The GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) certification is designed for technologists who protect organizations from malicious code. A GREM-certified technician has the skills and knowledge to reverse-engineer malicious software (malware) targeting common platforms, such as Microsoft Windows and web browsers.
Due to the rise in technology, organizations began to rely exclusively on such advancements, increasing data breaches and system hacks. On the same note, Cybersecurity Ventures estimates that the global cybersecurity market will grow to $270 billion by 2026, indicating a growing need for computer security specialists.
To better understand how GREM can enhance your career, let us first briefly examine what the GIAC GREM certification entails.
What is the GIAC GREM certification exam?
The GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) certification is an industry-recognized certification that validates an individual's skills and knowledge of reverse engineering principles and techniques. The GIAC GREM certification program is designed for technologists (information technology engineers) who protect organizations from malicious code.
GIAC GREM-certified professionals are proficient in reverse-engineering malicious software that targets common platforms, such as Microsoft Windows and web browsers. They are experts in forensic investigations, incident response, and Windows system administration. With the GREM certification, you can showcase your cutting-edge malware analysis skills to your employer or customers.
In order to earn the GIAC GREM certification, you must pass a single exam that tests your skills and knowledge in the following areas:
- Analysis of malicious document files, analyzing protected executables, and analyzing web-based malware.
- In-depth analysis of malicious browser scripts and in-depth analysis of malicious executables.
- Malware analysis using memory forensics and malware code and behavioral analysis fundamentals.
- Windows assembly code concepts for reverse-engineering and common Windows malware characteristics in assembly.
The GIAC GREM exam is a 2-3 hour online test with 66-75 multiple-choice questions. To pass the GREM certification exam, candidates must obtain a minimum passing score of 73 percent.
Who can take the GREM exam?
The GREM certification is among the most highly regarded certifications in the security industry. With GREM certification, you can demonstrate your knowledge and skills in malware reverse engineering. On top of that, having a GREM-certified badge differentiates you from other security professionals, making you an in-demand security professional.
Here are the roles you can take with GREM:
- System and network administrators
- Auditors
- Security consultants
- Security managers
- Individuals who deal with malware incidents
- Security practitioners
- Forensic investigators
- Those seeking to formalize and expand their expertise in technology
How GREM can help you
Career advancement
The GIAC GREM certification sets you apart from the competition, making you a more in-demand candidate. With the growing demand for skilled incident responders and forensic examiners, the GREM certification opens up many job opportunities. Employers often prefer certified individuals as they are more likely to have a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and demonstrate a higher level of proficiency.
Industry recognition
The GIAC GREM certification is a reputable standard in the incident response and forensic analysis industry. As the industry evolves, it becomes more crucial to demonstrate a high level of expertise and credibility. The GIAC GREM certification attests to your knowledge and experience, showing you as an industry expert. As a GREM-certified professional, you can benefit from a wide range of industry resources and networking opportunities that can further enhance your career prospects.
Expertise development
Earning the GIAC GREM certification requires dedication and hard work, including completing a challenging training program and passing a comprehensive exam. You acquire advanced skills and expertise in digital forensics and incident response through the process. You learn how to identify and respond to security incidents, analyze malware, perform network forensics, and more.
Earning potential
One of the most significant benefits of earning the GIAC GREM certification is the potential for higher earnings. According to PayScale, the average salary for a GIAC-certified Incident Handler is $97,000 per year, while a GIAC-certified Forensic Analyst earns an average salary of $107,000 per year. That said, certified individuals often get more significant pay raises and bonuses than non-certified individuals.
Continuous learning
The GIAC GREM certification is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing continuous learning process. To maintain your certification, you must earn continuing education credits (CEUs) and renew your certification every four years. This requirement ensures that you stay familiar with the latest developments and advancements in the field.
GIAC GREM certification: employment opportunities
According to the Cybersecurity Ventures report, the global cybersecurity market is expected to reach $248.26 billion by 2023, with a compound annual growth rate of 10.2%. This growing market has increased demand for cybersecurity professionals, including GIAC GREM-certified individuals.
Here are some of the key industries where you can find a high-paying job:
- Finance
- Healthcare
- Government
- Information technology
The hiring rate for GREM professionals is relatively high, with increasing job postings requiring this certification. According to Indeed, there has been a 43% increase in job postings for cybersecurity professionals in the last year. Similarly, CyberSeek, a project supported by the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education, reports over 20,000 job openings for incident response analysts, including GREM professionals, in the United States alone.
The bottom line
It's worth noting that the cybersecurity industry is constantly changing. By earning the GIAC Reverse Engineering Malware (GREM) certification, you not only gain a comprehensive understanding of incident response and forensic analysis but also demonstrate your commitment to professional development and growth.
As the global cybersecurity market grows, it is projected to reach $270 billion by 2026. This is why the GIAC GREM certification can help you access a wide range of job opportunities within the industry.
If you want to enhance your skill by taking the GREM certification, CBT Proxy can help you pass the exam only on your first attempt. To learn more about the exam and how to get started, click the chat button below, and one of our guides will contact you and serve you accordingly.
