The world of cloud computing has been growing rapidly in recent years, with more and more organizations adopting cloud-based solutions to meet their computing needs. As a result, there has been a growing demand for professionals with expertise in cloud security. Two of the most popular certifications for cloud security professionals are the Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK) and the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP). In this article, IT Exams will explore the differences between CCSK vs CCSP and help you determine which one is right for you.
What is CCSK?
The Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK) is a widely recognized certificate developed by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA). It shows the level of expertise required to operate in cloud security. The exam evaluates your knowledge of data encryption, cloud incident response, application security, Security as a Service (SecaaS), best practices for Identity and Access Management (IAM), and secure technologies.
Because different firms’ technology and security requirements differ, you may need to supplement the CCSK knowledge base with additional, job-specific training. The CCSK certificate, on the other hand, aims to demonstrate the understanding required to operate in cloud security for any firm or platform.
Overview of the CCSK Exam
Here are some important details you should know about the CCSK exam:
CCSK Prerequisites
To pursue CCSK, one must be well-versed in the following areas:
- CSA Guidance
- CSA Cloud Control Matrix
- ENISA document
CCSK is an entry-level certification that requires no prior experience. To pass this certification, all that is required is to complete a target-type test with excellent information from the previously mentioned two key publications.
CCSK Exam Content
The CCSK exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam that consists of 60 questions. The exam is timed, and you’ll have 90 minutes to complete it. The questions are randomly selected from a pool of questions, and the exam is designed to test your knowledge of cloud security concepts and principles.
The exam content is divided into the following categories:
- Data security and encryption
- Information governance
- Infrastructure security
- Compliance and audit management
- Virtualization and containers
- Security as a service
- Cloud computer concepts and architecture
- Legal issues, electronic discovery, and contracts
- Management plane and business continuity
- Incident response
- Application security
- Identify, entitlement, and access management
- Governance and enterprise risk management
- Related technologies (big data, Internet of Things, mobile, serverless computing)
Exam Registration and Fees
To register for the CCSK exam, you will need to create an account on the CSA website and pay the exam fee. The CCSK exam costs $395 as of January 2023. Normally, you are responsible for this cost. If you are getting this credential for your current job, your company may be willing to cover the fee.
Exam Results
After you’ve completed the CCSK exam, you’ll receive your score immediately. You’ll need to achieve a score of at least 80% to pass the exam. If you don’t pass the exam, you can retake it after a waiting period of 14 days.
What is CCSP?
The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) credential is a worldwide recognized certification that denotes a high level of experience in cloud security. The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) and (ISC)² pioneered this certification and created the CCSP course and exam. The CCSP exam assesses a person’s knowledge and practical experience with cloud security.
The CCSP certification verifies a person’s technical abilities and expertise for designing, managing, and securing data, infrastructure, and cloud-based applications. It builds on the CISSP and CCSK foundations, emphasizing the importance of security professionals with the appropriate expertise. The CCSP certification has evolved as the most renowned and well-regarded alternative among several cloud security certifications.
Overview of the CCSP Exam
Here are some important details you should know about the CCSP exam:
CCSP Prerequisites
The CCSP certification process consists of more steps than simply passing the CCSP exam. Because this certification is not meant for recent graduates, candidates must also demonstrate prior professional experience in their industry.
To get CCSP certified, you must have the following qualifications:
- The CISSP requires (ISC)² certification.
- A minimum of five years of paid IT experience is required.
- At least three of those years must have been spent in the field of information security.
- At least one of those years must have been spent in one of the six CCSP CBK (Common Book of Knowledge) domains.
CCSP Exam Content
The CCSP exam is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam that consists of 125 questions. The exam is timed, and you’ll have 4 hours to complete it. The questions are randomly selected from a pool of questions, and the exam is designed to test your knowledge of cloud security concepts and principles.
In particular, the examination weights for the six CCSP CBK domains are as follows:
- Cloud Concepts, Architecture, and Design (17%)
- Cloud Data Security (20%)
- Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security (17%)
- Cloud Application Security (17%)
- Cloud Security Operations (16%)
- Legal, Risk, and Compliance (13%)
It is a good idea to take the CCSP practice questions and review the exam blueprint to understand the exam format and content.
