How CISSP Books and Study Guides Help You Prepare for Your Exam
If you've been pursuing a career in IT security, then you've probably already heard of the CISSP certification. However, what exactly is it, and why is it so valuable to IT professionals?
Moreover, what should you do to get this certification? It stands to reason that any certification needs an exam, and every exam needs to be prepared for. So, how can you prepare yourself for the CISSP? Well, you get yourself some CISSP books and study guides, make a study plan, and start studying.
That's why, in this article, we've put together some of the best books to help you on your journey to becoming a CISSP-certified professional. You'll see how these books will help you prepare for your exam, as well as be able to find the right book for you. So, let's start from the beginning, shall we?
Moreover, what should you do to get this certification? It stands to reason that any certification needs an exam, and every exam needs to be prepared for. So, how can you prepare yourself for the CISSP? Well, you get yourself some CISSP books and study guides, make a study plan, and start studying.
That's why, in this article, we've put together some of the best books to help you on your journey to becoming a CISSP-certified professional. You'll see how these books will help you prepare for your exam, as well as be able to find the right book for you. So, let's start from the beginning, shall we?
What Is the CISSP Exam?
The Certified Information Systems Security Professionals certification, or CISSP in short, is an internationally-recognized and valued certification for all IT security professionals.
Having this certification is the equivalent of having a master's degree in cyber security. Basically, it proves that you have what it takes to create and manage top-rate security programs in an easy and effective manner. As such, you can validate your skills to yourself and to others, and you'll be able to land better jobs with a better paycheck.
You may ask yourself, why is this certification so valuable to have?
Well, to get certified, you need to be endorsed by a CISSP holder, have at least five years of professional experience in the field, as well as pass a rigorous exam set by the (ISC)². If you can check all the boxes, so to speak, your expertise will be undeniable to anyone in the IT security profession.
Having this certification is the equivalent of having a master's degree in cyber security. Basically, it proves that you have what it takes to create and manage top-rate security programs in an easy and effective manner. As such, you can validate your skills to yourself and to others, and you'll be able to land better jobs with a better paycheck.
You may ask yourself, why is this certification so valuable to have?
Well, to get certified, you need to be endorsed by a CISSP holder, have at least five years of professional experience in the field, as well as pass a rigorous exam set by the (ISC)². If you can check all the boxes, so to speak, your expertise will be undeniable to anyone in the IT security profession.
What are the Benefits of Getting CISSP Certified?
Currently, there are approximately 160,000 members of (ISC)² with a CISSP certification, which really shows you how sought-after this certification is. But why exactly is the CISSP so desirable to those pursuing a career in IT security?
Well, to start, the CISSP is able to provide clients and employers with a measurable way of confirming your knowledge and experience in cyber security. Basically, it shows them that you know the information you need to know as well as how to put that information into practice.
As such, you'll have a much better chance of advancing your career with this certification. As a matter of fact, if you're looking to specialize in cyber defense analysis, cyber incident response, cyber defense infrastructure support, or vulnerability assessment and management, you'll need the CISSP to reach your goal.
The same goes if you're looking to be an infosec analyst, systems analyst, enterprise architect, IT project manager, information security systems manager, or a cyber security executive. Without the CISSP, you won't be able to land those jobs as they usually require all applicants to have a CISSP certification.
So, if you're not particularly interested in those aspects, should you still go for your CISSP?
Absolutely.
Why? Well, to put it simply, the CISSP can improve your earning potential. Some interesting tidbits of information for you; the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) revealed that having an advanced certification like the CISSP can result in a 26% salary increase. In 2022, a cybersecurity role ranked highest in a 100 best jobs list.
Of course, there are numerous other benefits of having the CISSP certification, such as improving your IT security skills and productivity and staying on top of emerging technologies in the field. But the most important thing is that it gives you and your work credibility in front of any prospective client or employer.
