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DestCert vs Prepaway: Understanding the Key Differences

The Easiest
Way to Get Your CISSP Certification

CISSP training that focuses on what you need to learn —
at a pace that works for you

Prepare to confidently pass
the CISSP exam

Why choose the DestCert MasterClass over PrepAway

A CISSP MasterClass that provides everything you need. See why the DestCert MasterClass makes it as easy as possible to pass the exam, and is the #1 alternative to PrepAway.

Key Features Comparison

Note: PrepAway offers various CISSP training resources, including a training course, study guide, and practice tests. They also provide free VCE files of CISSP exam dumps and practice tests. However, it's important to consider the ethical implications and potential reliability issues associated with exam dumps. Using such materials may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and could potentially violate exam policies.

FeatureDestCertPrepAway

Course Structure

PAID

FREE and PAID

ALL of the study materials you need

Varies by Course

Personalized Study Schedule

Weekly Live Q&A Calls

1-on-1 Mentoring Sessions*

Flashcard App

Practice Question App

MindMap Review Videos

Proven Exam Strategies

Active Community Support
(Discord, Reddit)

Printed Guidebook and Workbook*

Integrated Learning System

Comprehensive Exam Preparation

Varies by Course

Personalized Review Guide

Certified and Experienced Instructors

Video Lectures

Downloadable Resources

Varies by Course

Lifetime Access

Available in Premier Plan

Value for Money

Varies by Course

Flexible, Self-Paced Learning

Variety of Teaching Styles

*Included with Preferred & Premier MasterClasses

Don't leave your CISSP certification to chance.

Plans and Pricing Comparison

PlanPriceContentAccess

PrepAway

Prices vary depending on the course.

Content varies depending on the course

Access varies depending on the course

DestCert Essential
CISSP MasterClass

$1,697

Everything you need to confidently pass the exam:
In-depth study material, full access to the learning system, MasterClass videos, PDF workbook, CISSP Guidebook, personalized schedule, weekly group mentoring, flashcard app, practice question app, MindMap videos, exam strategies, and practice exam

1 year

DestCert Preferred
CISSP MasterClass

$2,197

Everything in Essential, plus 2 x one-hour 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, printed CISSP workbook and guidebook, unlimited email support

3 years

DestCert Premier
CISSP MasterClass

$5,297

Everything in Preferred, plus unlimited personal 1-on-1 mentoring, and an iPad

Lifetime

Success Rates and Outcomes

Destination Certification

  • Image of first time pass rate - Destination Certification

    Excellent First-Attempt Success

    Our CISSP MasterClass boasts a remarkable 93.6% pass rate for first-time exam takers, highlighting the effectiveness of our targeted preparation methods.

  • Icon excellence education - Destination Certification

    Swift Certification Timeline

    Dedicated students often achieve CISSP certification in as little as 4-6 weeks, demonstrating the efficiency of our streamlined learning approach.

  • Icon integrity and transparency - Destination Certification

    Proven Long-Term Success

    Our graduates consistently report career advancements and increased job opportunities, reflecting the real-world value of our CISSP training.

  • Icon empowerment - Destination Certification

    Continuous Improvement

    We regularly update our course materials to align with the latest CISSP exam outline, ensuring you're always prepared for current cybersecurity challenges.

