CompTIA Security+

Full name: CompTIA Security+
Issuing organization: Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)
Reputation and global recognition: CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification. It is ISO/ANSI-accredited and approved by the U.S. Department of Defense to meet directive 8140/8570.01-M requirements. The certification is widely respected across various industries and is often a prerequisite for cybersecurity roles.

Covered domains:
- Attacks, Threats, and Vulnerabilities
- Architecture and Design
- Implementation
- Operations and Incident Response
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance
Depth of content: The certification offers a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application, including performance-based questions that simulate real-world scenarios.
Technologies and tools included: While specific tools are not mandated, the certification covers a range of security technologies and concepts, including SIEM systems, endpoint detection and response (EDR), and various security protocols.
Relevance in the current job market: Highly relevant; the certification addresses foundational cybersecurity skills that are essential for many IT security roles.
Mapping to frameworks: The certification aligns with several frameworks, including:
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework
- NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework
- DoD 8140/8570.01-M

Prior certifications or experience required: No formal prerequisites.
Expected skill level: Entry-level to intermediate; recommended for individuals with at least two years of experience in IT with a security focus.
Required knowledge: A basic understanding of networking, systems administration, and familiarity with operating systems (especially Linux) is beneficial.

Total cost: The exam voucher is priced at $392 USD.
Study materials or lab access included: CompTIA offers various bundles:
- Basic Bundle ($565): Includes exam voucher and retake voucher.
- eLearning Bundle ($977): Adds CertMaster Learn and Labs.
- Bootcamp Bundle ($2,499): Includes instructor-led training, study materials, and exam vouchers.
Discounts, scholarships, or regional pricing: Student discounts are available through the CompTIA Academic Marketplace, offering reduced pricing for eligible individuals.

Recommended study hours: Approximately 120–180 hours, depending on prior experience.
Self-paced or instructor-led: Both options are available. Candidates can choose self-study, instructor-led courses, or hybrid models.
Learning modes: Options include intensive bootcamps, self-study programs, and hybrid courses combining online and in-person instruction.

Job roles prepared for:
- Security Administrator
- Systems Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Security Analyst
- Helpdesk Manager / Analyst
- Security Engineer
- IT Auditor
- Security Consultant
Alignment with career goals: Ideal for individuals seeking to establish a career in cybersecurity or enhance their IT security credentials.
Technical, managerial, or both: Primarily technical, with some aspects of risk management and compliance.

Exam delivery: Available both online (proctored) and in-person at Pearson VUE testing centers.
Exam content: Combination of multiple-choice and performance-based questions.
Proctored exam or testing center: Yes, all exams are proctored, whether taken online or at a testing center.
Real-world labs or simulations: Performance-based questions simulate real-world scenarios to assess practical skills.
Length and number of questions: 90 minutes to complete up to 90 questions.
Difficulty level or average pass rate: Moderate difficulty; passing score is 750 on a scale of 100–900.

Expiration: Certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam.
Renewal process: Renewable through CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program by earning 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or by retaking the latest version of the exam.

Official documentation: CompTIA offers official study guides, exam objectives, and training materials.
Recommended books:
- «CompTIA Security+ Study Guide» by Mike Chapple and David Seidl
- «CompTIA Security+ Get Certified Get Ahead» by Darril Gibson
Online labs or platforms:
- CompTIA CertMaster Labs
- TryHackMe
- Hack The Box
- INE
YouTube channels, community guides, paid or free courses:
- Professor Messer’s Security+ videos
- Cybrary’s Security+ course
- LinkedIn Learning’s Security+ training
Online communities:
- Reddit’s r/CompTIA and r/cybersecurity
- Discord servers dedicated to CompTIA certifications
- CompTIA’s official forums

Mention in job postings: Frequently listed as a required or preferred certification for various IT security roles.
Profile boost with recruiters: Enhances credibility and demonstrates foundational cybersecurity knowledge to potential employers.
Recognition by top companies or certain countries: Recognized globally, including by U.S. federal agencies and defense contractors.
Average salary for certified professionals: Varies by region and experience; in the U.S., Security+ certified professionals can expect salaries ranging from $65,000 to $95,000 annually.

Part of a larger learning path or career track: Yes; serves as a foundational certification in CompTIA’s cybersecurity pathway.
Subsequent certifications:
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
Comparison or complement to other certs: Security+ provides a broad overview of cybersecurity concepts, making it a suitable precursor to more specialized certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional).