Why Quora Fails to Understand the Value of a Global IT Security Certification

The term CISSP, or Certified Information Systems Security Professional, often confounds many discussions on Quora and elsewhere. Despite its global recognition, the focus frequently wavers, failing to align with its true significance. In this article, I will delve into the details of the CISSP certification, its recognition, and the reasons behind Quora's misconceptions.

Understanding the CISSP Certification

CISSP is a globally recognized certification in the field of information security awarded by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). This certification is not merely a badge, but a testament to one's in-depth knowledge and practical experience in implementing and managing a robust information systems security program. It signifies that the individual possesses a high level of expertise in defining, designing, implementing, and managing a secure information system.

The CISSP in Numbers

As of January 1, 2018, there were 122,289 individuals worldwide holding the CISSP certification across 166 countries. The United States alone held the highest number of members at 79,617, underscoring the high demand and recognition of this certification. This extensive network of certified individuals forms a strong support system and community of professionals dedicated to the highest standards in information security.

The Global Impact of CISSP

CISSP has been accredited under the ANSI-ISO/IEC Standard 17024:2003 since June 2004, ensuring its credibility and reliability. Furthermore, it is formally approved by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), which has recognized it for their Information Assurance Technical (IAT) and Managerial (IAM) categories under the DoDD 8570 certification requirement. This approval is a significant indicator of the certification's importance and its alignment with the highest standards in the industry.

Why Quora Misunderstands CISSP

Despite its widespread recognition and usage in the security industry, CISSP often faces misconceptions on platforms such as Quora. There are a few main reasons why this is the case:

General Awareness and Accessibility

One of the most significant reasons for misunderstanding CISSP is the general lack of awareness and accessibility to the information regarding this certification. Having been a programmer for 21 years, I only became aware of CISSP last year while pursuing my Master's degree. This indicates that many in the IT and security industry, especially those without higher educational or certification backgrounds, may not be familiar with the CISSP or its requirements.

Complexity and Cost

CISSP is known to provide a challenging examination that demands a significant investment of time and resources. The certification costs around $500, and the test is demanding, covering a broad range of topics. Many on Quora may dismiss the certification as unattainable or unnecessary without understanding the depth and breadth of the knowledge it represents.

Non-Technical Focus on Quora

The platform on Quora often caters to a more general audience, with most discussions revolving around technical solutions to everyday problems. CISSP, however, represents a more strategic and overarching approach to information security, which may not align with the typical questions and discussions on the platform. Consequently, even those familiar with CISSP may fail to fully appreciate its significance and value in a broader context.

Conclusion

CISSP is a benchmark certification in the field of information security, recognized globally and backed by a robust network of professionals. The misconceptions on platforms like Quora arise from a lack of awareness, the complexity of the certification, and the platform's focus on technical solutions. By understanding the value and breadth of CISSP, we can ensure that these discussions are more aligned with the true significance of this certification.