GFACTGIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies
Created per CertMap methodology · About the editorial team → · Official page ↗
▾ Jump to …4 sections
What is GFACT?
The GFACT certifies foundational technical knowledge as an entry point into cybersecurity. The exam covers core computing components, meaning hardware, virtualisation, networking, operating systems, web, cloud, and data storage, plus IT fundamentals such as logic and programming and Windows and Linux, and finally security fundamentals and the threat landscape including exploitation and mitigation, forensics, and post-exploitation. It is aligned with the SANS course SEC275. According to GIAC it addresses newcomers to cybersecurity, career changers, self-directed learners, students, business professionals, new hires in IT and cybersecurity, and participants in re-skilling programmes.
Quick facts
Cost, prerequisites, exam & renewal
Cost over 5 years
Prerequisites
None. Entry-level certification for cybersecurity fundamentals.
Exam format
Renewal & maintenance
Valid for 4 years. Renewal through 36 CPE credits or renewal exam (199 USD). Each GIAC cert separately.
CertMap score and matching roles
Rating
Matching NICE roles
More certifications
From the knowledge base
View all articles →CISSP or CISM? Two Careers, One Decision
Both require five years of experience, both cost roughly the same at first glance. Yet CISSP and CISM lead to different professions. The comparison with the numbers that course providers don't show.
CISM or CISA? Two ISACA paths, one directional decision
Both come from ISACA, both require five years of experience, and both cost almost the same. The difference is not the price but the role: managing or auditing. The comparison with the numbers and the role mapping.
CC or Security+? The Free Entry Point and the Job-Market Classic
Both are entry-level certifications with no admission barrier, both cover the fundamentals of cybersecurity, and yet they stand for different strategies: one as a low-threshold, temporarily free start, the other as an established credential with weight in the job market. The comparison with the numbers and the opposing cost logic.