Founded by the SANS Institute in 1999, the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC®) program has become a gold standard in the world of cybersecurity certification. With more than 173,000 certifications issued to date, GIAC credentials are globally recognized across government, defense, finance, and enterprise sectors. They are known for one thing above all: validating practical, hands-on expertise in the most critical and specialized areas of cybersecurity.
From penetration testing and digital forensics to cloud security, industrial control systems (ICS), and cybersecurity management, GIAC certifications go far deeper than broad, theory-based credentials. Each exam is meticulously designed to test your ability to apply knowledge in real-world environments - ensuring that those who pass are fully equipped to tackle the most demanding security challenges in the field.
At Readynez, we offer intensive, expert-led GIAC-aligned training designed to get you certified - and more importantly, job-ready. Our courses are built around real-world use cases, up-to-date labs, and immersive, hands-on learning that helps you retain knowledge, build confidence, and walk into your exam with clarity and competence.
Whether you’re new to cybersecurity or advancing into a leadership or specialized technical role, our GIAC training portfolio is your launchpad for success. Let’s dive into the certifications we offer and how Readynez can help you prepare, pass, and thrive.
GIAC certifications are designed for job-ready performance. Each course we offer focuses on one of the core areas of cybersecurity and is taught in an immersive bootcamp format with expert instructors, hands-on labs, and focused exam prep.
The GSEC course is the ideal starting point for those beginning a cybersecurity career. You’ll build a h4 foundation in network security, cryptography, risk management, Linux and Windows hardening, and cloud security.
This course delivers a deep dive into ethical hacking and network penetration testing using real-world tools and tactics. You’ll also perform hands-on labs in a safe environment using Hack The Box-style exercises.
For: Cloud Security Engineers, Risk Managers, System Admins
Covering Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud, the GCLD course is the only vendor-neutral certification that teaches both offensive and defensive cloud security tactics.
For: ICS Engineers, OT Security Professionals
Designed to bridge IT, cybersecurity, and engineering, the GICSP course prepares you to defend Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and SCADA environments.
GIAC® certifications have earned global respect for one simple reason: they prove real capability in high-stakes environments. Unlike many certifications that test only conceptual knowledge, GIAC exams are built around the skills that cybersecurity professionals need to perform under pressure—whether that’s investigating a breach, securing critical infrastructure, or responding to advanced persistent threats.
What sets GIAC apart is its rigorous exam development process. Each certification is created through expert-led psychometric design, ensuring that every question is fair, technically sound, and deeply tied to real-world scenarios. This process is overseen by GIAC’s in-house psychometrician and supported by industry veterans who review and validate the content to ensure relevance and technical accuracy.
In addition, GIAC certifications are fully compliant with the ANSI/ISO/IEC 17024 accreditation standard—one of the most prestigious international benchmarks for certification bodies. This means the program follows globally recognized best practices in credentialing, reinforcing both its credibility and consistency.
GIAC also aligns with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, making it easier for organizations to map certification outcomes to specific job roles. Whether it’s a SOC analyst, penetration tester, forensics expert, or ICS security engineer, employers can trust that a GIAC-certified professional is qualified to step in and deliver from day one.
This high standard of quality is why GIAC certifications are recognized and required by top employers across critical sectors, including energy, defense, healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services. For professionals, it’s a signal of technical excellence. For hiring managers, it’s a mark of trust.
Once certified, you’ll receive a digital badge issued in partnership with Credly, enabling you to showcase your achievement on LinkedIn, email signatures, resumes, and more. GIAC badges make your expertise visible to recruiters, peers, and hiring managers worldwide.
GIAC certifications remain valid for four years. To maintain your certification, you’ll need to:
GIAC accepts a wide variety of professional development activities as CPEs, making the renewal process flexible and accessible.
Passing a GIAC exam connects you with a global community of skilled professionals. High scorers are invited to join the GIAC Advisory Board, and all certificate holders gain access to exclusive resources, networking, and continuing education opportunities through the SANS and GIAC ecosystem.
Our GIAC-aligned bootcamps include:
With Readynez, you’ll get all the tools, training, and mentorship you need to pass your GIAC exam and accelerate your cybersecurity career.
👉 Explore all GIAC® Courses here
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GIAC® is a registered trademark of the Escal Institute of Advanced Technologies, Inc. This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with or endorsed by GIAC®.
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