When evaluating prospective InfoSec candidates, employers frequently look to certification as an important measure of excellence and commitment to quality. We examined five InfoSec certifications we consider to be leaders in the field of information security today.

This year’s list includes entry-level credentials, such as Security+, as well as more advanced certifications, like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). According to CyberSeek, more employers are seeking CISA, CISM and CISSP certification holders than there are credential holders, which makes these credentials a welcome addition to any certification portfolio.

Absent from our list of the top five is SANS GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC). Although this certification is still a very worthy credential, the job board numbers for CISA were so solid that it merited a spot in the top five. Farther down in this guide, we offer some additional certification options because the field of information security is both wide and varied.

1. CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker

The CEH (ANSI) certification is an intermediate-level credential offered by the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). It’s a must-have for IT professionals who are pursuing careers in white hat hacking and certifies their competence in the five phases of ethical hacking: reconnaissance, enumeration, gaining of access, access maintenance and track covering. 

CEH credential holders possess skills and knowledge of hacking practices in areas such as footprinting and reconnaissance, network scanning, enumeration, system hacking, Trojans, worms and viruses, sniffers, denial-of-service attacks, social engineering, session hijacking, web server hacking, wireless networks and web applications, SQL injection, cryptography, penetration testing, IDS evasion, firewalls and honeypots. CEH V11 provides a remapping of the course to the NIST/NICE framework’s Protect and Defend (PR) job role category, as well as an additional focus on emerging threats in cloud, OT and IT security, such as fileless malware.

To obtain a CEH (ANSI) certification, candidates must pass one exam. A comprehensive five-day CEH training course is recommended, with the test presented at the course’s conclusion. Candidates may self-study for the test but must submit documentation of at least two years of work experience in information security with employer verification. Self-study candidates must also pay an additional $100 application fee. Education may be substituted for experience, but this is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Candidates who complete any EC-Council-approved training (including with the iClass platform, academic institutions or an accredited training center) do not need to submit an application prior to attempting the exam.

Because technology in the field of hacking changes almost daily, CEH credential holders are required to obtain 120 continuing-education credits for each three-year cycle.

Once a candidate obtains the CEH (ANSI) designation, a logical progression on the EC-Council certification ladder is the CEH (Practical) credential. The CEH (Practical) designation targets the application of CEH skills to real-world security audit challenges and related scenarios. To obtain the credential, candidates must pass a rigorous six-hour practical examination. Conducted on live virtual machines, candidates are presented 20 scenarios with questions designed to validate a candidate’s ability to perform tasks such as vulnerability analysis, identification of threat vectors, web app and system hacking, OS detection, network scanning, packet sniffing, steganography and virus identification. Candidates who pass both the CEH (ANSI) and the CEH (Practical) exams earn the CEH (Master) designation.

CEH facts and figures

Certification name	Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) (ANSI)
Prerequisites and required courses	Training is highly recommended. Without formal training, candidates must have at least two years of information security-related experience and an educational background in information security, pay a nonrefundable eligibility application fee of $100 and submit an test eligibility form before purchasing an test voucher.
Number of exams	One: 312-50 (ECC Exam)/312-50 (VUE) (125 multiple-choice questions, four hours)
Cost of exam	$950 (ECC test voucher) Note: An ECC test voucher allows candidates to test via computer at a location of their choice. Pearson VUE test vouchers allow candidates to test in a Pearson VUE facility and cost $1,199.
URL	https://www.eccouncil.org/programs/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh
Self-study materials	EC-Council instructor-led courses, computer-based training, online courses and more are available at ECCouncil.org. A CEH skills assessment is also available for credential seekers. Additionally, Udemy offers CEH practice exams. CEH-approved educational materials are available for $850 from EC-Council.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) training

While EC-Council offers both instructor-led and online training for its CEH certification, IT professionals have plenty of other options for self-study materials, including video training, practice exams and books.

Pluralsight currently offers an ethical-hacking learning path geared toward the 312-50 exam. With a monthly subscription, you get access to all of these courses, plus everything else in Pluralsight’s training library. Through Pluralsight’s learning path, students can prepare for all of the domains covered in the CEH exam.  

