Free ISC2 ISSEP Practice Test 2024 – 220 Practice Questions

On this webpage, prominently positioned at the top, is a button that grants complete access to the Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) practice test. Right beneath it, you can immerse yourself in a detailed practice test designed for an in-depth review. Interacting with these tests is an excellent way to identify your strong points, discover areas for improvement, and fine-tune your study approach.

To further bolster your preparation, especially in topics that demand additional focus, we have crafted specialized quizzes. These quizzes are meticulously designed to concentrate on specific elements of the ISSEP exam, facilitating a more targeted and effective study regimen.

Information Systems Security Engineering Professional Domain Exams

The Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) is a concentration within the CISSP certification, focusing on the integration of security into projects, applications, business processes, and information systems. The ISSEP exam is designed for security professionals involved with information system security engineering, who are responsible for incorporating security into projects, applications, etc. 

Here’s a breakdown of the exam domains:

Domain 1: Systems Security Engineering Foundations

• Exam Percentage: 25%
• Number of Questions: 31
• Focus: This domain focuses on the fundamental concepts, principles, and processes involved in integrating security into information systems engineering. It covers the application of systems engineering principles to establish secure systems.

Domain 2: Risk Management

• Exam Percentage: 14%
• Number of Questions: 18
• Focus: This section delves into identifying, evaluating, and prioritizing risks to ensure that security measures address the most critical threats and vulnerabilities cost-effectively.

Domain 3: Security Planning and Design

• Exam Percentage: 30%
• Number of Questions: 37
• Focus: This domain focuses on the strategic approach to security, involving the planning, designing, and integration of security concepts and technologies into a coherent security architecture.

Domain 4: Systems Implementation, Verification and Validation

• Exam Percentage: 14%
• Number of Questions: 18
• Focus: This covers the processes involved in the implementation of security measures and technologies, and the subsequent verification and validation of these measures to ensure they meet all security requirements and specifications.

Domain 5: Secure Operations, Change Management and Disposal

• Exam Percentage: 17% 
• Number of Questions: 21
• Focus: This domain addresses the ongoing management and operation of systems securely, handling changes securely, and ensuring that data disposal and system decommissioning are conducted securely and according to policy.

Number of Questions

• The ISSEP exam typically includes a certain number of questions that test the candidate’s knowledge and application skills across these domains. The exact number can vary, so it’s essential to refer to the official (ISC)² website for the most current information.

Exam Domain	Description	% of Exam	# of Questions
Systems Security Engineering Foundations	Focuses on fundamental concepts, principles, and processes in security systems engineering.	25%	31
Risk Management	Involves identifying, evaluating, and prioritizing risks to manage threats and vulnerabilities effectively.	14%	18
Security Planning and Design	Focuses on strategic security planning, designing, and integration into security architectures.	30%	37
Systems Implementation, Verification, and Validation	Covers the implementation, verification, and validation of security measures and technologies.	14%	18
Secure Operations, Change Management, and Disposal	Addresses the management and operation of systems securely, including changes and disposal.	17%	21

Additional Important Information

• Exam Duration and Format: The format is usually multiple-choice, testing both knowledge and application skills. The duration can vary, but exams are often around 3 hours long.
• Passing Score: The passing score is determined by the exam’s difficulty level and is subject to change. It’s crucial to aim for a strong understanding across all domains.
• Preparation and Study Resources: (ISC)² offers various resources, including study guides, practice exams, and official training courses. Engaging in a comprehensive study plan that covers all domains thoroughly is vital.
• Certification Maintenance: After passing the exam, certification holders must earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits to maintain their certification status. This involves engaging in various professional development activities related to information systems security.

Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) Exam Breakdown

The Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) is an advanced certification offered by (ISC)² that focuses on the integration of security into projects, applications, business processes, and information systems. The ISSEP is designed for experienced security professionals, specifically those involved in the government sector or working on government contracts, who are responsible for incorporating security principles into various information systems. The certification demonstrates expertise in security engineering and is based on the principles from the U.S. National Security Agency’s InfoSec Assessment Methodology.

