ISC2 CC vs Security+: Side-by-Side Breakdown

You're standing at a cybersecurity crossroads, trying to choose between two entry-level certifications that could launch your career. On one side, there's the established CompTIA Security+ with its decades of industry recognition. On the other hand, ISC2's newer Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) credential promises a fresh approach to foundational security knowledge.

Here's the thing: picking the wrong certification can cost you months of study time, hundreds of dollars, and potentially slow your career progression. The good news? We've analyzed both certifications from every angle – costs, difficulty, career impact, and employer recognition – to help you make the smartest choice for your situation. Think of this as your GPS for navigating these two popular entry points into cybersecurity.

What Is ISC2 CC?

The ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) is a relatively new entry-level certification launched in 2022 by the same organization behind the prestigious CISSP credential. It's designed specifically for professionals looking to break into cybersecurity without requiring prior experience.

The CC covers five core domains: security principles, business continuity, access controls, network security, and security operations. What makes it unique is ISC2's approach – they've created a certification that bridges foundational knowledge with practical security concepts that align with their more advanced certifications.

The most attractive feature? The certification itself is free, though you'll need to pay for training materials and the proctored exam if you choose that route. ISC2 positioned the CC as an accessible entry point that maintains their reputation for rigorous, industry-relevant content while removing traditional barriers like cost and experience requirements.

What Is Security+?

CompTIA Security+ has been the gold standard for entry-level cybersecurity certifications since 2002. It's vendor-neutral, meaning it doesn't focus on specific technologies or companies, instead covering broad cybersecurity fundamentals that apply across industries.

Security+ covers five domains: general security concepts (12%), threats and vulnerabilities (22%), security architecture (18%), security operations (28%), and security program management (20%). The certification validates your understanding of core security functions, risk management, incident response, and compliance requirements.

What sets Security+ apart is its widespread recognition, particularly in government and military sectors. It meets DoD 8140 requirements (previously 8570), making it essential for many federal positions. With over 700,000 professionals certified globally, Security+ has proven staying power and industry acceptance that newer certifications are still building.

Which Certification Aligns with Your Cybersecurity Goals?

Your career goals should drive your certification choice, not the other way around. If you're targeting government or military cybersecurity roles, Security+ is often non-negotiable due to DoD 8140 compliance requirements. Federal contractors frequently list Security+ as a must-have qualification, making it your best bet for these opportunities.

For corporate cybersecurity roles, both certifications demonstrate foundational knowledge, but Security+ currently has broader recognition among hiring managers. However, if you're planning to pursue advanced ISC2 certifications like CISSP or CCSP later in your career, starting with CC creates a natural progression within the same certification family.

Consider your long-term path: Security+ serves as a strong foundation for various cybersecurity specializations, while CC positions you specifically within ISC2's certification ecosystem. If you're unsure about your specialty, Security+'s broader industry acceptance might serve you better initially.

Think about your immediate needs too. Are you job hunting right now and need something employers instantly recognize? Security+ gives you that immediate credibility. Are you planning a 5-10 year career journey in cybersecurity leadership? CC's pathway to prestigious ISC2 certifications might offer better long-term positioning, especially since many senior security roles prefer or require CISSP certification.

Should You Get Security+ Before CC?

There's no requirement to get Security+ before CC – in fact, they're designed as alternative entry points rather than sequential steps. Your choice should depend on your immediate needs and resources.

Choose Security+ first if you need DoD 8140 compliance, have a specific job opportunity requiring it, or want the broadest possible industry recognition. Its established track record means most employers understand its value, which can be crucial when you're competing against other entry-level candidates.

Consider CC first if you're budget-conscious (since the basic certification is free), planning to pursue other ISC2 certifications, or prefer a more modern approach to cybersecurity fundamentals. CC's newer content reflects current threat landscapes and security practices, which can be advantageous in rapidly evolving security environments.

The reality is that either certification provides solid foundational knowledge. Your decision should align with your immediate career needs rather than abstract notions of which is "better."