CyberVista offers a practice test for the CEH 312-50 certification that includes several sets of exam-like questions, custom quizzes, flash cards and more. An test prep subscription for 180 days costs $149 and gives candidates access to online study materials, as well as the ability to download the materials for offline study. Backed by its “pass guarantee,” CyberVista is so confident its practice test will prepare you for the CEH test that the company will refund its practice test costs if you don’t pass.

Besides certifications in information security and cybersecurity, the best IT certifications cover areas such as disaster recovery, virtualization and telecommunications.

2. CISM: Certified Information Security Manager

The CISM certification is a top credential for IT professionals who are responsible for managing, developing and overseeing information security systems in enterprise-level applications or for developing organizational security best practices. The CISM credential was introduced to security professionals in 2003 by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).

ISACA’s organizational goals are specifically geared toward IT professionals who are interested in the highest-quality standards with respect to the auditing, control and security of information systems. The CISM credential targets the needs of IT security professionals with enterprise-level security management responsibilities. Credential holders possess advanced and proven skills in security risk management, program development and management, governance, and incident management and response.

Holders of the CISM credential, which is designed for experienced security professionals, must agree to ISACA’s code of ethics, pass a comprehensive examination, possess at least five years of experience in information security management, comply with the organization’s continuing education policy and submit a written application. Some combinations of education and experience may be substituted for the full experience requirement.

The CISM credential is valid for three years, and credential holders must pay an annual maintenance fee of $45 (ISACA members) or $85 (nonmembers). Credential holders are also required to obtain a minimum of 120 continuing professional education (CPE) credits over the three-year term to maintain the credential. At least 20 CPE credits must be earned every year.

CISM facts and figures

Certification name	Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Prerequisites and required courses	To obtain the CISM credential, candidates must do the following: Pass the CISM exam. Agree to the ISACA code of professional ethics. Adhere to ISACA’s CPE policy Possess a minimum of five years of information security work experience in described job practice analysis areas. Experience must be verifiable and obtained in the 10-year period prior to the application date or within five years of test passage. There are some exceptions to this requirement depending on the current credentials held. Apply for CISM certification. (The processing fee is $50.) The credential must be obtained within five years of test passage.
Number of exams	One: 150 questions, four hours
Cost of exam	Exam fees: $575 (members), $760 (nonmembers) Exam fees are nontransferable and nonrefundable.
URL	https://www.isaca.org/credentialing/cism
Self-study materials	Training and study materials in various languages, information on job practice areas, primary references, publications, articles, the ISACA Journal, review courses, an test prep community, terminology lists, a glossary and more are available at ISACA.org. Additionally, Udemy offers comprehensive training for the certification exam.

Other ISACA certification program elements

In addition to CISM, ISACA offers numerous certifications for those interested in information security and best practices. Other credentials worth considering include the following:

• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
• Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
• Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

The CISA designation was created for professionals working with information systems auditing, control or security and is popular enough with employers to earn it a place on the leaderboard. The CGEIT credential targets IT professionals working in enterprise IT management, governance, strategic alignment, value delivery, and risk and resource performance management. IT professionals who are seeking careers in all aspects of risk management will find that the CRISC credential nicely meets their needs.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) training

Pluralsight offers a CISM learning path containing five courses and 17 hours of instruction. The courses cover the domains addressed in the exam, but the learning path is aimed at the CISM job practice areas. 

CyberVista offers a CISM online training course in both live and on-demand formats. The course includes more than 16 hours of training videos, supplementary lessons, custom quizzes, practice test questions and access to experts through the instructor. As with other CyberVista courses, the CISM training course comes with a “pass guarantee.” 

According to CyberSeek, there are enough workers to fill only 68% of the cybersecurity job openings in the U.S. A cybersecurity certification is an important way to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to succeed in these job roles.

3. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA’s Security+ is a well-respected, vendor-neutral security certification. Security+ credential holders are recognized as possessing superior technical skills, broad knowledge and expertise in multiple security-related disciplines.

Although Security+ is an entry-level certification, the ideal candidates possess at least two years of experience working in network security and should consider first obtaining the Network+ certification. IT pros who obtain this certification have expertise in areas such as threat management, cryptography, identity management, security systems, security risk identification and mitigation, network access control, and security infrastructure. The CompTIA Security+ credential is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense to meet Directive 8140/8570.01-M requirements. In addition, the Security+ credential complies with the standards for ISO 17024.

