GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification), was established in 1999 to validate information security professionals’ skills. GIAC certifies that a person has the necessary knowledge and skills to practice in key areas of information, computer and software security.

Unlike other IT Security certification vendors the GIAC program offers certifications and training across a variety of IT Security specializations.
Network Security Auditing
Intrusion Detection
Handling Incidents
Firewalls and perimeter protection
Computer Forensics
Hacker and Hacking Techniques
Security for Windows/UNIX Operating System (OS).
Secure Software/Safe Software Coding Procedures & Protocols
GIAC offers over 30 specialized information security certificates that correspond to specific job duties. There are several education options and certification tracks available for the following categories.
Cyber Defense
Penetration Testing
Incident Response and Forensics
Management, Audit, Legal
Developer
Industrial Control Systems
GSE
GIAC Exam Process
The GIAC-based Security certifications are unique in that they measure specific skills and knowledge areas, rather than general IT Security knowledge.
GIAC certifications are unique in that they assess specific skills and knowledge areas, rather than general infosec knowledge. There are many entry-level certifications, but GIAC is the only one that covers advanced technical subjects.
After passing a GIAC exam, your certification will be valid for four years. You must review all course-related information in order to keep your certification valid. You must earn 36 CPE credits (continuing professional education). You can use your CPEs for up to three renewals of your certification.
If you fail to pass a GIAC exam on your first attempt, you have a four-month grace period to re-examine. This should allow you to restudy material you didn’t understand the first time.
Three Reasons to Get Your GIAC Certificate
Managers use certifications in order to ensure that job candidates have technical skills.
IT Security professionals can get promoted and rise faster with GIAC Certifications.
Preparing for a GIAC certificate is a great way to get more technical information.
Benefits of GIAC Security Certification
Many companies support and openly endorse the GIAC security certificate. This certification offers the following benefits:
You can be confident that you have the skills and knowledge required to perform complex IT Security tasks. GIAC certification is viewed by 89 percent IT decision-makers as evidence that certified individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the job.
Recertification requires that you are up-to-date on all the most recent information and data.
Many employers require job applicants to have a GIAC security certificate. A GIAC security certification will help you rise to the top of the job application list.
You can get quick employment at many companies by obtaining a GIAC-based certification. There are also financial benefits. These statistics are worth a closer look:
81 percent of hiring mangers consider the GIAC certificates a factor in their hiring and salary decisions.
41% of hiring managers claim that the GIAC certifications are used by their organization to determine salary increases.
Foote Partners lists four GIAC certifications on their list of the Top 10 Certifications, which includes the #1 certification GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH).
The average salary for a GCIH certificate is $78,134 to $118.664, while Certified GSEC earn approximately. Certified GCIA can earn between $71,374 and $112,000. $75,227 to $118,000. This is dependent on the IT Security field you work in.