CompTIA Security+ Quick Facts (2025)

CompTIA Security+ Quick Facts

The CompTIA Security+ certification opens doors for IT professionals to demonstrate trusted and practical cybersecurity knowledge. This exam overview provides clarity on the certification objectives so you can navigate the domains with confidence and focus on building well-rounded expertise.

How does the CompTIA Security+ certification strengthen your cybersecurity journey?

The CompTIA Security+ certification validates the fundamental skills needed to assess and secure enterprise systems. It provides proof of knowledge in areas ranging from security concepts and risk management to incident response and operations. Recognized globally, this certification is often the first stepping stone into a cybersecurity career, equipping individuals with a strong foundation that aligns with industry standards and real-world practices. Professionals in roles such as system administrators, security specialists, and network engineers benefit from this credential as it demonstrates readiness to address security threats and manage resilience across diverse infrastructures.

Exam Domains Covered (Click to expand breakdown)

Exam Domain Breakdown

Domain 1: General security concepts (12% of the exam)

General security concepts

Security controls — comparing technical, preventive, managerial, deterrent, operational, detective, physical, corrective, compensating, and directive controls.
Fundamental concepts — summarizing confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA); non-repudiation; authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA); zero trust; and deception/disruption technology.
Change management — explaining business processes, technical implications, documentation, and version control.
Cryptographic solutions — using public key infrastructure (PKI), encryption, obfuscation, hashing, digital signatures, and blockchain.

General security concepts summary:
This section emphasizes foundational principles that support secure operations across all environments. It introduces security controls and how they are categorized, providing a structured way to define and enforce protections. You will explore the widely recognized CIA triad, learn about accountability frameworks like AAA, and discover how modern approaches such as zero trust and deception technology enhance defensive strategies.

Additionally, you will practice how to apply security processes in business environments. Change management ensures smooth updates without exposing unnecessary risks, while cryptographic solutions form the backbone of trust in digital communication and storage. Expect to recognize how PKI, encryption, and hashing techniques secure sensitive information in real-world use cases.

Domain 2: Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations (22% of the exam)

Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations

Threat actors and motivations — comparing nation-states, unskilled attackers, hacktivists, insider threats, organized crime, shadow IT, and motivations like data exfiltration, espionage, and financial gain.
Threat vectors and attack surfaces — explaining message-based, unsecure networks, social engineering, file-based, voice call, supply chain, and vulnerable software vectors.
Vulnerabilities — explaining application, hardware, mobile device, virtualization, operating system (OS)-based, cloud-specific, web-based, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
Malicious activity — analyzing malware attacks, password attacks, application attacks, physical attacks, network attacks, and cryptographic attacks.
Mitigation techniques — using segmentation, access control, configuration enforcement, hardening, isolation, and patching.

Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations summary:
This section will guide you through the wide range of adversaries and their tactics, from organized criminal groups to insiders with privileged access. You will gain insight into how these actors exploit attack vectors like unsecure networks, phishing messages, and compromised software supply chains. Understanding their intentions helps you map technical risks to business outcomes.

You will also study mitigation strategies used to reduce and contain risks. By practicing methods like system hardening, segmentation, and patching, you will build a toolkit for applying proactive defenses. This section highlights how effective security is not only about recognizing vulnerabilities but also about anticipating how attackers exploit them and applying defensive measures thoughtfully.

Domain 3: Security architecture (18% of the exam)

Security architecture

Architecture models — comparing on-premises, cloud, virtualization, Internet of Things (IoT), industrial control systems (ICS), and infrastructure as code (IaC).
Enterprise infrastructure — applying security principles to infrastructure considerations, control selection, and secure communication/access.
Data protection — comparing data types, securing methods, general considerations, and classifications.
Resilience and recovery — explaining high availability, site considerations, testing, power, platform diversity, backups, and continuity of operations.

Security architecture summary:
This section focuses on understanding how different architectural models influence security decisions. You will compare traditional on-premises environments against modern cloud, IoT, and virtualization deployments. Infrastructure as code principles add another dimension by automating provisioning and management. Security must adapt to these environments by applying consistent principles across a variety of platforms.