CC vs. Security+ Pros and Cons

Exam Details and Requirements

CC

The ISC2 CC offers flexible paths to certification. You can earn it for free by completing ISC2's self-paced online training course. This free path includes the course content and a basic certification upon completion.

For those wanting a proctored exam experience, ISC2's official exam pricing lists the CC exam at $199. The proctored exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that you must complete within two hours. You need a scale score of at least 700 out of 1,000 points to pass.

The certification covers five domains with specific weightings: Security Principles (26%), Business Continuity (10%), Access Controls (22%), Network Security (24%), and Security Operations (18%). No prerequisites required.

Security+

CompTIA Security+ requires passing the SY0-701 exam, which costs $425. The exam consists of up to 90 questions, including multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs), with a 90-minute time limit. You need a score of 750 on a scale of 100-900 (approximately 83% correct) to pass.

Testing is available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide or through online proctoring. No formal prerequisites, though CompTIA recommends two years of IT experience.

Do You Need Experience for CC or Security+?

Neither certification formally requires experience, making both accessible to career changers and new graduates. However, having some technical background will significantly improve your success chances and study efficiency.

For CC, ISC2 explicitly designed it for those new to cybersecurity, so the learning materials assume minimal prior knowledge. The free training course includes foundational concepts that help bridge knowledge gaps for beginners.

Security+ technically has no experience requirements, but CompTIA recommends two years of IT experience. This recommendation exists because the exam assumes familiarity with basic networking, operating systems, and IT concepts. Without this background, you'll need to invest additional time learning these fundamentals alongside cybersecurity concepts.

The practical reality is that either certification becomes much more manageable if you have basic IT knowledge – understanding of networks, operating systems, and common software applications will accelerate your learning regardless of which path you choose.

Exam Difficulty

CC

ISC2 CC difficulty varies depending on your background and preparation approach. The free online course is designed to be accessible to beginners, with self-paced learning that allows you to master concepts gradually.

Student experiences with the proctored exam vary considerably. Some candidates report finding it manageable with thorough preparation, while others note that questions can be tricky and require careful reading. Many students recommend supplementing official materials with additional study resources.

Security+

Security+ has a reputation as a challenging but fair entry-level exam. The performance-based questions particularly challenge test-takers because they require hands-on problem-solving rather than selecting from multiple choice options.

The exam tests both breadth and depth of knowledge across cybersecurity domains. You'll encounter questions about network security, risk management, cryptography, and incident response that require understanding how concepts connect rather than isolated memorization. Industry estimates suggest first-time pass rates around 70-80% for well-prepared candidates.

Salary and Job Opportunities

CC

ISC2's official 2024 salary study confirms that "data for the Certified in Cybersecurity (CC), the entry-level certification from ISC2, is not yet available." This reflects the certification's recent introduction and the time needed to gather sufficient salary survey responses.

While specific CC salary data isn't available through major platforms like PayScale or ISC2's workforce studies, the certification does provide access to entry-level cybersecurity roles. ISC2 notes that members report 35% higher salaries than non-members, though this statistic applies to all ISC2 certifications rather than CC specifically.

Security+

Security+ certified professionals earn an average base salary of $88,000 annually, which ranges from $54,000 to $138,000 depending on location, experience, and role. Entry-level positions average around $71,697 according to ZipRecruiter.

Common job roles include Information Security Analyst ($135,309 average), Network Security Administrator ($92,300 average), and Cybersecurity Specialist ($93,395 average). The DoD 8140 compliance creates consistent demand in government and contractor positions.

CC vs. Security+: Which One Pays More?

Currently, Security+ demonstrates clearer salary advantages due to its established market presence and comprehensive salary data. The $88,000 average base salary for Security+ holders reflects real market demand and employer valuation of the certification.

