Are you interested in pursuing a GIAC certification but need more clarity on its scope and value? Or perhaps you’re curious about what exactly GIAC certifications entail?
This article will equip you with all the necessary information to help you make a well-informed decision. We'll define GIAC certifications, identify the target audience, and discuss what you can expect during the certification process.
Next, we'll provide a detailed overview of the most popular GIAC certifications and their costs, ultimately assisting you in determining whether this certification is a worthwhile investment for your cyber security career.
Let’s dive in and explore the essentials of a SANS GIAC certification.
What Is a GIAC Certification?
Founded in 1999 by the SANS Institute, the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) is an organization that provides certification in information security to ensure that certified individuals meet specific standards of knowledge and skills.
GIAC certifications are renowned for their focus on the practical, technical skills necessary to effectively design, implement, and manage security on IT systems and to handle sophisticated security issues.
Types of Certifications Offered
GIAC offers over 30 cyber security certifications, each tailored to different aspects of the information security field.
The certifications are categorized based on focus areas such as Cyber Defense, Cloud Security, Offensive Operations, Digital Forensics and Incident Response, Management and Leadership, and Industrial Control Systems.
Here are some examples of the certifications offered within each category:
- Cyber Defense
- GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
- GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
- Cloud Security
- GIAC Cloud Security Essentials Certification (GCLD)
- GIAC Certified Web Application Defender (GWEB)
- Offensive Operations
- GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
- GIAC Exploit Researcher and Advanced Penetration Tester (GXPN)
- Digital Forensics and Incident Response
- GIAC Certified Forensic Examiner (GCFE)
- GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA)
- Management and Leadership
- GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)
- GIAC Security Leadership Certification (GSLC)
- Industrial Control Systems
- GIAC Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP)
Each certification targets specific skill sets and knowledge required for various job roles in information security, and professionals often pursue these highly regarded certifications to advance their careers, demonstrate their skills, and increase their earning potential.
What Is SANS?
The SANS Institute (SysAdmin, Audit, Network, and Security Institute) is recognized for its extensive research and education on information security and cyber security. Founded in 1989, SANS provides intensive, immersive training to help security professionals at all levels gain and update vital security skills and knowledge.
The Global Information Assurance Certification was established as part of the SANS Institute to certify the skill levels of security professionals who have completed SANS training. In fact, the certifications offered by GIAC are developed in close collaboration with SANS, ensuring they’re practical and reflective of current industry trends and needs.
SANS provides many cyber security courses that prepare candidates for GIAC certifications. These courses are highly regarded in the industry and are often a prerequisite or strongly recommended before attempting a GIAC certification exam.
Overall, the partnership between SANS and GIAC exemplifies a comprehensive approach to cyber security education and certification, aiming to elevate the standards of security knowledge and competencies across industries.
GIAC Certification Cost
GIAC offers a structured fee model that varies by the type and level of certification. The costs are divided primarily into Practitioner Certifications and Applied Knowledge Certifications. In the following section, you’ll find a breakdown of the costs for each, along with details on retakes and renewals.
Practitioner Certifications
Practitioner Certifications target individuals actively involved in hands-on roles. These certifications:
- Are ideal for beginners or those advancing towards GIAC Security Professional or Expert levels.
- Cover extensive infosec topics with a deep focus on specific, job-related tasks.
- Include CyberLive questions to test real-world skills in a virtual environment.
- Are stackable with GIAC Applied Knowledge Certifications for career progression to GSP or GSE status.
The fees for Practitioner Certifications generally start at around $999 USD, including access to the certification attempt and all associated resources.
- Retakes: If a retake is necessary, GIAC charges a fee of $879 USD.
- Renewals: The fee for renewal, which is required every four years to maintain the certification, is approximately $499 USD. Renewal involves earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits or retaking the certification exam.
Applied Knowledge Certifications
Applied Knowledge Certifications are tailored for professionals who need to demonstrate an understanding of broader concepts and theories in information security without the deep technical focus of the Practitioner track. These certifications:
- Are designed to enhance understanding across a broad spectrum of topics.
- Feature 100% CyberLive questions, challenging candidates to apply technical skills to real-world scenarios in a virtual machine environment.
- Are aimed at those looking to demonstrate deep mastery of a subject.
- Are stackable with GIAC Practitioner Certifications for progression to GSP or GSE status.
The Applied Knowledge Certifications typically start at about $1,299 ($499 with active related GIAC Certification).
- Retakes: Similar to the Practitioner certifications, retakes for the Applied Knowledge certifications cost $1,299 USD ($499 USD with active related GIAC Certification).
- Renewals: The renewal fee is also $499 USD and follows the same requirements as the Practitioner certifications.
GIAC certifications must be renewed every four years; you can register for renewal two years before your certification expires.
Training Costs
The cost of training for GIAC certifications can vary significantly depending on the chosen course and the delivery mode (online, in-person, or hybrid).
For example, the SANS Institute, renowned for its high-quality courses, conducts training sessions tailored to the certifications. However, due to the variety of topics and course structures, training costs are specific to each certification.