These are just a few success stories

  • “CCSP Masterclass – What a masterpiece! Well done on this incredible work. In addition, the strategy worked out! Thinking like a CEO made all the difference to me in passing the exam. HUGE THANK YOU!”
    CCSP student Rodrigo Souza - Destination CertificationRodrigo SouzaCCSP student
  • “The sheer experience and knowledge that DC instructors bring on to the table is impeccable. They provide a learning experience which propels the aspirants to completely immerse in the learning journey and when immersed with sincerity, one can say they are not only getting trained to attempt the CISSP examination but also become a responsible and sound Information Security professional of tomorrow who can serve our society to make an impact that truly matters.”
    CISSP student Kumar S S S K - Destination CertificationKumar S S S KCISSP student
  • “The Destination Certification team is fantastic! The material is well structured, engaging, and reassured me that the focus is on value. I found the way the service helped me focus on the weaker areas of my knowledge was a game changer in terms of effort/reward.”
    CISSP student Sean Fleming - Destination CertificationSean FlemingCISSP student
  • “I used DestCert to prepare for CISSP. The material was well-structured and engaging. Mindmaps helped me understand how different topics fit together. The personalized review helped me target my weaker areas of knowledge, making my study efficient. DestCert is a valuable resource in my exam preparation.”
    CISSP student Joe Koh - Destination CertificationJoe KohCISSP student
  • “Earning the CISSP felt like a daunting, almost impossible challenge. But I watched all the videos, read the book, reviewed flashcards and grew confident enough to sit it after three months. Though it is a really hard exam, the material was accurate and enough for me to pass at 100 questions on my first attempt. I highly recommend DestCert to anyone preparing for these exams.”
    CISSP student Devin Tauber - Destination CertificationDevin TauberCISSP student
  • “Preparing for and taking the CISSP exam can feel like a daunting task. DestCert's CISSP MasterClass helps plan out everything for you, and leads you through each of the many topics with engaging video content. I used their MasterClass (as well as Quantum Exams) to prepare for the exam and I passed the first time at 100 questions! I would 100% recommend DestCert in future to anyone looking to pass the CISSP exam. Their first time pass rate speaks for itself!”
    CISSP student Daniel LeFevre - Destination CertificationDaniel LeFevreCISSP student
  • “I took DestCert Masterclass, did the videos, assessments per domain, practice questions on the apps and flashcard while commuting. I read the book a few days before the exam to review the materials again. I only used them and one extra practice test. Easy to follow and understand, if you have got enough experience in the field, using their Masterclass would be enough to pass. Highly recommended.”
    CISSP student Andrew Rinaldo - Destination CertificationAndrew RinaldoCISSP student
  • “I found the DestCert material and questions to be excellent preparation for the CISSP exam. In particular I found the mindmaps to be a great resource for identifying topics to revisit during the home stretch. In going through DestCert I feel like I might have finally found my calling. Going through this course made me realize I'd much rather teach people about Technology Security than try to push the security boulder up a hill while everything in the world is on the opposite side trying to roll it right over me. Listening to Rob and John made me realize that there's a lot of value in what they do, and they are able to touch and impact technologists and companies all over the world to help fight the good fight.”
    CISSP student Jesse Giambatista - Destination CertificationJesse GiambatistaCISSP student
  • “I successfully passed the CISSP exam in March 2025 using the DestCert student workbook, training videos, mind maps, practice questions and flashcards thru the website and mobile app. In my case, I purchased the CISSP MasterClass. While the training materials are first rate, the mindset of “think like a CEO” as well as John Berti’s video on test-taking tips was hugely helpful and directly contributed to helping me pass the exam after just 100 questions. Importantly, DestCert is the ONLY training material I used for CISSP exam preparation, and I absolutely recommend DestCert for anyone considering the CISSP exam.”
    CISSP student Jason Miller - Destination CertificationJason MillerCISSP student
  • “Rob and John played an instrumental role in my success with the CISSP. Their teaching style and ability to present complex material in an easily digestible and engaging manner were truly exceptional. They not only made the learning process enjoyable but also genuinely inspired confidence in their students. I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend this outstanding team to both individuals and businesses seeking top-notch training for Cybersecurity/GRC!”
    CISSP student Kyle Petro - Destination CertificationKyle PetroCISSP student
  • “The Destination Certification CISSP course was the key to my success in passing the exam. Rob and John’s teaching style gets right to the point and makes it easy to focus on the most important parts of each domain. Their advice to “think like a CEO” was also extremely helpful and really made the difference in my approach to the exam questions. I can’t thank the team enough for their commitment and passion to teach and help others accomplish this important milestone. Trust the system! It works.”
    CISSP student Jermaine Turnage - Destination CertificationJermaine TurnageCISSP student
