSP LINEAR |
| Pearson VUE Testing Center | ISC2 Authorized PPC and PVTC Select Pearson VUE Testing Centers | ISC2 Authorized PPC and PVTC Select Pearson VUE Testing Centers |
| SSCP | CISSP |
| Candidates must have a minimum of one year cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP CBK. A one year prerequisite pathway will be granted for candidates who received a degree (bachelors or masters) in a cybersecurity program. | Candidates must have a minimum of five years cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP CBK. Earning a four-year college degree or regional equivalent or an additional credential from the ISC2 approved list will satisfy one year of the required experience. Education credit will only satisfy one year of experience. |
Read more: Updated CISSP Salary in 2023
| SSCP | CISSP |
| Moderate difficulty | High difficulty |
Both the SSCP and CISSP certifications have their merits and can significantly enhance your cybersecurity career. Your choice should align with your current experience level and your long-term career goals. If you’re just starting in the field or have limited experience, the SSCP provides an excellent foundation. For those with several years of experience and aspirations of holding senior cybersecurity positions, the CISSP is the gold standard.
Ultimately, the decision between SSCP vs. CISSP comes down to your experience, career aspirations, and the level of commitment you’re willing to put into your certification journey. Regardless of your choice, obtaining either of these certifications will validate your expertise and enhance your credibility in the cybersecurity industry, opening doors to exciting and rewarding career opportunities.
It would take 4-5 weeks to prepare for the SSCP exam.
It would take 2-3 weeks to prepare for the CISSP exam
Most reliable material to prepare for SSCP or CISSP exam is provided by Dumpsgate. It has expert-verified exam questions for the practice of the exam concepts.
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