Understanding the DoD 8570.1-M Directive
The DoD 8570.1-M Directive, officially known as the Information Assurance Workforce Improvement Program, mandates that all personnel with privileged access to DoD information systems, including contractors, military personnel, and civilian employees, must obtain specific IT and security certifications. This initiative aims to standardize training and certification across the DoD's Information Assurance (IA) workforce to protect data, systems, and networks from threats and vulnerabilities.
The directive is organized into two primary categories:
- Information Assurance Technical (IAT)
- Information Assurance Management (IAM)
Each category encompasses specific certification levels, including popular certifications like A+, Network+, Security+, CEH, and CISSP. Despite the transition to the newer DoD 8140, the 8570.1-M directive remains in effect until the new manual is fully operational.
Steps to Achieving Compliance
- Identify the required certification for your role.
- Obtain training from approved providers.
- Pass the certification exam.
- Maintain the certification through recertification policies.
To meet these requirements effectively, consider training providers like CTC Institute. With a comprehensive range of courses tailored to the DoD 8570.1-M standards, CTC Institute ensures you are well-prepared to safeguard DoD IT environments.
Commonly Required Certifications
| Level | Certifications |
|---|---|
| IAT Level I | A+, Network+, SSCP |
| IAT Level II | Security+, GSEC, SSCP |
| IAT Level III | CASP+, CISSP, GCED, GCIH |
| IAM Level I | CAP, GSLC, Security+ |
| IAM Level II | CISM, CISSP, GSLC |
| IAM Level III | CISSP, GSLC, CISM |
Maintaining Compliance
"Staying compliant with DoD 8570.1-M isn't a one-time task; it requires ongoing education and certification maintenance. Regularly updating your skills and knowledge is essential to protect DoD information systems effectively."
Certification maintenance involves continuous learning and recertification to ensure personnel are up-to-date with the latest security practices and technologies. Many certifications require continuing education units (CEUs) to be earned within a specific timeframe to maintain active status.
Transition to DoD 8140
Although the DoD 8570.1-M directive is still in effect, it is gradually being replaced by the DoD 8140, which aims to provide a more flexible and comprehensive framework for cybersecurity training and certification. The transition will offer enhanced guidelines and updated certification requirements to address evolving cybersecurity threats.
For detailed information on DoD 8140 and its impact, refer to the official DoD 8140 resources.