Key emphasis is also placed on resilience and recovery. You will recognize the importance of backups, continuity planning, and infrastructure diversity to ensure systems remain available. Protecting sensitive data through classifications and controls rounds out this domain, equipping you with frameworks to balance functionality with security safeguards across diverse systems.

Domain 4: Security operations (28% of the exam)

Security operations

Computing resources — applying secure baselines, mobile solutions, hardening, wireless security, application security, sandboxing, and monitoring.
Asset management — explaining acquisition, disposal, assignment, and monitoring/tracking of hardware, software, and data assets.
Vulnerability management — identifying, analyzing, remediating, validating, and reporting vulnerabilities.
Alerting and monitoring — explaining monitoring tools and computing resource activities.
Enterprise security — modifying firewalls, IDS/IPS, DNS filtering, DLP (data loss prevention), NAC (network access control), and EDR/XDR (endpoint/extended detection and response).
Identity and access management — implementing provisioning, SSO (single sign-on), MFA (multifactor authentication), and privileged access tools.
Automation and orchestration — explaining automation use cases, scripting benefits, and considerations.
Incident response — implementing processes, training, testing, root cause analysis, threat hunting, and digital forensics.
Data sources — using log data and other sources to support investigations.

Security operations summary:
This section emphasizes the day-to-day practices and controls that safeguard enterprise environments. You will work with tools and techniques for system hardening, patch management, and mobile security while learning the role of monitoring in early detection. Identity and access management practices such as MFA and SSO remain essential to ensuring only the right individuals access key systems.

Operations go beyond prevention, focusing also on rapid response and recovery. You will explore structured incident response processes, digital forensic best practices, and how automation enhances consistency and efficiency. By connecting asset management, detection tools, and vulnerability practices, this domain illustrates how security operations build a life cycle of detection, prevention, and response.

Domain 5: Security program management and oversight (20% of the exam)

Security program management and oversight

Security governance — summarizing guidelines, policies, standards, procedures, external considerations, monitoring, governance structures, and roles/responsibilities.
Risk management — explaining risk identification, assessment, analysis, register, tolerance, appetite, strategies, reporting, and business impact analysis (BIA).
Third-party risk — managing vendor assessment, selection, agreements, monitoring, questionnaires, and rules of engagement.
Security compliance — summarizing compliance reporting, consequences of non-compliance, monitoring, and privacy.
Audits and assessments — explaining attestation, internal/external audits, and penetration testing.
Security awareness — implementing phishing training, anomalous behavior recognition, user guidance, reporting, and monitoring.

Security program management and oversight summary:
This section highlights the governance frameworks that align security goals with organizational priorities. It emphasizes the importance of documented policies, role-based responsibilities, and the oversight needed to measure progress. By applying risk management techniques, you will practice assessing threats, defining risk tolerance, and applying strategies that incorporate both organizational needs and regulatory obligations.

Another key piece is building trust through vendor management, audits, and awareness programs. From contract engagement with third parties to compliance frameworks that monitor and report adherence, governance provides leadership with confidence that programs operate smoothly. Training employees on security awareness and behavior ensures that all roles contribute to a strong culture of security across the organization.

Who should consider earning the CompTIA Security+ certification?

The CompTIA Security+ certification is designed for anyone who wants to establish or grow a career in cybersecurity. It is especially suited for:

New IT professionals who want to break into security-focused job roles
System and network administrators seeking to validate their security knowledge
Career changers who want to transition into the fast-growing cybersecurity field
Professionals working in compliance, risk management, or technical project management who need a strong foundation in security

This certification is often considered the first milestone in cybersecurity and is highly respected by employers worldwide. Even if you’re new to the field, Security+ shows that you can handle real-world security challenges with practical knowledge and hands-on skills.

What jobs can I qualify for with the CompTIA Security+ certification?

Earning Security+ opens doors to a wide range of exciting cybersecurity roles. Many employers view Security+ as the standard baseline certification for anyone in IT security. With this credential, you could qualify for positions such as:

Information Security Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Vulnerability Analyst
Incident Responder
Help Desk Specialist with security focus
Network/Systems Administrator

In addition, Security+ is recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD 8140) for workforce roles like Cyber Defense Analyst, Security Control Assessor, Network Specialist, and more. This makes the certification not just a boost to your resume but also a key credential for government and defense-related IT jobs.

Which version of the Security+ exam is current?

The latest Security+ exam version is SY0-701. This version reflects the most up-to-date industry knowledge, including emerging concepts like zero trust, incident response, automation, cloud security, and advanced threat management.

If you’re preparing for Security+, always make sure to use study materials specific to SY0-701, so you’re aligned with the exact objectives and domains covered on the exam. The exam series typically updates every few years to reflect the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, but SY0-701 is the most current version.

How much does the CompTIA Security+ exam cost?

The exam fee for CompTIA Security+ is $425 USD. However, costs may vary slightly depending on your location due to currency exchange rates or local testing center fees.

CompTIA also offers bundles that can include vouchers, training materials, and retakes at a discounted rate. If you’re employed, check with your employer, as many companies will cover the cost of Security+ as part of professional development programs.

How many questions are included on the Security+ exam?

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) includes up to 90 questions. The exam is a mix of multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions that simulate real scenarios you might encounter in the workplace.

Multiple-choice items test your theoretical knowledge, while performance-based questions challenge you to apply your skills in practical problem-solving environments. This combination ensures that certified professionals are both knowledgeable and job-ready.

How long do I have to complete the exam?

You’ll have 90 minutes to complete the Security+ exam. While that may sound brief, the pacing works well when you approach the test with preparation and focus.

Since the exam includes both standard multiple-choice and interactive performance-based questions, it’s wise to pace yourself carefully. Many test-takers find it helpful to answer the questions they’re most confident about first, then return to the more complex interactive questions if time allows.

What is considered a passing score on the Security+ exam?

The passing requirement for Security+ is 750 on a scale of 100 to 900. This does not translate directly into a percentage score; instead, CompTIA uses scaled scoring, which takes into account the difficulty of the questions you encounter.

This means not every test-taker receives the same set of questions, but the passing threshold ensures a consistent measure of competency. The bottom line: once you hit that 750 mark, you’ve proven you have the security baseline employers trust.

In which languages can I take the CompTIA Security+ exam?

Security+ is available in multiple languages to make it accessible worldwide. The exam currently supports:

English
Japanese
Portuguese
Spanish
Thai

Because Security+ is a global certification, CompTIA periodically adds additional supported languages to meet international demand.

What are the domains covered on the Security+ SY0-701 exam?

The Security+ exam is structured around different domains, each with a defined weighting:

General Security Concepts (12%)
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)
Security Architecture (18%)
Security Operations (28%)
Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)

This breakdown ensures balanced coverage of both technical and managerial aspects of cybersecurity. Understanding how the exam is weighted lets you focus your study time where it counts most, such as Security Operations—the single largest domain.

How long is the Security+ certification valid once you pass?

Your Security+ credential is valid for three years. To keep your certification active, you must complete continuing education activities or retake the latest exam before your certification expires.

CompTIA offers a Continuing Education (CE) program where you earn CEUs (Continuing Education Units) by completing approved security activities, higher-level certifications, or continuing training. This allows professionals to show they remain current with the latest cybersecurity practices.

Are there any prerequisites to take the Security+ exam?

There are no formal prerequisites to take the Security+ exam. However, CompTIA recommends having:

At least two years of hands-on IT experience with a security or systems administration focus
Knowledge comparable to CompTIA Network+

Even if you don’t meet these suggestions, many entry-level professionals successfully earn Security+ with the help of structured study resources, hands-on labs, and practice tests.

Who recognizes Security+ around the world?

CompTIA Security+ is recognized globally by both private employers and government organizations. In the United States, it meets DoD 8140 requirements for certain IT security roles, making it essential for individuals working in defense and government contracting.

Additionally, companies of all sizes across industries respect Security+ as a sign that you’re qualified to identify, mitigate, and respond to security threats. From healthcare providers to financial institutions to global tech firms, Security+ stands out as a trusted credential.

What kinds of skills will I walk away with after Security+?

