CCSP

The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is a professional certification awarded by (ISC)² that validates advanced expertise in cloud security architecture, design, operations, and governance. The credential is intended for security professionals who architect, manage, or assess enterprise cloud environments across various service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and deployment models.

Eligibility for the CCSP typically requires a combination of information security experience and cloud-specific expertise. Most candidates have five or more years of cumulative information security work experience, with at least three years in one or more CCSP domains. Alternatives exist for those with four years of experience plus a college degree or recognized security credential. After meeting experience requirements, candidates must pass the CCSP examination and obtain endorsement from an (ISC)² certified professional who can validate professional experience.

The CCSP examination covers six domains: Architectural Concepts and Design Requirements; Cloud Data Security; Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security; Cloud Application Security; Cloud Security Operations; and Legal, Risk, and Compliance. The exam is computer-based and typically consists of multiple-choice items administered within a fixed time window, designed to assess a candidate’s ability to apply cloud security knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Maintenance of the CCSP requires ongoing professional education to earn continuing professional education (CPE) credits and payment of an annual maintenance fee. Recertification and adherence to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics are also required to sustain the credential. The CCSP is widely recognized in enterprise and service provider environments as a benchmark for cloud security proficiency and is often pursued by security architects, managers, auditors, and consultants seeking to validate their cloud security expertise.