Exam Registration and Fees
To register for the CCSP exam, you’ll need to create an account on the (ISC)² website and pay the exam fee. The exam fee is $599 for (ISC)² members and $699 for non-members. After you’ve registered and paid the exam fee, you’ll receive a voucher code to schedule your exam.
Exam Results
After you’ve completed the CCSP exam, you’ll receive your score immediately. You’ll need to achieve a score of at least 700 out of 1000 to pass the exam. If you don’t pass the exam, you can retake it after a waiting period of 90 days.
CCSK vs CCSP: Job Titles and Salaries
Earning a CCSK or CCSP certification can open doors to a range of job prospects with attractive compensation when pursuing a career in cloud security. Let’s look at some of the job titles and income ranges connected with each credential, as reported by Payscale.com.
CCSK Job Titles and Salaries
- Cloud Security Engineer: A Cloud Security Engineer with a CCSK certification can earn an average annual salary of $117,000.
- Cloud Security Architect: A Cloud Security Architect with a CCSK certification can earn an average annual salary of $146,000.
- Cloud Security Consultant: A Cloud Security Consultant with a CCSK certification can earn an average annual salary of $111,000.
CCSP Job Titles and Salaries
- AWS Security Engineer: An AWS Security Engineer with a CCSP certification can earn an average annual salary of $143,000.
- Cloud Security Architect: A Cloud Security Architect with a CCSP certification can earn an average annual salary of $152,000.
- Cloud Security Manager: A Cloud Security Manager with a CCSP certification can earn an average annual salary of $132,000.
Note that these job titles and salary ranges are just a snapshot of the potential opportunities available to professionals with these certifications. The salary ranges may vary depending on factors such as location, company size, and years of experience.
CCSK vs CCSP: Earn Your Certification
How to get CCSK?
- Learn about cloud computing topics and technologies: You should be familiar with cloud computing principles, technology, and services. Training programs, online courses, and books can all aid in this endeavor.
- Prepare for the exam: Once you’ve mastered cloud computing, you can start preparing for the CCSK exam. The CCSK website contains study materials and practice tests. Here are some official documents to help you prepare for the test:
- The CSA Security Guidance for Critical Areas of Focus in Cloud Computing
- The CSA Cloud Controls Matrix
- The CSA Cloud Security Alliance STAR Program
- Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) training courses and workshops
- Take the CCSK exam: The CCSK exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time restriction. The exam is open-book, so you can use any reference materials you like.
- Obtain your results: You will receive your results immediately after finishing the exam.
- Pay the annual maintenance fee: Your CCSK certification is valid for three years. You must complete 60 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) over a three-year period to maintain your certification. Participating in training programs, attending conferences, or writing articles or books can all earn CPE credits.
How to get CCSP?
- Obtain sufficient work experience: Before you can take the CCSP exam and receive your certification from (ISC)², you must have the following experience:
- A minimum of five years of paid experience in information technology (IT) is required.
- It is necessary to have at least three years of paid IT job experience.
- A year of experience in one or more of the CCSP domains is required.
- Accept the (ISC)² code of ethics: This requires adhering to the code of ethics, which includes safeguarding the public good through cloud security protocols, acting honorably and in good faith, and working to advance the standing of security experts in the IT business.
- Take the CCSP exam: After that, you can start studying for the CCSP exam. If you believe you are adequately prepared for the exam, you may register at any time by creating an account and choosing a testing location. You can study for the exam using a variety of official resources, including:
- Official (ISC)² CCSP study materials
- The CCSP Official (ISC)² Practice Tests
- Third-party CCSP study materials and training courses
- Obtain an endorsement: submit an online endorsement application after passing the CCSP exam. A certified professional has endorsed and signed this application. This person can attest to your professional skills, talents, and reputation in the industry.
- Pay the annual maintenance fee: If you already have a certification and are a member of the organization, you do not have to pay this fee. After you pay the maintenance fee, you are officially CCSP certified.
CCSK vs CCSP: Key Differences
While both certifications are designed to validate the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of cloud security, there are some key differences between CCSP vs CCSK.