  • “Destination Certification is the key factor I attribute to my success in achieving the CISSP. The comprehensive suite of materials—including online videos, flashcards, practice questions, discord channel, weekly calls, and expert guidance—provided everything I needed to conquer the CISSP journey. A big thank you to the Destination Certification team!”
    CISSP student Tyler Beels - Destination CertificationTyler BeelsCISSP student
  • “Destination Certification has proven to be a valuable investment, as it provided me with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully pass on my first attempt! John and Rob are very passionate about teaching, and I love that they lead AMAs every week with their students. I can't wait to try another Destination Certification program when I'm ready for my next certification 🙂”
    CISSP student Jasmine Kang - Destination CertificationJasmine KangCISSP student
  • “I embarked on the Destination Certification program, as I was feeling overwhelmed and unprepared for the CISSP exam. Having been out of school for over 20 years, I had forgotten how to study or even how "the right way to learn". With their daily guidance, I conquered the exam after only 100 questions and in an astonishing 90 minutes! The system taught me well beyond the CISSP material as it even helped me understand the perspectives and goals of executives who I previously didn't. My success is a testament to the incredible Destination Certification program and team, and I am forever grateful and excited about the knowledge and skills I have gained through this journey.”
    CISSP student Ryan Yagatich - Destination CertificationRyan YagatichCISSP student
  • “I highly recommend Destination Certification for anyone preparing for the CISSP exam. Their structured and well-organized course content, combined with easy-to-follow, pedagogical videos, provided me with a solid foundation for success. Unlike many other courses, their approach kept me motivated throughout my studies, thanks to practical tips and guidance from the entire team during our conversations. The quality of their materials and expert support truly made the difference in helping me pass the exam.”
    CISSP student Mirza Gogic - Destination CertificationMirza GogicCISSP student
  • “This course truly prepared me for the exam even though I took it in Japanese, plus it taught me lots of industry standard security-related English expressions that I can use in real work situations.”
    CISSP student Nomura, Makiko - Destination CertificationMakiko NomuraCISSP student
  • “I passed both the CISSP and CCSP exams using Destination Certification. With 90 days of focused study, their comprehensive materials and support helped me pass CISSP on April 9, 2024, and CCSP on January 8, 2025”
    CCSP student Murthy Mantha - Destination CertificationMurthy ManthaCCSP student
  • “DestCert really helped give me a peace of mind on exam day, that test likes to play tricks on you and make you second guess yourself, but DestCert is structured to not only provide you with the knowledge but it also gives you a firm confidence in yourself.”
    CISSP student Steven Tiller - Destination CertificationSteven TillerCISSP student
  • “I appreciated the format of the Destination Certification program. The multiple modes served as an effective method for reinforcing the materials. The subject matter was focused allowing for efficient learning in a compressed timeframe. I passed the test with the minimum amount of questions because I heard John's voice incessantly in my head saying, "Think like a CEO."”
    CISSP student Todd Chapman - Destination CertificationTodd ChapmanCISSP student
  • “I solely used DestCert resources to prepare, but I used all of them to the full...videos, mindmaps, printed book, ebook, flashcards, sample questions, etc. Without getting lost in too many details, DestCert provided me with the central understanding needed for each concept, and this clearly enabled me to pass the CISSP. When I took the exam, there were many questions were challenging and appeared to be beyond my scope, yet I had enough knowledge to be successful. I was happy to not only pass the exam, but deepen my knowledge across the cybersecurity industry. A foundation I intend to further grow from.”
    CISSP student Peter Student - Destination CertificationPeter StudentCISSP student
  • “Destination Certification is an excellent resource if you can make the price work. Dest Cert videos are professional and engaging. Rob and John really draw you in and bring flavor to dry content. Dest Cert Mindmaps (available outside of the class on youtube) are crucial for understanding how something fits into everything else. ESPECIALLY the mindmaps on the processes. I watched them all multiple times, and memorized a bunch of them.”
    CISSP student Wesley Barrier - Destination CertificationWesley BarrierCISSP student
  • “Regarding my experience with Destination Certification, I have to say that stunding for CISSP with you guys, was beyond all my expectations. This is the best training course material I ever studied for certification. It not only prepared me to pass this challenging exam, but above all it helped me to become a better cyber security professional.”
    CISSP student Alberto Afonso - Destination CertificationAlberto AfonsoCISSP student
  • “The CISSP Masterclass was outstanding—well-organized, easy to follow, and fully prepared me to pass. Rob, John, and Lou boosted my confidence with essential test-taking strategies, helping me conquer my toughest exam. Thank you, Destination Certification!”
    CISSP student Baburaj Sadanandan - Destination CertificationBaburaj SadanandanCISSP student
  • “When I went through the mini-master class, straight away I knew I am in the right place so I signed up for the MasterClass without any further procrastination. Rob, John and Lou made my CISSP certification journey easier. Thanks John, Rob and Lou.”
    CISSP student Anwer Asad - Destination CertificationAnwer AsadCISSP student

