The GFACT certification focuses on core IT fundamentals and security concepts, and is a qualification suitable for entry-level personnel to enter the cybersecurity field.

1. Introduction to the GIAC Founding Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) certification

GIAC Founding Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) is an entry-level network security technology certification launched by Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), which belongs to the basic sequence of SANS GIAC network security certification system. Its core focus is on verifying practitioners' systematic mastery of computer systems, network technology, and security basic concepts.

GFACT certification combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on operation through practical teaching and assessment, helping candidates establish a complete knowledge framework of network security technology. Different from advanced certifications that focus on specific technical directions, GFACT places more emphasis on cultivating a "common language" and "basic skills" in the field of cybersecurity, laying a solid foundation for further learning and career development. It is widely recognized by enterprises, government agencies, and educational institutions worldwide and is an authoritative "stepping stone" to enter the cybersecurity industry.

The core difference between GFACT and other GIAC certifications is that GFACT is the only GIAC certification aimed at zero or entry-level practitioners, without requiring any prior experience or qualifications. All content starts from basic concepts, emphasizing the balance of "theory + practice" and helping candidates quickly establish knowledge of network security technology. Simultaneously mastering the ability to apply basic security technologies in real environments, all operations follow industry best practices and security standards, ensuring compliance with the basic requirements of enterprise IT security operations and maintenance.

In a small and medium-sized enterprise's "Basic Network Security Reinforcement" project, GFACT certification holders will assist in deploying and configuring basic security equipment; Participate in system vulnerability scanning and basic security assessment; Collect and analyze basic security logs; Implement user permission management and password policy implementation; Assist in writing basic security incident reports and provide technical support for building primary security defenses for enterprises.

2. Why Earn Your GIAC Founding Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) Certification? 

GFACT certification is the only certification in the GIAC system aimed at zero foundation personnel. The industry influence and technical expertise of GIAC and SANS Institute make it a benchmark for entry-level certification in network security. Certification not only proves that the holder has a systematic IT and security foundation, but also reflects their hands-on ability mastered through practical learning. It is a trusted network security entry-level qualification for enterprises and government agencies.

As the shortage of cybersecurity talents continues to widen, the demand for entry-level security personnel in enterprises continues to grow, and practitioners holding GFACT certification have significant advantages in the job market. Globally, entry-level positions generally offer an annual salary of $40000 to $70000, which can be increased to $60000 to $90000 after accumulating 1-2 years of experience. This is 20%-30% higher than the salary for regular IT support positions.

The courses and exam contents of GFACT certification have been carefully designed by the SANS expert team, covering the core basic knowledge points in the field of network security, helping candidates establish a complete knowledge framework, and avoiding the drawbacks of "fragmented learning." The certificate holder is able to understand the basic terminology, technical principles, and workflow in the field of network security, communicate efficiently with security team members, lay a solid foundation for future learning of advanced security technologies, and cultivate security thinking to actively identify and prevent security risks in daily work.

Holders can join the GIAC and SANS global cybersecurity communities to access the latest IT technology documents, security threat reports, and basic security tool resources; At the same time, you can enjoy the employment recommendation services provided by GIAC, connect with the entry-level network security job resources of high-quality enterprises around the world, and provide more opportunities for career development.

GFACT certification is the "starting point certification" in the field of network security. After passing it, individuals can develop in different directions according to their interests, such as network security, cloud security, and other sub fields; It can also be combined with management knowledge to transform into the field of security team management or security consulting, adapting to the future development trend of "national security, foundation first" in network security, with a wide career path and stable prospects.

3. Core Components of the GFACT Certification

GFACT certification is the cornerstone certification in the field of network security, specifically designed for newcomers in the IT industry, professionals who wish to switch careers in network security, or security practitioners with non-technical backgrounds.

This certification content revolves around three core dimensions, building a complete knowledge chain from underlying hardware to upper level threats. The core computing component module covers computer hardware, network communication, operating systems, and web/cloud infrastructure, ensuring that you understand the technical environment on which all security protection depends.

The basic concepts and operational modules of IT focus on the ability to perform practical operations in the above-mentioned environment, especially the basic management, configuration, and security reinforcement skills of Windows and Linux platforms, which are essential "hands-on skills" for security practitioners.

Finally, the Security Fundamentals and Threat Situation module integrates the knowledge from the first two parts with the field of security, systematically introducing the core principles of network security, various common threats, and their basic defense principles. It also introduces professional concepts such as vulnerability analysis, forensics, and event response.

4. What are the requirements to be a GIAC Founding Cybersecurity Technologies?

(1) Qualification prerequisites:

GFACT certification has no mandatory prerequisites and is fully open to zero or entry-level IT practitioners, with no requirement for network security work experience. As long as you have a basic interest in computer and network technology and hope to enter the field of network security, having basic IT knowledge is sufficient to register for the exam.

GIAC recommends that you complete the SANS SEC275 official training course, which is an entry-level training designed specifically for GFACT certification. It includes 6 days of practical teaching and laboratory operations to help you quickly master core knowledge and skills. 

(2) Training and examinations:

GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) There are 75 Single choice question questions in total, including theoretical knowledge questions and scenario analysis questions, simulating real IT and security scenarios. The exam lasts for 120 minutes. A maximum score of 100 points is required, with a passing score of 70 or above.

The exam fee includes the certification exam and one opportunity for retake, and SANS trainees may enjoy a discount of approximately $999. 

(3) Qualification maintenance:

The GFACT certificate is valid for 4 years, which is an entry-level certification with a longer validity period in GIAC certification. The renewal requirement is that you need to pass the GFACT recertification exam or accumulate 36 continuing professional education credits before the expiration of the validity period.

5. Comparable Certifications to GIAC Founding Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) Certification

• GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)
• CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)
• CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)
• EC-Council Certified Cybersecurity Technician (CCT)