Well, to start, the CISSP is able to provide clients and employers with a measurable way of confirming your knowledge and experience in cyber security. Basically, it shows them that you know the information you need to know as well as how to put that information into practice.
As such, you'll have a much better chance of advancing your career with this certification. As a matter of fact, if you're looking to specialize in cyber defense analysis, cyber incident response, cyber defense infrastructure support, or vulnerability assessment and management, you'll need the CISSP to reach your goal.
The same goes if you're looking to be an infosec analyst, systems analyst, enterprise architect, IT project manager, information security systems manager, or a cyber security executive. Without the CISSP, you won't be able to land those jobs as they usually require all applicants to have a CISSP certification.
So, if you're not particularly interested in those aspects, should you still go for your CISSP?
Absolutely.
Why? Well, to put it simply, the CISSP can improve your earning potential. Some interesting tidbits of information for you; the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE) revealed that having an advanced certification like the CISSP can result in a 26% salary increase. In 2022, a cybersecurity role ranked highest in a 100 best jobs list.
Of course, there are numerous other benefits of having the CISSP certification, such as improving your IT security skills and productivity and staying on top of emerging technologies in the field. But the most important thing is that it gives you and your work credibility in front of any prospective client or employer.
How Difficult is the CISSP Exam?
Unfortunately, the CISSP isn't that easy to pass, and rightly so. Since having a CISSP certification is so valuable, the exam can't exactly be a walk in the park. In fact, it's been estimated that the pass rate of the CISSP exam is 50% or even less.
So, how hard is it exactly? You're looking at a 4-hour examination consisting of 125-175 multiple choice and advanced innovative items that test you on everything from terminologies to acronyms and definitions. Accordingly, if you don't hit the books before your examination, it's highly likely that you won't achieve the required 70% passing score.
So, how hard is it exactly? You're looking at a 4-hour examination consisting of 125-175 multiple choice and advanced innovative items that test you on everything from terminologies to acronyms and definitions. Accordingly, if you don't hit the books before your examination, it's highly likely that you won't achieve the required 70% passing score.
Can you Pass the Exam without Preparation?
An average person will find it nearly impossible to pass the CISSP without thorough preparation. You may be absolutely brilliant when it comes to practical application; however, the CISSP is equally focused on theoretical knowledge and understanding. Think definitions and the like. So, unless you brush up on your domain knowledge before you take the exam, you're more than likely to fail, wasting your time and examination fee in the process.
However, you can't exactly read any IT security book before your examination and hope for the best. It may be outdated, or it may not contain the information that you need to know to answer all the questions successfully.
So, what should you do? The answer is simple. You get yourself some CISSP books and study guides to help you on your path to being a certified IT security professional.
However, you can't exactly read any IT security book before your examination and hope for the best. It may be outdated, or it may not contain the information that you need to know to answer all the questions successfully.
So, what should you do? The answer is simple. You get yourself some CISSP books and study guides to help you on your path to being a certified IT security professional.
How CISSP Books and Study Guides Can Help You Pass Your Examination
You have to understand that the CISSP exam is not intended to be passed by a beginner. Yes, the exam isn't a technical exam, but it still measures your ability as an experienced IT professional. So, when it comes to books and study materials, there isn't a specific book that'll allow newbies to pass.
However, if you have sufficient experience, then some books can help you prepare thoroughly for the exam. These books will give you the basics of each domain, and they'll also list multiple resources to help you better navigate those domains.
That being so, you'll be able to refresh your knowledge and become much more confident in your grasp of the material. Then, when you add this to your field experience, you'll have much better odds of passing your examination from the first try.
As with anything, you need to put in the effort to see the results. You may need anywhere from 40 to 70 hours to properly prepare for your test. Many people have gone into the exam feeling confident in their practical skills without reading a book or study guide and have lived to regret it.
So, do the work, study the right books, and you'll be able to get that certification, no problem.
However, if you have sufficient experience, then some books can help you prepare thoroughly for the exam. These books will give you the basics of each domain, and they'll also list multiple resources to help you better navigate those domains.
