CISSP Certification Made Easy with Eric Conrad's Study Guide
CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad: A Comprehensive Review
If you are looking for a reliable and effective study guide to prepare for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) exam, you might have come across the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad. This book is one of the most popular and well-regarded resources for CISSP candidates, as it covers all the topics and concepts that are tested on the exam in a concise and clear manner. But is this book really worth your time and money? How does it compare with other CISSP study guides on the market? In this article, we will provide a comprehensive review of the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad, including its background, features, pros and cons, and how to use it effectively. By the end of this article, you will have a better idea of whether this book is right for you and how it can help you ace the CISSP exam.
Cissp Study Guide Eric Conrad.pdf
What is CISSP and why is it important?
Before we dive into the details of the book, let's first understand what CISSP is and why it is important for information security professionals. CISSP stands for Certified Information Systems Security Professional, and it is a globally recognized certification that validates your knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, and managing a secure information system. It is administered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC), a non-profit organization that sets the standards and best practices for information security.
The CISSP certification is considered to be one of the most prestigious and sought-after credentials in the information security field, as it demonstrates your expertise and credibility in various domains of information security, such as security engineering, risk management, identity and access management, security operations, software development security, and more. According to (ISC), there are more than 150,000 CISSP holders worldwide, and they earn an average salary of $113,000 per year . The CISSP certification can also help you advance your career, as many employers prefer or require candidates who have this certification for senior-level or managerial positions in information security.
CISSP domains and exam objectives
To obtain the CISSP certification, you need to pass a rigorous exam that covers eight domains of information security. These domains are based on the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK), which is a collection of topics and concepts that are essential for information security professionals. The eight domains are:
Security and Risk Management
Asset Security
Security Architecture and Engineering
Communication and Network Security
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
Security Assessment and Testing
Security Operations
Software Development Security
The exam consists of 100 to 150 multiple-choice questions that you need to answer within three hours. The passing score is 700 out of 1000 points. The exam tests your ability to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios and problems, rather than just memorizing facts and definitions. Therefore, you need to have a solid understanding of the concepts and principles of information security, as well as the experience and judgment to apply them in various situations.
Benefits of CISSP certification
As we mentioned earlier, the CISSP certification can bring you many benefits, such as:
Enhancing your knowledge and skills in information security
Validating your competence and credibility in the field
Increasing your earning potential and career opportunities
Gaining recognition and respect from your peers and employers
Joining a global community of information security professionals
Accessing exclusive resources and benefits from (ISC)
However, the CISSP certification is not easy to obtain, as it requires a lot of preparation and dedication. You need to meet the eligibility criteria, which include having at least five years of full-time work experience in two or more of the eight domains, or four years of experience plus a college degree or another approved credential. You also need to pay the exam fee, which is $699 USD , and maintain your certification by earning continuing professional education (CPE) credits and paying an annual maintenance fee.
Therefore, if you are serious about pursuing the CISSP certification, you need to have a clear goal and a good study plan. You also need to choose the right study materials that can help you prepare effectively and efficiently for the exam. One of the most popular and recommended study materials is the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad.
Who is Eric Conrad and what is his background?
Eric Conrad is the author of the CISSP Study Guide, along with his co-authors Seth Misenar and Joshua Feldman. He is also a senior instructor and course author at SANS Institute, a leading organization that provides information security training and certification. He has taught thousands of students how to pass the CISSP exam through his courses and books.
Eric Conrad's experience and credentials
Eric Conrad has more than 20 years of experience in information security, with expertise in areas such as penetration testing, incident response, digital forensics, security architecture, and risk management. He holds several certifications, including CISSP, GIAC Security Expert (GSE), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA), GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN), GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT), GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA), GIAC Certified Windows Security Administrator (GCWN), GIAC Certified UNIX Security Administrator (GCUX), GIAC Systems and Network Auditor (GSNA), GIAC Certified Firewall Analyst (GCFW), GIAC Certified Perimeter Protection Analyst (GPPA), GIAC Security Leadership Certification (GSLC), CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA), Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA), Check Point Certified Security Expert (CCSE), Sun Certified System Administrator (SCSA), Sun Certified Network Administrator (SCNA), Sun Certified Security Administrator (SCSECA) .
