As more businesses are moving their assets to the cloud, cybersecurity is increasingly becoming cloud security. So, if you’re interested in starting or advancing your career in the cloud security industry, earning a cloud security certification will help you learn critical skills and get hired.
There are two major cloud security certifications that you can take: CCSK (Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge) and CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional). But what difference do they have and which one should you choose? Let’s explore their differences and similarities in the following article.
I. Understanding CCSK (Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge)
a. What is CCSK and its significance?
CCSK is a widely recognized certification. It’s used as a standard of expertise for cloud security while providing a profound understanding of how to protect data in the cloud. The certification holds a significant place in the cloud computing certification league.
Moreover, it helps professionals enhance their skill sets and progress from entry-level to medium-level proficiency.
Getting the CCSK certification validates the understanding of various cloud security issues and covers areas like data encryption, application security, cloud incident response, securing emerging technologies, and best practices for identity and access management (IAM).
b. Syllabus and domains covered in the CCSK exam
Here are the modules included in CCSK:
- 1
Module 1. Cloud Architecture:
Learn cloud computing basics, architecture, and virtualization’s role. Understand service & delivery models, cloud characteristics. Covers Shared Responsibilities, cloud security framework.
- 2
Module 2. Infrastructure Security for Cloud:
Secure cloud components, networks, admin access. Covers virtual networking, workload security, containers, serverless, BCDR, and more.
- 3
Module 3. Managing Cloud Security and Risk:
Manage cloud security: governance, risk assessment, legal compliance, CSA tools (CAIQ, CCM, STAR). Focus on legal issues, audit, and cloud-related risks.
- 4
Module 4. Data Security for Cloud Computing:
Secure data in the cloud: storage, encryption, data lifecycle, customer-managed keys. Discusses cloud storage models, encryption in IaaS, PaaS, SaaS.
- 5
Module 5. Application Security and Identity Management for Cloud Computing:
Cover identity management, application security, secure development. Explore IAM, federated identity, secure software development, DevOps practices.
- 6
Module 6. Cloud Security Operations:
Manage cloud providers, Security as a Service, incident response. Understand provider selection, SECaaS fundamentals, and incident response in the cloud.
II. Exploring CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional)
a. Introduction to the CCSP certification
The CCSP represents a high standard of cloud security expertise. It was introduced by Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) and ISC2 to help companies evaluate the knowledge of individuals on cloud security.
Moreover, the CCSP certificate validates how you apply your technical skills and apply your knowledge on securing data, infrastructure, designing, managing, and handling applications in the cloud.
b. Domains covered in the CCSP exam and their relevance
Unlike the CCSK certification which has modules, the CCSP certification has domains that include:
- 1
Domain 1: Cloud Concepts, Architecture, and Design:
Explore cloud computing fundamentals, architecture, and design principles. Grasp cloud service and deployment models, virtualization, and ISO/IEC standards for cloud components.
- 2
Domain 2: Cloud Data Security:
Focus on safeguarding data in the cloud. Cover data classification, secure storage, encryption, data privacy, and compliance measures. Implement mechanisms for data availability, confidentiality, and integrity.
- 3
CCSP Domain 3: Cloud Platform & Infrastructure Security:
Manage risk assessments, implement security protocols, and integrate cloud into BC/DR plans. Understand cloud infrastructure components, secure data center design, and risk evaluation for a resilient cloud environment.
- 4
Domain 4: Cloud Application Security:
Address application security challenges. Learn Secure Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), cloud software assurance, and identity management. Apply security measures at each SDLC stage to ensure application reliability.
- 5
Domain 5: Cloud Security Operations:
Focus on cloud service security and network infrastructure management. Implement Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions, operational controls, digital forensics, and security event monitoring for a secure cloud environment.
- 6
Domain 6: Legal, Risk, and Compliance:
Understand legal requirements, manage cloud-related risks, and ensure compliance. Cover privacy issues, audit methodologies for cloud, implications on enterprise risk management, and designing cloud contracts.
Prerequisites and Eligibility Criteria
a. Educational and professional prerequisites for CCSK
There aren’t any specific prerequisites for taking the CCSK exam for education.
There’s no formal professional experience required too, but it is helpful for attendees to have a basic knowledge of security fundamentals like encryption, identity and access management, and firewalls.
b. Work experience and background needed for CCSP
The CCSP requires work experience in the technology sector. This includes:
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Minimum of 5 years of work experience in information technology.
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At least 3 years of work experience in cloud security.