That being so, you'll be able to refresh your knowledge and become much more confident in your grasp of the material. Then, when you add this to your field experience, you'll have much better odds of passing your examination from the first try.
As with anything, you need to put in the effort to see the results. You may need anywhere from 40 to 70 hours to properly prepare for your test. Many people have gone into the exam feeling confident in their practical skills without reading a book or study guide and have lived to regret it.
So, do the work, study the right books, and you'll be able to get that certification, no problem.
The Best Books and Study Guides for the CISSP Exam
Now that you know that studying is an important part of passing the CISSP, you need to know which books are best situated for the job. Here, at CISSPNOW, we've got our own ebook that'll help you on your journey. So, make sure to check it out and also take a look at the following books and study guides.
1. (ISC)² CISSP Certified Information Systems Security Professional Official Study Guide
The 9th edition of the (ISC)² CISSP study guide is one of the best books that'll help you prepare for the exam. It's updated based on the latest exam outline, and it basically covers all the exam objectives.
Since this book is written by experts with decades of experience in the IT security field, you'll be able to effectively prepare for your examination. Using this book, you'll be able to learn exam essentials as well as test your understanding with chapter review questions. Moreover, you'll get access to the Sybex online learning platform.
So, all in all, this study guide will provide you with all you need to pass the exam.
The 9th edition of the (ISC)² CISSP study guide is one of the best books that'll help you prepare for the exam. It's updated based on the latest exam outline, and it basically covers all the exam objectives.
Since this book is written by experts with decades of experience in the IT security field, you'll be able to effectively prepare for your examination. Using this book, you'll be able to learn exam essentials as well as test your understanding with chapter review questions. Moreover, you'll get access to the Sybex online learning platform.
So, all in all, this study guide will provide you with all you need to pass the exam.
2. The Official (ISC)² CISSP CBK Reference
Looking for an official and comprehensive guide to your CISSP exam? Then, the (ISC)² Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) should be your go-to.
It goes into detail, leaving you with a much better understanding of each and every topic. Accordingly, not only does this book benefit those taking the CISSP examination, but it also helps professionals wishing to expand their knowledge and advance their careers.
Basically, it covers the current eight domains of CISSP and goes over the 300+ CISSP objectives. Moreover, it teaches you how to apply that knowledge in real-life.
Its only con is that some readers may find the book too long and wordy. It's even called the "brick" by some due to its occasional fluff content. So, keep that in mind when getting this book.
Looking for an official and comprehensive guide to your CISSP exam? Then, the (ISC)² Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) should be your go-to.
It goes into detail, leaving you with a much better understanding of each and every topic. Accordingly, not only does this book benefit those taking the CISSP examination, but it also helps professionals wishing to expand their knowledge and advance their careers.
Basically, it covers the current eight domains of CISSP and goes over the 300+ CISSP objectives. Moreover, it teaches you how to apply that knowledge in real-life.
Its only con is that some readers may find the book too long and wordy. It's even called the "brick" by some due to its occasional fluff content. So, keep that in mind when getting this book.
3. Eleventh Hour CISSP®: Study Guide
On the opposite side of the spectrum, we've got the Eleventh Hour CISSP. If you need to prepare for your exam fast, then this book is for you. It's perfectly suited for last-minute studying as it's concise and straight to the point, listing only the core information needed for the examination.
While various other books do the same, the easy and effective presentation of this book is what sets it apart and makes it invaluable for procrastinators and people short on time. It contains no fluff and highlights the key elements needed for a last-minute cram session. Moreover, it answers the most difficult question you may find in the exam.
Thankfully, The Eleventh Hour is consistently updated according to the latest version of the (ISC)² Common Body of Knowledge, which makes it perfect for both first-timers and professionals wishing to update their CISSP certifications.
