Security+ Study Guide: Security+ Certification
You're facing an uphill battle in today's cybersecurity landscape. Threats evolve faster than your defenses, sophisticated attacks bypass traditional security, and your organization's digital assets remain vulnerable despite your best efforts.
That's where Security+ comes in.
This certification isn't just another line on your resume—it's your foundation for building genuine cybersecurity skills that organizations desperately need. Security+ validates that you can identify threats, implement effective controls, and respond to incidents in real-world environments.
When your organization faces a potential breach, Security+ gives you the tools to recognize suspicious activity, understand its implications, and take appropriate action before damage occurs. This practical ability is why Security+ has become the go-to certification for entry-level cybersecurity roles across industries.
In this guide, you'll discover exactly what you need to earn your Security+ certification—from understanding exam content to developing efficient study habits and leveraging your credential for career growth.
What is a Security+ Certification?
CompTIA Security+ is the industry benchmark for baseline cybersecurity skills. The current SY0-701 exam (released November 2023) tests your ability to handle real security challenges across diverse environments.
Your Security+ journey covers five essential domains that directly apply to daily security operations:
For your career, Security+ serves as the perfect entry point to cybersecurity roles like Security Analyst, IT Auditor, and Security Administrator. For your organization, your Security+ credential demonstrates a commitment to protecting critical assets through validated security knowledge.
Unlike specialized certifications that lock you into specific technologies, Security+ provides versatile skills that apply across platforms and environments—making it the smart first certification for serious security professionals.
Brief History of CompTIA Security+
CompTIA launched the Security+ certification in 2002 to address a growing need in the industry: the ability to validate baseline security knowledge for IT professionals. This wasn't just about adding another certification to the market—it was a direct response to organizations struggling to identify candidates with practical security skills.
Unlike the specialized security certifications available at the time, Security+ was designed to be vendor-neutral and accessible—creating a clear entry point for professionals looking to prove their security competence without years of experience.
The certification gained significant traction in 2005 when the U.S. Department of Defense included Security+ in Directive 8570 (later updated to 8140). This directive mandated that DoD employees and contractors working with government IT systems hold specific certifications based on their job functions. Security+ quickly became a required credential for various Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II positions and some Information Assurance Management (IAM) roles, establishing it as a must-have for government cybersecurity work.
Over the past two decades, Security+ has evolved through multiple exam versions to reflect the changing security landscape:
Today, Security+ has certified over 600,000 professionals worldwide, making it one of the most widely-held security certifications globally. Its continued recognition by government agencies, private corporations, and academic institutions demonstrates how effectively the certification has adapted to evolving security needs while maintaining its core purpose: validating the essential skills that every security professional needs to succeed.
What is a CompTIA Certification?
The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is a non-profit trade organization that has established itself as a global leader in vendor-neutral IT certifications. Founded in 1982, CompTIA has grown to become one of the most trusted names in technology certification, with over 2.7 million certifications issued worldwide.
Unlike vendor-specific certifications that focus on particular products or technologies, CompTIA certifications validate broad, foundational skills applicable across different platforms, systems, and environments. This vendor-neutral approach makes CompTIA credentials particularly valuable for professionals who need to work in diverse IT ecosystems.
CompTIA certifications are designed with rigorous input from industry experts through regular job task analyses. This ensures that each certification reflects the actual skills needed in the workplace—not just theoretical knowledge. The organization's certification development process involves:
All CompTIA certifications follow a structured framework that categorizes them into four main levels:
Each CompTIA exam undergoes regular review and renewal (typically every three years) to ensure its continued relevance to current industry needs. This commitment to currency means that holding a CompTIA certification signals to employers that you possess up-to-date skills.
The organization's certifications are recognized globally and have earned various international accreditations, including ISO/ANSI accreditation under the ISO 17024 standard for personnel certification programs. They're also approved for various government positions and can fulfill requirements for continuing education in multiple professional contexts.
For IT professionals, a CompTIA certification serves as an objective validation of your skills, demonstrates your commitment to the field, and often provides a pathway to more specialized certifications in your chosen career direction.
