I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve provisionally passed the CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) certification exam! This milestone is not just a testament to my dedication but also a gateway to further solidifying my role in the cybersecurity realm. I want to give a massive shoutout to my coach, Tony Chen 🚀, whose guidance was instrumental in my success. Tony’s expertise and mentoring through the CISSP lessons were invaluable.

Preparing for the CISSP exam is a formidable journey, one that requires dedication, strategic study, and access to the best resources. Here’s how I navigated my way through it and what I recommend to those setting out on this path.

Recommended Resources

Books:

• (ISC)² CISSP Certified Information Systems Security Professional Official Study Guide & Practice Tests Bundle: This comprehensive guide is your bible. It covers all domains in depth and includes practice tests to gauge your understanding.

Practice Tests:

• Mike Chapple — CISSP Practice Test: Mike’s practice questions are incredibly close to the real exam format and complexity, making them an excellent tool for preparation.
• Boson CISSP Practice Test: These tests are known for their difficulty, which actually benefits you by preparing for the toughest scenarios.

Must-See Videos

Visual learning was a game changer for me, providing clarity and reinforcement of concepts. Here are my top picks:

• Tactical Security Inc — CISSP Test Taking Tip Series on YouTube: These tips can significantly affect your test-taking strategy, boosting your confidence.
• Kelly Handerhan — Why you will pass the CISSP: Kelly’s motivational insights remind you of the mindset needed to succeed.
• Andrew Ramdayal — 50 CISSP Hard questions: Tackling these hard questions prepares you for the exam’s rigor and helps identify areas needing further review.

The Journey

Embarking on the CISSP journey was challenging yet immensely rewarding. Beyond just learning, it was about growing — expanding my understanding of cybersecurity principles, practices, and policies. Each study session, every practice test, and the countless hours of video content I consumed contributed to a foundation that I’m eager to build upon.

Looking Ahead

Passing the CISSP exam is just the beginning. I’m excited about the next steps in my certification journey and committed to leveraging my expertise to empower my team and organization. The goal is to craft, execute, and oversee robust cybersecurity strategies and initiatives that protect and serve our digital landscape.

To those embarking on their CISSP journey, remember: it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Utilize resources wisely, lean on your support system, and keep your eyes on the prize. Your hard work and dedication will pay off. Good luck!