If you’re considering a cybersecurity career, you might be familiar with the Certified Authorization Professional (CAP) certification. This certification, offered by ISC2, is widely recognized as the standard for demonstrating proficiency in Risk Management Framework (RMF) and security documentation. ISC2 CAP certification verifies a person’s expertise in utilizing different frameworks to manage risk and authorize and maintain information systems.
Target Audience
The CAP certification is well-suited for IT, information security, and cybersecurity individuals responsible for managing information systems risk. It is also beneficial for those who authorize and maintain such systems. Job positions that would benefit from this certification include:
System security officers, managers, and other information security and cybersecurity practitioners focused on risk management and continuous monitoring issues.
Executives are accountable for accepting system risk and authorizing systems to operate.
Auditors who conduct independent reviews
Program managers who develop or maintain IT systems
IT professionals interested in improving cybersecurity and lifecycle cybersecurity risk management
Prerequisites
To qualify for the CAP certification, candidates need to have at least two years of work experience in one or more of the seven domains covered in the CAP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
If a candidate lacks the necessary work experience, they can still take the CAP exam and become an Associate of (ISC)² upon passing. The Associate of (ISC)² has a three-year window to obtain the two years of the required experience.
ISC2 CAP Domains
Information Security Risk Management Program
Categorization of Information Systems (IS)
Selection of Security Controls
Implementation of Security Controls
Assessment of Security Controls
Authorization of Information Systems (IS)
Continuous Monitoring
ISC2 CAP Exam Details
Time Limit: 3 Hours
Questions: 125
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 700 out of 1000 points
Testing Center: Pearson VUE Testing Center (www.pearsonvue.com/isc2)
Availability: English
Exam Cost: $599
Tips for Passing the ISC2 CAP Certification Exam
It’s important to stay informed and regularly check the official website for updates. It’s essential to be familiar with the exam pattern and content before taking the ISC2 CAP exam, which is intended for professionals responsible for risk assessments, information system security posture, and authorization within the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF).
Thoroughly examine the exam objectives, as there are many resources available, including the official ISC2 website, that can aid in comprehending the ISC2 CAP syllabus topics. Otherwise, conducting extensive research on the covered exam topics is advisable. It’s crucial to be diligent when conducting research and carefully review the information multiple times. This approach will assist in comprehending how to begin preparing for the exam.
It’s recommended to complete the ISC2 CAP practice test. Once you’ve reviewed the exam topics, begin practicing by taking the test multiple times. The practice questions and answers can aid in various ways, including familiarizing you with the exam format, managing your time, and more.
To acquire the skills necessary to pass the ISC2 CAP certification exam, it’s beneficial to watch online tutorial videos and master all the required skills. The best tutorial videos can be found on various online platforms. These videos demonstrate how to perform associated tasks.
Benefits of Achieving the ISC2 CAP Certification
Successfully passing the ISC2 CAP exam validates your exceptional abilities and skills, which can result in various advantages. The critical skills obtained by passing the ISC2 CAP exam can offer the following benefits:
ISC2 CAP Certification Serves as Proof of Your Diligent Effort
The ISC2 CAP exam topics are intricate and necessitate thorough preparation. Achieving a high score on the exam confirms your proficiency in the Certified Authorization Professional exam topics and illustrates your determination.
ISC2 CAP Exam Helps You Extend Your Knowledge Base
Preparing for the ISC2 CAP exam will provide you with comprehensive knowledge that can enhance your career. As you study for the exam, you’ll be compelled to review all of the topics in the CAP exam syllabus. As a result, you’ll expand your knowledge base and develop a new perspective for addressing work-related issues.
You Can Enhance Your Level of Performance
Improving your skills will result in an enhanced level of performance. You will adopt a new approach and methods for completing tasks. You will master effective techniques for maintaining information systems, which will enable you to complete tasks in less time. These benefits will be advantageous not only to you but also to the organization you work for.
ISC2 CAP Certification Can Open up New and Improved Job Opportunities
Passing the ISC2 CAP exam has the advantage of making you more appealing to potential employers. Individuals who have obtained the CAP certification typically earn an average salary of $124,610. Although the certification is specifically focused on security risk management, many job titles actively seek out individuals who hold the CAP certification.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Certified Authorization Professional (CAP) certification can be a significant milestone in your cybersecurity career. The certification validates your expertise in security authorization and risk management, which are essential skills in the field. To prepare for this exam, it is important to review the exam content outline, take a training course, use study materials, join a study group, and practice taking exams. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of passing the CAP exam and obtaining this valuable certification.