Security+ Certification Requirements: How to Become a Certified Security Professional
While many certification paths are complicated or unclear, CompTIA has designed a straightforward process that takes you from preparation to certification and beyond.
Here's your roadmap to earning and maintaining your Security+ certification:
Before diving into exam preparation, you need to assess your current knowledge level. CompTIA recommends having:
Don't panic if you don't meet all these recommendations. They're guidelines, not strict requirements. Many professionals successfully earn Security+ without two full years of experience, especially if they've dedicated significant time to focused study.
The key question isn't "Do I have exactly two years of experience?" but rather "Do I understand fundamental networking concepts, security principles, and how they apply in real environments?" If you can't confidently answer yes, consider strengthening these areas before tackling Security+.
Once you've assessed your readiness, it's time to build your knowledge. Effective Security+ preparation typically involves:
Your study approach should match your learning style. Some candidates benefit from instructor-led training, while others prefer self-study through books and online resources. Whatever approach you choose, make sure it covers all exam domains comprehensively.
At the same time, don't underestimate the importance of practice tests in your preparation. They not only help you assess your knowledge but also familiarize you with the exam format and question styles—particularly the performance-based questions that simulate real-world scenarios.
The Security+ exam itself requires careful navigation:
On exam day, manage your time carefully. The performance-based questions typically appear first and take longer to complete. Flag any questions you're unsure about and return to them if time permits.
Remember that the exam tests your ability to apply security concepts in practical scenarios—not just recite definitions. Think about what would actually work in a real environment, not just what sounds theoretically correct.
Your Security+ certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you'll need to complete CompTIA's Continuing Education (CE) program before your certification expires. This involves:
CEUs can be earned through various professional development activities, from additional certifications to industry participation. We'll cover these options in more detail later in this guide.
Following these four steps will put you on the path to not just earning your certification, but building a foundation for your security career.
The crucial bridge between understanding the requirements and passing the test is finding the best way to study for security+, from mapping the domains to your existing knowledge to building a realistic week-by-week study plan.
Security+ Study Guide: The 5 Domains of Security+
Understanding the five domains of the Security+ certification is essential for your exam success. Each domain represents a core area of security knowledge, with different weightings reflecting their importance in today's security landscape.
By breaking down these domains and knowing what each covers, you'll be able to focus your study efforts where they matter most. Let's explore what you need to know for each domain of the SY0-701 exam.
Domain 1:
General Security Concepts
Weight: 12% of the Security+ exam
This domain establishes the foundational principles that underpin all security practices. While it carries the smallest percentage of the exam, don't mistake it for being unimportant—these concepts form the backbone of everything else you'll learn.
You'll need to understand:
Think of Domain 1 as your security foundation—without mastering these concepts, the more technical aspects of security won't make practical sense in real-world applications.
Domain 2:
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations
Weight: 22% of the Security+ exam
This domain focuses on understanding the security threats organizations face and how to address them effectively. With over a fifth of the exam devoted to this area, it's crucial to thoroughly understand both attacker methodologies and defense strategies.
Key topics include:
This domain teaches you to think like both attacker and defender—a critical skill for identifying security weaknesses before they can be exploited.
Domain 3:
Security Architecture
Weight: 18% of the Security+ exam
This domain addresses how to design and implement secure systems and networks. It bridges the gap between security theory and practical implementation across various environments.
You'll need to master:
Security Architecture tests your ability to build security into systems from the ground up rather than adding it as an afterthought—a key principle of modern security practice.
Domain 4:
Security Operations
Weight: 28% of the Security+ exam
As the heaviest-weighted domain, Security Operations covers the day-to-day activities that security professionals perform to protect and monitor environments. This practical focus aligns with CompTIA's emphasis on operational skills in the latest exam version.
Focus your study on:
This domain tests whether you can translate security knowledge into effective daily practices that protect organizations from evolving threats.
Domain 5:
Security Program Management and Oversight
Weight: 20% of the Security+ exam
This domain examines how security functions at an organizational level through policies, governance, and compliance requirements. It represents the business side of security that practitioners increasingly need to understand.
