Exam Domains
1.0 Computer Hardware & Virtualization
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- 1.1Understand key hardware components and their functions as well as associated memory concepts and understand virtualization and containers, their uses and advantages/disadvantages.
2.0 Exploitation & Mitigation
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- 2.1Be familiar with common exploit anatomy and methodology, as well as have a basic awareness and understanding of the tools used by attackers to achieve and increase system access, as well as appropriate mitigation strategies and techniques.
3.0 Forensics & Post-Exploitation
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- 3.1Be familiar with tools used in forensics investigations as well as their function, understand the stages of incident response, and understand the objectives of different types of forensics investigations and associated key artifacts and evidence. Understand post-exploitation goals and methodology including persistence, lateral movement, and exfiltration.
4.0 Linux Foundations
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- 4.1Have a working knowledge of most commonly used Linux commands, understand permissions and access control, and understand the key elements of Linux as it relates to file systems, architecture, and networking.
5.0 Logic & Programming
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- 5.1Be able to determine the result of basic logical operations, have a familiarity with programming syntax, constructs, and errors in popular languages, and understand how programs execute and the functions of memory allocations.
6.0 Networking & Servers
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- 6.1Understand core networking concepts, protocols, and understand different server types and their uses.
7.0 Operating Systems, The Web, & Data Storage
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- 7.1Understand the typical function and duties/task of the operating system, and be familiar with different file systems, web technology, and have some familiarity with cloud computing models and their advantages/disadvantages.
8.0 Security Concepts
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- 8.1Understand the concepts and terminology associated with cryptography, be familiar with ethical and legal concerns that are associated with hacking, understand the stages of an attack, and be familiar with key defensive strategies and concepts.
9.0 Windows Foundations
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- 9.1Be familiar with key Windows CLI commands, understand permissions and access control, and understand the key elements of Windows as it relates to file systems, architecture, and networking.
Exam Details
Question TypesMultiple Choice
FormatMultiple Choice
Online ProctoringAvailable
ID RequirementsGovernment-issued photo ID required. ID must match the name on the exam registration. Acceptable forms include passport, driver's license, or national ID card.
RenewalRequired -- Certifications are valid for 4 years. Renewal requires 36 CPE (Continuing Professional Education) credits earned over the 4-year period, plus a $429 renewal fee. Alternatively, candidates may retake the current exam to renew.
PrerequisitesNo specific prerequisites are required for this certification. (recommended)
Retake PolicyTwo free practice tests are included with each exam registration. Candidates have a 4-month window to take the exam after registration. Retake fees apply after the first failed attempt. Contact GIAC for specific retake waiting periods.
LanguagesEnglish