- 1.CompTIA Security+ is the most popular entry-level cybersecurity certification with over 1 million certified professionals
- 2.SY0-701 exam costs $370, takes 90 minutes, and requires 750/900 to pass
- 3.Certification adds $8,000+ average salary premium and opens doors to security analyst roles
- 4.Required by U.S. Department of Defense (DoD 8570) for cybersecurity positions
- 5.Valid for 3 years with 50 continuing education units (CEUs) required for renewal
$370
Exam Cost
~83%
Pass Rate
2-3 months
Study Time
3 years
Validity Period
What is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is the world's most popular entry-level cybersecurity certification, designed to validate foundational security skills and knowledge. Unlike vendor-specific certifications, Security+ is vendor-neutral and covers broad security concepts applicable across all technology platforms.
The certification is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense under DoD 8570 directive, making it a requirement for many government and contractor cybersecurity positions. This government backing, combined with its foundational nature, makes Security+ the de facto entry point into cybersecurity careers.
- Vendor-neutral: Covers security concepts across all platforms, not specific to one technology
- Government approved: Required for DoD 8570 compliance in federal cybersecurity roles
- Entry-level friendly: Designed for professionals with 2+ years of IT experience
- Career catalyst: Opens doors to security analyst, security engineer, and IT auditor roles
Source: CompTIA
SY0-701 Exam Details
The current Security+ exam is SY0-701, launched in November 2023. This version emphasizes hands-on skills with performance-based questions and updated content covering cloud security, automation, and incident response.
| Exam Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | SY0-701 |
| Questions | 90 questions (multiple choice and performance-based) |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750 out of 900 (scaled scoring) |
| Cost | $370 USD |
| Languages | English and Japanese |
| Delivery | Pearson VUE testing centers or online proctoring |
| Retirement Date | To be announced (typically 3-4 years) |
Malware types, attack vectors, vulnerability assessment, and threat intelligence.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Security Analyst
- • SOC Analyst
Secure network architecture, cloud security, and cryptographic solutions.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Security Architect
- • Network Security Engineer
Security controls implementation, secure protocols, and host/application security.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Security Engineer
- • IT Security Specialist
Security operations center procedures, incident response, and digital forensics.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • SOC Analyst
- • Incident Response Specialist
Risk management frameworks, compliance requirements, and security policies.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • GRC Analyst
- • Compliance Officer
Study Resources & Timeline
Most candidates need 2-3 months of consistent study (1-2 hours daily) to pass Security+. The key is combining multiple resource types: official materials for accuracy, video courses for efficiency, and hands-on labs for practical skills.
| Resource Type | Best Options | Cost | Time Investment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Materials | CompTIA CertMaster Learn | $300-400 | 80-100 hours |
| Video Courses | Professor Messer (free), Udemy courses | $0-50 | 40-60 hours |
| Practice Exams | Dion Training, MeasureUp | $20-100 | 10-20 hours |
| Books | Darril Gibson GCGA, CompTIA official | $40-60 | 60-80 hours |
| Hands-on Labs | TryHackMe, CyberDefenders | $0-20/month | 20-40 hours |
Recommended Study Plan
Week 1-2: Foundation Building
Start with Professor Messer's free video course and CompTIA Security+ objectives. Take a practice exam to identify weak areas.
Week 3-6: Core Content
Work through each domain systematically. Use Darril Gibson's book alongside video courses. Focus 40% of time on highest-weighted domains (1, 2, 3).
Week 7-8: Hands-on Practice
Complete labs on TryHackMe Security+ path. Practice performance-based questions. Set up home lab with VirtualBox and Security Onion.
Week 9-10: Exam Preparation
Take multiple practice exams until consistently scoring 85%+. Review weak areas. Schedule exam for week 11-12 when confident.
Career Impact & Salary Data
CompTIA Security+ serves as a career catalyst, particularly for professionals transitioning into cybersecurity from other IT roles. The certification validates foundational knowledge that employers expect from entry-level security professionals.
Career Paths
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor networks for security breaches, investigate violations, and implement security measures.
IT Security Specialist
SOC 15-1212Implement and maintain security policies, conduct risk assessments, and manage security tools.
SOC Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor security events, analyze threats, and respond to incidents in security operations centers.
Network Security Engineer
SOC 15-1252Design and implement secure network architectures, configure firewalls, and manage VPNs.
Source: Global Knowledge 2024
Security+ vs Other Entry-Level Security Certifications
While several entry-level cybersecurity certifications exist, Security+ stands out for government recognition and broad industry acceptance. Here's how it compares to alternatives:
| Certification | Cost | Difficulty | Government Recognition | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Security+ | $370 | Moderate | DoD 8570 approved | Government/contractor roles |
| CompTIA Network+ | $370 | Easy | DoD 8570 approved | Network security focus |
| (ISC)² SSCP | $249 | Hard | Some agencies | Enterprise environments |
| SANS GIAC Security Essentials | $7,000+ | Hard | Highly regarded | Comprehensive knowledge |
| EC-Council Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator Associate | $550 | Moderate | Limited | Digital forensics path |
Which Should You Choose?
- You're targeting government or contractor cybersecurity roles
- You want the most recognized entry-level security certification
- You have 2+ years of IT experience and want to transition to security
- You need a DoD 8570 approved certification for current or future roles
- You prefer vendor-neutral training over platform-specific certifications
- You already have advanced security certifications (CISSP, CISM, etc.)
- You're targeting purely technical roles (penetration testing, malware analysis)
- You have extensive security experience and can pursue advanced certs directly
- Your target employer specifically requires different certifications
Prerequisites & Requirements
While CompTIA Security+ has no formal prerequisites, the organization recommends 2+ years of IT experience and CompTIA Network+ certification as preparation. However, motivated individuals without extensive IT backgrounds have successfully passed with dedicated study.
- Recommended: 2+ years of IT experience in networking, systems administration, or help desk
- Helpful: CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications provide foundational knowledge
- Minimum: Basic understanding of networking concepts, operating systems, and computer hardware
- Essential: Willingness to commit 2-3 months of consistent study time
For those without IT experience, consider starting with CompTIA A+ to build foundational knowledge, or pursue a cybersecurity degree that provides structured learning alongside practical experience.
Renewal & Continuing Education
Security+ certifications expire after 3 years and require renewal through CompTIA's Continuing Education (CE) program. You'll need to earn 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during the 3-year period, plus pay an annual maintenance fee of $50.
Various professional activities count toward your 50 CEU requirement.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • All Security+ holders
Earning a higher-level certification can automatically renew Security+.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Senior security professionals
CompTIA Security+ FAQ
Related Security Certifications
Related Degree Programs
Career Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.