Certification: GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification validates a practitioner's knowledge of information security beyond simple terminology and concepts. GSEC certification holders are demonstrating that they are qualified for hands-on IT systems roles with respect to security tasks.
More information about this certification

More than two years of education or training after high school required?
No
More than two years of work experience required?
No
Oral or Written Exam Required?
Yes
Renewal Required?
Every 4 Year(s)
Renew through Continuing Educational Units(CEU)?
Yes
Renew through Re-Examination?
Yes
Renew through Continuing Professional Development(CPD)?
No
Does applicant have choice of at least two options from above for renewal (CEU, CPD, or exam)?
Yes

Online Exam; Third Party Exam Center

All GIAC Certification exams are web-based and required to be proctored. There are two proctoring options: remote proctoring through ProctorU, and onsite proctoring through PearsonVUE. Click here for more information.

Core

  1. The certification does not have a minimum education level or has an education level below a two-year Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree and the certification does not have a minimum requirement for work experience or requires two or less years of work experience.
  2. The certification has an education level of an Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree or higher, but has a work experience requirement of less than 2 years of work experience.
  3. The certification has a work experience requirement of more than 2 years but does not require a two-year Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree.

  • This certification is considered in demand.
  • This certification is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
  • This certification is related to military occupational specialties.