PrepAway

  • Icon of comprehensive summaries - Destination Certification

    Limited Verified Data

    Unlike Destination Certification, PrepAway does not provide comprehensive data on CISSP exam pass rates, making it challenging to gauge overall effectiveness.

  • Icon adapt - Destination Certification

    Course-Dependent Outcomes

    Success on the CISSP exam using PrepAway materials may largely depend on how you engage with the material and supplement it with other resources.

  • Icon focus of learning - Destination Certification

    Varied User Experiences

    While some users report positive outcomes, the lack of personalized support and mentoring may impact individual success rates.

  • Icon of binoculars - Destination Certification

    Uncertain Content Updates

    It's unclear how frequently PrepAway updates its CISSP preparation materials to align with the latest exam requirements.

User Experience & Support

Destination Certification

  • Adaptive Learning Technology

    Our intelligent course structure evolves with your progress, focusing on areas where you need the most improvement. This personalized approach optimizes your study time and boosts confidence.

  • Comprehensive Study Ecosystem

    Access a full suite of learning tools, including in-depth video lessons, detailed study guides, interactive workbooks, practice exams, and our proprietary flashcard app. These resources work in harmony to reinforce your understanding of CISSP concepts.

  • Structured Flexibility

    Our custom online learning platform, complete with personalized study schedules, keeps you on track without sacrificing flexibility. Navigate through over 170 focused video lessons and accompanying written summaries, providing a clear path through the CISSP curriculum.

  • Strategic Assessment

    Benefit from targeted knowledge checks integrated into each course section. These assessments provide direct links to additional resources, ensuring no aspect of your CISSP preparation is overlooked.

  • Robust Support Network

    Never feel stranded in your studies. Enjoy responsive email support, bi-weekly live Q&A sessions, an active Discord community moderated by course developers, and a dedicated subreddit for engaging with current and past students.

  • Premium Guidance

    Our Preferred and Premier plans offer invaluable one-on-one mentoring sessions, providing personalized support throughout your CISSP certification journey.

PrepAway

  • Self-Paced Learning

    While PrepAway provides flexibility in study schedules, it lacks personalized learning paths and adaptive content delivery.

  • Limited Interactive Elements

    The platform primarily focuses on practice questions and exam simulations, with fewer options for dynamic learning experiences or concept reinforcement.

  • Variable Support Quality

    User support is primarily through email, with response times and quality potentially inconsistent. Live mentoring or instructor-led sessions are not typically available.

  • Community Engagement

    Peer support largely depends on individual course forums or third-party study groups, without a centralized, moderated community platform.

  • Content Consistency

    The depth and relevance of study materials can vary, as PrepAway aggregates content from multiple sources rather than providing a unified, curated curriculum.

  • Cost-Effective Approach

    PrepAway emphasizes affordability, which may come at the expense of personalized guidance and comprehensive support features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the courses offer any additional resources or tools for exam preparation?

DestCert provides a range of additional resources, including a flashcard app, practice question app, MindMap videos, and detailed guidebooks, ensuring a comprehensive preparation experience. In contrast, PrepAway mainly focuses on practice questions and exam dumps. The availability of additional resources varies by course and is generally less comprehensive compared to DestCert.

How is the content delivered in the courses?

DestCert delivers content through a mix of video lectures, PDF workbooks, MindMap videos, and interactive mentoring sessions, providing a thorough and engaging learning experience. PrepAway, on the other hand, primarily relies on video lectures and practice questions. The depth and variety of content delivery can vary significantly between different courses on PrepAway.

Is there community support available for learners?

DestCert offers active community support through platforms like Discord and Reddit, allowing learners to connect and collaborate with peers and instructors. PrepAway's community support varies by course and often depends on user engagement. Some courses might have active communities, while others may not, leading to a less consistent support experience.

DestCert vs. PrepAway: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing a CISSP training option, there are several key factors to consider: your budget, learning style, and the level of support you need.

If you're on a tight budget and comfortable with self-directed learning, PrepAway might be a suitable choice. It offers affordable stand-alone courses and practice exams, which can be beneficial for self-motivated learners who don't require extensive support.

However, if you're looking for a comprehensive, structured approach with personalized support, DestCert is the superior option. With its custom learning plans, live mentoring sessions, and extensive study tools, DestCert provides a more thorough preparation for both the CISSP exam and your cybersecurity career.

Ready to transform your cybersecurity expertise? Enroll in DestCert's CISSP MasterClass today and take the first step towards certification success!

Is PrepAway a legitimate source for CISSP exam prep?

PrepAway provides practice questions, but it’s not an official (ISC)² partner. Always cross-check with verified training providers like Destcert for accurate and ethical materials.

Does Destcert use real CISSP exam simulations?

Yes. Destcert’s question banks are built to mirror (ISC)²’s adaptive testing format, with difficulty-based progression that helps you practice under real exam conditions.

Why do some learners avoid PrepAway for CISSP prep?

PrepAway’s community-sourced questions can contain errors or outdated content. Trusted platforms like Destcert ensure all content matches the latest CISSP domains.

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