The Security+ credential requires a single exam, currently priced at $381. (Discounts may apply to employees of CompTIA member companies and full-time students.) Training is available but not required.

IT professionals who earned the Security+ certification prior to Jan. 1, 2011, remain certified for life. Those who certify after that date must renew the certification every three years to stay current. To renew, candidates must obtain 50 continuing-education units (CEUs) or complete the CertMaster CE online course prior to the expiration of the three-year period. CEUs can be obtained by engaging in activities such as teaching, blogging, publishing articles or whitepapers, and participating in professional conferences and similar activities.

CompTIA Security+ facts and figures

Certification name	CompTIA Security+
Prerequisites and required courses	None. CompTIA recommends at least two years of experience in IT administration (with a security focus) and the Network+ credential before the Security+ exam. Udemy offers a complete and comprehensive course for the certification.
Number of exams	One: SY0-601 (maximum of 90 questions, 90 minutes to complete; 750 on a scale of 100-900 required to pass)
Cost of exam	$381 (discounts may apply; search for “SY0-601 voucher”)
URL	https://certification.comptia.org/certifications/security
Self-study materials	Exam objectives, demo questions, the CertMaster online training tool, training kits, computer-based training and a comprehensive study guide are available at CompTIA.org.

CompTIA Security+ training

You’ll find several companies offering online training, instructor-led and self-study courses, practice exams and books to help you prepare for and pass the Security+ exam.

Pluralsight offers a Security+ learning path as a part of its monthly subscription plan for the latest SY0-601 exam. Split into six sections, the training series is more than 24 hours long and covers attacks, threats and vulnerabilities; architecture and design; implementation of secure solutions; operations and incident response; and governance, risk and compliance.

CyberVista offers a Security+ practice test so you can test your security knowledge before attempting the SY0-601 exam. The test comes with a 180-day access period and includes multiple sets of test questions, key concept flash cards, access to InstructorLink experts, a performance tracker and more. As with CyberVista’s other offerings, this practice test comes with a “pass guarantee.”

4. CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional

CISSP is an advanced-level certification for IT pros who are serious about careers in information security. Offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, known as (ISC)2 (pronounced “ISC squared”), this vendor-neutral credential is recognized worldwide for its standards of excellence.

CISSP credential holders are decision-makers who possess the expert knowledge and technical skills necessary to develop, guide and manage security standards, policies and procedures within their organizations. The CISSP certification continues to be highly sought after by IT professionals and is well recognized by IT organizations. It is a regular fixture on most-wanted and must-have security certification surveys.

CISSP is designed for experienced security professionals. A minimum of five years of experience in at least two of (ISC)2’s eight common body of knowledge (CBK) domains, or four years of experience in at least two of (ISC)2’s CBK domains and a college degree or an approved credential, is required for this certification. The CBK domains are security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering, communications and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security.

(ISC)2 also offers three CISSP concentrations targeting specific areas of interest in IT security:

• Architecture (CISSP-ISSAP)
• Engineering (CISSP-ISSEP)
• Management (CISSP-ISSMP)

Each CISSP concentration test is $599, and credential seekers must currently possess a valid CISSP.

An annual fee of $125 is required to maintain the CISSP credential. Recertification is required every three years. To recertify, candidates must earn 40 CPE credits each year, for a total of 120 CPE credits within the three-year cycle.

CISSP facts and figures

Certification name	Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)  Optional CISSP concentrations:   CISSP Architecture (CISSP-ISSAP) CISSP Engineering (CISSP-ISSEP) CISSP Management (CISSP-ISSMP)
Prerequisites and required courses	At least five years of paid, full-time experience in at least two of the eight (ISC)2 domains or four years of paid, full-time experience in at least two of the eight (ISC)2 domains and a college degree or an approved credential are required. Candidates must also do the following: Agree to the (ISC)2 code of ethics. Submit the CISSP application. Complete the endorsement process.
Number of exams	One for CISSP (English CAT exam: 100-150 questions, three hours to complete; non-English exam: 250 questions, six hours)  One for each concentration area
Cost of exam	CISSP is $749; each CISSP concentration is $599.
URL	https://www.isc2.org/Certifications/CISSP
Self-study materials	Training materials include instructor-led, live online, on-demand and private training. There is an test outline available for review, as well as study guides, a study app, interactive flash cards and practice tests.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) training

Given the popularity of the CISSP certification, there is no shortage of available training options. These include classroom-based training offered by (ISC)2, as well as online video courses, practice exams and books from third-party companies.