Still, if you don't have a firm grasp on the basics, then it's best you leave The Eleventh Hour in lieu of a more comprehensive book.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, we've got the Eleventh Hour CISSP. If you need to prepare for your exam fast, then this book is for you. It's perfectly suited for last-minute studying as it's concise and straight to the point, listing only the core information needed for the examination.
While various other books do the same, the easy and effective presentation of this book is what sets it apart and makes it invaluable for procrastinators and people short on time. It contains no fluff and highlights the key elements needed for a last-minute cram session. Moreover, it answers the most difficult question you may find in the exam.
Thankfully, The Eleventh Hour is consistently updated according to the latest version of the (ISC)² Common Body of Knowledge, which makes it perfect for both first-timers and professionals wishing to update their CISSP certifications.
Still, if you don't have a firm grasp on the basics, then it's best you leave The Eleventh Hour in lieu of a more comprehensive book.
4. CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide
Coming from the internationally-acclaimed IT security training expert Shon Harris, the CISSP All-in-One exam guide is another gem when it comes to CISSP preparation. It covers all CISSP domains, and it offers thorough explanations, exam tips, and practice questions.
Impressively, the online content of this book contains 1400+ practice questions as well as graphical question quizzes and a test engine that can customize quizzes according to chapters or domains. Accordingly, it prevents you from getting a whole other book dedicated to practice questions.
Just keep in mind that this is one of the lengthier books out there, which can seem a bit overwhelming if you're simply preparing for an exam. You also need to know that some materials may not be relevant to the exam. Nevertheless, it makes for a great reference book.
Coming from the internationally-acclaimed IT security training expert Shon Harris, the CISSP All-in-One exam guide is another gem when it comes to CISSP preparation. It covers all CISSP domains, and it offers thorough explanations, exam tips, and practice questions.
Impressively, the online content of this book contains 1400+ practice questions as well as graphical question quizzes and a test engine that can customize quizzes according to chapters or domains. Accordingly, it prevents you from getting a whole other book dedicated to practice questions.
Just keep in mind that this is one of the lengthier books out there, which can seem a bit overwhelming if you're simply preparing for an exam. You also need to know that some materials may not be relevant to the exam. Nevertheless, it makes for a great reference book.
5. CISSP Cert Guide (Certification Guide)
Another great book that'll help you master the basic concepts needed for your examination is the CISSP Cert Guide.
It's quite detailed, especially in the personal security and cryptographic fields, yet it's written in a simple format that makes it easy to follow and comprehend.
Moreover, it offers many assessment features such as challenging chapter-reviewing quizzes in addition to exam preparation tasks and questions, which will help you to assess your weakness and strengths. And if that wasn't enough, it also has a final chapter that's dedicated to guiding you through your final study plan.
Nonetheless, you should note that this book is only useful as an exam preparation guide, and if that's the only thing you're looking for in a book, then go for it. However, if you're looking for a book that'll also serve as a reference book after your examination, then it's best you choose another one.
Another great book that'll help you master the basic concepts needed for your examination is the CISSP Cert Guide.
It's quite detailed, especially in the personal security and cryptographic fields, yet it's written in a simple format that makes it easy to follow and comprehend.
Moreover, it offers many assessment features such as challenging chapter-reviewing quizzes in addition to exam preparation tasks and questions, which will help you to assess your weakness and strengths. And if that wasn't enough, it also has a final chapter that's dedicated to guiding you through your final study plan.
Nonetheless, you should note that this book is only useful as an exam preparation guide, and if that's the only thing you're looking for in a book, then go for it. However, if you're looking for a book that'll also serve as a reference book after your examination, then it's best you choose another one.
6. The CISSP Study Guide
Though a bit outdated, the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad, Seth Misenar, and Joshua Feldman is another popular CISSP preparation book. Since the authors are all experts in their fields, many IT security professionals find this book quite dependable and trustworthy.
