If you're advancing your cybersecurity career, you've probably wondered: Should I get CISSP or CISM?
Both are elite security certifications, but they serve different career paths. This guide breaks down everything you need to make the right choice.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | CISSP | CISM |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Body | (ISC)² | ISACA |
| Focus | Technical + Management | Management + Governance |
| Domains | 8 domains | 4 domains |
| Experience Required | 5 years | 5 years |
| Exam Length | 3-6 hours (CAT) | 4 hours |
| Questions | 100-150 adaptive | 150 fixed |
| Passing Score | 700/1000 | 450/800 |
| Average Salary | $131,000 | $148,000 |
| Best For | Security architects, consultants | Security managers, CISOs |
Understanding CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)
What CISSP Covers
CISSP spans 8 domains known as the "Common Body of Knowledge" (CBK):
- Security and Risk Management (15%)
- Asset Security (10%)
- Security Architecture and Engineering (13%)
- Communication and Network Security (13%)
- Identity and Access Management (13%)
- Security Assessment and Testing (12%)
- Security Operations (13%)
- Software Development Security (11%)
Who Should Get CISSP
CISSP is ideal if you want to:
- Design and implement security architectures
- Work as a security consultant
- Lead technical security teams
- Work in security engineering roles
- Pursue government security positions (DoD approved)
CISSP Exam Format
The CISSP uses Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) in English:
- 100-150 questions
- 3-6 hours (stops when proficiency determined)
- Must answer all questions (no going back)
- Passing score: 700/1000
Understanding CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)
What CISM Covers
CISM focuses on 4 management-oriented domains:
- Information Security Governance (17%)
- Information Security Risk Management (20%)
- Information Security Program (33%)
- Incident Management (30%)
Who Should Get CISM
CISM is ideal if you want to:
- Manage security teams and programs
- Become a CISO or Security Director
- Focus on governance and compliance
- Bridge business and technical security
- Work in security program management
CISM Exam Format
- 150 multiple-choice questions
- 4 hours
- Fixed linear format (can review/change answers)
- Passing score: 450/800
Salary Comparison 2025
Based on recent salary surveys:
| Role | CISSP Holders | CISM Holders |
|---|---|---|
| Security Analyst | $95,000 | $98,000 |
| Security Manager | $125,000 | $135,000 |
| Security Architect | $145,000 | $140,000 |
| CISO | $180,000 | $195,000 |
| Consultant | $140,000 | $145,000 |
Key insight: CISM holders often earn more in management roles, while CISSP holders excel in technical and consulting positions.
Experience Requirements
CISSP Requirements
- 5 years paid work experience in 2+ of the 8 domains
- OR 4 years + relevant degree or approved credential
- Can take exam first, then earn "Associate of (ISC)²" while gaining experience
CISM Requirements
- 5 years security management experience
- 3 years must be in security management specifically
- Can substitute 1-2 years with approved credentials or education
- Must gain experience within 5 years of passing
Which Should You Get First?
Get CISSP First If:
✅ You're in a technical security role ✅ You want broad security knowledge ✅ You're pursuing consulting or architecture roles ✅ You need DoD 8570/8140 compliance ✅ You want the most recognized security certification
Get CISM First If:
✅ You're already in or targeting management ✅ You focus on governance and compliance ✅ You're pursuing CISO or director roles ✅ Your organization values ISACA certifications ✅ You prefer management-focused content
Can You Get Both?
Many senior security leaders hold both certifications. A common path:
- Years 1-5: Build technical foundation, get CISSP
- Years 5-10: Move into management, get CISM
- Years 10+: CISO/Director roles leveraging both
The certifications complement each other well—CISSP provides technical depth while CISM adds management credibility.
Study Time and Difficulty
CISSP
- Study time: 3-6 months
- Difficulty: High (broad scope)
- Challenge: Understanding security from management perspective while knowing technical details
CISM
- Study time: 2-4 months
- Difficulty: Moderate-High
- Challenge: Thinking like a manager, not technician
Maintaining Your Certification
CISSP
- 40 CPE credits per year (120 total over 3 years)
- Annual maintenance fee: $125
- Must recertify every 3 years
CISM
- 20 CPE hours per year (120 total over 3 years)
- Annual maintenance fee: $85 ISACA members / $135 non-members
- Must recertify every 3 years
The Verdict
Choose CISSP if you want the most versatile, widely-recognized security certification that opens doors to technical and consulting roles globally.
Choose CISM if you're targeting security management and leadership positions, especially CISO and director roles.
Consider both if you're building a long-term career as a security executive—they complement each other perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which certification is harder, CISSP or CISM?
CISSP is generally considered harder due to its broader scope (8 domains vs 4) and the adaptive testing format. However, CISM requires management thinking that can be challenging for technical professionals.
Can I take CISSP without 5 years experience?
Yes, you can pass the exam and become an "Associate of (ISC)²" while gaining the required experience. You have 6 years to meet the experience requirement.
Do CISSP and CISM count toward each other's requirements?
Yes, CISSP can substitute for 1-2 years of CISM experience, and vice versa. Check current ISACA and (ISC)² policies for details.
Which certification do employers prefer?
It depends on the role. Technical positions often prefer CISSP, while management roles may prefer CISM. Many job postings accept either.
Is CISM worth it if I already have CISSP?
Yes, especially for career advancement into management. CISM demonstrates management capability and is highly valued for CISO positions.
Preparing for CISSP or CISM? Access comprehensive practice questions and study materials to pass your exam on the first attempt.