Pluralsight’s CISSP learning path includes 12 courses and 25 hours of e-learning covering the security concepts required for the certification exam. Available for a low monthly fee, the CISSP courses are part of a subscription plan that gives IT professionals access to Pluralsight’s complete library of video training courses.

When you’re ready to test your security knowledge, you can take a simulated test that mimics the format and content of the real CISSP exam. Udemy offers CISSP practice exams to help you prepare for this challenging exam.

5. CISA: Certified Information Systems Auditor

ISACA’s globally recognized CISA certification is the gold standard for IT workers seeking to practice in information security, audit control and assurance. Ideal candidates can identify and assess organizational threats and vulnerabilities, assess compliance, and provide guidance and organizational security controls. CISA-certified professionals demonstrate knowledge and skill across the CISA job practice areas of auditing, governance and management, acquisition, development and implementation, maintenance and service management, and asset protection.

To earn the CISA certification, candidates must pass one exam, submit an application, agree to the code of professional ethics, agree to the CPE requirements and agree to the organization’s information systems auditing standards. In addition, candidates must possess at least five years of experience working with information systems. Some substitutions for education and experience with auditing are permitted.

To maintain the CISA certification, candidates must earn 120 CPE credits over a three-year period, with a minimum of 20 CPE credits earned annually. Candidates must also pay an annual maintenance fee ($45 for members; $85 for nonmembers).

CISA facts and figures

Certification name	Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Prerequisites and required courses	To obtain the CISA credential, candidates must do the following: Pass the CISA exam. Agree to the ISACA code of professional ethics. Adhere to ISACA’s CPE policy. Agree to the information auditing standards. Possess a minimum of five years of information systems auditing, control or security work in described job practice analysis areas. Experience must be verifiable and obtained in the 10-year period prior to the application date or within five years after the test is passed. There are some exceptions to this requirement depending on the current credentials held. Apply for CISA certification. (The processing fee is $50.) The credential must be obtained within five years of test passage.
Number of exams	One: 150 questions, four hours
Cost of exam	$575 (members); $760 (nonmembers)
URL	https://www.isaca.org/credentialing/cisa
Self-study materials	ISACA offers a variety of training options, including virtual instructor-led courses, online and on-demand training, review manuals and question databases. Numerous books and self-study materials are also available on Amazon.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) training

Training opportunities for the CISA certification are plentiful. Udemy offers more than 160 CISA-related courses, lectures, practice exams, question sets and more. On Pluralsight, you’ll find 12 courses with 27 hours of information systems auditor training covering all CISA job practice domains for the CISA job practice areas.

The Payment Card Industry (PCI) Security Standards Council (SSC) is an open global forum launched in 2006 by the major payment card associations (MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Japan Credit Bureau) to establish a unified set of standards for securely processing, storing, and transmitting payment card information. To protect its customers, the PCI SSC has implemented the PCI Data Security Standards as a security requirement for all merchants and service providers to safeguard sensitive data for all card brands. In order to meet these PCI compliance requirements, the Office of Financial Affairs & Administration has been designated as the central authority for oversight of all UAB payment card processing and related PCI compliance activities, and has partnered with the Office of Information Technology to assist in aligning appropriate technical compliance strategies.

As a result, the UAB PCI Compliance Committee has developed central policies and procedures to provide the functionality and security required to manage various types of transactions at UAB, including web-based and/or traditional processes. Departments desiring to accept payment cards as a form of payment should review the content of this PCI Compliance Support site, or contact the office of the Chief Financial Officer to discuss their business need. All UAB payment card merchants (departments/units) who are approved for accepting payment cards must comply with all UAB and PCI DSS policies, procedures, and standards described on this website.

