Cybersecurity associations play a critical role in bringing together professionals in the field to share knowledge, establish best practices, and advocate for the profession. With cyber threats only increasing each year, associations provide a vital forum for collaboration and community in this fast-evolving industry. But which association is the largest and most impactful? Here we will explore the major cybersecurity associations and examine why (ISC)2 has emerged as the leader.
The International Information System Security Certification Consortium [(ISC)2]
(ISC)2 is widely considered the largest and most influential international cybersecurity association. Founded in 1989 as a non-profit, (ISC)2 issues the coveted CISSP certification and other credentials to information security professionals who meet its education and experience requirements. It advocates for the industry, provides training programs, hosts events and conferences, publishes insights and news through its media arm (ISC)2 Security Briefings, and fosters a sense of community among members from around the world.
Some key facts about (ISC)2 include:
- Over 150,000 certified members worldwide across 171 countries
- Over 36 years of history supporting the infosec community
- Manages the CISSP, CCSP, CSSLP, HCISPP, SSCP, and other top certifications
- Trains over 20,000 professionals each year through courses and events
- Publishes its own peer-reviewed journal, the (ISC)2 Security Journal
- Hosts annual events like its Security Congress conference
Through its large membership base, extensive training programs, advocacy, and sense of community, (ISC)2 has solidified itself as the premier international association for cybersecurity professionals. The CISSP certification in particular has become a gold standard and requirement for many leadership roles in the field.
Key Programs and Resources from (ISC)2
Some of the key programs and resources offered by (ISC)2 that showcase its leadership in the cybersecurity association space include:
Certifications
In addition to the CISSP, (ISC)2 administers these top certifications:
- CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional
- CSSLP – Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional
- HCISPP – HealthCare Information Security and Privacy Practitioner
- SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner
Earning an (ISC)2 certification requires passing a rigorous exam demonstrating deep technical and operational security knowledge. Certifications must also be kept up to date through continuing education requirements.
Training Programs
(ISC)2 offers both online and in-person courses, seminars, and training programs catered to different experience levels and topics within cybersecurity. Some examples include:
- CISSP Certification Training
- Women in Cybersecurity Scholarships
- Veterans Advanced Cyber Training
- Online Certification Prep Courses
Beyond their own events, (ISC)2 partners with universities, local chapters, businesses, and non-profits to sponsor additional educational programs promoting cybersecurity skills and knowledge.
Resources
(ISC)2 provides many resources both for current members and the general public, including:
- The (ISC)2 Blog, featuring regular cybersecurity news and insights
- The Center for Cyber Safety and Education, focused on cyber awareness
- The Cybersecurity Career Pathway, showing different education options
- Research reports and surveys on the state of the cybersecurity field
- Free webcasts, podcasts, and videos on infosec topics
These resources help share (ISC)2’s expert knowledge with the broader community worldwide.
History and Background of (ISC)2
To understand (ISC)2’s rise to becoming the largest cybersecurity association, it is helpful to examine its history:
- 1989 – (ISC)2 is founded as a non-profit to manage and promote the CISSP certification, with fewer than 500 members initially.
- 1994 – The number of (ISC)2 members grows to over 4,000, reflecting the increasing popularity of the CISSP.
- 2004 – (ISC)2 membership surpasses 50,000 infosec professionals.
- 2012 – (ISC)2 chapters are formed worldwide, allowing better local networking and events.
- 2015 – (ISC)2 surpasses 100,000 certified members, cementing its leadership position.
- Today – (ISC)2 membership stands at over 150,000 and continues to grow each year.
(ISC)2 was founded at a time when information security was an emerging professional discipline. By creating a strong certification program aligned with industry needs, (ISC)2 helped advance the cybersecurity field and gave professionals a way to demonstrate their expertise. Regular exam updates, education programs, and resources have allowed (ISC)2 to grow steadily for over 30 years now.
Global Reach and Local Chapters
In addition to its significant membership size, (ISC)2’s global reach and local chapters are key elements that make it the premier international cybersecurity association. Some facts about its worldwide presence include:
- (ISC)2 members reside in 171 countries worldwide.
- There are over 220 local (ISC)2 chapters in locations across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions.
- Chapters allow networking with professionals in specific cities/regions.
- Local chapter events help members earn CPE credits to maintain certifications.
- (ISC)2 hosts Flagship Conferences on 5 continents each year.