Breakdown of the ISSEP Exam

• Domains Covered: The ISSEP exam covers a range of topics divided into several domains. These domains reflect different areas of knowledge required for information systems security engineering. As of my last update, the domains include:
  • Systems Security Engineering
  • Certification and Accreditation (C&A)/Risk Management Framework (RMF)
  • Technical Management
  • U.S. Government Information Assurance Related Policies and Issuances
• Exam Format and Length: The exam format typically consists of multiple-choice questions. Candidates are given a set amount of time to complete the exam, with the exact number of questions and time allowed subject to change.
• Eligibility and Requirements: To be eligible for the ISSEP, candidates must have a valid CISSP certification and are recommended to have professional experience in engineering or security roles. The ISSEP is aimed at professionals with significant experience, emphasizing the application of security engineering principles in real-world situations.
• Certification Process: After passing the exam, candidates must endorse their credentials and may need to meet additional requirements, such as continuing professional education (CPE) credits and adherence to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics.
• Renewal and Maintenance: The ISSEP certification requires renewal every three years, with holders required to earn and submit CPE credits within this period to maintain their certification status.

It’s important to note that information and requirements related to certifications can change, so always check the official (ISC)² website for the most current details.

How to Become ISSEP Certified 

To become an Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP), a certification offered by (ISC)² that combines cybersecurity with systems engineering, follow these steps:

• Meet the Experience Requirements: Before you can earn the ISSEP certification, you must have at least two years of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the ISSEP domains. If you do not have the required experience, you can still pass the ISSEP exam and become an Associate of (ISC)², which gives you six years to gain the necessary experience.
• Study for the Exam: Prepare for the ISSEP exam by reviewing the exam outline, which details the domains covered by the test. (ISC)² offers various study materials, including textbooks and study guides, online courses, and review seminars. It’s essential to thoroughly understand concepts related to security engineering, risk management, security planning, and secure design and implementation.
• Schedule and Pass the Exam: The ISSEP exam is a comprehensive test that assesses your knowledge across its relevant domains. You can schedule the exam through the (ISC)² website or Pearson VUE testing centers. Passing the exam demonstrates your proficiency in the field of security engineering.
• Subscribe to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics and Pay the Annual Maintenance Fee: After passing the exam, you must agree to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics and pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) to maintain your certification. This fee supports the costs of maintaining the (ISC)² certifications and ensuring their value to the professionals holding them.
• Complete the Endorsement Process: After passing the exam, you have to complete the endorsement process within nine months. An (ISC)² certified professional must verify your professional experience and that you are in good standing within the cybersecurity community. If you do not know an (ISC)² certified professional, (ISC)² can act as your endorser.
• Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Credits: To maintain your certification, you must earn and submit CPE credits regularly. These credits ensure that you stay current with technology and trends in the field of information systems security engineering.

For resources, you should directly visit the (ISC)² official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding study materials, exam outlines, scheduling, and fees. Additionally, (ISC)²’s website offers resources like the Candidate Information Bulletin, which provides details about the exam, how to prepare, and what to expect on exam day.

Unfortunately, I can’t provide direct links to external resources or the specific pages for ISSEP certification due to the limitations of my current environment. However, navigating the (ISC)² website and using its search functionality to find information on the ISSEP certification will be straightforward with the steps provided above.

Our Experience Teaching ISSEP Candidates To Pass The Exam

At Career Employer, developing our Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) practice tests has been a remarkable journey, marked by both challenges and achievements. This endeavor was shaped by the broad spectrum of subjects covered in the exam and meticulously tailored to fulfill the unique needs of our learners.

We have carefully crafted each aspect of our methodology to ensure that every learner is fully prepared to excel in the exam. Our commitment to providing a comprehensive educational experience is evident in the breadth and depth of our practice materials, highlighting our dedication to our students’ success.

Teaching the Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) certification from a lecturer’s perspective involves preparing students for a specialized role in information security, particularly in the design and implementation of security solutions within IT systems. This certification, developed in conjunction with the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), emphasizes the integration of security into projects, applications, business processes, and information systems. Here’s a comprehensive overview from a lecturer’s standpoint:

Curriculum Development

• Core Topics: The ISSEP curriculum should cover core domains outlined by (ISC)², including Systems Security Engineering, Certification and Accreditation (C&A)/Risk Management Framework (RMF), Technical Management, and U.S. Government Information Assurance (IA) Regulations. Developing a curriculum requires a deep understanding of these domains and the ability to translate complex principles into teachable content.
• Practical Applications: Incorporating case studies and real-world scenarios is crucial for illustrating the practical applications of ISSEP principles. This helps students understand not just the theory, but also how to apply it in their future roles.