SC Media's 2023 Awards honor Certified in Cybersecurity℠ for its role in helping to close the global cyber workforce gap

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Aug. 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ISC2 – the world's leading nonprofit member organization for cybersecurity professionals – today announced its entry-level certification Certified in Cybersecurity℠ (CC) has won a 2023 SC Award in the Excellence Award category for the Best Professional Certification Program. The Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) training and test was designed to address the global cyber workforce gap of 3.4 million professionals by providing a way for those from non-technical backgrounds to enter the field.

The SC Awards program is cybersecurity's most prestigious and competitive program, recognizing the solutions, organizations and people driving innovation and success in information security. According to the SC Award's esteemed panel of independent judges, "ISC2's Certified in Cybersecurity certificate program is a cut above the rest," and it commended the program for its "contribution to the greater good of the cybersecurity community." The judges honored ISC2 for its "innovation, leadership and hard work."

"This year's SC Award winners reflected our industry in flux," said Tom Spring, SC Media's Editorial Director at CyberRisk Alliance. "Winners demonstrated uncanny market agility and brought innovative solutions to help their customers stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated adversaries and emerging threats."

"This award, along with the accomplishment of having over 28,000 individuals attain the Certified in Cybersecurity certification, underscores the value of this entry-level certification to our members and candidates who have diligently earned it, showcasing their unwavering commitment to the cybersecurity profession," said Clar Rosso, CEO, ISC2. "Recognition from SC Media's prestigious cybersecurity award program further validates the importance of our entry-level certification for the profession at large, as we attract new entrants into the field as organizations face acute staffing shortages. We're demonstrating that having a passion and drive to enter a career can open limitless opportunities for both professionals and employers."

Diverse Pathways into the Cybersecurity Profession

The CC℠ certification allows individuals from all backgrounds to demonstrate the foundational knowledge, skills and abilities for an entry- or junior-level cybersecurity role. The certification requires no prior work experience and can test a person's aptitude and interest in a cybersecurity career, allowing employers to confidently build resilient cyber teams across all experience levels.

As part of ISC2's commitment to help close the workforce gap, its global initiative, One Million Certified in Cybersecurity, is offering free CC℠ training and exams to the first million people who enroll. Since its launch in August 2022, ISC2 has enrolled more than 250,000 individuals in the certification training, with more than 28,000 becoming certification holders. The global success of the certification highlights the importance of creating new and diverse pathways into the industry and removing barriers to entry into the profession.

"I'm switching career paths to move into cybersecurity. Certified in Cybersecurity is a great way to demonstrate my knowledge," said Eric Turner, Cybersecurity Analyst, First Merchants Bank.

This recognition follows ISC2's award win for the Best Professional Training or Certification Program at the 2023 SC Awards Europe.

To learn more about the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification, please visit: https://www.isc2.org/Certifications/CC. 

About ISC2
ISC2 is the world's leading nonprofit member organization for cybersecurity professionals with an aim of inspiring a safe and secure cyber world. Best known for the acclaimed Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP^®) certification, ISC2 offers a portfolio of credentials that are part of a holistic, pragmatic approach to security. Our association of candidates, associates and members, more than 500,000 strong, is made up of certified cyber, information, software and infrastructure security professionals who are making a difference and helping to advance the industry. Our vision is supported by our commitment to educate and reach the general public through our charitable foundation – The Center for Cyber Safety and Education™. For more information on ISC2, visit www.isc2.org, follow us on X or connect with us on Facebook and LinkedIn.   

About CyberRisk Alliance 
CyberRisk Alliance (CRA) is a business intelligence company serving the high growth, rapidly evolving cybersecurity community with a diversified portfolio of services that inform, educate, build community, and inspire an efficient marketplace. Our trusted information leverages a unique network of journalists, analysts and influencers, policymakers, and practitioners. CRA's brands include SC Media, Security Weekly, ChannelE2E, MSSP Alert, InfoSec World, Identiverse, Cybersecurity Collaboration Forum, its research unit CRA Business Intelligence, the peer-to-peer CISO membership network, Cybersecurity Collaborative, the Official Cyber Security Summit, TECHEXPO Top Secret, and now LaunchTech Communications. Click here to learn more. 