We encourage you to check the SANS Institute website for precise pricing information regarding the training you’re interested in.
The combined cost of training and certification can be considerable. Still, these are valuable investments in a professional’s career, enhancing skills, knowledge, and employability.
Here are some examples to give you an idea of the financial commitment involved:
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): Training for the GSEC certification typically costs $8,525 to $8,645 USD, depending on the training format and whether the course includes additional workshops or materials.
- GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN): Training costs for the GPEN certification are similarly priced, often between $8,525 and $8,628 USD. This cost includes access to extensive course materials, hands-on labs, and a certification exam attempt.
Most Popular GIAC Certifications
While some certifications attract a broad audience and boast thousands of certificate holders, others are more specialized, with only a few hundred certified professionals.
In this section, we’ll explore the ten most popular SANS GIAC certifications and discuss how they can enhance your career.
1.GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
The GSEC certification is designed for professionals seeking to demonstrate knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts. Key topics include network security, incident handling and response, exploit mitigation, web communication security, and cryptography.
The exam format includes a proctored, four-hour test consisting of 106 questions, and candidates must achieve a minimum passing score of 73% to earn the certification.
Comparable certification: CompTIA Security+
2.GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN)
The GPEN certification targets professionals who conduct comprehensive penetration testing and ethical hacking. Exam topics include network attacks, penetration testing methodologies, in-depth scanning and exploitation, post-exploitation, and pivoting.
The exam consists of a proctored session with 82 questions. Candidates must complete it within three hours and pass with a minimum score of 75%.
Comparable certification: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
3.GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT)
The GWAPT exam includes one proctored session, 82 questions, and a three-hour time limit. To earn the certification, candidates must achieve a minimum passing score of 71%.
Comparable certification: There’s no direct equivalent, but it overlaps with some CEH topics.
4.GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
GCIH certification is tailored for those handling computer security incidents by understanding common attack techniques and responding efficiently. Topics include network and file system forensic analysis, incident handling and computer crime investigation, and Nmap, Metasploit, and Netcat hacker tools.
The certification process involves one proctored exam comprising 106 questions, which candidates must complete within four hours. A minimum score of 70% is necessary to pass and obtain the certification.
Comparable certification: EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH)
5.GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA)
A GCIA certification validates the skills necessary to configure and monitor intrusion detection systems, as well as to read, interpret, and analyze network traffic and related log files. Key areas include TCP/IP protocols, network traffic forensics and monitoring, and open-source IDS like Snort and Zeek.
To achieve certification, candidates must complete a proctored exam featuring 106 questions within a four-hour window. A minimum passing score of 67% is required.
Comparable certification: No direct equivalent, but overlaps with Cisco's Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
6.GIAC Network Forensic Analyst (GNFA)
GCFA is focused on advanced forensics, including investigating data breaches, advanced persistent threats, and complex digital forensic cases. Exam topics cover memory forensics, advanced incident response, digital forensics, threat hunting, and APT intrusion incident response.
The GCFA certification exam involves one proctored session with 82 questions to be completed within three hours. Candidates must score at least 71% to pass and obtain the certification.
Comparable certification: Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)
7.GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM)
GNFA certification is designed for professionals specializing in network forensic analysis, traffic capture, and intrusion detection. Key topics include network architecture and protocols, encryption, NetFlow analysis, attack visualization, and open-source security proxies.
The exam consists of one proctored session with 66 questions over three hours, and candidates need a minimum score of 70% to pass.
Comparable certification: No direct equivalent.
8.GIAC Information Security Professional (GISP)
The GREM certification is aimed at technicians who protect organizations from malicious code. Exam topics focus on advanced malware analysis, reverse-engineering malware, malicious documents, .NET programs, and protected executables analysis.
This GIAC certification test is administered through a proctored exam that includes 66 and 75 questions. Candidates have two to three hours to complete the exam and must achieve at least 73% to pass.
Comparable certification: No direct equivalent.
9.GIAC Information Security Professional (GISP)
GISP certification is intended for security professionals who design, implement, and maintain a corporate security policy. Covered areas include communications and network security, identity and access management, security engineering and operation, risk management, and software development security.
The examination format includes a proctored session featuring 150 questions, which must be completed within four hours with a minimum score of 70%.
Comparable certification: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
10.GIAC Security Leadership Certification (GSLC)
GSLC is geared towards security professionals in managerial or supervisory roles. The certification covers developing security programs aligned with business objectives, overseeing security operations and team management, and managing security projects and program lifecycle.
The GSLC certification involves one proctored exam with 115 questions that must be completed within 3 hours. Candidates must achieve a minimum passing score of 70% to succeed.
Comparable certification: CISSP and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
It's important to note that many more GIAC certifications are available—such as the GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence (GCTI), GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF), and GIAC Cloud Security Essentials Certification (GCLD)—each offering targeted expertise in specific areas of cyber security.
GIAC Certification Salary and Demand
GIAC certifications are generally in high demand, particularly in industries such as government, military, financial services, and healthcare, where robust cyber security measures are critical.
