The ISC2 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is the world’s leading cloud security certification, validating advanced technical skills and knowledge in designing, managing, and securing data, applications, and infrastructure in the cloud. Developed jointly by ISC2 and the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), the CCSP demonstrates that a professional can apply cloud security best practices, policies, and procedures across cloud architecture, operations, and compliance — making it the definitive credential for cloud security professionals globally. Accredited to ISO/IEC 17024 by ANAB and recognized under the U.S. DoD 8140 framework, the CCSP is trusted and respected by employers across every major industry worldwide. From October 2025, the CCSP exam is delivered exclusively in Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format.
Audience Profile
Cloud Architects and Cloud Engineers responsible for designing secure cloud environments
Cloud Security Analysts and Cloud Specialists
Cloud Administrators managing cloud platforms and infrastructure
Cloud Consultants advising organizations on secure cloud adoption
Auditors of cloud computing services
IT and cybersecurity professionals transitioning into cloud security roles
CISSP holders looking to specialize in cloud security
What will you learn?
The CCSP covers six core domains:
- Cloud Concepts, Architecture and Design — Cloud computing models, reference architectures, security design principles, and trusted cloud services
- Cloud Data Security — Data lifecycle management, data classification, encryption, data retention, and rights management in the cloud
- Cloud Platform & Infrastructure Security — Securing cloud infrastructure components, virtual networks, and hybrid environments
- Cloud Application Security — Secure software development, cloud application architecture, identity and access management, and API security
- Cloud Security Operations — Building and operating a secure cloud environment, incident response, and business continuity in the cloud
- Legal, Risk and Compliance — Regulatory frameworks, contractual obligations, privacy laws, audit processes, and cloud-specific risk management
Why Get Certified?
- The most respected cloud security credential in the world, recognized by major employers globally
- Recognized under the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD 8140) framework
- Accredited by ANAB to ISO/IEC 17024 and mapped to SFIA and ENISA cybersecurity frameworks
- Demonstrates expertise across the full spectrum of cloud security — architecture, operations, and compliance
- Highly valued as cloud adoption accelerates across every industry worldwide
- Holding an active CISSP satisfies the entire CCSP experience requirement, making it a natural progression for CISSP holders
- Backed by the global ISC2 community of 265,000+ certified cybersecurity professionals
Prerequisites
- Minimum of 5 years of cumulative, paid, full-time IT experience, of which at least 3 years must be in cybersecurity and 1 year in one or more of the six CCSP domains
- A post-secondary degree in computer science, IT, or a related field may substitute for up to 1 year of experience
- Holding CSA’s CCSK certificate may substitute for 1 year of domain experience
- Holding an active CISSP satisfies the entire CCSP experience requirement
- No experience yet? Pass the exam and become an Associate of ISC2, then complete the required experience within 6 years