Curious about the value of investing time in the GSEC certification exam? Discover the advantages of GSEC certification, its target audience, and the exam prerequisites.
Securing an entry-level position in the realm of cybersecurity can be challenging without recognized certifications or a formal degree. Many employers anticipate a foundational understanding of cybersecurity or valid certifications from their potential hires. Hence, if your goal is to enter the field of IT security, attaining the GSEC certification could serve as your pathway to achieving this aspiration.
My Perspective
If the decision to pursue GSEC certification is on your radar, it’s crucial to exclusively rely on thoroughly vetted training resources. Opt for an official course that directly aligns with the exam’s content. However, it’s worth noting that opting for the official SANS course can come with a substantial cost. In the scenario where you already hold a CompTIA Security+ certification, I wouldn’t advise pursuing the GSEC exam unless there’s a specific benefit, especially if you’re covering the expenses personally.
Nonetheless, if you can secure employer sponsorship, I strongly recommend taking both the course and the exam. This certification can act as a foundational stepping stone towards more advanced certifications like CISSP, CEH, CISM, CISA, among others. Once GSEC certified, you should ideally possess a fundamental grasp of security essentials. Nevertheless, remember that this certification doesn’t substitute the practical experience necessary for success.
With dedication and time, this GIAC certification can undoubtedly enhance your prospects of accessing a variety of entry-level roles in the field of cybersecurity.
Exploring the GSEC Certification Exam
The GSEC (GIAC Security Essentials Certification) serves as an introductory-level security certification designed for individuals aiming to showcase their technical competence within the realm of cybersecurity.
Earning this certification demonstrates to potential employers your firm grasp of fundamental security principles and your capability to engage in practical hands-on cybersecurity tasks. For context, the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) was established by the SANS Institute in 1999 as an organization specializing in IT certifications. It is through GIAC that the GSEC exam is administered and the certification is conferred.
Furthermore, this certification holds the distinction of being one of only 14 GIAC certifications that have received ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 Accreditation.
This accolade signifies that the certification has successfully undergone a stringent evaluation process to “establish its structure, policies, and procedures to safeguard impartiality, ensure objectivity, and manage conflicts of interest stemming from certification activities.” In an even more advantageous light, the GSEC certification aligns with the DoD Approved 8570 Baseline Certification for Information Assurance professionals, making it particularly relevant for government employees and military personnel.
In essence, the GSEC Certification undeniably holds a legitimate standing in the cybersecurity landscape.
Advantages of Attaining GSEC Certification
Beyond personal gratification and signaling to employers your commitment to studying and succeeding in the GSEC exam, substantial additional benefits may not be immediately apparent. However, this should not dissuade you from investigating whether GSEC is a suitable choice for your aspirations.
Irrespective of the scenario, acquiring the GSEC certification signifies that you have acquired a notably practical and valuable skill set in the realm of cybersecurity, a trait that will surely capture attention. Successfully clearing the examination validates your mastery of fundamental prerequisites within your professional domain, underscoring your dedication to the field of information security.
Furthermore, as this certification finds its place on your resume, you’re effectively notifying technical recruiters and hiring managers of your aptitude to meet the demands of intricate technical positions.
Remarkably, it’s worth noting that GIAC certifications rank as the 4th most frequently requested security certifications, further attesting to their relevance and recognition.
| Certification | Number of Certified Professionals |
|---|---|
| CompTIA Security+ | 265,992 |
| Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) | 91,765 |
| Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) | 46,318 |
| Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) | 35,812 |
| Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) | 20,300 |
| Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) | 13,652 |
This should provide you with a broad understanding of the value that companies place on GSEC-certified security experts. Undoubtedly, this certification will amplify your prominence in the cybersecurity job landscape.
Here’s a condensed overview of the advantages presented by the GSEC Certification:
- Eligibility for higher-paying job roles;
- Expanded array of career prospects and routes;
- Validation of your field-specific expertise;
- Global acknowledgment and demand as a skilled professional;
- Qualification for more advanced cybersecurity certifications.
Is the GSEC Certification the Right Choice for You?
If you’re embarking on an IT journey and aiming to develop a fundamental grasp of cyber security concepts and their practical applications, the GSEC certification presents an optimal starting point. Primarily designed for entry-level IT security professionals with a minimum of 12 months of security experience, the GSEC certification remains accessible even if you lack the specified experience.
However, if you’re entirely new to the realm of cybersecurity and seek a certification that can rapidly familiarize you with the essentials, consider exploring the GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) or the GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF) certifications as more suitable alternatives.
In any case, achieving a GSEC Certification positions you for entry-level roles in cybersecurity, including:
- Junior Network Administrator;
- Junior System Administrator;
- Junior Information Security Analyst;
- Help Desk Specialist;
- Junior Cyber Security Analyst;
- Junior Forensic Analyst;
- Junior Penetration Tester;
- Junior IT Auditor;
- Junior Security Engineer.
GSEC Certification Earnings
As reported by PayScale, individuals holding the GSEC certification tend to earn an average annual salary of around $94,000.
Similarly, ZipRecruiter cites the average salary for GSEC certified professionals as approximately $94,000.
It’s important to note that these figures represent averages, and your actual income is significantly influenced by your specific role and duties. Naturally, the salary of a Junior Cybersecurity Analyst would differ from that of a Senior Cybersecurity Engineer, even if they possess identical certifications.
GSEC Certification Exam Eligibility
In contrast to many other cybersecurity certification programs, the GSEC certification exam offered by GIAC stands out for its inclusive approach. Unlike some certifying bodies, GIAC does not mandate prior cyber experience as a prerequisite for taking the GSEC exam. Surprisingly, even an IT background is not necessary to embark on this certification journey.
