Introducing the New CyberArk Defender-PAM Exam: Strengthening Cybersecurity Skills

In the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, organizations face increasing threats to their sensitive data and critical systems. To address these challenges, CyberArk, a leading provider of privileged access management solutions, has introduced the new CyberArk Defender-PAM exam. This certification exam is designed to validate and enhance the skills of cybersecurity professionals in protecting privileged accounts and securing access to critical assets. This article will explore the details of the CyberArk Defender-PAM exam, its target audience, exam objectives, and the benefits for successful candidates.

Enhancing Cybersecurity Skills

The CyberArk Defender-PAM exam is a comprehensive assessment that focuses on practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to effectively defend against privileged account-related threats. By passing this exam, candidates demonstrate their ability to implement robust security measures and mitigate the risks associated with privileged access.

The updated Defender-PAM technical certification exam is accessible through Pearson VUE since May 1, 2023. The revamped exam replaces its predecessor and introduces a product-agnostic approach. This means that the exam now emphasizes validating candidates’ proficiency in performing administration functions and providing ongoing support for CyberArk PAM solutions, regardless of whether they are self-hosted or SaaS-based.

After May 1, all students, whether already registered or registering after the launch of the new exam, are required to take the updated version. By diligently studying the recommended materials, candidates can equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the exam. At the same time, there is no requirement for students who already hold the CyberArk Defender-PAM certification to retake the updated exam. Once certified, there is no obligation to pursue the updated version of the CyberArk Defender-PAM test.

Intended Audience

The CyberArk Defender-PAM certification exam is specifically tailored for professionals who manage day-to-day operations and provide ongoing support for the CyberArk Privileged Access Management solution. This test validates the competence of individuals aspiring to fulfill various roles within a Privileged Account Management Program, including:

1. Application Support: The Application Support Engineer plays a crucial role in providing initial support for the CyberArk PAM applications within the customer organization. They are responsible for addressing and resolving user issues related to the applications.
2. CyberArk Administrator: The CyberArk Administrator holds the responsibility of managing application administration and maintaining a functional PAM environment. Their role involves overseeing the overall configuration, maintenance, and performance optimization of the CyberArk solution.
3. Content Administrator: The Content Administrator focuses on provisioning safes and platforms, as well as onboarding accounts. They are responsible for managing access controls, ensuring secure storage of privileged credentials, and facilitating smooth onboarding processes.

Recommended Experience

CyberArk advises candidates to acquire a blend of technical training and practical experience with the solution prior to undertaking any Technical Certification exams. For the new Defender-PAM exam, the recommended courses include PAM Administration or Privilege Cloud Administration. Additionally, the CyberArk recommends the following experience for this certification test:

• 3-6 months of practical experience in the administration of the CyberArk PAM Solution.
• Possession of the Microsoft MCSE Certification or analogous experience.
• Possession of the Network+ Certification or analogous experience.
• Possession of the Security+ Certification or analogous experience.

The combination of training and practical experience will provide candidates with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the exam.

Exam Objectives

The new CyberArk Defender-PAM exam covers the following knowledge domains:

1. Onboarding Accounts: This domain focuses on tasks such as prioritizing onboarding projects, performing bulk uploads of accounts, creating onboarding rules, and manually onboarding accounts. It also includes setting up UNIX and Windows discoveries.
2. Application Management: This domain covers tools used to monitor the CyberArk application’s health, the communication between different components, and the purpose of RestAPI.
3. Ongoing Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Tasks related to ensuring the operational status of each component, distinguishing between break/fix and service engagement activities, and performing ongoing maintenance and troubleshooting are covered in this domain.
4. Password Configuration and Management: This domain involves configuring request/approval processes, workflow processes for non-repudiation, logon and reconcile accounts, managing safe data retention and time of use restrictions, and configuring credential theft risk reduction.
5. Security and Audit Functions: Generating and managing reports, using safe permissions to limit report scope, understanding the CyberArk Telemetry Tool, and reviewing and searching for recordings are part of this domain.
6. Session Management Configuration: Tasks related to configuring split workflows, enabling PSM in the Master Policy, creating PSM recordings, configuring the connect button, using the HTML5 Gateway, and managing session isolation and session audit are covered in this domain.
7. User Management Configuration: Administering and operating the Remote Access Service (VPAM) is the focus of this domain.

Benefits of Achieving CyberArk Defender-PAM Certification

Earning the CyberArk Defender-PAM certification offers numerous benefits for cybersecurity professionals. It validates their expertise in privileged access management, making them more marketable and sought after by employers. The certification serves as a recognition of their skills, enhancing their professional reputation within the industry. Certified individuals gain access to a global community of cybersecurity experts, enabling knowledge sharing and networking opportunities. Furthermore, the certification provides a pathway for career advancement and opens doors to new and exciting job opportunities.

Conclusion

As organizations continue to face sophisticated cyber threats, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals is paramount. The introduction of the CyberArk Defender-PAM exam emphasizes the significance of privileged access management and equips professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to defend against evolving cyber risks. By passing this test, individuals can demonstrate their competence in securing privileged accounts, protecting critical assets, and contributing to the overall cybersecurity posture of organizations. Investing in the CyberArk Defender-PAM certification exam is a strategic move towards advancing one’s cybersecurity career and staying ahead in the rapidly changing digital landscape.