Cybersecurity Design Specialist: Certificate 3 of the ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Certificate Program

The ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Certificate Program, developed by the International Society of Automation (ISA), offers a structured pathway for professionals to enhance their expertise in securing IACS. Certificate 3, the Cybersecurity Design Specialist, focuses on the design and implementation phase of the cybersecurity lifecycle.

Certificate 3 delves into the practical aspects of designing and implementing cybersecurity measures for IACS. It emphasizes the application of the ISA/IEC 62443 standards to ensure that security is integrated into the system from the outset. This certificate is ideal for professionals involved in the architecture, design, and implementation of secure industrial control systems.

Before pursuing Certificate 3, candidates must obtain Certificate 1: Cybersecurity Fundamentals Specialist. This foundational certificate provides essential knowledge of cybersecurity principles and the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, laying the groundwork for more advanced topics covered in Certificate 3.

To advance through the ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Certificate Program, candidates must meet specific requirements:

Required before pursuing Certificate 2 or Certificate 3.

Covers basic cybersecurity concepts, key principles of industrial cybersecurity, and an introduction to the ISA/IEC 62443 standards.

Focuses on performing risk assessments in IACS environments.

Not mandatory for Certificate 3, but recommended for a deeper understanding of risk-informed design.

Requires completion of Certificate 1.

Participants learn how to design and implement security controls following ISA/IEC 62443 guidelines.

Maintaining certification may require ongoing professional development, such as attending updated training or workshops.

Ensures that certified professionals stay current with evolving cybersecurity threats and industry standards.

The training for Certificate 3 is delivered through various formats to accommodate different learning preferences:

Classroom (IC34): Traditional in-person sessions.

Virtual Classroom (IC34V): Online instructor-led classes.

Self-Paced Modular (IC34M): Flexible, on-demand learning modules.

Each format includes comprehensive coverage of the design and implementation processes, ensuring that participants gain practical skills applicable to real-world scenarios.

Upon completing the training, candidates must pass a multiple-choice exam consisting of 75 to 100 questions. The exam assesses the candidate's understanding of the material and their ability to apply the ISA/IEC 62443 standards in designing and implementing secure IACS.

Achieving the Cybersecurity Design Specialist certification demonstrates a professional's proficiency in integrating cybersecurity into the design and implementation phases of IACS. It signifies a commitment to maintaining the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of industrial systems, aligning with best practices and industry standards.

The ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Design Specialist certification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design and implement secure industrial automation and control systems. By adhering to the ISA/IEC 62443 standards, organizations can mitigate risks and enhance the resilience of their critical infrastructure against cyber threats.