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Don't be left behind- become a CCSP

Organizations are turning to multi-cloud operations for their IT needs, making vendor-neutral cloud security certifications essential resources. This multi-provider approach gives organizations greater flexibility as they access Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service( SaaS). Are you considering a career move that can boost your income, bolster your professional credibility and help protect vital resources in the cloud? 

Becoming a certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after credentials as organizations increasingly adopt cloud technologies to power digital transformation. With known advantages like increased exposure to new opportunities, improved marketability, and additional security know-how, there are plenty of reasons why earning a CCSP certification may be right for you — particularly in 2023! 

Read on to learn more about how this specialized credential could enable you to enhance your life professionally and financially. This certification is quickly becoming one of the top qualifications employers look for when hiring employees. This blog will explore the benefits of becoming a CCSP in 2023 and why it’s important for those interested in cloud security.

What is the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certification?

The CCSP certification is offered by ISC², an organization that specializes in certifying cybersecurity professionals worldwide. The CCSP certification provides the knowledge and skills required to design, implement, monitor, and manage secure cloud infrastructure. It also covers topics such as security protocols, data protection measures, cloud architecture, risk management strategies, and incident response. In order to qualify for the certification exam, individuals must have five years of cumulative experience in information technology and a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in one or more domains covered by the CCSP exam.

The Benefits of Becoming a CCSP in 2023

With the increasing demand for professionals with expertise in cloud computing, having a CCSP certification can be beneficial for those looking to work in this industry. Some key benefits include the following: 

  • Increased earning potential: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, those with a CCSP certification can expect to earn anywhere from 10-15% more than those without it. 

  • Increased job opportunities: Having a CCSP certification can show employers that you possess the skill set and knowledge required for cloud security positions. This can open up more job opportunities and make you an attractive candidate in the hiring process. 

  •  Professional recognition: Earning your CCSP certification is an excellent way to demonstrate your professional competency and dedication to mastering cloud security principles and practices. This can boost your reputation in the industry and give you greater credibility when seeking employment or collaborating on projects.

What Types of Jobs Require a CCSP?

The CCSP certification is commonly sought out by organizations looking for professionals with expertise in cloud security. Some of the most common job titles associated with CCSP include: 

  • Cloud Security Architect 

  • Cloud Security Engineer 

  • Cloud Security Analyst 

  • Cloud Auditor

How to Become a CCSP in 2023

Getting your CCSP certification requires passing the required exam and meeting certain eligibility requirements. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have five years of cumulative experience in IT and a minimum of three years of relevant experience in one or more domains covered by the CCSP exam. The exam consists of six domains:

  • Cloud Concepts, Architecture and Design

  • Cloud Data Security

  • Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security

  • Cloud Application Security

  • Cloud Security Operations

  • Legal, Risk and Compliance

To earn the CCSP designation, applicants must have at least five years of work experience in information security, cloud computing, and/or IT auditing and pass an exam administered by (ISC)². 

Here are the steps to becoming a CCSP:

1. Meet The Prerequisites: To be eligible for the CCSP certification program, candidates must meet certain prerequisites such as having an up-to-date information security-related certification and having at least five years of cumulative paid full-time professional experience in one or more of the domains.

2. Register for the Exam: Once you've determined that you meet all of the prerequisites for earning your CCSP certification, you can register for the exam directly through the (ISC)² website.

3. Prepare For The Exam: After registering for the exam, it's time to start preparing by reading through all of the materials provided by (ISC)² and studying any recommended textbooks or practice exams that are available online.

  • Books: The Official (ISC)² CCSP Study Guide: This comprehensive study guide contains in-depth explanations of all the concepts and topics that will be covered on the exam and includes a sample test with detailed answer explanations.

  • Book: CCSP For Dummies with Online Practice by Arthur Deane, is one the best sources I have come across.

  • Training Courses: In addition to studying from the official study guide, many candidates choose to enroll in online or in-person training courses which provide more hands-on instruction and practice exams. I like Mike Chapple course on LinkedIn Learning: Prepare for the (ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Certification Exam (2022)

  • Practice Exams: There are several practice exams available online that can help you get a better understanding of what type of questions you will encounter during the actual exam. One source I like is Pocket Prep, but there are many more out there.

  • Online Tutorials: There are also many tutorials available online that can provide valuable insight into the topics covered on the exam, as well as provide guidance on how to approach and answer each question correctly.

  • Aggregate note summaries on exam topics: https://ccsp.alukos.com/

4. Take The Exam: On test day, make sure you arrive early and with all of the necessary identification documents needed in order to take the exam. During this time, it's important not to talk or otherwise distract yourself or other test takers as this could result in disqualification from taking further exams.

5. Keep Your Certification Active: Finally, once you have earned your CCSP designation, you will need to maintain active certification status by participating in continuing education activities and renewing your membership with (ISC)² every three years in order to keep your certification active

Final Thoughts on Becoming a CCSP in 2023 

The CCSP has become one of the employers' top qualifications when hiring employees in this field. Earning your CCSP certification can provide numerous benefits, such as increased job opportunities and earning potential. Additionally, it is an excellent way to demonstrate mastery of cloud security principles and practices and gain professional recognition. With the demand for cloud computing professionals expected to grow in 2023, now is a great time to pursue a CCSP certification!

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Houman HadaeghCyberSecurity