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1 year of work experience in one or more CCSP domains.
c. Which certification is suitable based on individual qualifications
The CCSK examination is suitable for professionals who seek to gain foundational knowledge.
In contrast, the CCSP exam requires a solid background in the IT and cloud security industry. It’s for professionals seeking to specialize in cloud-based jobs.
Exam Structure and Format
1. Details about the CCSK exam structure and question types
The format and details covered by the CCSK exam include:
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You’ll face 60 questions during the exam.
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The exam is conducted in English.
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You’ll have 90 minutes to complete the test.
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Expect multiple-choice questions.
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To pass, you need a minimum score of 80%.
2. Similarities and differences in the CCSP exam format
The most distinct difference between the CCSP and CCSK is that the CCSP is a certification while the CCSK is a certificate.
A certificate has a narrower scope, it only provides proof of a training course completion, while a certification recognizes a candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities required by a desired job role.
Let’s look at this table that summarizes the difference between the two:
| Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) | Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK) |
|---|---|
| Organized jointly by ISC2 and CSA, this certification focuses on cloud and information security | This certification, organized by CSA, primarily centers on cloud security |
| Conducted as a closed-book exam at designated testing centers | Administered as an open-book online exam |
| Comes with a relatively higher cost for training and examination | Offers a more cost-effective option for training and exams |
| Positioned as an advanced professional-level certification | Positioned as an entry-level certification |
CCSK and CCSP Certification Costs and Investment
a. Breakdown of costs associated with CCSK certification
Here are the major considerations for the CCSK certification:
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Exam Fee: $395 USD
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Annual Maintenance: N/A
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CPEs (Continuing Professional Education): N/A
b. Financial considerations for CCSP candidates
CCSP candidates have a higher exam fee compared to CCSK exam-takers. It has the following costs:
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Exam Fee: $599 USD
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Annual Maintenance: $125 USD
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CPEs: 90 credits over 3 years
c. Assessing return on investment for both certifications
How does a CCSP certification help in terms of its return on investment? Let’s have a look:
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Earning the CCSP cloud security certification is a recognized way to advance your career and enhance cloud asset security.
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CCSP demonstrates your advanced technical skills in designing, managing, and securing cloud data, applications, and infrastructure.
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The certification is based on best practices and policies established by cybersecurity experts at ISC2.
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CCSP certification includes membership in ISC2, a global association of over 150,000 cybersecurity professionals.
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Members gain access to professional development courses, continuing education, webinars, and benefits like the ISC2 Community.
On the other hand, CCSK certifications help you with:
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Ascending to the next level of your career and helping you get the CCSP certification.
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The CCSK focuses on cloud security while the CCSP focuses on a broad range of information.
Preparation Strategies for CCSK and CCSP
Earning the CCSK certification or earning the CCSP certification is a pathway to establishing a comprehensive cloud security program that aligns with widely recognized standards.
1. Resources available for CCSK exam preparation
Cloud Security Alliance | Security Guidance
The document aims to provide both inspiration and guidance to support business goals while handling risks associated when using cloud computing. The boost contains advances in security, and cloud, and integrates the late Cloud Security Alliance research projects.
Cloud Security Alliance | CCSK Preparation Kit
The CCSK preparation kit is great for helping you understand the foundation of cloud security as it contains topics like governance, operations, virtualization, and more. It also comes with sample questions.
Cloud Security Alliance | CCSK Plus (Lectures + Labs)
The CCSK Plus training helps you get hands-on experience and prepares you to earn a widely recognized standard for cloud security. It contains lectures plus labs that you can take on different topics included in the exam.
Pluralsight | Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK & CCSK Plus)
This course covers the foundational knowledge you’ll need to pass both exams as it helps you gain valuable insights into topics like key management, identity and access management, and data security.
2. Study materials, courses, and practice exams for CCSP candidates
ICS2 | CCSP Study Tools and Resources
These study tools contain resources that help you prepare for the actual thing. It has many self-study tools that help you prepare for the CCSP exam.
Boson | CCSP Practise Exams
The exam stimulates the actual exam course for the CCSP exam. It includes three individual exams that you can take to practice.
3. Tips for effectively preparing for both certifications
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Understand the exam details
Like any other exam, it is important to go through the requirements and the details of the domain and modules for both the CCSK and CCSP exams.
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Know the course outline
Understand that both exams are different and thoroughly review their included topics to see what to expect from the exam so you can get the certificate or pass the certification.
