ISC2 Certifications
ISC2 certification pathways
Build recognised cyber security expertise with ISC2 certifications
ISC2 certifications are recognised across the cyber security profession and cover practical security operations, cloud security and broad information security leadership. The right certification depends on your experience and the type of security responsibilities you hold.
ExperTrain currently offers instructor-led preparation for three established ISC2 credentials: SSCP for hands-on security practitioners, CCSP for cloud security professionals and CISSP for experienced security specialists, architects, managers and leaders.

Choose your direction
ISC2 certification and training paths
Use the pathways below to compare the ISC2 certifications currently supported by instructor-led training through ExperTrain.
SSCP
Security Administration & Operations
Designed for hands-on security practitioners who implement, monitor and administer IT infrastructure and security controls. A strong route for operational security roles.
CCSP
Cloud Security
For experienced professionals responsible for securing cloud architecture, applications, infrastructure, data and operations across cloud and hybrid environments.
CISSP
Security Leadership & Architecture
A broad senior-level certification for experienced professionals responsible for designing, implementing and managing information security programmes, architecture and operations.
Broader certification portfolio
Other ISC2 certification routes
ISC2 also offers additional credentials including Certified in Cybersecurity, CGRC and CSSLP. ExperTrain currently focuses its instructor-led ISC2 training on SSCP, CCSP and CISSP, while the wider Cyber Security catalogue includes complementary certification routes from other awarding bodies.
Browse the Cyber Security training catalogueFinding your starting point
Which ISC2 certification is right for you?
SSCP is the most operational of the three routes and is well suited to practitioners responsible for implementing and administering security controls.
CCSP is the specialist route for experienced professionals working with cloud architecture, security engineering, cloud operations, applications and data.
CISSP is the broadest and most senior route, covering security and risk management, architecture, engineering, operations, software security and other core domains.
If you are choosing between two routes, consider the responsibilities you have today as well as the type of cyber security role you want to move into next.
ISC2 certification FAQs
Common questions
Which ISC2 certification should I choose?
SSCP is generally the best fit for hands-on operational security roles, CCSP for cloud security specialists and CISSP for experienced professionals with broader security architecture, management or leadership responsibilities.
Are ISC2 certification exams included in the course price?
The ExperTrain ISC2 preparation courses are training programmes designed to support exam preparation. Check the individual course page for current inclusions and pricing.
Can I train before meeting the ISC2 experience requirements?
Yes. You can take training and prepare for an ISC2 exam before completing all of the professional experience required to hold a certification. Always check the current ISC2 certification requirements for the credential you plan to pursue.
Do I have to sit an ISC2 exam after the course?
No. The training is also useful for professional development even if you do not intend to sit the certification exam immediately.
Ready to work towards an ISC2 certification?
Explore our instructor-led ISC2 preparation courses or contact us if you would like help deciding whether SSCP, CCSP or CISSP is the best fit for your experience and career goals.




