Chapter 1. Becoming a CISSP

This chapter presents the following

• The definition of a CISSP

• Reasons to become a CISSP

• What the CISSP exam entails

• The Common Body of Knowledge and what it contains

• The history of (ISC)² and the CISSP exam

• Recertification requirements

• An assessment test to gauge your current knowledge of security

This book is intended not only to provide you with the necessary information to help you gain a CISSP certification, but also to welcome you into the exciting and challenging world of security.

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam covers ten different subjects, more commonly referred to as domains. The subject matter of each domain can easily be seen as its own area of study, and in many cases individuals work exclusively in these fields as experts. For many of these subjects, extensive resources can be consulted and referenced to become an expert in that area. Because of this, a common misconception is that the only way to succeed at the CISSP exam is to immerse yourself in a massive stack of texts and study materials. Fortunately, an easier approach exists. By using this fourth edition of the CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide, you can successfully complete and pass the CISSP exam and achieve your CISSP certification. The goal of this book is to combine into a single resource all the information you need to pass the CISSP exam. This book should also serve as a useful reference tool long after you’ve achieved your CISSP certification.