Teaching Methodology

• Interactive Learning: Engaging students through interactive sessions, such as group discussions and workshops, can enhance understanding and retention of complex security concepts.
• Hands-On Labs: Setting up labs where students can simulate security engineering processes and practice with the tools and techniques used in the field is essential for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• Guest Lectures: Inviting experienced professionals to share insights and experiences can provide students with a broader perspective on the challenges and real-world applications of information systems security engineering.

Assessment and Evaluation

• Project-Based Assignments: Assigning projects that require students to design or evaluate security systems based on ISSEP principles can help assess their understanding and ability to apply what they’ve learned.
• Certification Preparation: Including mock exams and review sessions focused on the ISSEP certification exam helps students identify areas where they need further study and prepares them for the certification process.

At Career Employer, our team, enriched with seasoned experts in Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) exam preparation, has meticulously crafted the ISSEP certification practice test. Drawing upon their profound expertise in the field, they have successfully guided over 1000 security technicians, who specialize in server security management and troubleshooting, to ace the ISSEP certification exam.

Our team is made up of experienced professionals, each boasting more than ten years of dedicated experience in server technologies. This depth of experience ensures that our practice materials are not just expert-informed but are also highly effective in equipping candidates for success on their certification journey.

Effective Study Strategies and Methods

To effectively prepare for the Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) exam, a combination of structured learning and self-study techniques is recommended. Here’s a comprehensive strategy based on insights from various reputable sources:

Official Training and Resources

• ISSEP Self-Paced Training Course and Official Flash Cards: The (ISC)² offers official training and resources, including self-paced courses and flashcards. These resources are specifically designed to cover the ISSEP exam content comprehensively​​.
• ISSEP Online Study Group: Joining an online study group through the (ISC)² community can provide valuable insights and peer support​​.
• The Ultimate Guide to the ISSEP: This guide covers everything about the certification, including exam overview, official training, and benefits of certification. It’s a great starting point to understand the certification path and requirements​​.

Additional Training Providers

• Training Camp: Offers an ISSEP Certification Boot Camp, which includes ISC2 official courseware, an exam voucher, and a free retake guarantee. This intense, focused training is designed to cover all exam domains and includes practice test questions to prepare you effectively​​.
• Infosec Institute: Provides a variety of study resources, including the official (ISC)² CISSP-ISSEP course and flashcards. Their approach includes addressing new threats, technologies, regulations, standards, and practices​​.

Study Strategies

• Spacing Out Your Work: Study in short, intensive sessions rather than long, drawn-out periods. This method helps in retaining information more effectively and prevents procrastination​​.
• Active Studying: Engage actively with the material through self-testing, explaining concepts out loud as if teaching someone else, and working through problems repeatedly. This approach enhances understanding and recall​​.
• Eliminate Distractions: To maximize the efficiency of your study sessions, eliminate distractions. This might mean turning off social media notifications, studying in a quiet environment, or using apps to limit your time on certain websites​​.
• Diverse Learning Environments: Switch up your study locations to keep your mind fresh and engaged. Different environments can cater to different types of learning activities, such as review sessions or deep-dive problem-solving​​.

Final Tips

• Review Multiple Sources: Don’t rely solely on one type of study material. Use a mix of official courses, flashcards, practice exams, and study groups to cover all exam domains thoroughly.
•  Familiarize yourself with the format of the ISSEP exam, including the types of questions that will be asked and the scoring system. This will help you tailor your study strategy effectively.

Cost

Fee Type	Americas and Other	EMEA	UK
Exam Registration Fee	USD 100	USD 599	£479
Rescheduling Fee	USD 50	€40	£35
Cancellation Fee	$100 USD	€80	£70

here’s a summarized breakdown of the costs associated with obtaining the Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) certification:

• Exam Registration Fee:
  • For the Americas and all other regions not listed specifically: USD 599.
  • Asia Pacific: USD 599.
  • Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA): €555.
  • United Kingdom: £479.
  • Middle East: USD 599.
  • Africa: USD 599​​.
• Rescheduling Fee:
  • U.S.: $50.
  • UK: £35.
  • Europe: €40​​.
• Cancellation Fee:
  • U.S.: $100.
  • UK: £70.
  • Europe: €80​​.
• Training Costs: Vary widely depending on the provider and format. For example, the Federal Virtual Training Environment (FedVTE) offers a free ISSEP certification prep course for federal employees, but this is not inclusive of the exam voucher​​.
• Boot Camps and Other Preparation Courses:
  • Infosec offers a 4-day ISSEP Boot Camp that includes an exam pass guarantee, exam voucher, and additional resources. Pricing is not specified and likely varies​​.
  • Test Pass Academy provides a 4-day ISSEP Certification Training and Boot Camp, which includes courseware, study guide, practice questions, and snacks. The exam can be taken anytime after the class ends, but specific pricing is not listed​​.

