GIAC releases GICSP certification exam

BETHESDA, USA: Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), a provider of cyber security certifications, announced the release of the new Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP) certification exam. This vendor-neutral credential is the only one of its kind addressing the specific cyber security issues in automation and industrial control systems.

The GICSP focuses on the foundational knowledge for professionals securing critical industrial infrastructure assets. This credential was developed for engineers, control system support, and security professionals who work in environments addressed by commonly accepted standards related to control system and automation security, including ISA-99/IEC 62443 and NERC CIP.

Holders of the GICSP will demonstrate a globally recognized level of competence that defines the architecture, design, management, risk and controls that assure the security of critical infrastructure and is the "bridge" uniting IT, engineering and cyber security professionals to achieve security for automation and control systems from design through retirement.

GIAC and industry leaders established a panel of Subject Matter Experts (SME) who identified the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to develop the certification objectives for the GICSP. These experts represent organizations responsible for developing, implementing, securing, operating, and managing industrial technology. The GICSP expects adoption on a global basis as a complimentary gateway certification in the cyber security domain for industrial control systems.

GIAC also announced that the SANS Institute has developed ICS410 ICS/SCADA Security Essentials, which can prepare professionals for the rigor of the GICSP certification examination. The SANS ICS/SCADA course provides a deep range of cyber security training for critical infrastructure domains and provides hands-on exercises to affirm that professionals obtain a better understanding of the many facets of maintaining a secure computing environment in the critical infrastructure space which ranges from the energy and utility sectors to manufacturing.