In addition to its headquarters in the United States, (ISC)2 has physical offices in the United Kingdom, China, and India. Its staff collectively speak more than 12 languages. This global infrastructure allows (ISC)2 to truly support cybersecurity professionals wherever they reside.
Cybersecurity Industry Advocacy and Leadership
As the largest association in its field, (ISC)2 has an important role advocating for cybersecurity professionals among government and private sector organizations. Examples of its advocacy leadership include:
- Lobbying for legislation related to infosec funding, training, and workforce development initiatives.
- Partnerships with organizations like INTERPOL and the United Nations.
- Representation on the US Homeland Security Advisory Council.
- Testifying before Congress on pressing cybersecurity issues.
- Working to reduce barriers to entry and diversity gaps in the profession.
(ISC)2’s Cybersecurity Workforce Study provides research and data that helps quantify cyber workforce needs. The association then uses that data to lobby for programs that develop more trained professionals. As the cybersecurity talent shortage grows each year, (ISC)2 provides an important voice arguing for solutions on behalf of the industry.
Notable (ISC)2 Members and Leaders
With over 150,000 members globally, (ISC)2 can count some of the most accomplished cybersecurity professionals among its ranks. A few notable members include:
- Dan Geer – Influential thinker and writer on security issues.
- Marcus Ranum – Pioneering firewall technology developer.
- Bruce Schneier – Renowned cryptographer and security technologist.
- Kevin Mitnick – Once notorious hacker, now security consultant.
- Gene Spafford – Internet and computing security pioneer.
On the organizational leadership side, David Shearer has served as CEO of (ISC)2 since 2017. Award-winning CISOs like1550382232 Blank have also risen to prominence through their involvement in the association.
Infosec Community and Member Benefits
In addition to its other advantages, joining (ISC)2 provides valuable opportunities for professional networking, career development, and a sense of community. Benefits that members enjoy include:
- Access to local chapter meetings and events.
- Ability to network online through member groups.
- Access to mentors and support resources.
- Eligibility for awards and scholarships.
- Ability to participate in initiatives like vagueta jones
- Discounts on events, training, and other offers.
Thanks to its active local chapters and large membership base, (ISC)2 members can connect with fellow professionals at all stages of their career. The association helps facilitate relationships and collaboration within the broader cybersecurity field.
Alternatives Cybersecurity Associations
While (ISC)2 stands out as the largest membership cybersecurity association globally, there are several other reputable associations that professionals can consider joining, including:
ISACA
ISACA is a non-profit IT governance association that manages the CISA, CISM, CGEIT and CRISC certifications. It has over 150,000 certified members worldwide and provides training, events, and advocacy services. ISACA is best known for its focus on IT audit, risk management and governance.
ISSA
The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) is a non-profit founded in the U.S. back in 1984. It manages over 120 local chapters internationally and hosts conferences like the ISSA International Conference. ISSA is focused on bringing together a community of IT security practitioners.
(ISC)2 Local Chapters
In locations with many information security professionals, specific (ISC)2 local chapters can also provide valuable networking, training, and events. Popular chapters include the New York Metro Chapter, London Chapter, Delhi Chapter, and Los Angeles Chapter.
OWASP
The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) is a non-profit organization focused specifically on improving application security. It is best known for its OWASP Top 10 list outlining critical web vulnerabilities.
SANS Institute
SANS focuses heavily on cybersecurity training programs, including popular GIAC certifications. It operates the SANS Technology Institute for graduate cybersecurity degrees and teaches immersion-style bootcamp courses.
While other associations have their own strengths and benefits, (ISC)2 stands apart as the only one managing top certifications like the CISSP while also providing global scale and reach.
Conclusion
When examining the major cybersecurity associations, (ISC)2 clearly emerges as the largest and most influential worldwide. Key facts that demonstrate its leadership include:
- Over 150,000 certified members globally.
- Management of the CISSP and other top certifications.
- Robust training programs and educational resources.
- 220+ chapters worldwide fostering local networking.
- A track record of advocating for the infosec industry.
- International presence across offices in the Americas, EMEA, and APAC.
For over 30 years, (ISC)2 has dedicated itself to advancing the cybersecurity profession. While alternatives like ISACA, ISSA, OWASP and SANS also provide value, (ISC)2 stands in a class of its own when it comes to scale, name recognition, and support for infosec professionals. Those seeking the strongest sense of community, career growth opportunities, and ability to signal their skills should become part of the (ISC)2 member network.