Are you considering a career in IT security and aiming to obtain CISSP certification? Perhaps you're intrigued by the idea of creating successful IT security architectures. Or maybe you simply want to upgrade your skills and enhance your resume. Whatever your reason for pursuing this credential, once you've made the decision, the next question that likely arises is how to go about it. How can you select the best books and study materials, create a study schedule, and embark on your journey toward information security expertise?
Preparing for a challenging test like the CISSP can be overwhelming, which is why we've compiled a helpful list of the top books to read at each stage of the process. In addition, this post will provide you with the best exam prep tips to help you successfully pass the CISSP exam in 2023.
Top 8 CISSP Study Books for 2023: Must-Have Resources for Exam Preparation -
Beginners Guide on the Information Technology: CISSP -
The "CISSP: A Comprehensive Beginners Guide on the Information Technology" is a study guide specifically designed for beginners, providing a comprehensive overview of the key concepts and domains covered in the exam in an accessible and easy-to-understand manner. Written in a clear and concise manner, this book covers the fundamental principles of information security, risk management, cryptography, and more, making it accessible to those new to the field. It includes practical examples, case studies, and review questions to reinforce understanding, making it an ideal starting point for candidates beginning their journey.
CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition -
The "CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition" is a comprehensive and in-depth exam preparation resource that provides detailed coverage of all eight CISSP domains. Written by a renowned expert in the field, this book offers comprehensive coverage of the CISSP CBK, including practical examples, real-world scenarios, and practice questions. It also includes access to online resources, such as practice exams and flashcards, to aid in exam preparation. With its comprehensive coverage and practical approach, this book is a valuable resource for candidates looking for a comprehensive study guide to help them prepare for the exam.
The NIST Security and Privacy Controls Special Publication, 800-53 Revision 5 -
The NIST Security and Privacy Controls Special Publication, 800-53 Revision 5 is a comprehensive and authoritative resource published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for information security and privacy professionals. This publication provides detailed guidance on the selection and implementation of security and privacy controls for federal information systems in the United States. It covers a wide range of topics, including risk management, access control, audit and accountability, cryptography, and more. The latest revision, Revision 5, incorporates updates and improvements to align with current cybersecurity and privacy best practices.
CISSP in 3 Weeks: The CISSP DIY Manual -
The CISSP In 3 Weeks: The CISSP DIY Manual" is a targeted and pragmatic study guide intended to assist candidates in preparing for the exam within a brief duration. Authored by a seasoned professional, this manual offers a concise and actionable approach to mastering the key concepts and domains of the CISSP CBK. With a three-week study plan, practical tips, and exam strategies, this DIY manual provides candidates with an efficient and effective path to exam success. It is ideal for those who are looking for an accelerated approach to preparation or need to optimize their study time while maintaining a strong focus on exam readiness.
CISSP Exam Cram, 3rd edition -
The "CISSP Exam Cram, 3rd edition" is an all-encompassing exam preparation resource that succinctly condenses the extensive CISSP CBK (Common Body of Knowledge) into a concise and easily understandable format. Written by experienced trainers, this book provides targeted coverage of the key exam topics, along with practice questions, exam alerts, and tips for exam day. It offers a focused and efficient approach to exam preparation, making it an ideal resource for candidates seeking a quick review before the exam. With its comprehensive content and exam-focused approach, "CISSP Exam Cram" is a valuable tool for candidates looking to reinforce their knowledge and boost their confidence for the exam.
CISSP for Dummies by Lawrence C. Miller -
CISSP for Dummies" by Lawrence C. Miller is a comprehensive guide that simplifies the complex concepts and principles of CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification. Written in an easy-to-understand language, this book is designed to help beginners and experienced professionals alike in their preparation for the exam. It covers all eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) and provides practical tips, practice questions, and real-world examples to reinforce learning. With its practical approach and user-friendly style, "CISSP for Dummies" is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to achieve CISSP certification and excel in the field of information security.
3rd Edition by Eric Conrad, Seth Misenar, and Joshua Feldman: Eleventh Hour CISSP® -
Eleventh Hour CISSP®: 3rd Edition" by Eric Conrad, Seth Misenar, and Joshua Feldman is a highly regarded and concise study guide for CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification. With a focus on the key concepts and exam essentials, this book is designed to help candidates review and reinforce their knowledge in the final stages of exam preparation. It covers all eight domains in a condensed format, providing important information, practice questions, and exam tips. The third edition also includes updates to reflect the latest changes in the exam. "Eleventh Hour CISSP®" is a valuable resource for candidates looking to optimize their study efforts and achieve success in the exam.
How to Think Like a Manager for the CISSP Exam by Luke Ahmed -
How to Think like a Manager for the CISSP Exam" by Luke Ahmed is a unique study guide that focuses on developing a managerial mindset for tackling the CISSP exam. It goes beyond technical knowledge and delves into the strategic and organizational aspects of information security management. The book offers practical guidance on critical thinking, risk management, business continuity planning, and more, helping candidates approach the exam with a managerial perspective. With real-world examples and case studies, this book provides valuable insights on how to think like a manager in the context of the exam, making it a valuable resource for candidates seeking to elevate their strategic thinking skills.
