SSCPSystems Security Certified Practitioner
The technical entry point to (ISC)² certifications
Details last reviewed October 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
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.
MyCertPath verdict
(ISC)²'s junior credential — sometimes called 'CISSP-lite' — aimed at hands-on security operations roles. A reasonable alternative to Security+ if you specifically want an (ISC)² credential without the five years of experience CISSP requires. Worth weighing whether the (ISC)² brand matters in your market versus Security+'s broader recognition.
What it actually tests
125 multiple-choice questions in three hours across seven domains. More technical-operations focus than CISSP — incident response, network and systems security, access controls — and less management theory.
Common traps
Things candidates underestimate or get wrong on this exam.
- Choosing SSCP over Security+ without intent. SSCP is more expensive and less recognized outside (ISC)²-conscious employers.
- Underestimating the cryptography domain — small in scope but technically demanding.
- Forgetting the (ISC)² endorsement requirement after passing.
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
SSCP: quick answers
- How much does the SSCP exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $249 (USD). Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for SSCP?
- We estimate roughly 100 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the SSCP exam?
- The exam is 120 minutes with about 125 questions.
- How long is the SSCP credential valid?
- 3 years. 60 CPEs over 3 years; $135 annual maintenance fee
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksTop picks for SSCP
Register for the exam
Official registration only — no third-party resellers. (ISC)² offers candidate discounts for members.
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
Subscription video courses
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Jobs for SSCP holders
Pay depends on role, location, and experience more than on any single credential. Check current postings below for real ranges in your market.
LinkedIn Jobs
Posted in the last 7 days
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 MyCertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $249
- Exam Duration
- 120 minutes
- Questions
- ~125
- Passing Score
- 700/1000
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~100 hours
- Validity
- 3 years
- Salary Impact
- Moderate (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- October 2026
Prerequisites
- !1 year cumulative work experience in a security domain
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