Acquired Information
CCSK certification is obtained by understanding of CSA advice, the CSA cloud control matrix, and the ENISA document. The learner also gains a wide knowledge foundation by attending this certification course.
CCSP, on the other hand, is concerned with knowledge and its application. This allows the expert to get extensive information about what he is doing and to possess it.
Gained Information
Understanding CSA recommendations, the CSA cloud control matrix and the ENISA document are required for CCSK certification. Attending this certification course also provides the learner with a broad knowledge background.
In contrast, CCSP is focused on knowledge and its application. This enables the expert to obtain and retain extensive knowledge about what he is doing.
Examination Keys
The CCSK test consists of multiple-choice questions on the certification’s focused subject. The CCSP examination assesses both knowledge and practice. The exam includes both MCQs and reality-based problem-solving problems, so students are tested in both areas.
Examining the candidates
The CCSK certification exam is given online, and students can take it from any location using a browser. With a single registration, you can take the certification exam twice.
The CCSP exam is given at a Pearson VUE test center. Unlike CCSK, registration allows for only one examination attempt.
Maintenance of earned certificates
The learner’s examination and certification do not require any ongoing maintenance. After obtaining the certificate of cloud security expertise, professionals are not required to pay any extra annual fees or submit any additional CPEs.
The (ISC)² CCSP, on the other hand, demands an annual maintenance cost of US $100 per year for the certification, as well as 90 CPEs.
Here is a breakdown of CCSP vs CCSK:
| Criteria | CCSK | CCSP |
| Full name | Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge | Certified Cloud Security Professional |
| Developer | Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) | (ISC)² in collaboration with the CSA |
| Experience requirements | No experience requirements | 5 years in IT job, of which 3 years in IT security and 1 year in a cloud domain. CCSK and CISSP substitute part or all of this |
| Body of Knowledge | 5 modules:
|
6 domains of Official (ISC)² CBK:
|
| Current version | 4th edition | 3rd edition |
| Cost | $395 exam cost | $599 exam cost |
| Maintenance requirements | None | $100/year, 90 CPE/3 year |
| Number of questions | 60 multiple-choice questions | 150 multiple-choice questions |
| Exam length | 90 minutes | 4 hours |
| Exam format |
|
|
| Exam language availability | English | English, Chinese, German, Japanese, Korean and Spanish |
| Passing requirements | 80% of questions correct | 700 out of 1000 points |
| Roles and Jobs | Cloud Computing Analyst, Cloud Administrator, Cloud Architect, Cloud Engineer, Enterprise Architect, Security Administrator, Security Architect and Systems Engineer | Cloud Computing Analyst, Cloud Administrator, Cloud Architect, Cloud Engineer, Enterprise Architect, Security Administrator, Security Architect and Systems Engineer |
Read more >> SSCP vs CCSP: Which Certification is Right for You?
Why Choose CCSP vs CCSK?
Each certification has its own benefits; therefore, it is important to consider them before deciding which one to pursue.
CCSK Benefits
Fill the skills gap for cloud-certified professionals to increase employment prospects.
Organizations require professionals with cloud security experience in today’s job market, where cloud computing is prevalent. The CCSK certification distinguishes persons by proving their knowledge of cloud security practices.
Employers frequently favor candidates with industry-recognized credentials, and holding the CCSK accreditation can provide prospective applicants an advantage. It demonstrates their commitment to staying current on cloud security developments and their ability to implement comprehensive security measures in cloud-based systems.
Demonstrate your technical knowledge, talents, and abilities to employ cloud-specific controls efficiently.
The CCSK certification provides professionals with a thorough understanding of cloud security principles and best practices. Cloud architecture, data security, identity management, compliance, and risk management are among the subjects covered. Individuals who obtain this certification gain in-depth knowledge that enables them to efficiently manage security concerns in cloud systems.
Learn how to create a baseline of security best practices while working with a wide range of responsibilities, such as cloud governance and installing technical security measures.
The CCSK certification allows professionals to build a baseline of security best practices across diverse cloud computing roles. It includes cloud governance as well as the configuration of technical security controls.