Important pointers:
● This certification was launched in 1994 and is highly sought after by employers, with LinkedIn often requesting it.
● The CISSP exam is offered in 882 locations across 114 countries and is available in eight languages.
● To obtain the certification, you need at least five years of professional information security experience and a recommendation from another CISSP-certified expert.
● If you hold a four-year degree or other (ISC)2 certified credentials, you may be eligible for a one-year waiver for professional experience.
● The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions, and a passing score requires at least 70% correct answers.
Tips the preparation CISSP exam:
Preparing for the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification exam can be a daunting task. The exam is known for its challenging questions and extensive coverage of various domains related to information security. However, with proper planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of success. In this article, we will discuss some tips to help you prepare for the exam.
Create robust plan:
Creating a structured plan is the foundation of any successful exam preparation strategy. Start by developing a plan that outlines how you will approach the exam questions. Begin with the questions you are confident about, as this will help you build momentum and boost your confidence. Next, tackle the questions that challenge you, giving them careful consideration and coming up with a well-thought-out solution. Finally, address the questions that you are unsure about, taking your time to think through them thoroughly. This approach allows you to manage your time effectively and ensures that you give equal attention to all questions. Having a structured plan in place helps you stay organized and focused during your exam preparation, which is critical for success.
Never do the rote learning:
Avoid relying solely on rote learning for the exam. Many questions on the exam require applying knowledge to real-world scenarios rather than memorizing irrelevant details. Instead of memorizing facts and figures, focus on understanding the underlying concepts and principles of information security. Gain a deep understanding of the key concepts, methodologies, and best practices related to each domain covered in the exam. This will not only help you answer the exam questions accurately but also enable you to apply your knowledge effectively in real-world situations.
Understand all domains:
The CISSP exam covers eight domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering, communication and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security. It is essential to study material for all eight domains thoroughly, rather than just focusing on a few domains. Don't ignore any domain as questions can come from any area. Develop proficiency in all domains and be prepared to demonstrate your knowledge in each domain during the exam. It is also crucial to have a good understanding of how these domains are interconnected and how they collectively contribute to the overall information security posture of an organization.
Attempt mock exams:
Practicing with mock exams is an excellent way to gauge your preparedness for the CISSP exam. Mock exams simulate the actual exam environment and help you identify your strengths and weaknesses. They also give you a sense of the exam format, types of questions, and the pace at which you need to answer the questions. Official (ISC)2 CISSP study guides are a reputable source for practice questions. However, consider using additional reliable sources for a diverse set of practice questions. Analyze your performance in the mock exams, and use the results to fine-tune your study efforts. Focus on areas where you need improvement and revise your study materials accordingly.
Join online community:
The certification is highly sought after, and there is a vibrant online community of CISSP applicants and certified professionals who share their experiences and insights on forums and blogs. Joining this community can be a valuable source of information and support during your exam preparation journey. Interact with fellow CISSP aspirants, seek guidance from certified professionals, and participate in discussions on exam-related topics. However, always verify the validity of the sources you use and cross-check information from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. The online community can provide valuable insights into what to expect on the exam day and help you better prepare for the exam.
Sign-up for online training:
Enrolling in a CISSP online course in Riyadh, whether online or in-person, can be a wise decision to enhance your exam readiness. These courses are typically led by experienced instructors who have in-depth knowledge of the CISSP domains and can provide valuable insights and guidance. You can learn from their expertise and experience, and they can help you understand complex concepts, clarify doubts, and provide practical tips for exam success.
One of the significant advantages of a preparation course is the opportunity to network with peers who are also preparing for the exam. Interacting with other professionals who share the same goal can be motivating and helpful. You can exchange study materials, discuss challenging topics, and learn from each other's perspectives. Networking with peers can also provide valuable insights into the exam experience, exam day strategies, and post-exam scenarios.
Summing up:
This credential is a highly sought-after credential for information security professionals, and proper exam preparation is essential for success. Along with various exam preparation tips, choosing the right study materials is crucial, and the 8 Best CISSP Books for 2023 offer valuable resources for CISSP exam aspirants. These books provide comprehensive coverage of the eight CISSP domains, along with practical guidance, practice questions, and real-world scenarios to help candidates thoroughly understand the concepts and principles required for the exam.
By incorporating these recommended CISSP books into their study plan, candidates can enhance their knowledge, improve their exam readiness, and increase their chances of passing the exam. It is important to remember that a structured approach to studying, along with consistent practice and understanding of the concepts, is key to success in the certification journey.
Additionally, candidates should also consider other exam prep tips such as creating a study schedule, practicing with mock exams, joining online communities for support and insights, and enrolling in a certification preparation course if possible. Continuous learning and professional development are also essential to maintain the certification and stay updated with the evolving landscape of information security.
With the right study materials, proper exam preparation, and a commitment to continuous learning, aspiring candidates can position themselves for success in 2023 and beyond.
Good luck with your CISSP exam preparation!
