SSCPSystems Security Certified Practitioner
The technical entry point to (ISC)² certifications
CertPath Score
7.8
/10
About this certification
The SSCP is (ISC)²'s associate-level security credential, validating technical skills in network and systems security. It covers access controls, cryptography, risk management, monitoring, and incident response. It's ideal for IT administrators and network engineers entering cybersecurity.
What you'll validate
- ✓Access controls
- ✓Security operations and administration
- ✓Risk identification and monitoring
- ✓Incident response and recovery
- ✓Cryptography
- ✓Network and communications security
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Affordable path to (ISC)² credentials
- +Good bridge from IT admin to cybersecurity
- +Natural stepping stone to CISSP
Disadvantages
- −Overshadowed by Security+ in name recognition
- −Annual maintenance fee
Who it's for
Best for
- →IT admins transitioning to security
- →Those wanting an (ISC)² credential before CISSP eligibility
Not ideal for
- ×Pure beginners (no experience waiver unlike ISC2 CC)
Career paths this unlocks
Study Resources
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Register for the exam
Official registration only — no third-party resellers. (ISC)² offers candidate discounts for members.
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Jobs for SSCP holders
SSCP holders typically see a 5–15% salary increase.
LinkedIn Jobs
Updated daily
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
CyberSeek (cyber only)
NIST-backed supply/demand tool
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by CertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $249
- Exam Duration
- 180 minutes
- Questions
- ~125
- Passing Score
- 700/1000
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~100 hours
- Validity
- 3 years
- Salary Impact
- Moderate (5–15% uplift typical)
Prerequisites
- !1 year cumulative work experience in a security domain
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