Individuals learn about cloud governance rules, processes, and compliance, helping them to effectively manage access restrictions, data protection, and regulatory compliance. Individuals learn about encryption, identity management, network security, and vulnerability management in terms of technical security controls.
Individuals who receive the CCSK certification may put these best practices into action, improving cloud security, minimizing risks, and guaranteeing compliance with industry standards.
CCSP Benefits
You will comprehend regulatory systems.
Regulatory frameworks develop comprehensive, defined procedures and mechanisms for cloud security. These frameworks describe every aspect of data security, including what data has to be protected and where and how it should be stored.
Understanding these frameworks is critical for sustaining cloud security, and being CISSP-certified is the best approach to learn the foundations.
Your career will get a boost from CCSP certification.
What exactly do you want to achieve with your cloud security knowledge and experience? You don’t have to work at an office for an organization if you don’t want to. You can establish your own business as a cloud security consultant.
You’ll be incredibly helpful to your clients as an independent cloud security consultant, especially since they’ll be engaging you to design specific security solutions for their firm. You may even specialize in a specific industry to raise your value even further.
As you deal with various clients, you will obtain more specific experience, making you even more valuable.
You will learn how to solve certain problems.
The ability to tackle unique challenges is essential for becoming a useful asset to your firm. Although knowledge alone can get you hired, it is insufficient.
Technical knowledge is frequently conceptual and does not develop into experience or wisdom. This makes it difficult to apply that knowledge when it is required. There are so many technical bits to learn, and it’s easy to get locked in a cycle of learning without using what you’ve learned.
You will discover how to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios as you prepare for the CCSP exam. The majority of exam questions will demand you to show this knowledge in real-world circumstances.
You will have proven a thorough comprehension of how to use your new information by passing the CCSP exam and being certified. All you’ll need from there is real-world experience to advance in your new field.
CCSP supplements vendor-specific certifications.
Do you have AWS certification from a previous job? Perhaps you obtained Microsoft Azure certification for your current employer? Vendor-specific certificates are useful, but only if you work for a specific organization. When you leave a position, your certification will be meaningless to prospective employers who do not use the platform for which you are qualified.
A CCSP certification will supplement your prior platform-specific qualifications while also being valuable on its own.
Which Certification is Right for You?
The certification you must have is determined by your field of work. If you are a beginner who has newly entered the cloud security profession, enrolling in CCSK is the best way to learn the fundamentals of cloud security. It is a first step for an inexperienced person to learn about the workings and strategies involved in cloud security.
Rather, if you work as an IT security professional and have adequate exposure to cloud computing security issues as a result of your job, it is a smart idea to attempt CCSP right after completing a learning course. If you are unsure, it is best to start with CCSK before moving on to CCSP to get additional knowledge.
FAQs
Can I take both CCSK and CCSP exams?
Yes, you can take both exams. However, it is recommended that you choose the certification that aligns with your experience, job role, and career goals.
Is it necessary to have a technical background to take CCSK or CCSP?
While having a technical background can be helpful, it is not necessary to have a technical background to take CCSK or CCSP. Both certifications cover a wide range of topics, including governance, compliance, and legal issues, in addition to technical topics.
Is CCSP better than CISSP?
Regarding the comparison between CCSP vs CISSP, the answer would be “No”. Because the topic of each certification’s test differs: the CCSP certification focuses on Cloud Services, whilst the CISSP certification focuses on general security.
What is the difference between CCSK and security+?
Unlike the entry-level CompTIA Security+, the CCSK delves into cloud-specific technologies and architectural patterns that aren’t achievable in traditional computing. The exam lasts 90 minutes and consists of 60 questions.
Is the CCSP worth getting?
The CCSP accreditation is advantageous not just for job progress but also for income possibilities. occupations requiring the CCSP certification, like most IT and information security occupations, pay well. In reality, the average CCSP Certification Salary in the United States is $119,000.
Conclusion
In many respects, the CCSK vs CCSP certificates complement one another. Because the CCSP acknowledges the importance of CCSK and allows CCSK to be substituted for one year of experience, the CCSK is frequently seen as a solid starting point on the route to getting a CCSP later. CCSP genuinely exemplifies excellence and dedication to the field.
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