Eric Conrad's teaching style and approach
Eric Conrad is known for his clear and concise teaching style, as well as his practical and hands-on approach. He focuses on explaining the core concepts and principles of information security in a way that is easy to understand and remember. He also provides real-world examples and scenarios that illustrate how to apply the knowledge and skills to solve problems. He uses various techniques to help students learn effectively, such as mnemonics, diagrams, tables, charts, graphs, exercises, quizzes, questions, summaries, tips, warnings, and more.
Eric Conrad's goal is to help students pass the CISSP exam on their first attempt, without wasting time or money on unnecessary or irrelevant information. He also aims to help students develop a solid foundation for their information security career, by providing them with the essential knowledge and skills that they can use in their daily work.
What is the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
The CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad is a book that provides a comprehensive review of all the topics and concepts that are covered on the CISSP exam. It is based on the latest version of the CBK, which was updated in May 2021 . The book is divided into eight chapters, each corresponding to one of the eight domains of information security. Each chapter contains:
What is the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
The CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad is a book that provides a comprehensive review of all the topics and concepts that are covered on the CISSP exam. It is based on the latest version of the CBK, which was updated in May 2021 . The book is divided into eight chapters, each corresponding to one of the eight domains of information security. Each chapter contains:
An introduction that explains the main objectives and scope of the domain
A list of unique terms and definitions that are relevant to the domain
A detailed explanation of the concepts and principles of the domain, with examples and diagrams
A summary of the key points and exam objectives at the end of each section
A self-test section that includes multiple-choice questions with answers and explanations
A list of references and resources for further reading
The book also includes an appendix that contains a complete self-test with 150 questions that simulate the actual exam format and difficulty. The appendix also provides answers and explanations for each question, as well as a scoring sheet to help you evaluate your performance.
The book is designed to be a concise and effective study guide that covers only what you need to know to pass the exam, without any fluff or filler. It is written in a clear and simple language that is easy to follow and understand. It also follows a logical and consistent structure that helps you organize and retain the information.
What are the pros and cons of the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
As with any study material, the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad has its pros and cons. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of using this book for your exam preparation:
Pros of the book
It covers all the topics and concepts that are tested on the exam, based on the latest version of the CBK
It provides clear and concise explanations of the concepts and principles, with examples and diagrams
It follows a logical and consistent structure that helps you organize and retain the information
It includes self-test sections with questions, answers, and explanations that help you assess your knowledge and understanding
It includes a complete self-test appendix with 150 questions that simulate the actual exam format and difficulty
It is written by an experienced and reputable author who has taught thousands of students how to pass the CISSP exam
It is affordable and widely available online or in print
Cons of the book
It may not provide enough depth or detail for some topics or concepts that require more explanation or clarification
It may not include some of the latest developments or changes in information security that may be relevant to the exam
It may contain some errors or typos that may confuse or mislead you
It may not suit your learning style or preference, as it is mainly text-based and does not include many visual aids or interactive features
It may not be enough by itself to prepare you for the exam, as you may need to supplement it with other sources or practice tests
Comparison with other CISSP study guides
The CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad is not the only study guide available for CISSP candidates. There are many other books, courses, videos, podcasts, websites, blogs, forums, apps, and more that can help you prepare for the exam. Some of the most popular and recommended ones are:
The Official (ISC) Guide to the CISSP CBK: This is the official study guide from (ISC), which provides a comprehensive overview of all the topics and concepts in the CBK. It is written by experts who have contributed to developing the exam content. It also includes case studies, best practices, tips, techniques, and more.
What are the pros and cons of the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
As with any study material, the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad has its pros and cons. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of using this book for your exam preparation:
Pros of the book
It covers all the topics and concepts that are tested on the exam, based on the latest version of the CBK
It provides clear and concise explanations of the concepts and principles, with examples and diagrams
It follows a logical and consistent structure that helps you organize and retain the information
It includes self-test sections with questions, answers, and explanations that help you assess your knowledge and understanding
It includes a complete self-test appendix with 150 questions that simulate the actual exam format and difficulty
It is written by an experienced and reputable author who has taught thousands of students how to pass the CISSP exam
It is affordable and widely available online or in print
Cons of the book
It may not provide enough depth or detail for some topics or concepts that require more explanation or clarification
It may not include some of the latest developments or changes in information security that may be relevant to the exam
It may contain some errors or typos that may confuse or mislead you
It may not suit your learning style or preference, as it is mainly text-based and does not include many visual aids or interactive features
It may not be enough by itself to prepare you for the exam, as you may need to supplement it with other sources or practice tests
Comparison with other CISSP study guides
The CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad is not the only study guide available for CISSP candidates. There are many other books, courses, videos, podcasts, websites, blogs, forums, apps, and more that can help you prepare for the exam. Some of the most popular and recommended ones are:
The Official (ISC) Guide to the CISSP CBK: This is the official study guide from (ISC), which provides a comprehensive overview of all the topics and concepts in the CBK. It is written by experts who have contributed to developing the exam content. It also includes case studies, best practices, tips, techniques, and more.
