EXAM CODE SY0-601 & SY0-701
CompTIA Security+ is a global certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
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Launch a successful cybersecurity career
Develop a core foundation of essential skills, paving the way for a fulfilling career. More job roles use Security+ for baseline cybersecurity skills than any other certification in the industry.
Assess on-the-job skills
Security+ is the most widely adopted ISO/ANSI-accredited early career cybersecurity certification on the market with hands-on, performance-based questions on the certification exam. These practical questions assess your ability to effectively problem solve in real-life situations and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers immediately.
Embrace the latest trends
Understand and use the most recent advancements in cybersecurity technology, terms, techniques, and tools. By acquiring early career skills in the latest trends such as automation, zero trust, risk analysis, operational technology, and IoT, you will be well-equipped to excel in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
If you are planning to take the SY0-601 version of the exam, this is your last chance to get everything you need to prepare. Buy your training materials by May 30, 2024.
The new CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) represents the latest and greatest in cybersecurity, covering the most in-demand skills related to current threats, automation, zero trust, IoT, risk – and more. Once certified, you’ll understand the core skills needed to succeed on the job – and employers will notice too. The Security+ exam verifies you have the knowledge and skills required to:
CompTIA Security+ is compliant with ISO 17024 standards and approved by the U.S. DoD to meet Directive 8140.03M requirements. Regulators and government rely on ANSI accreditation because it provides confidence and trust in the outputs of an accredited program. Over 3 million CompTIA ISO/ANSI-accredited exams have been delivered since January 1, 2011.
Includes key cybersecurity terminology and concepts up front to provide a foundation for security controls discussed throughout the exam.
Focuses on responding to common threats, cyberattacks, vulnerabilities, and security incidents and appropriate mitigation techniques to monitor and secure hybrid environments.
Includes security implications of different architecture models, principles of securing enterprise infrastructure, and strategies to protect data.
Includes applying and enhancing security and vulnerability management techniques, as well as security implications of proper hardware, software, and data management.
Updated to better reflect the reporting and communication skills required for Security+ job roles relating to governance, risk management, compliance, assessment, and security awareness.
Eduardo started out in the Marine Corp and then reenlisted with the Army National Guard where he became CompTIA Security+ certified. He now works as a cybersecurity specialist for AON Cyber Solutions.
Vernon, a Chicago salesman, found satisfaction and fulfillment in a cybersecurity career despite lack of experience with the help of CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+.
Earning CompTIA Security+ helped cybersecurity specialist Vina squash imposter syndrome, deepen her knowledge of IT security and reinforce her passion for working with people.
Scott previously worked as a personal trainer and now works in IT with the help of CompTIA A+ and Security+.
| Exam Code | SY0-601 | SY0-701 |
| Launch Date | November 12, 2020 | November 7, 2023 |
| Exam Description | The CompTIA Security+ certification exam will verify the successful candidate has the knowledge and skills required to assess the security posture of an enterprise environment and recommend and implement appropriate security solutions; monitor and secure hybrid environments, including cloud, mobile, and IoT; operate with an awareness of applicable laws and policies, including principles of governance, risk, and compliance; identify, analyze, and respond to security events and incidents | |
| Number of Questions | Maximum of 90 questions | |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice and performance-based |
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| Length of Test | 90 minutes |
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| Passing Score | 750 (on a scale of 100-900) | |
| Recommended Experience | CompTIA Network+ and two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus | CompTIA Network+ and two years of experience working in a security/ systems administrator job role |
| Languages | English, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, Portuguese | English, with Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish to follow |
| Retirement | July 31, 2024 – English January 31, 2025 – Portuguese, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese | TBD – Usually three years after launch |
| DoD 8140 Approved Work Roles | To view approved work roles click here. For more information on 8140, click here. | |
| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
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| Price | $392 USD (See all pricing) | |
 | (ISC)2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) | GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) | EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) | ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity | |
| Performance Based Questions | ✔ | ✔ | |||
| Vendor Neutral | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Experience Level | Early career | Early career | Early career | Early career | Entry Level |
| Exam Focus | Baseline cybersecurity skills, core cybersecurity knowledge | Security administrator job role | Security administrator job role | Pen testing and ethical hacking | Cybersecurity terms and concepts |
| Training Products | Full suite of online test prep tools, LOT, books | Self-paced online, LOT, courseware, mobile toolkit | In-person training and online | Online review course and answers database, courseware | Self-paced online, LOT |
Keep your certification up to date with CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program. It’s designed to be a continued validation of your expertise and a tool to expand your skillset. It’s also the ace up your sleeve when you’re ready to take the next step in your career.
Get the most out of your certification
Information technology is an incredibly dynamic field, creating new opportunities and challenges every day. Participating in our Continuing Education program will enable you to stay current with new and evolving technologies and remain a sought-after IT and security expert.
The CompTIA Continuing Education program
Your CompTIA Security+ certification is good for three years from the day of your exam. The CE program allows you to extend your certification in three-year intervals through activities and training that relate to the content of your certification. Like Security+ itself, CompTIA Security+ CE also carries globally-recognized ISO/ANSI accreditation status.
It’s easy to renew
You can participate in a number of activities and training programs, including higher certifications, to renew your CompTIA Security+ certification. Complete CertMaster CE, an online, self-paced CE course, or collect at least 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in three years, upload them to your certification account and Security+ will automatically renew.
Want more details? Learn more about the CompTIA Continuing Education program.