Among the GIAC certifications, certain ones like the GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC), GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), and GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN) are especially popular due to their broad applicability in many cyber security roles.
However, the demand for more specialized certifications like the GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) or GIAC Network Forensic Analyst (GNFA) tends to be more niche but very strong within specific sectors that require deep technical expertise.
Salary Impact
GIAC certifications can significantly boost salaries as they validate a high level of practical expertise in cyber security. Employers often consider GIAC security professionals for higher-level and higher-paying roles than their uncertified counterparts.
The Pearson VUE 2023 Value of IT Certification | Candidate Report highlights that 37% of professionals reported a salary increase after obtaining certifications, with 58% receiving rewards within three months of certification achievement. The trend shows a steady rise in the number of professionals receiving pay raises, with 35% reporting raises of more than 20%.
According to Payscale, the average GIAC certification salary for those holding the SANS/GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) credential is approximately $132,000 USD per year.
The average GIAC certification salary for those with a SANS/GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT) certification is around $104,000 USD per year.
By comparison, the average salary for those with a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is around $102,000 per year. For those with an OffSec Certified Professional (OSCP) certification, instead, it's about $100,000 per year.
GIAC vs Other Certifications
While GIAC certifications are highly respected, they’re more expensive than other popular certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
Sometimes, these less expensive certifications qualify a professional for entry-level positions just as effectively as a GIAC certification.
However, a GIAC certification may be preferred or even required for more advanced roles, as it’s often seen as a more rigorous and technical qualification.
General Industry Attitude
In the cyber security industry, there’s a consensus that while GIAC certifications demonstrate a professional's commitment to their career and profound knowledge, the sector often values the training and experience gained in pursuing these certifications more than the certification itself.
This is particularly true as the landscape is continually evolving, and the ability to apply knowledge effectively in real-world situations is crucial. Employers value the hands-on skills and scenario-based learning that training for GIAC certifications entails, which can directly contribute to better job performance.
Therefore, GIAC certifications are considered valuable for career advancement in cyber security. Employers particularly appreciate them in scenarios requiring proof of theoretical knowledge and practical or technical ability.
Despite their cost, the investment in a GIAC certification can pay off with higher salaries and better job opportunities, especially for roles requiring specialized skills.
Are GIAC Certifications Worth the Investment?
Despite everything, GIAC certifications remain a significant financial investment. The cost of SANS training plus the exam fees for a GIAC certification can range from $5,000 to over $9,000 USD. This raises an important question: does obtaining these certifications justify the cost by providing a career boost? To answer this question, we must examine their impact on career advancement and industry recognition.
For starters, they can benefit those already established in their cyber security careers. GIAC certifications are recognized and respected in the industry and can lead to advanced positions and salary increases, especially in specialized areas such as forensics, incident handling, or penetration testing.
The certifications can open doors to higher-level responsibilities, potentially leading to cyber security jobs such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or senior security analyst, where the depth of knowledge required is commensurate with the training GIAC provides.
However, other, more accessible alternatives can serve as stepping stones in cyber security for entry-level professionals. These introductory certifications might provide the foundational knowledge needed at a lower cost and with less intensive preparation.
More Affordable Alternatives
For the cost of one GIAC certification, you could fund several other certifications.
For example, depending on the chosen training providers and resources, you might afford an entry-level cyber security certification like CompTIA Security+, a slightly more complex certification such as Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and possibly even an advanced certification like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
These certifications can also enhance your career, often providing a broader understanding of cyber security fundamentals and practices.
Self-funded vs. Company-funded
If a company is willing to sponsor the certification, pursuing a GIAC certification is undoubtedly a worthwhile investment. Organizations often see the value in having highly skilled security teams capable of protecting their systems and data against advanced threats.
However, for individuals, especially those just starting in cyber security, the high cost of GIAC certifications might not provide an immediate return on investment.
In such cases, starting with less expensive certifications could be more practical. These can still provide the necessary credentials to get started in the field and may lead to opportunities for employers to fund further GIAC training.
Whether GIAC certifications are worth the investment depends on your current position, career goals, and financial situation. They’re highly beneficial for advancing in specialized cyber security paths and are well-regarded in the industry.
Nevertheless, for those beginning their cyber security careers or paying out of pocket, considering less expensive but still respected alternatives might be more sensible until more resources or company backing becomes available.
Conclusion
Although GIAC certifications aren't the sole route to success in IT careers, they’re foundational to the information security field.
If you possess an entry-level security certification like Security+ or SSCP validating your general security knowledge, or even an advanced general certification like CISSP, becoming GIAC certified can further confirm your expertise in specific, specialized technical areas.
That’s why you must select certifications aligning with your career objectives and consistently invest in your IT education.
Don’t forget that our StationX Master's Program offers over 30,000 courses and labs, and mentorship to help you develop a personalized certification roadmap tailored to your career goals, guiding you towards achieving your professional aspirations.
If you're interested in learning more about other cybersecurity certifications that might be right for you, explore our related articles and check out our course offerings below:
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