© 2023 ISC2 Inc., ISC2, CISSP, SSCP, CCSP, CGRC, CSSLP, HCISPP, CISSP-ISSAP, CISSP-ISSEP, CISSP-ISSMP and CBK are registered marks, and CC is a service mark of ISC2, Inc.   

Media Contact:
Amanda Steinman
Senior PR Manager
ISC2
asteinman@isc2.org

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/isc2s-entry-level-cyber-certification-wins-best-professional-certification-award-301904977.html

SOURCE ISC2

This policy provides guidance about the importance of protecting payment card data and customer information. Failure to protect this information may result in financial loss for customers, suspension of credit card processing privileges, fines, and damage to the reputation of the unit and the university.

The University at Buffalo (UB, university) is committed to compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) to protect payment card data regardless of where that data is processed or stored. All members of the university community must adhere to these standards to protect our customers and maintain the ability to process payments using payment cards.

The university prohibits the retention of complete payment card primary account numbers (PAN) or sensitive authentication data in any university system, database, network, computer, tablet, cell phone, or paper file. Storing truncated numbers, in approved formats (first six digits or last four digits) is permissible.

The Credit Card Handling Chart details the acceptable use of payment card data and security requirements. The PCI DSS requirements do not supersede local, state, and federal laws or regulations.

The university is required to comply with all relevant standards. However, not all of the PCI DSS requirements are relevant to UB. Certain university policies reduce the compliance scope, including prohibiting electronic storage of payment card information, restricting transmission through fax and email, and utilizing third-party vendors for web-based payment card processing rather than university networks. 

The PCI DSS is a mandated set of requirements agreed upon by the major credit card companies. The security requirements apply to all transactions surrounding the payment card industry and the merchants or organizations that accept these cards as a form of payment.

The university must comply with the PCI DSS in order to accept card payments and avoid penalties. This policy and additional supporting policies:

• Provide the requirements for processing, transmission, storage, and disposal of cardholder data transactions
• Reduce the institutional risk associated with the administration of payment cards
• Promote proper internal control
• Promote compliance with the PCI DSS

This policy applies to those involved with payment card handling including faculty, staff, students, third-party vendors, individuals, systems, networks, and other parties with a relationship to the university including auxiliary service corporations, alumni associations, student associations and governments, Research Foundation (RF), UB Foundation (UBF) and any unit using third-party software to process payment card transactions. This includes transmission, storage, and processing of payment card data, in any form (electronic or paper) on behalf of UB.

Cardholder

Individual who owns and benefits from the use of a membership card, particularly a payment card.

Cardholder Data (CHD)

Elements of payment card information that must be protected, including primary account number (PAN), cardholder name, expiration date, and the service code.

Cardholder Name

The name of the individual to whom the card is issued.

Expiration Date

The date on which a card expires and is no longer valid. The expiration date is embossed, encoded, or printed on the card.

Service Code

Permits where the card is used and for what.

Disposal

CHD must be disposed of in a certain manner that renders all data un-recoverable. This includes paper documents and any electronic media including computers, hard drives, magnetic tapes, and USB storage devices in accordance with the Record Retention and Disposition Policy. The approved PCI DSS disposal methods include cross-cut shredding, incineration, and approved shredding and disposal service.

Merchant

A department or unit (including a group of departments or a subset of a department) approved to accept payment cards and assigned a merchant identification number.

Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS)

The security requirements defined by the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards Council and the major credit card brands including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, and JCB.

PCI Compliance Committee

Group composed of representatives from Financial Management, Information Security Office, Office of the Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Internal Audit, and UB merchants.

Primary Account Number (PAN)

Number code of 14 or 16 digits embossed on a bank or credit card and encoded in the card's magnetic strip. PAN identifies the issuer of the card and the account, and includes a check digit as an authentication device.

Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)

Validation tools to assist merchants and service providers report the results of their PCI DSS self-assessment.

Sensitive Authentication Data

Additional elements of payment card information required to be protected but never stored. These include magnetic stripe (i.e., track) data, CAV2, CVC2, CID, or CVV2 data, and PIN or PIN block.

CAV2, CVC2, CID, or CVV2 data

The three- or four-digit value printed on or to the right of the signature panel or on the face of a payment card used to verify card-not-present transactions.

