ISO 27001: Information Security Lead Auditor Certificate (Review)
What is ISO 27001 certificate?
ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization. The ISO 27001 certificate evaluates whether an organization or individual can effectively establish, implement, maintain, and improve an ISMS(Information Security Management System). It tests knowledge on how to manage risks related to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data.
How do you get it?
To get certified, you must apply through Accredited Certification Bodies such as BSI, PECB, or IRCA.
- Application: You typically register for a training course (like Lead Auditor or Lead Implementer) and the exam is included at the end of the session.
- Study Materials: Most candidates attend a 5 day intensive training program. You can also study using the official ISO 27001:2022 standard documents or online courses on platforms like Udemy.
What is the exam like?
The exam format varies slightly depending on the provider, but generally follows these rules:
- Format: A mix of multiple choice and scenario based questions.
- Duration: Usually between 2 to 3 hours.
- Number of Questions: Typically ranges from 40 to 80 questions.
- Personal Insight: In my personal experience, cybersecurity exams were ultimately just about memorizing dumps.
How much it is?
The total cost, including training and exam fees, usually falls between $500 and $1,500. Lead Auditor certifications are generally more expensive due to the depth of the material. In my case, it was cheaper because I took it through school.
How long does it last?
Official ISO 27001 personal certifications are valid for 3 years. To maintain the status, you often need to prove Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours or pay annual maintenance fees. In my case, it lasted for 3 years, but I did not renew it because I could not handle the renewal costs.
This reminds me of the busiest summer vacation in 2015.