From the entry-level EC-Council CEH to more advanced qualifications like the CISA certification, there’s no shortage of well-recognised cybersecurity credentials that can help IT professionals hone and validate their skills. Among this sea of options, however, only a few standout from the rest, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Due to its rigorous requirements and established status as a good benchmark of proficiency in information security, it has become one of the most highly sought-after certifications today and is often listed as a prerequisite for promotions and job listings. As such, the CISSP can serve as the next best step for experienced IT professionals to reach their goal of climbing up further the career ladder.
If you are eyeing this certification for your next goal, it is essential to know that even choosing the best CISSP training cannot 100% take you all the way to acing the exam. As such, consider complementing your structured review with tried-and-true study materials like the ones listed below to ensure you become fully prepared for success.
1. Destination CISSP Guide Book & Flashcard App
Destination CISSP: A Concise Guide is the perfect companion written by CISSP experts targeted towards professionals looking for a simple approach to the eight CISSP domains covered in the CISSP certification exam. What sets it apart from similar alternatives is its emphasis on the most vital aspects needed to succeed in the test as well as its detailed tables and diagrams that make for easier visualisation of the many complex ideas you need to wrap your head around. All in all, it provides users with expert-backed and reliable information that lets them zero in on what matters the most and focus on the critical topics that are expected to appear in the exam.
Additionally, it is also worth pairing this book with a related resource called the Destination CISSP Flashcard App. While not a traditional study guide, this innovative app can do much to improve your preparedness by helping you master the vast array of CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK) terms found in the exam. It also saves you from the tedium of rote memorisation and manually making a list of terms to keep in mind.
2. CISSP Official Study Guide
The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) provides an official CISSP study guide based on their most recent exam outline. It aligns with the CISSP CBK and features content that covers all eight domains to ensure you do not miss a thing once you sit for the exam. Best of all, the guide prioritises hands-on learning and thus comes with plenty of self-tests, practical exercises, self-tests, and real-life examples that make the prep process interactive and engaging. So, instead of just reading and memorising, you actually understand and apply the concepts as you go.
3. CISSP Official Practice Tests
Consistent practice can make all the difference when it comes to passing the CISSP exam with flying colours. The ISC2 CISSP Official Practice Tests provides invaluable opportunities for hands-on practice, offering a large pool of realistic questions across all eight domains of the CISSP CBK. Developed by the exam’s creators, this resource is carefully aligned with the CISSP exam’s format, difficulty, and style, helping candidates get comfortable with the testing experience.
In addition to the questions, this book includes comprehensive answers with explanations, breaking down the reasoning behind each solution. This instant feedback not only strengthens your understanding of the material but also helps refine your problem-solving skills, making it an essential tool for identifying and addressing weak areas.
4. Eleventh Hour CISSP
As exam day approaches, making the most of your study time is essential. The Eleventh Hour CISSP book is perfect for the final stretch before the big day, providing a concise yet thorough review of all critical CISSP exam content. It condenses complex topics into a quick, easy-to-navigate format, allowing for efficient study without sacrificing completeness.
Despite its “cramming” style, the book maintains full coverage of the eight CISSP domains, ensuring no major topics are overlooked. It hones in on high-yield areas most likely to appear on the exam, maximising the effectiveness of your last-minute review efforts and solidifying your confidence going into the test.
Conclusion
Preparation for the CISSP exam requires a strategic mix of resources to thoroughly cover the eight domains and ensure familiarity with the exam format. By combining focused review, consistent practice, and real-world application on top of professional review courses, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the CISSP exam and advance your cybersecurity career.
Should you ever need professional guidance and support on your preparation journey for the CISSP exam, look no further than BridgingMinds. With the help of our 5-day SF–Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) course, you’ll be equipped with the practical experience and technical expertise needed to secure success.