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Use preparation kits
Preparation kits, free guides, courses, and other relevant materials can help you prepare. For instance, you can browse the ENISA risk recommendations to prepare for the CCSK exam.
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Create a study strategy
You will need a well-planned approach to how you’ll be learning a topic and retaining the information you gain from it. Thus, it is important to set up a study strategy that works for you and stick to it so you can pass the exams.
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Take practice tests
The tests cover a variety of topics, so you should gain as much experience as you can before the exam. Taking tests is the most effective approach to see how well you’ve understood the domains and modules in the course and it also helps you to identify your weak areas so you can work on them.
Benefits of CCSK and CCSP Certifications
a. Advantages of CCSK certification for professionals and employers
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Diverse Career Avenues
CCSK’s vendor-neutral focus imparts universal cloud security skills, expanding job prospects across industries. This adaptability simplifies role shifts and fosters seamless transitions between organizations.
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Expertise Showcase
CCSK validates in-depth cloud security comprehension, signaling employers your prowess in cloud architecture and infosec. A competitive edge that positions you as a prime candidate.
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Gateway to Advancement
CCSK serves as a foundational step towards advanced cloud security certifications, like CCM and STAR. Elevate expertise, tackle more significant roles, and progress in your career journey.
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Recognized Industry Standard
It is backed by the ISC2 and is therefore a globally recognized standard that demonstrates adherence to the best cloud computing practices. It also maintains a high level of cloud assessment standards.
b. How CCSP Certification adds value to career growth and job prospects
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Advanced Expertise Recognition:
The CCSP is tailored for experienced security professionals as it demonstrates their experience and senior-level comprehension of traditional information and cloud security.
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Career Establishment as a Cybersecurity Professional:
Pursuing the CCSP certification is for people aiming to establish themselves as cybersecurity professionals and who aim to showcase advanced knowledge in data center and cloud security concepts.
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Better job opportunities
The CCS helps to open doors to diverse roles in risk management, compliance, and cloud security. It also helps employers to sort out professionals in the field of cloud security, thus boosting job options.
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Adaptability
The CCSP equips professionals with adaptable skills across the cloud security job domain. The certifications cover a diverse range of topics that help professionals acquire expert knowledge and foster a versatile career.
Making the Choice: Which Certification to Pursue?
Factors to consider when deciding between CCSK and CCSP
Let’s review the different aspects of both certifications to help you choose which certification to pursue.
| Aspect | CCSP Certification | CCSK Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Work Experience Equivalence | Recognizes CCSK’s value and allows it to substitute one year of work experience across six CCSP CBK domains | No work experience required |
| Membership Organization Access | Provides access to a membership organization | Does not grant access to any membership organization |
| Continuing Professional Education (CPE) | Requires annual CPE commitment to maintain the certification | Does not require CPE |
| Nature of Credential | Senior-level certification for experienced security professionals | Entry-level certificate for foundational cloud security knowledge |
| Scope | Represents a senior-level understanding of cloud and information security | Offers foundational knowledge in cloud security concepts and principles |
| Complementary Relationship | Complements CCSK by serving as a career progression step | Serves as an excellent starting point for building a cloud security career |
| Recommended for | Experienced security professionals looking for advanced expertise | Individuals new to cloud security or seeking a foundational understanding |
| Career Advancement | Positions individuals as experts in cloud and information security | Provides a strong foundation for cloud security career development |
Industry Demand and Trends
a. Current demand for CCSK-certified professionals in the job market
CCSK-certified professionals are increasingly valued for their foundational cloud security understanding. Their expertise suits entry-level cloud security and IT auditing roles, offering organizations enhanced cloud security awareness across industries.
b. Industry sectors valuing CCSP-certified experts
CCSP-certified experts are particularly esteemed in cloud-reliant sectors such as finance, healthcare, technology, and e-commerce. Their specialized skills in cloud security management address sector-specific challenges and compliance needs.
c. Future outlook and anticipated growth of cloud security roles
Cloud security roles are set to expand in tandem with rising cloud adoption rates. The complexity of cloud environments boosts demand for CCSP-certified specialists. The continuous threat landscape underscores the need for skilled professionals to safeguard cloud assets, ensuring a promising job market.
Conclusion
The CCSK exam is more of an entry-eve exam designed for professionals with a basic cloud security knowledge. In contrast, the CCSP exam is designed for cloud security professionals that emphasizes real-world applications and explores in-depth domains.
Depending on your circumstances, it is important to make an informed decision and choose the exam that aligns with your career aspirations and job demands.