Key areas include:
Domain 5 ensures you understand not just the "how" of security but also the "why"—connecting security practices to business objectives and regulatory requirements.
The Security+ Examination Guide
The Security+ exam isn't just a test—it's a practical challenge designed to separate those who truly understand security from those who've merely memorized concepts. When you sit for this exam, you're facing a carefully crafted assessment that mirrors real-world security scenarios.
Let's break down what you're up against:
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Exam Code | SY0-701 (current version) |
Number of Questions | Maximum of 90 questions |
Question Types | Multiple-choice and performance-based |
Time Limit | 90 minutes |
Passing Score | 750 (on a scale of 100–900) |
Languages | English, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish |
Testing Options | Testing center or online-proctored exam |
Price | $392 USD (discounts often available) |
Question Types Explained
The Security+ exam features two distinct question formats, each designed to assess different aspects of your security knowledge:
Multiple-Choice Questions
These make up the majority of the exam and test your understanding of security concepts, technologies, and best practices. These questions may include:
Both options provide the same exam content and difficulty level. Your choice should depend on your personal testing environment preferences and availability.
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
These interactive questions simulate real-world scenarios where you must perform specific tasks in a virtual environment. PBQs might ask you to:
Performance-based questions typically appear at the beginning of the exam and require more time to complete. Don't get stuck on these—if you're unsure, flag them for review and move on to the multiple-choice questions.
Testing Experience
CompTIA offers two ways to take the Security+ exam:
Testing Centers
Take your exam at a Pearson VUE authorized testing facility, where you'll:
Online-Proctored Exams
Complete the exam from your location while being remotely monitored, requiring:
Whichever option you choose, the exam content remains identical.
Exam Preparation Tips
To navigate the Security+ exam successfully:
After the Exam
Upon completing your exam:
CompTIA does not provide question-level feedback on which items you answered incorrectly, so use your overall domain scores to identify areas for improvement if you need to retake the exam.
Security+ Exam FAQs
Security+ is CompTIA's certification that validates foundational security skills and knowledge. The "+" signifies that it builds upon core IT knowledge to focus specifically on security competencies needed for today's cybersecurity roles.
The Security+ exam is moderately difficult, especially for those without security experience. What makes it challenging isn't complex technical concepts but the broad range of topics covered and the emphasis on applying knowledge to practical scenarios. The performance-based questions particularly test your ability to implement security solutions, not just understand them theoretically.
Most successful candidates study 60-120 hours over 4-8 weeks. Your preparation time will vary based on your experience level. Those with existing IT security experience might need less time, while complete beginners typically require more intensive study. Quality of study matters more than quantity—focused, active learning with application is more effective than passive review.
You don't need to memorize every port number, but you should know the common ones (HTTP, HTTPS, SSH, FTP, DNS, etc.) and understand what protocols operate at which layers of the OSI model. More importantly, understand the security implications of different protocols and when to use secure alternatives.
Yes, Security+ is an excellent starting point for those entering cybersecurity. While having some IT experience is beneficial, the certification is designed to be accessible to relative beginners. It provides a structured learning path that covers essential security concepts and can significantly enhance your employment prospects in entry-level security roles.
Technically yes, as there are no formal prerequisites. However, CompTIA recommends 2+ years of IT administration experience with a security focus. Without this background, you'll need to invest more time in studying fundamental concepts that experienced professionals already understand. Success is possible but will require dedicated preparation.
If you don't pass on your first attempt, CompTIA's retake policy allows you to retake the exam immediately after the first attempt. For a third or subsequent attempt, you must wait at least 14 calendar days between attempts. There is no limit to the number of retakes, but each attempt requires paying the full exam fee.
While both are CompTIA certifications, Network+ focuses on networking infrastructure and troubleshooting, while Security+ specifically addresses cybersecurity concepts and implementation. Network+ is about building and maintaining networks; Security+ is about protecting them. Many professionals earn Network+ first as it provides valuable context for Security+, but this path isn't mandatory.
Yes, your Security+ certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you must earn 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) over that period and submit them to CompTIA before your certification expires. Alternatively, you can recertify by passing the most current version of the exam.