Please note, the actual costs for study materials, courses, and additional resources can vary greatly based on the provider, the package you choose, and whether you qualify for any discounts or sponsored training opportunities. It’s also important to consider that the costs above do not include potential travel expenses for in-person training or the exam, if applicable.

Reliable Study Materials and Resources

To prepare for the Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) certification exam, several resources can be highly beneficial for your study plan. These include official courses, boot camps, online forums, and self-study materials. Here’s a curated list of resources to get you started:

• Federal Virtual Training Environment (FedVTE) ISSEP Certification Prep: This self-paced online course focuses on the four domains of the ISSEP and includes a practice exam. It’s designed for students with systems security engineering experience preparing for the ISSEP certification exam​​.
• Infosec Institute: Offers a comprehensive CISSP-ISSEP certification boot camp that includes expert instruction, an exam pass guarantee, and additional study materials. This training is suitable for those looking to deepen their knowledge and ensure exam success with guided preparation​​​​.
• Training Camp: Their ISC2 ISSEP Certification Boot Camp provides an in-depth review of systems engineering principles and best practices, combined with comprehensive exam preparation. This boot camp includes official ISSEP courseware, an exam voucher, and a free retake guarantee​​.
• (ISC)² Official Study Tools and Resources: Directly from the certification body, these resources are invaluable for self-study. They offer textbooks, flashcards, study apps, and an online study group to connect with fellow candidates​​.
• ISC2 Community Forums: Engaging with the ISC2 community forums can provide insights from candidates who have recently taken the exam. You can find study tips, resource recommendations, and general advice on navigating the exam preparation process​​.

Each of these resources offers a different approach to studying for the ISSEP exam, from structured courses and boot camps to self-guided study tools and community support. Depending on your learning style and schedule, you might find a combination of these resources to be the most effective way to prepare. Be sure to check the official (ISC)² website and the linked resources for the most current information and offerings.

Tips for Exam Day

For an effective exam day experience, especially for high-stakes tests like the ISSEP, it’s crucial to approach the day with a strategic mindset. Below are consolidated tips from various sources, tailored to help you navigate exam day successfully:

• Prepare Your Materials: Ensure all necessary materials (ID, admission ticket, pens, pencils, approved calculator, etc.) are ready and packed the night before. Double-check the exam guidelines for what’s allowed and required​​​​​​.
• Know the Exam Location: Familiarize yourself with the exam location beforehand. If possible, visit the location before exam day to estimate travel time accurately and reduce the risk of being late​​.
• Rest and Relaxation: A good night’s sleep is vital. Avoid cramming and give your brain time to rest. Engage in a relaxing activity the evening before the exam to help reduce stress​​​​.
• Healthy Breakfast: Eating a nutritious breakfast can aid concentration and energy levels. Opt for foods that release energy slowly, like whole grains, fruit, and proteins, to keep you alert throughout the exam​​.
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the exam center well before the scheduled time. This can help reduce anxiety and allow for any last-minute preparations or adjustments​​.
• Time Management: Once the exam begins, manage your time wisely. Skim through the entire exam to gauge question types and difficulty, then plan your time allocation accordingly. Start with questions you are confident about to secure easy marks early on​​.
• Read Questions Carefully: Misreading questions is a common mistake. Take the time to read each question thoroughly to understand what is being asked, especially for complex or multipart questions​​.
• Stay Calm and Focused: If you encounter a difficult question, don’t panic. Take a deep breath, relax, and if needed, move on to the next question. You can always come back to it later if time permits​​.
• Review Your Answers: If time allows, review your answers before submitting the exam. Ensure you have answered every question and check for any errors or questions you may have skipped initially​​.
• Post-Exam Review: After the exam, take some time to reflect on the questions and topics that challenged you. This can be beneficial for future exams or certifications, helping you identify areas for further study or review​​.

Implementing these tips can significantly improve your exam day performance, reducing stress and enhancing your ability to focus and recall information effectively. Remember, preparation extends beyond studying the material; it also involves preparing your mind and body for the best possible performance on exam day.