Magnetic Stripe (i.e., track) data

Data encoded in the magnetic stripe or equivalent data on a chip used for authorization during a card-present transaction. Entities may not retain full magnetic-stripe data after transaction authorization.

PIN or PIN block

Personal identification number entered by the cardholder during a card-present transaction, or encrypted PIN block present within the transaction message.

A Reimagined Print Experience

The updates were made with the understanding that people are consuming the majority of content on their phones, Randall Lane and team concisely bring together a full meal of facts and ideas that contrast with the à la carte nature of digital surfing. The new, modern look of the magazine — clean and simple, with less text — was created in partnership with Priest + Lee (designers Robert Priest and Grace Lee), who worked with Forbes art director Bob Mansfield, digital creative director Dan Revitte and the Forbes art team.

“

I believe strongly that entrepreneurial capitalism and market-based thinking can solve the world's problems.”

Four-day Classes
Examinations for subjects which have meetings in both the Monday/Wednesday/Friday (MWF) and Tuesday/Thursday (TT) sequences should be scheduled according to the sequence in which they have the greater number of times. If a class meets an equal number of times in each sequence, the examination should be scheduled according to the sequence which shows an earlier date or time in the examination schedule.

i.e., for MTWF or MWTHF courses, refer to the MWF examination time. For MTWTH of MTTHF courses, find both the MWF test time and the TT test time—your test is scheduled for whichever date/time is earlier.

Common test Times
All sections of Accounting 203 and 204 as well as all sections of Mathematics 171, 172, and 271
have a common test on Monday, December 11, 9:00 a.m.

Half-Semester Courses
Exams for undergraduate courses meeting during the first half of the semester will be
scheduled on the last day of class. Exams for undergraduate courses meeting during the
second half of the semester will be scheduled according to the test schedule above.

Labs and Combination Lecture/Lab Courses
Exams for labs, if given, should be administered during the final lab period. Exams for
combination lecture/lab classes should be administered according to the test schedule above.

One-credit PER and MUSC Courses
Exams for one-credit PER and MUSC courses, if given, will typically be scheduled for the final
class period.

Graduate Courses
Graduate courses will typically follow the full eight-week schedule, with the test on the final
day of class.

In an increasingly connected digital world, cyberattacks and hacking are ever-present realities. For those working in information technology (IT), a cybersecurity certification is an excellent way to build practical knowledge of how to protect against security threats.

Top-rated credentials are also conducive to job mobility and maintaining your organization’s reputation. Earning a reputable cybersecurity certification requires an investment, as we outline on this page—but it can pay off as well.

What is a Cybersecurity Certification, and Why Pursue One?

Cybersecurity certifications verify that you have extensive, demonstrated knowledge of issues like hacking and cyberattacks. Certification also shows that you understand the best practices and strategies for maintaining organizational privacy and security.

Through earning certifications, IT professionals benefit from detailed training modules and test prep materials. Along with expertise, cybersecurity certifications can bring credibility to employees’ organizations.

If you’re just starting out and wondering how to get into cybersecurity, entry-level certifications are a great place to begin. Likewise, if you’re seeking a more advanced role with a higher cybersecurity salary, certifications can help you meet that goal by bolstering your cybersecurity resume.

How Long Does a Cybersecurity Certification Take?

Certification programs vary in terms of training and test duration. Some certification providers offer multi-day or multi-part modules that can be completed in person, online or in a hybrid format. Many certifications do not require training or coursework, but candidates are encouraged to prepare on their own time.

The Best Cybersecurity Certifications

CompTIA Security+

Recognized as a leading global certification, CompTIA Security+ is a basic, essential credential that validates core skills for cybersecurity professionals. This designation is considered a stepping stone to mid-level roles and satisfies the DoD 8570 compliance.

Students learn to navigate issues via real-world examples and will gain technical expertise in architecture and design, implementation, operations and incident response, governance, compliance and more.

• Time to complete. The test is 90 minutes long and available both in person and online via Pearson VUE. Candidates who take CompTIA’s CertMaster Learn training course must complete 40 to 50 hours of self-paced materials.
• Professionals who may benefit. Network and cloud engineers, IT project managers, security administrators, IT auditors, security engineers and analysts

Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals

This certification is a great option for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of Microsoft’s Security Compliance and Identity (SCI) solutions. It’s recommended that prospective students be familiar with Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365. They should also have a background in network and/or cloud computing or IT.

