CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized baseline cybersecurity certification covering core security functions and risk management.
What Is This Certification?
Security+ validates the hands-on skills needed to perform core security tasks and pursue an IT security career. It is often the first security cert and is DoD 8570 approved.
Eligibility & Requirements
Recommended: Network+ and 2 years of IT admin experience with a security focus, but not required.
Exam Format & Structure
Maximum 90 questions, multiple choice and performance-based. 90 minutes. Pass mark 750/900. Pearson VUE.
Cost & Fees
$392 USD per attempt.
Validity & Renewal
Valid 3 years. Renew via CEUs, higher cert, or Stackable Certifications.
Salary & Career Outlook
Security analysts with Security+ earn roughly $75,000–$110,000 USD.
Compare CompTIA Security+
See how this certification stacks up against others:
Top Training Providers & Resources
- CompTIA CertMaster
- Professor Messer
- Udemy
- Cybrary
Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It?
Security+ is worth it for anyone starting in cybersecurity or needing a baseline DoD 8570 / IAT compliance clearance for US government contract roles — it is the default entry cert there. It is also a strong generalist signal for IT pros moving into security. It is less critical if you already hold a more advanced security cert or work in a non-security IT niche. The value is broad recognition and a vendor-neutral foundation. Caveat: it is entry-level, so pair it with hands-on labs and a follow-on (CySA+, PenTest+, or vendor certs) to convert it into career movement rather than a checkbox.
How to Prepare
Prep in 4–8 weeks. 1) Pick a current version (SY0-601 or SY0-701) and an accredited course (Professor Messer is free; Dion/CompTIA official are paid). 2) Build a home lab: set up a VM, try Wireshark, Nmap, and basic firewall rules to make concepts concrete. 3) Memorize the acronyms (the exam is acronym-dense) and attack frameworks (MITRE, Kill Chain). 4) Do full practice exams; target ~80%. 5) Pair study with hands-on where possible — Security+ is foundational, so real exposure matters more than the cert alone. Schedule when you can explain threats, controls, and identity concepts without prompting. Keep notes by domain to spot weak areas.
How to Get CompTIA Security+ Certified
- Confirm you meet the requirements: Recommended: Network+ and 2 years of IT admin experience with a security focus, but not required.
- Download the official exam blueprint / handbook from CompTIA and map it to a study plan.
- Choose prep that fits you — official materials, a video course, and/or a bootcamp — and set a weekly schedule.
- Study the core topics and, where hands-on, practice until the skills are automatic.
- Take full-length practice exams and target a steady pass-rate before booking. Exam format: Maximum 90 questions, multiple choice and performance-based. 90 minutes. Pass mark 750/900. Pearson VUE.
- Book the exam ($392 USD per attempt.) at a test center or online proctor, then sit and pass it.
- Receive your credential from CompTIA and add it to your resume, LinkedIn, and this profile.
- Track renewal: Valid 3 years. Renew via CEUs, higher cert, or Stackable Certifications. — log continuing education early.
Career Paths & Job Titles
- CompTIA Security+ Specialist
- Help Desk / Support Technician
- Systems or Network Administrator
- Cloud / DevOps Associate
- IT Project Coordinator
Skills You'll Gain
- Reading the exam blueprint / objectives
- Hands-on with the core platform or toolset
- Troubleshooting and best-practice configuration
- Security and compliance fundamentals
- Documenting and explaining technical decisions
Who Should Get This Certification?
career changers, students, and working IT pros who want a recognized, resume-ready credential
Good fit if…
- You want a credentialed, resume-ready proof of skill in this field.
- The CompTIA Security+ is required or preferred for the roles you're targeting.
- You learn well from structured study + practice and can commit the prep time.
- You're starting out and want the gentlest recognized on-ramp.
Maybe skip if…
- You need deep, multi-year expertise — this is a foundational/entry-to-mid credential, not a replacement for experience.
- The topic isn't relevant to your actual career goal.
- You can't meet the eligibility or renewal requirements — check those with the provider first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Security+ enough to get a job?
It qualifies you for entry-level security roles like SOC analyst and is frequently required by government contracts.
Security+ vs CISSP?
Security+ is entry-level; CISSP is advanced and requires 5 years experience.
What is the CompTIA Security+ and who is it for?
CompTIA Security+ is offered by CompTIA. Security+ validates the hands-on skills needed to perform core security tasks and pursue an IT security career. It is often the first security cert and is DoD 8570 approved. It is aimed at Recommended: Network+ and 2 years of IT admin experience with a security focus, but not required.
How much does the CompTIA Security+ exam cost?
The exam costs $392 USD per attempt. Budget for potential retakes and any exam-prep materials you choose separately.
How long is the CompTIA Security+ valid, and how do I renew it?
Valid 3 years. Renew via CEUs, higher cert, or Stackable Certifications. Renewal requirements vary, so confirm the current policy with CompTIA before your renewal date.
What does the CompTIA Security+ exam format look like?
The exam is structured as follows: Maximum 90 questions, multiple choice and performance-based. 90 minutes. Pass mark 750/900. Pearson VUE. Knowing the format in advance lets you pace yourself and practice the question types you'll face.
Am I eligible for the CompTIA Security+?
Eligibility: Recommended: Network+ and 2 years of IT admin experience with a security focus, but not required. Review the official CompTIA handbook because eligibility rules and documentation can change.
How long should I study for the CompTIA Security+?
Most candidates prepare over a focused window that depends on background and the exam's depth. Use the official exam blueprint from CompTIA, pair it with a reputable prep course, and take full-length practice exams until you're consistently above the pass threshold.
What is the salary outlook after earning the CompTIA Security+?
Security analysts with Security+ earn roughly $75,000–$110,000 USD. Salaries also depend on region, experience, and related credentials, so treat this as a directional range rather than a guarantee.
Is the CompTIA Security+ worth it for my career?
That depends on your goals. Security+ is worth it for anyone starting in cybersecurity or needing a baseline DoD 8570 / IAT compliance clearance for US government contract roles — it is the default entry cert there. It is also a strong generalist signal for IT pros moving into security. It is less critical if you already hold a more advanced security cert or work in a non-security IT niche. The value is broad recognition and a vendor-neutral foundation. Caveat: it is entry-level, so pair it with hands-on labs and a follow-on (CySA+, PenTest+, or vendor certs) to convert it into career movement rather than a checkbox.
Do I need hands-on experience before taking the CompTIA Security+?
Hands-on practice strongly improves pass rates even when not strictly required. Spin up the relevant labs or sandbox, follow the exam objectives from CompTIA, and build muscle memory before test day.
Which comes after the CompTIA Security+?
After this credential, candidates typically pursue the next-level associate or professional track from CompTIA, or a complementary cloud/security/agile cert. Check CompTIA's certification path to sequence credentials efficiently.
Can I take the CompTIA Security+ exam online?
Most IT certs from CompTIA offer both testing-center and online-proctored options. Online proctoring has strict environment rules (clean desk, ID, stable connection), so verify requirements before booking.