How To Prepare for the Security+ Exam?
Preparing for the Security+ exam doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right approach and resources, you can build the knowledge and confidence needed to pass on your first attempt.
Your preparation strategy should match your learning style, schedule, and existing knowledge. Some candidates thrive in structured training environments, while others prefer self-directed study. Let's explore your best options for Security+ success.
Study Resources
The quality of your study materials can make or break your Security+ journey. With countless resources available, focusing on reputable, current materials is crucial as outdated content can lead you astray with the regularly updated Security+ exam objectives.
Official CompTIA Materials
Destination Certification Security+ Bootcamp
Our intensive Security+ bootcamp offers the fastest path to certification success, transforming security novices into confident professionals. Unlike general training programs, our bootcamp is specifically designed for those seeking to earn their Security+ credential efficiently.
What makes our bootcamp unique:
With our bootcamp, you'll gain both the knowledge to pass the exam and the practical understanding to apply security concepts in your daily work—a crucial combination for career advancement.
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Security+ Study Plan and Tips
The most successful candidates follow a structured approach to Security+ preparation. A structured approach is essential if you want to pass on your first attempt, and that starts with understanding how long you should be studying for the security plus certification based on your current experience and schedule. Start by assessing your current knowledge to identify strengths and weaknesses, then create a study plan that allocates more time to challenging areas while maintaining coverage across all domains.
For many IT professionals, the biggest challenge is shifting from a purely technical perspective to the security mindset required for the exam. Train yourself to think like a security professional when approaching questions:
Diversify your learning methods by combining reading, practice questions, and discussions. Many candidates find it helpful to explain concepts to others, which solidifies understanding and reveals knowledge gaps.
Time Management Suggestions
Create a realistic schedule that spans 4-6 weeks for thorough preparation if studying independently. The Security+ exam tests both breadth and depth of knowledge, requiring significant time investment across all five domains.
Allocate your study time proportionally to domain weights, focusing more effort on Security Operations (28%) and Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%) which comprise half of the exam. Start with your weakest areas first while your energy and focus are highest, and reserve the final week for comprehensive review and practice exams.
Remember to balance intensive study with adequate rest. Include short breaks during study sessions to maintain mental sharpness, and avoid cramming the night before—prioritize rest before the exam to ensure peak performance.
The Reality About Practice Tests
Practice tests can be valuable tools, but they come with important caveats. While they help you become familiar with question formats and exam pacing, they can create a false sense of security if used incorrectly.
Remember that practice tests primarily measure your ability to recall information in a test environment—not necessarily your deep understanding of security concepts. Many practice questions test recognition rather than application, while the actual exam emphasizes scenario-based thinking.
Use practice tests as diagnostic tools to identify knowledge gaps rather than predictors of exam success. When reviewing practice test results, focus less on your score and more on understanding why certain answers are correct and how concepts apply in different contexts.
The most effective approach combines practice tests with hands-on activities that build practical understanding. This balanced preparation ensures you're ready not just to pass the exam, but to apply security principles in real-world situations.
By combining quality study materials, structured preparation, and realistic practice, you'll approach your Security+ exam with the confidence and knowledge needed for success. Remember that this certification isn't just about passing a test—it's about building a foundation for your cybersecurity career.
Security+ Certification vs Other Certifications
Navigating the cybersecurity certification landscape can be overwhelming. With dozens of credentials available, understanding how Security+ compares to alternatives helps you invest your time and resources wisely. Let's examine how CompTIA Security+ stacks up against other popular certifications to help you build your optimal career pathway.
These CompTIA siblings serve different purposes in your technical foundation:
Security+ focuses on protecting systems and data through threat detection, vulnerability management, and security controls. It's designed for security-focused roles that implement protective measures across the organization.
Network+ builds fundamental networking knowledge—covering infrastructure design, protocols, and troubleshooting. It's geared toward network administration rather than security specifically.
Many professionals pursue Network+ before Security+ to build the underlying networking knowledge that makes security concepts more meaningful. However, those with existing network experience often jump directly to Security+.
