May 21 2025

8 domains of CISSP

Category: CISSP,Information Securitydisc7 @ 1:24 pm

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification encompasses eight domains that collectively form the (ISC)² Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). These domains provide a comprehensive framework for information security professionals. Below is a summarized overview of each domain:


What are the 8 CISSP domains?

CISSP domainCurrent weighting
(effective 1 May 2021)
Revised weighting
(effective 15 April 2024)
1. Security and Risk Management15%16%
2. Asset Security10%10%
3. Security Architecture and Engineering13%13%
4. Communication and Network Security13%13%
5. Identity and Access Management (IAM)13%13%
6. Security Assessment and Testing12%12%
7. Security Operations13%13%
8. Software Development Security11%10%

We respectfully disagree with reducing the emphasis on Domain 8. In our view, it deserves equal importance alongside Domain 1.

CISSP exam preparation course covers these eight domains in depth.


1. Security and Risk Management

This domain establishes the foundational principles of information security, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It covers governance, compliance, risk management, and professional ethics, ensuring that security strategies align with organizational goals and legal requirements.


2. Asset Security

Focusing on the protection of organizational assets, this domain addresses the classification, ownership, and handling of information and resources. It ensures that data is appropriately labeled, stored, and protected according to its sensitivity and value.


3. Security Architecture and Engineering

This domain delves into the design and implementation of secure systems. It encompasses security models, engineering processes, and the integration of security controls into hardware, software, and network architectures to mitigate vulnerabilities.


4. Communication and Network Security

Covering the secure design and management of network infrastructures, this domain includes topics such as secure communication channels, network protocols, and the protection of data in transit. It ensures the confidentiality and integrity of information exchanged across networks.


5. Identity and Access Management (IAM)

IAM focuses on the mechanisms that control user access to information systems. It includes identification, authentication, authorization, and accountability processes to ensure that only authorized individuals can access specific resources.


6. Security Assessment and Testing

This domain emphasizes the evaluation of security controls and processes. It involves conducting assessments, audits, and testing to identify vulnerabilities, ensure compliance, and validate the effectiveness of security measures.


7. Security Operations

Focusing on the day-to-day tasks necessary to maintain and monitor security, this domain includes incident response, disaster recovery, and the management of operational security controls. It ensures the continuous protection of information systems.


8. Software Development Security

This domain addresses the integration of security practices into the software development lifecycle. It covers secure coding principles, threat modeling, and the identification and mitigation of vulnerabilities in software applications.


Each domain plays a critical role in building a comprehensive understanding of information security, preparing professionals to effectively protect and manage organizational assets.

CISSP exam preparation course covers these eight domains in depth.

Tags: CISSP exam

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