IAM vs IAT Certifications
It is common to confuse the IAM and IAT certifications. These terms can be misunderstood and used interchangeably.
The Dept. established IAM as well as IAT. In 2004, the Department of Defense established these qualifications. These qualifications standards are meant to ensure that the Department. These standards are meant to ensure that the Department.
IAT is Information Assurance Technical. You can earn the IAT certification by bypassing certain exams and completing work experiences that fulfill specific requirements. These requirements focus on technical knowledge and are intended for technical staff.
IAM is Information Assurance Management. You can earn the IAM certification by bypassing certain exams and completing work experiences that fulfill specific requirements. These requirements are designed for leadership staff and focus on management.
IAT as well as standards are available in three levels: 1, 2, and 3. Level 1 is the entry-level certification, while levels 2 and 3 are intermediate and expert.
For government jobs as well as many jobs in the commercial sector, applicants must meet the minimum requirements to be considered for the job.
Below is a government-published chart showing the IT certifications that are included in each level of the IAT or IAM.
DoD 8570.01 M. DoD Approved Basis Certifications
| IAT Level I | IAT Level II | IAT Level III |
| CompTIA A+ CompTIA Network+ SSCP |
GREG CompTIA Security+ SCNP SSCP |
VISA GSA CNN CISSP (or Associate). GCIH |
| IAM Level I | IAM Level II | IAM Level III |
| CAP GIFS GSLC CompTIA Security+ |
CAP GSLC CISM CISSP (or Associate). |
GLSC CISM CISSP (or Associate). |
It is important to obtain the right certifications if you plan to work in IT or cybersecurity. This can make your job very lucrative.
To gain entry-level IT positions, it is a good idea to obtain IAM1 and IAT1 level certifications.
IAM3 and IAT3 certifications are a sign of expert-level knowledge and experience. This is what many IT managers and technical professionals strive for.
