ICDL IT Security
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ExploreAbout this exam
ICDL IT Security (also referred to as ICDL Cyber Security) is a certification in the ICDL family of digital-skills qualifications. ICDL describes itself as a global social enterprise committed to raising standards of digital competence in the workforce, education and society, with certification available in more than 100 countries through a network of more than 20,000 testing centres. The ICDL Cyber Security syllabus version 3.0 was announced on 12 June 2026, framed around protecting the modern workplace against increasingly sophisticated threats. Candidates typically cover five areas: core security concepts; malware and other threats; network and internet security; access control and data protection; and safe, responsible use of IT. It suits employees, students and anyone who handles data and wants a structured, vendor-neutral grounding in everyday security practice rather than deep technical administration. Preparation generally means working through the syllabus topics, practising scenario-based judgements (recognising phishing, choosing safe settings, applying data-protection habits), and checking practical arrangements with your local accredited test centre. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ICDL Foundation; always confirm exam parameters with an official test centre.
What you'll study
About ICDL IT Security preparation
What does the ICDL IT Security exam cover?
The syllabus is organised around five areas: security concepts, malware and threats, network and internet security, access control and data protection, and safe and responsible use of IT. Expect scenario questions on recognising threats, choosing safe settings and handling data responsibly rather than deep technical configuration.
How many questions are on the exam and how long do I get?
We do not have verified figures for the number of questions, time limit or passing score for the current version, so we do not quote any. Confirm these details with your accredited test centre before you book, as they can differ by version and region.
How much does the exam cost?
Fees are set locally by accredited test centres and vary by country, so no single figure applies. Your nearest ICDL test centre can give you the current price, including any registration or materials charges.
How hard is it?
It is an entry-level, knowledge-and-judgement certification, not a technical security qualification. Candidates who already follow good security habits usually find it manageable. The common difficulty is scenario questions where two answers both sound reasonable and you must pick the safest practical action.
Can I retake it if I fail?
Retake rules are set by ICDL and your test centre and are not stated in the material we verified. Ask your centre about retake eligibility, waiting periods and any additional fee before your first attempt so there are no surprises.
How long is the certificate valid?
We have no verified validity period for this certification, and ICDL periodically updates syllabi, as with the Cyber Security syllabus version 3.0 announced on 12 June 2026. Check with your test centre whether your certificate remains current or needs refreshing.
What should I study first?
Start with security concepts, since the vocabulary there underpins everything else. Then move to malware and threats, followed by network and internet security. Finish with access control and data protection, and safe and responsible use of IT, which combine the earlier material into everyday decisions.
Where do candidates most often lose marks?
Typical weak spots are phishing recognition, password and authentication practice, safe handling of removable media and email attachments, and data-protection obligations. Questions often ask for the best action rather than a technically possible one, so practise choosing the safest response.
Do I need to install security software to prepare?
No special tools are required. You can prepare by studying the syllabus and applying good habits on your own devices, such as checking update settings, reviewing privacy options and examining message headers. Practical familiarity makes scenario questions easier to answer.
Is this page an official ICDL resource?
No. This is independent study material written for exam preparation and is not affiliated with, endorsed by or approved by ICDL Foundation. For authoritative syllabus documents, registration and results, use official ICDL channels or an accredited test centre.