• Time to complete. The test has a 45-minute completion window. Preparation times vary. Microsoft offers two options for test preparation: a free, four-part learning path series, which walks through test essentials at your own pace, and a fee-based, six-hour virtual session facilitated by an instructor.
• Professionals who may benefit. IT professionals seeking new credentials, cybersecurity students looking to complement their studies and anyone interested in Microsoft’s SCI solutions

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

This intermediate-level certification is offered by (ISC)2 and is highly ranked in the cybersecurity field. The credential serves professionals seeking knowledge of security design, implementation and management. Prospective CISSPs should have at least five years of experience to qualify for the exam. Individuals with less experience may pursue the Associate of (ISC)2 certification.

The four-hour test contains between 125 and 175 questions. (ISC)2 offers multiple formats for test preparation, including classroom-based training, online sessions led by instructors, online self-paced modules and private training.

• Time to complete. CISSP candidates must have at least five years of experience before taking the exam. A four-year degree satisfies one year of this required experience. The test itself lasts four hours.
• Professionals who may benefit. C-level executives and directors of information security; security systems engineers and analysts; security managers, architects, auditors and consultants

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)®

Ideal for security professionals looking to advance into manager-level positions, this ISACA certification provides tactical knowledge related to information security governance, risk and incident management and program development. In addition to passing the exam, CISM candidates must demonstrate full-time industry experience and complete an application.

• Time to Complete. Candidates must have completed five years of full-time security management work experience. The test itself is four hours. test preparation times vary.
• Professionals who may benefit. Mid-level information security professionals seeking managerial roles

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)®

Professionals in mid- and entry-level cybersecurity jobs can benefit from this certification, which covers five domains: information systems auditing process; governance and management of IT; information systems acquisition, development and implementation; information systems operations and business reliance; and protection of information assets. Like the CISM certification, candidates must pass the test and apply for certification with appropriate industry credentials.

• Time to Complete. The four-hour test comprises 150 multiple-choice questions. Candidates must have at least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control or security.
• Professionals who may benefit. Information technology and information security professionals in auditing, control and assurance roles

GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

This entry-level credential is a great cybersecurity certification for beginners. The designation moves practitioners beyond basic knowledge, equipping them with the tactical skills to occupy IT systems roles that navigate active defense, cryptography, defensible network architecture, security policy and web security.

• Time to complete. The exam, which requires proctoring via ProctorU or Pearson VUE, lasts four to five hours and comprises 106 to 180 questions. Preparation time varies.
• Professionals who may benefit. New and established information security professionals in managerial, operations, engineering, supervisory, administrative, analytical and auditing roles

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)®

A CEH certification provides cutting-edge training on the most current trends in hacking for security professionals. Presented in a gamified format, the CEH v12 course includes 20 modules covering everything from the basics of ethical hacking to solving real-world hacking challenges across platforms, systems and networks. Prospective CEHs may skip the training and apply for eligibility to take the certification exam.

• Time to complete. The CEH test lasts four hours. The EC-Council training takes five days to complete. Experienced candidates with at least two years of relevant work experience can apply to take the test without attending training.
• Professionals who may benefit. Information security analysts, administrators, managers, engineers, auditors, officers and administrators

Logical Operations CyberSec First Responder (CFR-410)®

This certification is ideal for security professionals who defend organizations against hackers. With a hands-on approach to mitigating cyberattacks, the CFR program is designed for professionals with an established, working command of IT and cybersecurity issues. The certification test is issued in person or online via Pearson VUE. Interested candidates do not need to submit eligibility verification, documentation or application fees.

• Time to complete. The test contains 80 multiple-choice questions and lasts120 minutes. Preparation time varies, but candidates may take a five-day training available at Logical Operations’ online store. This certification is recommended for professionals with at least two years of relevant experience.
• Professionals who may benefit. IT professionals with experience in cybersecurity who are familiar with risk management, vulnerability assessments, organizational policies on cybersecurity and incident response processes.