Post-Exam: Next Steps

After completing the Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) exam, there are several steps you can take to continue your professional development and leverage your new certification:

• Join Online Forums and Communities: Engaging with online forums dedicated to cybersecurity and ISSEP topics can provide you with insights into how others are applying their knowledge and skills in the field. Although specific post-exam strategies were not directly found, forums like SuprBay might offer related discussions and resources that can be beneficial for networking and staying updated on the latest in the field​​.
• Continuing Education: Stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in information systems security engineering. Consider enrolling in advanced courses or certifications that complement the ISSEP.
• Networking: Connect with other professionals who have completed the ISSEP certification through LinkedIn groups or other professional networks. This can lead to new opportunities and insights into how your peers are applying their skills.
• Practical Application: Look for opportunities within your current role or new positions that allow you to apply the knowledge and skills you’ve gained. This hands-on experience is invaluable.
• Contribute to the Community: Sharing your knowledge and experiences on platforms like blogs, forums, or even at conferences can help others in the community and establish you as a knowledgeable professional in the field.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t find specific web pages with post-exam strategies for the ISSEP exam beyond the general advice given here. However, these steps are broadly applicable and beneficial for professionals in the cybersecurity field following any certification exam.

References

1. (ISC)². “International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)².” ISC2, https://www.isc2.org/.
2. (ISC)². “ISSEP Self-Study Resources.” ISC2, https://www.isc2.org/certifications/issep/issep-self-study-resources.
3. (ISC)². “ISSEP Ultimate Guide.” Cloud Connect ISC2, https://cloud.connect.isc2.org/issep-ultimate-guide.
4. Training Camp. “ISSEP Certification Boot Camp.” Training Camp, https://trainingcamp.com/training/issep-certification-boot-camp/.
5. InfoSec Institute. “CISSP Concentrations – Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP).” InfoSec Institute, https://resources.infosecinstitute.com/certifications/cissp/issep/.
6. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Learning Center. “Studying 101: Study Smarter Not Harder.” UNC Learning Center, https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/studying-101-study-smarter-not-harder/.
7. (ISC)². “ISC² Exam Pricing.” ISC2, https://www.isc2.org/Register-for-Exam/ISC2-Exam-Pricing.
8. National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS). “ISC2 CISSP®: Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP).” CISA, https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/catalog/federal-virtual-training-environment-fedvte/isc2-cisspr-issep.
9. InfoSec Institute. “ISSEP Boot Camp.” InfoSec Institute, https://www.infosecinstitute.com/courses/issep-boot-camp/.
10. National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS). “ISC2 ISSEP Certification Training and Boot Camp.” CISA, https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/catalog/test-pass-academy-llc/isc2-issep-certification-training-and-boot-camp.
11. (ISC)². “CISSP Self-Study Resources.” ISC2, https://www.isc2.org/certifications/cissp/cissp-self-study-resources.
12. (ISC)² Community. “ISSEP Cert.” ISC2 Community, https://community.isc2.org/t5/Exam-Preparation/ISSEP-Cert/td-p/48744.
13. Edusum. “Expert Study Tips for Passing CISSP-ISSEP Certification Exam.” Edusum, https://www.edusum.com/blog/expert-study-tips-passing-cissp-issep-certification-exam.
14. My IT Guides. “ISSEP Questions.” My IT Guides, https://myitguides.com/exams/isc2/issep-questions.
15. Pirates Forum. “COMPTIA SECURITYPLUS EXAM PREP SY0-401 NETWORK SECURITY TUTORIAL kEISO.” Pirates Forum, https://pirates-forum.org/Thread-COMPTIA-SECURITYPLUS-EXAM-PREP-SY0-401-NETWORK-SECURITY-TUTORIAL-kEISO.
16. Reddit. “CISSP/ISSEP Recommendations.” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/cissp/comments/zrapuo/cisspissep_recommendations/.
17. Reddit. “Anyone have good leads on an updated study book?” Reddit, https://www.reddit.com/r/cissp/comments/w51cdg/anyone_have_good_leads_on_an_updated_study_book/.
18. LinkedIn. “Updated ISC2 ISSEP Questions for Stress-Free Exam Preparation.” LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/updated-isc2-issep-questions-stress-free-exam-preparation/.
19. Medium. “Use Latest Updated ISC2 ISSEP Exam Dumps Questions for First Attempt Success.” Medium, Matilda Crook, https://medium.com/@MatildaCrook/use-latest-updated-isc2-issep-exam-dumps-questions-for-first-attempt-success-827ccaa91900.
20. CBT Nuggets. “A Complete (ISC)² Certification Guide.” CBT Nuggets, https://www.cbtnuggets.com/blog/training/certification-paths/a-complete-isc2-certification-guide.