These certifications represent different career stages in security:
Security+ serves as an entry point into cybersecurity, requiring no formal experience and covering operational security fundamentals. It's recognized by the DoD 8570 framework and provides solid grounding in security principles.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is designed for experienced security professionals (requiring 5 years of experience) who manage security programs and teams. It covers security from a management and strategic perspective rather than primarily technical implementation.
Security+ typically serves as a stepping stone toward CISSP, with many professionals obtaining Security+ early in their careers and progressing to CISSP after gaining sufficient experience.
Learn all the differences between the https://destcert.com/resources/cissp-vs-security/.
These certifications approach security from opposite directions:
Security+ takes a defensive security approach, focusing on protecting systems and detecting/responding to threats. It provides broad coverage across multiple security domains.
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) approaches security from an offensive perspective, teaching penetration testing methodologies and attack techniques. It's specialized for roles that actively test security through simulated attacks.
Many professionals find value in holding both certifications—Security+ provides the defensive foundation while CEH adds offensive security expertise.
These certifications target different organizational levels:
Security+ validates technical and operational security skills for practitioners implementing and maintaining security controls.
CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) is designed for security managers and executives who develop security programs, govern security operations, and align security with business objectives.
The progression from Security+ to CISM represents a career path from hands-on technical work to security management and leadership roles.
These certifications differ in scope and specialization:
Security+ provides broad security knowledge applicable across various IT environments, including some cloud security concepts.
CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional) focuses exclusively on securing cloud environments and services, covering cloud architecture, design, operations, and compliance in depth.
While Security+ serves as a general-purpose security certification, CCSP represents specialized knowledge for professionals focused specifically on cloud security.
Learn all the differences between the Security+ vs CCSP exams.
Security+ Salary and Careers
When you've earned your Security+ certification, you've done more than just pass an exam—you've unlocked the door to a diverse range of cybersecurity career opportunities. This credential serves as both your entry point into the security field and a stepping stone to advance your existing IT career.
Security+ Salary Potential
Security+ certified professionals command competitive compensation, reflecting the high demand for verified security skills. Based on current market data, Security+ certified professionals earn an average salary of approximately $87,000 per year in the United States.
However, your actual earning potential varies significantly based on several factors:
While salary is important, also consider the comprehensive benefits package, including healthcare, retirement contributions, education allowances, and remote work options that many security roles now offer.
Career Paths with Security+
Your Security+ certification opens doors to various cybersecurity roles, with opportunities to specialize as your career progresses:
Security+ is particularly valuable in the government sector, where it satisfies DoD 8570/8140 requirements for Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level II positions and some Information Assurance Management (IAM) roles, opening doors to stable and often lucrative government employment.
Career Growth Beyond Security+
While Security+ establishes your cybersecurity foundation, your career path likely involves progression to more specialized or advanced roles. Many professionals use Security+ as a building block toward:
The cybersecurity landscape is evolving rapidly, with emerging fields like cloud security, IoT security, and zero trust architecture creating new specialization opportunities. Security+ provides the fundamental knowledge that helps you adapt to these changing technologies.
I Passed Security+. What's Next?
Congratulations on earning your Security+ certification! While celebrating this achievement is certainly warranted, your journey doesn't end here. To maintain your credential's value and continue growing professionally, you'll need to fulfill specific requirements.
The Certification Maintenance Process
Your Security+ certification remains valid for three years from the date you passed the exam. To maintain it beyond that period, you'll need to engage with CompTIA's Continuing Education (CE) program:
Qualifying Activities for CE Credits
CompTIA offers multiple pathways to earn the required 50 CEUs:
The program's flexibility allows you to choose activities that align with your career goals and learning preferences. Just ensure your selected activities relate to the Security+ exam objectives or expand your general security knowledge.
Next Certification Considerations
As you gain experience, consider which certifications will support your chosen career direction:
For Technical Specialization:
For Management Progression:
Your Security+ certification serves as the foundation for your cybersecurity career. By maintaining your certification through continuous education and strategically selecting your next professional development steps, you'll position yourself for long-term success in this dynamic and rewarding field.
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