Security+ ensures you gain both technical and professional skills. Some of the abilities you’ll develop include:

Managing threats such as malware, phishing, and application attacks
Hardening systems and networks with firewalls, IDS/IPS, and secure protocols
Understanding cryptography concepts like PKI, hashing, and digital signatures
Implementing identity and access control, including SSO and MFA
Conducting vulnerability management and incident response
Applying security governance, compliance, and risk management principles

These skills ensure you can contribute right away in real-world cybersecurity roles.

What makes CompTIA Security+ different from other certifications?

Unlike some certifications that are vendor-specific (focused only on one technology like Cisco or Microsoft), Security+ is vendor-neutral. This means you gain skills that are universal and not restricted to a single platform.

Employers value Security+ because it balances conceptual knowledge, hands-on application, and global recognition. It is also an ISO/ANSI-accredited certification, which gives it credibility across industries.

Is the CompTIA Security+ exam considered worth it for career growth?

Absolutely. Security+ is often the first professional certification listed as a requirement in cybersecurity job descriptions. With this credential, you show employers that you’re committed to the profession and have a validated skill set.

Because cybersecurity continues to be one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide, having Security+ on your resume positions you as a reliable professional who can handle modern security challenges.

Does Security+ include performance-based questions?

Yes, the exam includes performance-based questions (PBQs) in addition to multiple-choice items. PBQs test your real-world problem-solving abilities using virtual environments. Instead of just answering theory-based questions, you’ll prove you can apply security knowledge in simulated scenarios.

This makes Security+ an especially strong certification because it emphasizes application, not just memorization.

What exam format can I expect for SY0-701?

The SY0-701 is delivered on Pearson VUE’s testing platform. You can take the exam either at a testing center or online with remote proctoring.

It will present you with multiple-choice questions, multi-select scenarios, and performance-based simulations. The number of questions will not exceed 90, and you’ll complete them within the 90-minute window.

How can I best prepare for the Security+ exam?

Preparation is key to success, and many learners benefit from combining different study methods:

Study Guides and Books: Use up-to-date materials specific to SY0-701.
Hands-On Labs: Practicing in real environments solidifies your understanding more than reading alone.
Training Courses: Both in-person and online courses are available to guide you through all exam domains.
Practice Tests: Perhaps the most important, as they condition you to the exam format and timing.

To boost your accuracy and confidence, it’s highly recommended to train with the best CompTIA Security+ practice exams available that replicate the real testing environment and include detailed feedback.

Where can I sit for the Security+ certification exam?

CompTIA exams are administered by Pearson VUE. That means you have two flexible options:

Online Testing: Take the exam at home with a remote proctor. You’ll need a webcam, stable internet, and a quiet space.
Testing Center: Visit a Pearson VUE-certified testing site near you to complete your exam in person.

This flexibility lets you choose the environment where you’ll feel most comfortable on test day.

What’s the average time to prepare for Security+?

Preparation time varies depending on your background. For someone with IT experience, study time might be 6 to 8 weeks of consistent preparation. For individuals new to the field, the timeline may be longer, perhaps closer to 10 to 12 weeks.

The key is not speed but consistency. Dedicating just a bit of time each day to reviewing topics, practicing labs, and taking practice exams will set you up for success.

What certifications are good next steps after Security+?

Security+ is just the start. Once you’ve earned it, many professionals continue by pursuing:

CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) for advanced defensive security skills
CompTIA PenTest+ for penetration testing and red-teaming skills
CASP+ (CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner) for senior-level skills and leadership growth

If you’re interested in diversifying, pursuing certifications like CISSP, CEH, or cloud-specific certifications (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) can also expand your profile.

How do I register for Security+ SY0-701?

Registration is simple. Here’s the process:

Create a Pearson VUE account.
Purchase your exam voucher or bundle from CompTIA.
Choose your exam method: testing center or online proctoring.
Select your date, time, and location.

You can find all official registration details directly on the CompTIA Security+ official certification page.

The CompTIA Security+ certification is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your cybersecurity career. With global recognition, hands-on exam components, and practical skills that instantly translate to the workplace, it’s a credential that sets you apart. By preparing with trusted study resources, consistent practice, and the right mindset, you’ll be ready to join the ranks of in-demand cybersecurity professionals with confidence.

CompTIA Security+ Quick Facts (2025)

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