If you want a career in information security, either as a software developer, programmer, systems administrator or troubleshooter, you will need to acquire a CISSP certification. Since 1989, when the standardization and professionalism of the industry through this certification system began, thousands of information systems security professionals in the world have been certified

For an individual to qualify for a CISSP certification, he needs to pass an exam and submit eligibility requirements to the certifying body. The comprehensive exam, usually multiple-choice, covers the diverse and specialized areas of information systems security. The topics covered in the exam include access control systems and methodology, applications and systems development, business continuity planning, cryptography, law, investigation and ethics, operations security; physical security, security architecture and models, security management practices, and telecommunications, network and Internet security.

As in most of the worlds standard certifications, there are accredited agencies that administer the CISSP certification. There are also those that offer review classes for applicants. There is a set of requirements that a candidate must satisfy before being considered. He must submit his application for an exam and pay the fee of about $500. The candidate must also possess a college degree and have actual work experience in the field for three to four years. The candidate must also agree to the terms and conditions of the CISSP code of ethics and behavior.

The second phase of the CISSP certification involves the actual examination. A candidate must successfully score at least 700 points in the test. However, a CISSP certification can only be issued after the candidate submits an endorsement form signed by a CISSP professional or a professional with knowledge on the field. The endorser will need to attest to the truthfulness of the information presented by the candidate in his application letter.

Once the CISSP certification is issued, the professional can use the title, recognized by industries all over the world.