CC's salary impact is harder to quantify because of its recent introduction, but early career progression stories suggest it provides value, particularly for those pursuing other ISC2 certifications. The free nature of CC also means your return on investment calculation looks different – any salary increase represents pure gain rather than recovering certification costs.

The salary question might be less important than career trajectory. Security+ provides more immediate market recognition and salary data, while CC positions you within ISC2's certification ecosystem, which could lead to higher long-term earning potential if you pursue advanced certifications like CISSP or CCSP.

Consider your timeline: if you need immediate salary impact, Security+ provides more documented value. If you're planning a longer-term career development strategy within ISC2's framework, CC might offer better positioning despite current salary data limitations.

Cost and Recertification

CC

ISC2 CC offers the most cost-effective entry into cybersecurity certification. Through their One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative, the basic certification is completely free, including course content and certification upon completion. For those who prefer a traditional proctored exam experience, ISC2's official exam pricing lists the CC exam at $199.

For recertification, you'll need to earn 45 CPE credits during the three-year certification cycle, though ISC2 provides various free options for maintaining the certification. After passing, there's a $50 Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF).

Security+

Security+ requires a $425 exam fee, making it a more significant financial commitment. When you add study materials, training courses, and potential retake fees, total costs can range from $600-1,500+ depending on your preparation approach.

The certification is valid for three years, requiring continuing education to maintain. While more expensive upfront, Security+'s established market value often justifies the investment through salary increases and job opportunities.

How CC and Security+ Shape Your Cybersecurity Career

Security+ creates broad opportunities across cybersecurity specializations. Its recognition in government, healthcare, finance, and technology sectors means you can explore different industries and roles while building experience. The certification also serves as a stepping stone to specialized CompTIA certifications or vendor-specific credentials.

CC positions you within ISC2's certification hierarchy, which culminates in prestigious credentials like CISSP and CCSP. If you're planning to become a security manager, consultant, or architect, starting with CC creates a natural progression through ISC2's family of certifications.

Consider the psychological aspect too: earning your first cybersecurity certification builds confidence and validates your commitment to the field. Both CC and Security+ provide this foundation, but Security+'s broader recognition might offer more immediate validation in professional settings.

Making the Right Choice: Where to Start Based on Your Career Stage

For Those New to Cybersecurity (0-2 Years Experience)

If you're completely new to cybersecurity, CC's free option removes financial risk while letting you test your interest in the field. The self-paced online training helps you understand whether cybersecurity aligns with your interests before making larger investments.

However, if you're confident about pursuing cybersecurity and need job market credibility quickly, Security+ provides more immediate recognition. The investment demonstrates commitment to employers and opens more doors in the short term.

For Budget-Conscious Professionals

CC clearly wins for immediate budget concerns since the basic certification costs nothing. This makes it ideal for students, international professionals in regions with currency disadvantages, or anyone needing to minimize upfront costs.

Remember that "free" doesn't mean "less valuable" – ISC2's reputation ensures the content meets industry standards. You can always pursue the proctored exam later if you need additional credibility with specific employers.

For ISC2 Pathway Seekers

If you're planning to pursue CISSP, CCSP, or other ISC2 certifications, starting with CC creates familiarity with their exam style, content approach, and continuing education requirements. This foundation can make advanced certifications more manageable while demonstrating your commitment to ISC2's certification philosophy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Level Up Your Cybersecurity Career?

Whether you choose ISC2 CC or Security+, you're taking a crucial step toward establishing yourself in cybersecurity. Both certifications provide solid foundations, but your success depends more on what you do after certification than which one you choose.

Remember that certification is just the beginning. The cybersecurity field rewards continuous learning, hands-on experience, and practical problem-solving skills. Either CC or Security+ will open doors, but your performance in those opportunities determines your career trajectory.

If you're leaning toward Security+ and want comprehensive preparation that ensures first-attempt success, our Security+ BootCamp provides intensive, expert-led training that covers everything you need to know. We've helped thousands of professionals launch their cybersecurity careers with confidence – and we're here to help you succeed too.