The United States Department of Defense (DoD) protects some of the world’s most sensitive information, assets, and technologies. Because of this, the DoD cannot rely on unverified skill sets or informal qualifications anyone working with DoD information systems must meet strict cybersecurity competency standards. Those standards are enforced through DoD approved certifications, which validate that personnel possess the necessary knowledge and experience to secure defense systems against cyber threats.
If you are entering the defense industry, planning to work for a DoD contractor, transitioning into cybersecurity, or simply trying to understand the differences between DoD 8570 and DoD 8140, this guide walks you through everything you need to know clearly, simply, and in detail.
DoD certifications are government-approved cybersecurity credentials required for individuals who access DoD networks, systems, applications, or data. These certifications verify that a professional has the skills, technical competencies, and knowledge necessary to defend sensitive government infrastructure.
DoD certifications apply to:
In short, if you touch DoD information systems in any capacity, you must maintain a DoD approved certification.
These certifications are governed by two primary frameworks:
DoD certifications are not optional they are defined by law and enforced across federal and defense environments. Here’s why they are essential:
Whether you're an entry level IT specialist or a senior cybersecurity architect, the DoD requires you to hold a certification aligned to your job role. Employers cannot assign you to certain tasks unless you hold the appropriate credential.
This ensures that all cybersecurity professionals share a baseline level of competence and understanding, regardless of their employer or experience level.
Many DoD job postings explicitly require certifications such as:
Without these certifications, you may not be considered for hiring, contract work, or advancement opportunities.
In many cases:
No certification = No job access = No clearance issuance
It’s that important.
DoD systems are massive and interconnected. Using standardized, approved certifications helps maintain consistency in cybersecurity posture across:
This ensures that even when thousands of entities work together, they adhere to the same security standards.
For individuals, DoD approved certifications bring significant advantages:
For many professionals, DoD certifications are a career accelerator.
Many newcomers are confused by the DoD’s two certification frameworks. Here's a clear breakdown.
DoD 8570 (Directive 8570.01-M): The Legacy Framework
Introduced in 2005, DoD 8570 established the first set of mandatory cybersecurity certification requirements. It categorized the workforce into functional levels and required specific certifications per level.
8570 Role Categories:
For over a decade, DoD 8570 served as the primary hiring and qualification standard.
DoD 8140 (Cyber Workforce Framework (CWF)): The Modern Framework
DoD 8140 was introduced to replace and expand on 8570. It aligns with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework and provides a more modern, task oriented approach.
DoD 8140:
Important: Although DoD 8140 replaces 8570, most job postings still reference “8570 certifications” because the certification tables remain the same while 8140 is fully adopted.
Here is a simple breakdown of the main DoD cybersecurity role categories.
IAT roles focus on maintaining and securing DoD systems and networks. Common job titles include:
IAT Levels:
IAT I: Entry-level support roles
IAT II: Intermediate security and administration
IAT III: Senior technical cybersecurity roles
IAM – Information Assurance Management
IAM roles include supervisory and managerial responsibilities:
IAM Levels:
IAM I: Small-scale system oversight
IAM II: Organizational or multi-system oversight
IAM III: Enterprise-wide cybersecurity leadership
IASAE – Architect & Engineering Roles
These are advanced positions:
They require deep technical expertise and high-impact decision-making authority.
CSSP roles focus on defending DoD networks from attacks. Positions include:
CSSP is the most operationally demanding sector of DoD cybersecurity roles.
DoD-approved certifications are mapped by role category and level. Here are the most widely recognized ones:
IAT Certifications
IAM Certifications
IASAE Certifications
CSSP Certifications
Depending on the role type:
Each certification maps to specific work roles and responsibilities.
The best certification for you depends on your career level and desired role.
If you’re new to cybersecurity (Beginner)
Start with:
These open doors to IAT I and II roles the most common entry points into DoD cybersecurity work.
If you’re technical and want hands on roles (Mid-Level)
Choose:
These align with IAT II/III and CSSP positions.
If you want management or leadership roles
Choose:
These meet IAM I–III and some IASAE requirements.
If you want to be a Cyber Architect or Engineer
Aim for:
These satisfy the IASAE role requirements.
Being DoD certified provides both career and personal advantages:
✔ Higher salaries
✔ Job stability
✔ Eligibility for sensitive or clearance-based roles
✔ Increased credibility
✔ Lead roles in cyber defense missions
✔ Clear career progression
The defense sector is one of the few cybersecurity environments where certification requirements are unambiguous and strictly enforced—which means certifications directly impact your earning power.
DoD certifications are essential for anyone wanting to build a career in national defense cybersecurity. Whether you're starting as a junior technician or aiming to become a cybersecurity architect, understanding DoD 8570/8140 and earning the right certifications will open doors to some of the most secure, high-impact, and rewarding roles in the cybersecurity field.
With this foundation, you're ready to take the next step choosing the right certification path, preparing for exams, and positioning yourself for long-term success in the defense cyber workforce.
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