The CISSP All-in-One Exam Guide: This is another popular study guide that covers all the domains of information security in depth. It is written by Shon Harris, a renowned author and instructor who has helped thousands of students pass the CISSP exam. It also includes practice questions, exam tips, CD-ROMs, online access, and more.
The CISSP For Dummies: This is a study guide that simplifies and explains the concepts and principles of information security in a friendly and easy-to-understand way. It is written by Lawrence Miller and Peter Gregory, two experienced authors and instructors who have taught CISSP courses for many years. It also includes cheat sheets, practice tests, flashcards, online access, and more.
The CISSP Prep Guide: This is a study guide that focuses on providing practical and realistic scenarios and questions that test your knowledge and skills in information security. It is written by Ronald Krutz and Russell Dean Vines, two experts who have extensive experience in information security consulting and training. It also includes review questions, case studies, glossaries, appendices, CD-ROMs, online access, and more.
These are just some of the many study guides that are available for CISSP candidates. You can choose one or more of them depending on your needs, preferences, budget, and learning style. However, you should also remember that no single study guide can guarantee your success on the exam. You need to use multiple sources of information and practice as much as possible to prepare yourself for the exam.
Conclusion and FAQs
In conclusion, the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad is a comprehensive and effective study guide that covers all the topics and concepts that are tested on the CISSP exam. It is written by an experienced and reputable author who has taught thousands of students how to pass the CISSP exam. It is designed to be concise and clear, without any fluff or filler. It also includes self-test sections and a complete self-test appendix that help you assess your knowledge and understanding. However, the book also has some drawbacks, such as not providing enough depth or detail for some topics or concepts, not including some of the latest developments or changes in information security, containing some errors or typos, not suiting your learning style or preference, and not being enough by itself to prepare you for the exam. Therefore, you need to weigh the pros and cons of the book and compare it with other study guides before deciding whether to use it or not. You also need to supplement it with other sources of information and practice as much as possible to prepare yourself for the exam.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad:
Q: How can I get the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
A: You can buy the book online or in print from various retailers, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, O'Reilly Media, Elsevier, and more. You can also borrow the book from a library or a friend.
Q: How much does the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad cost?
A: The price of the book may vary depending on the retailer, format, edition, and condition. However, the average price of the book is around $40 USD for the paperback version and $30 USD for the Kindle version.
Q: What is the latest edition of the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
A: The latest edition of the book is the fourth edition, which was released in January 2023. It is based on the latest version of the CBK, which was updated in May 2021.
Q: How long does it take to read the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
A: The book has 544 pages and 8 chapters. The time it takes to read the book may depend on your reading speed, comprehension level, and study schedule. However, a reasonable estimate is that it may take you around 40 hours to read the book thoroughly.
Q: How should I use the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
Conclusion and FAQs
In conclusion, the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad is a comprehensive and effective study guide that covers all the topics and concepts that are tested on the CISSP exam. It is written by an experienced and reputable author who has taught thousands of students how to pass the CISSP exam. It is designed to be concise and clear, without any fluff or filler. It also includes self-test sections and a complete self-test appendix that help you assess your knowledge and understanding. However, the book also has some drawbacks, such as not providing enough depth or detail for some topics or concepts, not including some of the latest developments or changes in information security, containing some errors or typos, not suiting your learning style or preference, and not being enough by itself to prepare you for the exam. Therefore, you need to weigh the pros and cons of the book and compare it with other study guides before deciding whether to use it or not. You also need to supplement it with other sources of information and practice as much as possible to prepare yourself for the exam.
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad:
Q: How can I get the CISSP Study Guide by Eric Conrad?
A: You can buy the book online or in print from various retailers, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, O'Reilly Media, Elsevier, and more. You can also borrow the book from a library or a friend.
Q: How much does the CISSP Study Guid