CISA vs CISM – Comparison Based on Various Factors

By Aly
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The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credentials are two of the most popular in the cybersecurity industry. Both credentials denote a high level of expertise and experience, but they are not interchangeable. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast the CISA and CISM credentials based on various factors, including scope, target audience, and focus areas.

CISA vs CISM – A Comparison

The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) are two of the most popular information security certifications. Although both certifications focus on information security, there are some important differences between them.

One of the main differences between CISA and CISM is the focus of the certification. CISA is focused on auditing, while CISM is focused on management. This difference is reflected in the content of the exams, as well as in the experience requirements for each certification.

Another difference between cisa and cism that requires candidates to have a minimum of five years of experience in information security, while there is no such requirement for CISA. This experience requirement ensures that candidates for CISM have a strong foundation in information security before they attempt to become certified.

Finally, another important difference between these two certifications is that CISM focuses on global standards for information security, while CISA focuses primarily on US standards. This difference is due to the fact that CISM is administered by ISACA, which is a global organization, while CISA is administered by ISC2, which is a US-based organization.

Despite these differences, both CISA and CISMs are highly respected information security certifications that can help you further your career in this field. So, which one should you choose? The answer depends on your specific goals and needs. If you want to focus on auditing, then CISA may

The Different Factors to Consider

There are a number of different factors to consider when comparing CISA and CISM. Here are some of the key considerations:

  1. Certification focus: CISA is focused on auditing and information systems, while CISM focuses on information security management.

  1. Experience requirements: CISA requires at least 5 years of experience in information systems audit, control or security, while CISM requires at least 3 years of experience in information security management.

  1. Exam format: CISA has a computer-based exam consisting of 250 multiple-choice questions, while CISM has a paper-based exam consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions.

 

  1. Passing score: Candidates must achieve a score of 700 or higher on the CISA exam to pass, while candidates must achieve a score of 800 or higher on the CISM exam to pass.

  1. Recertification requirements: Certified ISAs must recertify every three years by completing 120 hours of continuing professional education (CPE), while certified CISMs must recertify every three years by completing 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE).

What is the Difference?

There are several key differences between the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification programs. The CISA program is focused on auditing, while the CISM program is geared towards management. The CISA exam covers six knowledge domains, including IS audits, whereas the CISM exam covers four domains with a heavier focus on management topics.

Additionally, the CISA credential requires candidates to have at least five years of experience in IS auditing, whereas there is no experience requirement for the CISM credential. Furthermore, candidates for the CISM credential must agree to adhere to a code of ethics before they can sit for the exam. Finally, although both certifications are offered by ISACA, only the CISM credential is accredited by ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024:2012.

Which One is Better?

CISA and CISM are both globally recognized information security certifications. They are both highly respected and sought-after qualifications by employers in the field. But which one is better?

To help you decide, we’ve put together a comparison of the two certs based on various factors, including:

  • The focus of each certification

  • The benefits of each certification

  • The requirements for each certification

  • The cost of each certification

Focus of Each Certification

CISA is focused on auditing, control, and security of information systems. CISM, on the other hand, focuses on management of information security.

Benefits of Each Certification

Both CISA and CISM offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Enhanced career prospects – With either qualification, you’ll be in high demand from employers looking for talented info sec professionals.

  • Improved knowledge and skills – You’ll learn best practices in information security and gain valuable insights into the latest trends and threats.

Conclusion

CISA vs CISM is a comparison of two popular certification programs based on various factors. While both have their pros and cons, we believe that CISA is the better overall choice for most people. It is more widely recognized and respected, has more job opportunities available, and generally speaking, is more affordable. find more cisa info.