This unique characteristic means that whether you’re a student aiming to venture into the cybersecurity realm or a seasoned Security Director looking to enhance your credentials, the GSEC exam is open to individuals of all levels of expertise and knowledge.
While certain sources might suggest that the exam is primarily tailored for mid-level professionals possessing an information security background, it’s important to note that the GSEC exam welcomes candidates with limited to no experience just as readily.
However, the absence of strict prerequisites should not undermine the significance of thorough preparation. Investing time in studying and getting ready for the exam remains a valuable step towards ensuring success.
GSEC Examination Focus
The GSEC assessment evaluates your grasp of cybersecurity concepts and your ability to effectively employ information security tools to tackle challenges.
While the GSEC outlines the test’s subject areas, goals, and desired outcomes, SANS takes an additional step by dissecting each of the 35 study modules integrated into the GSEC exam.
SANS presents this breakdown not as a prescribed study sequence, but for the sake of conciseness. The study material is categorized into six domains, each addressing a distinct realm of cybersecurity:
- Network Security & Cloud Essentials;
- Defense-in-Depth;
- Vulnerability Management and Response;
- Data Security Technologies;
- Windows and Azure Security;
- Linux, Mac and Smartphone Security.
Exam Specifications:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours |
| Question Count | 106 to 180 questions |
| Minimum Passing Score | 73% (considered a passing grade) |
Effective Preparation for GIAC Exams
According to GIAC, the average individual preparing for one of its exams invests approximately 55 hours in study time.
If your goal is to pass the GSEC certification exam on your first attempt, having access to the right study resources is crucial. Given the limited time frame of just four months before the exam, efficiently leveraging these resources becomes even more vital.
Doing the calculations, this implies that the average GIAC test taker dedicates around 30 minutes daily to their studies. However, it’s advisable to devote more than just 30 minutes a day, although meeting at least this baseline can still be beneficial.
In terms of study dynamics, there’s both positive and challenging news. The positive aspect is that all GIAC exams are open book, offering a sense of flexibility. On the flip side, the training materials themselves lack an index, making it difficult to swiftly locate key concepts during the exam. Test takers often resort to creating their own reference points, occasionally using inventive methods.
Upon registering for your GIAC Certification Attempt, you’ll receive 2 GIAC practice exam tests. If you find that two GSEC practice exams fall short, additional tests can be acquired through purchase. Furthermore, if needed, you have the option to request an extension for your exam date.
SANS GSEC Training: Comprehensive Exam Preparation
An exceptional resource for preparing for GIAC exams is offered through SANS training courses. These courses provide a thorough and effective method of readiness for any GIAC certification by imparting crucial security skills that align with the specific certification’s requirements.
SANS courses are presently available through three distinct approaches: OnDemand, Live Online, or In-Person. This flexibility ensures that you can pursue your preparation objectives while managing both work and personal commitments.
For those targeting the GSEC certification, the official GSEC bootcamp is SEC401: Security Essentials: Network, Endpoint, and Cloud, presented by the SANS Institute.
While the cost of the SANS SEC401 bootcamp is approximately $8275, it remains notably more economical than various third-party alternatives. By contrast, the average tuition for external bootcamps in 2020 is around $14,142, spanning an average duration of 17.2 weeks.
Is it possible to take a GSEC training course from another organization? Certainly, but it’s essential to consider that the training course associated with the certifying company generally offers the optimal approach. Given that they hold the authority and expertise, it’s advisable not to take unnecessary risks by opting for training from another source. Hence, I recommend selecting the bootcamp provided by the certifying organization (and no, I’m not receiving compensation for this endorsement).
To provide additional insights into the training course, Bryan Simon, one of the authors of the SEC401 training, has created a couple of YouTube videos, which are shared below for your reference.
Although SANS training isn’t obligatory for obtaining GSEC certification, considering it could be a wise choice.
GSEC Certification Exam Expenses
The cost of the GSEC certification exam is currently $949, irrespective of whether you decide to enroll in the associated training course. It’s important to note that, similar to many other security certifications, maintaining the GSEC certification post-examination requires ongoing efforts.
- GSEC maintenance requirements encompass recertification every four years and payment of a certification renewal fee amounting to $469. Notably, there is no annual maintenance fee, unlike what you might encounter with other certifying bodies;
- On an annual basis, you’re expected to accumulate at least 36 continuing professional education (CPE) units. Alternatively, if you choose not to fulfill this criterion, retaking the exam is an option. However, I advise against it unless you’re prepared to study anew for a fresh examination attempt;
- Accruing CPEs can be accomplished through various avenues, including relevant work experience, graduate coursework, published papers, and participation in security-related training courses;
- Despite its esteemed status as an entry-level cybersecurity certification, the GSEC certification exam can pose substantial challenges. In the event of an unsuccessful attempt, you have the option to purchase a retake for a fee of $849;
- If you’re seriously contemplating pursuing this certification, I recommend visiting both the GIAC and SANS websites to thoroughly understand the GSEC examination’s requirements and associated deadlines.
Conclusion
Obtaining the GSEC certification comes with not only the commitment to rigorous preparation but also the financial considerations involved. The GSEC exam itself costs $949, whether or not you opt for the associated training course. This investment is just the beginning, as maintaining the certification requires attention to continuing professional education (CPE) units, recertification every four years, and a certification renewal fee of $469. However, this cost is notably devoid of annual maintenance fees, setting it apart from some other certification programs.
While the GSEC certification is recognized as a reputable entry-level credential in the realm of cybersecurity, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges it presents. In the event of an unsuccessful attempt, a retake option is available at a cost of $849.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue the GSEC certification should be made after a thorough understanding of both the financial commitments and the commitment to ongoing professional development. By exploring the resources available on the GIAC and SANS websites, aspiring professionals can navigate the path to GSEC certification with clarity and informed decision-making.
