Awaretec GmbH
Speciality: Comprehensive Penetration Testing including Web, Network, Mobile, and Cloud
German-based cybersecurity firm specializing in penetration testing and red teaming; offers comprehensive attack simulation services including web, network, mobile, and cloud pentests; operates on a .de domain and is corroborated by German incorporation and headquarters profiles.
ISO/IEC 27001:2013
Origin
ISO/IEC 27001:2013 was developed jointly by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The standard was first published in 2005, with the 2013 version representing a major revision that updated the framework to address evolving cybersecurity challenges. It originated from the British Standard BS 7799, which was developed in the 1990s to provide organizations with a systematic approach to managing sensitive information. The standard was created to establish an internationally recognized framework for information security management systems (ISMS), enabling organizations to protect their information assets through a risk-based approach.
Industry Value
ISO/IEC 27001:2013 is highly valued in the industry because it provides organizations with a comprehensive, vendor-neutral framework for establishing, implementing, and continuously improving information security practices. Certification to this standard demonstrates to clients, partners, and regulators that an organization has implemented robust security controls and follows international best practices for protecting sensitive data. Many industries, particularly those handling personal data, financial information, or critical infrastructure, consider ISO 27001 certification essential for vendor selection and compliance with regulatory requirements. The certification also provides competitive advantages in the marketplace and helps organizations systematically identify and mitigate information security risks.
CISSP Certification Overview
Origin
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) was created by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, commonly known as (ISC)², in 1994. The certification was developed in response to the growing need for a standardized, vendor-neutral credential that could validate the expertise of information security professionals. (ISC)² designed the CISSP to establish a common body of knowledge for the cybersecurity field and provide a benchmark for measuring professional competence in information security.
Industry Value
The CISSP is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and recognized certifications in cybersecurity, often required or preferred for senior-level security positions. Its value stems from its comprehensive coverage of eight security domains, including security operations, asset security, and security architecture, which demonstrates a candidate's broad expertise across the entire security landscape. The certification is accredited to ISO/IEC Standard 17024 and meets U.S. Department of Defense Directive 8570 requirements, making it particularly valuable for government contractors and enterprise organizations. Employers value CISSP-certified professionals because the rigorous examination process and experience requirements (minimum five years) ensure holders possess both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in managing and implementing security programs.
TISAX: Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange
Origin
TISAX (Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange) was created by the ENX Association (European Network Exchange) in 2017 at the request of the German automotive industry, specifically the VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie - German Association of the Automotive Industry). The certification was developed to address the automotive sector's need for a standardized, mutual recognition framework for information security assessments. It was created to reduce the burden of multiple audits on suppliers, as automotive manufacturers were each conducting their own security assessments of shared suppliers, leading to duplication and inefficiency.
Industry Importance
TISAX has become essential for companies working with the automotive industry, particularly in Europe, as many major manufacturers now require it from their suppliers and partners. The certification provides a trusted, industry-recognized validation of a company's information security practices, protecting sensitive data such as intellectual property, product designs, and business information. Its importance stems from the mutual recognition principle—once a company achieves TISAX certification, the results are shared across participating organizations, eliminating redundant audits and creating efficiency while maintaining high security standards. For suppliers, TISAX certification has become virtually mandatory to maintain or establish business relationships with automotive OEMs and tier-1 suppliers.
ITIL Certification Overview
Origins
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) was created by the UK government's Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA), now part of the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), in the 1980s. It was developed to standardize IT service management practices across government agencies, addressing the need for more efficient and cost-effective IT service delivery. While ITIL itself is an IT service management framework rather than specifically a cybersecurity certification, it has evolved through multiple versions (currently ITIL 4) and includes modules addressing security management as part of comprehensive IT service delivery.
Industry Value
ITIL certification is highly valued in the IT industry because it provides a globally recognized framework for aligning IT services with business needs and improving service quality. Organizations implementing ITIL practices typically experience reduced costs, improved customer satisfaction, and more efficient incident and problem management. For IT professionals, ITIL certification demonstrates knowledge of best practices in service management, making them more competitive in the job market. The framework's emphasis on continual service improvement and risk management makes it particularly relevant for organizations seeking to maintain robust, secure, and reliable IT operations.