Updated June 26, 2026

CompTIA Security+ Certification Guide 2026

SY0-701 exam guide | Entry-level cybersecurity cert | $8,000+ salary boost | DoD 8570 approved

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Key Takeaways

  • 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's 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. That government backing 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
Over 1 Million
Security+ Certified Professionals Worldwide
CompTIA Security+ is the most widely-held cybersecurity certification globally.

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.

RankProgram & SchoolDeliveryAnnual TuitionGrad RateMedian SalaryHakia Score
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Showing all 8 ranked programs. Source: CompTIA

Domain 1: Attacks, Threats, and Vulnerabilities (24%)

Malware types, attack vectors, vulnerability assessment, and threat intelligence.

Key Skills

Social engineeringMalware analysisVulnerability scanningThreat hunting

Common Jobs

  • Security Analyst
  • SOC Analyst

Domain 2: Architecture and Design (21%)

Secure network architecture, cloud security, and cryptographic solutions.

Key Skills

Network segmentationCloud securityPKIZero trust architecture

Common Jobs

  • Security Architect
  • Network Security Engineer

Domain 3: Implementation (25%)

Security controls implementation, secure protocols, and host/application security.

Key Skills

Firewall configurationVPN setupEndpoint protectionSecure coding

Common Jobs

  • Security Engineer
  • IT Security Specialist

Domain 4: Operations and Incident Response (16%)

Security operations center procedures, incident response, and digital forensics.

Key Skills

SIEM managementIncident handlingLog analysisForensic procedures

Common Jobs

  • SOC Analyst
  • Incident Response Specialist

Domain 5: Governance, Risk, and Compliance (14%)

Risk management frameworks, compliance requirements, and security policies.

Key Skills

Risk assessmentCompliance auditingPolicy developmentBusiness continuity

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 TypeBest OptionsCostTime 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

Find Programs Near You

Select a program and enter your zip code to discover accredited programs.

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Recommended Study Plan

1

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.

2

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).

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.

4

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

Security+ is a career catalyst, particularly for professionals transitioning into cybersecurity from other IT roles. It validates the foundational knowledge employers expect from entry-level security professionals.

$65,000
Starting Salary
$95,000
Mid-Career
+32%
Job Growth
3,500,000
Annual Openings

Career Paths

IT Security Specialist

SOC 15-1212
+28%

Implement and maintain security policies, conduct risk assessments, and manage security tools.

Median Salary:$75,000

SOC Analyst

SOC 15-1212
+35%

Monitor security events, analyze threats, and respond to incidents in security operations centers.

Median Salary:$68,000

Network Security Engineer

SOC 15-1252
+23%

Design and implement secure network architectures, configure firewalls, and manage VPNs.

Median Salary:$89,000
$8,200
Average Salary Premium
Security+ certified professionals earn an average of $8,200 more than non-certified peers in similar roles, according to Global Knowledge's 2024 IT Skills and Salary Report.

Source: Global Knowledge 2024

Security+ vs Other Entry-Level Security Certifications

Security+ has strong government recognition and broad industry acceptance. Here's how it compares to alternatives:

CertificationCostDifficultyGovernment RecognitionBest 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

Should You Get CompTIA Security+?

Choose Security+ if.

  • 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

Skip Security+ if.

  • 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.

CEU Activities

Various professional activities count toward your 50 CEU requirement.

Key Skills

Higher certifications (40 CEUs)Training courses (varies)Industry events (varies)Article publishing (5-10 CEUs)

Common Jobs

  • All Security+ holders

Alternative Renewal

Earning a higher-level certification can automatically renew Security+.

Key Skills

CISSPCISACISMAdvanced CompTIA certs

Common Jobs

  • Senior security professionals

CompTIA Security+ FAQ

Is CompTIA Security+ worth it in 2025?
For entry-level cybersecurity professionals and government contractors, absolutely. It provides an $8,200 average salary boost and is required for many government positions. Experienced security professionals may get more value from advanced certifications like CISSP or vendor-specific credentials.
How hard is the Security+ exam?
The Security+ exam has an 83% pass rate, making it moderately challenging but achievable with proper preparation. The performance-based questions require hands-on knowledge, not just memorization. Most candidates need 2-3 months of study with 1-2 hours daily preparation.
Can I get a cybersecurity job with just Security+?
Security+ can land you entry-level positions like SOC analyst or IT security specialist, especially paired with relevant experience. Most employers still prefer candidates with practical experience or additional certifications. It's a strong foundation, not a complete career solution.
Security+ vs CISSP: which should I get?
Start with Security+ if you have less than 5 years of security experience. CISSP requires 5 years of experience and is management-focused, while Security+ is technical and entry-level. Many professionals get Security+ first, gain experience, then pursue CISSP for senior roles.
Do I need Security+ if I have a cybersecurity degree?
A cybersecurity degree provides broader foundational knowledge, while Security+ validates specific practical skills. Many graduates get both, the degree for comprehensive understanding and Security+ for industry-recognized credentials. Government contractors often require Security+ regardless of education.
What jobs require CompTIA Security+?
Government cybersecurity positions, DoD contractors, and many federal agencies require Security+ for compliance with DoD 8570. Private sector roles like SOC analyst, security specialist, and junior security engineer often prefer or require it. Check job postings in your target area for specific requirements.
How much does Security+ certification cost?
The exam costs $370. Add $50-300 for study materials (books, practice exams, video courses). Budget $500-700 total. Many employers reimburse certification costs after passing. The investment pays for itself quickly through salary increases.
Can I take Security+ online?
CompTIA offers online proctoring through Pearson VUE OnVUE. You'll need a computer with webcam, stable internet, and a private room. Online testing is flexible but strict about security protocols. Traditional testing centers are still available if you prefer.

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Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.