Thankfully, it's not too long, coming only at 600 something pages as opposed to the other books with 1000+ pages. That doesn't mean it skips out on any important information; the topics are just covered concisely, and the technical aspects aren't overdone. To top it off, the book has various exam warnings scattered throughout it, as well as learning-by-example modules, chapter-ending quizzes, and hands-on exercises.
But again, some readers may find this book a bit too brief for their liking, constantly checking other references to better understand a topic.
Though a bit outdated, the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad, Seth Misenar, and Joshua Feldman is another popular CISSP preparation book. Since the authors are all experts in their fields, many IT security professionals find this book quite dependable and trustworthy.
Thankfully, it's not too long, coming only at 600 something pages as opposed to the other books with 1000+ pages. That doesn't mean it skips out on any important information; the topics are just covered concisely, and the technical aspects aren't overdone. To top it off, the book has various exam warnings scattered throughout it, as well as learning-by-example modules, chapter-ending quizzes, and hands-on exercises.
But again, some readers may find this book a bit too brief for their liking, constantly checking other references to better understand a topic.
7. CISSP for Dummies
If you get overwhelmed by verbose books, then this modest study guide will be just the thing you need. Don't let the name offend you. Just because it says it's for dummies doesn't mean that it's not valuable to any CISSP taker.
It covers all the topics covered by the exam, and it provides various assessment tools and prep tests to measure your comprehension. It even includes a sample exam, tips on setting up a 2-month study plan, as well as test-taking tips and tricks.
However, the best thing about it is that it comes with the Dummies Test Engine, which allows you to solve hundreds of review questions.
So, if you're looking for an easy read that'll sufficiently prepare you for your exam, then go with CISSP for Dummies.
If you get overwhelmed by verbose books, then this modest study guide will be just the thing you need. Don't let the name offend you. Just because it says it's for dummies doesn't mean that it's not valuable to any CISSP taker.
It covers all the topics covered by the exam, and it provides various assessment tools and prep tests to measure your comprehension. It even includes a sample exam, tips on setting up a 2-month study plan, as well as test-taking tips and tricks.
However, the best thing about it is that it comes with the Dummies Test Engine, which allows you to solve hundreds of review questions.
So, if you're looking for an easy read that'll sufficiently prepare you for your exam, then go with CISSP for Dummies.
8. How to Think Like a Manager for the CISSP Exam
Our final recommendation is How to Think Like a Manager for the CISSP exam. This short read will give you the final push to pass your exam. While you can't entirely depend on it, it's still highly valuable to all CISSP exam takers.
It'll teach its reader how to think and act less from a technical approach to more of a big-picture one, which is absolutely crucial if you're planning on being a part of the senior management team. So, pick this book up a week or two before your examination, and you'll have a much broader perspective than you ever did.
Our final recommendation is How to Think Like a Manager for the CISSP exam. This short read will give you the final push to pass your exam. While you can't entirely depend on it, it's still highly valuable to all CISSP exam takers.
It'll teach its reader how to think and act less from a technical approach to more of a big-picture one, which is absolutely crucial if you're planning on being a part of the senior management team. So, pick this book up a week or two before your examination, and you'll have a much broader perspective than you ever did.
Conclusion
Having a career in IT security is pretty alluring. It's one of the least stressful jobs on the market, yet one of the most lucrative. And it can get even more lucrative if you have a CISSP certification.
However, that certification doesn't come for cheap. You have to put in the effort to come by it. So, you need to make your preparations and study well!
That's why you need to find the right book / study guide that will set you on the right path, and the books and study guides we've mentioned are the best of the best. So, choose one you like, and once you've brushed up on all the key information, take your shot at getting your CISSP certification.
However, that certification doesn't come for cheap. You have to put in the effort to come by it. So, you need to make your preparations and study well!
That's why you need to find the right book / study guide that will set you on the right path, and the books and study guides we've mentioned are the best of the best. So, choose one you like, and once you've brushed up on all the key information, take your shot at getting your CISSP certification.
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