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CompTIA SecurityX Quick Facts
The CompTIA SecurityX certification empowers professionals to demonstrate exceptional expertise in cybersecurity fundamentals, architecture, and operations. This overview provides clear, concise guidance to help you understand the exam structure, content domains, and key focus areas so you can approach your preparation with confidence and clarity.
How does the CompTIA SecurityX certification strengthen your cybersecurity career?
The CompTIA SecurityX certification validates advanced knowledge in building, managing, and defending secure environments across diverse platforms. It highlights your ability to apply governance frameworks, implement security engineering principles, and manage operational resilience at scale. Whether you’re advancing from Security+ or entering leadership-focused cybersecurity roles, SecurityX equips you with the applied skills industries value most today.
Exam Domains Covered (Click to expand breakdown)
Exam Domain Breakdown
Domain 1: Governance, risk, and compliance (20% of the exam)
Governance, risk, and compliance
- Security program documentation — policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines.
- Program management — training (phishing, security, privacy), communication, reporting, and RACI matrix.
- Frameworks — COBIT, ITIL, etc.
- Configuration management — asset life cycle, CMDB, and inventory.
- GRC tools — mapping, automation, and compliance tracking.
- Data governance — production, development, testing, and QA.
- Risk management — impact analysis, risk assessment (quantitative vs. qualitative), third-party risk, confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
- Threat modeling — actor characteristics, attack patterns, and frameworks (ATT&CK, CAPEC, STRIDE).
- Attack surface — architecture reviews, data flows, and trust boundaries.
- Compliance strategies — industry-specific standards (PCI DSS, ISO/IEC 27000).
- Security frameworks — NIST, CSF, CSA, and others.
Governance, risk, and compliance summary: This section focuses on how established frameworks and clear documentation drive security maturity across organizations. You will learn how policies, procedures, and standards shape a consistent approach to protecting digital assets while aligning teams through communication channels like RACI matrices and formal reporting lines. Understanding GRC tools and their impact on continuous compliance tracking enhances your ability to integrate controls seamlessly into business operations.
In addition, the domain explores holistic risk management strategies and how they combine qualitative and quantitative assessments to inform protective measures. You will also study threat modeling approaches such as STRIDE and ATT&CK to recognize and mitigate potential exposures. By mastering this domain, you will be prepared to map organizational goals directly to security frameworks like NIST and ISO, ensuring compliance and governance remain at the heart of business resilience.
Domain 2: Security architecture (27% of the exam)
Security architecture
- Cloud capabilities — CASB (API-based, proxy-based), shadow IT detection, shared responsibility model, CI/CD pipeline, Terraform, Ansible, container security, orchestration, and serverless workloads.
- Cloud data security — data exposure, leakage, remanence, insecure storage, and encryption keys.
- Cloud control strategies — proactive, detective, and preventative controls; customer-to-cloud connectivity, service integration, and continuous authorization.
- Network architecture — segmentation, microsegmentation, VPN, always-on VPN, and API integration.
- Security boundaries — asset identification, management, attestation, data perimeters, and secure zones.
- Deperimeterization — SASE, SD-WAN, and software-defined networking.
- Zero trust concepts — defining subject-object relationships.
Security architecture summary: This domain demonstrates how strategic design principles integrate with evolving technologies to deliver defense in depth. You will explore architectural considerations for multi-cloud environments, focusing on secure containerization, automation, and orchestration frameworks. An emphasis on CASB solutions, API gateways, and CI/CD integration highlights how security by design is embedded into every development and deployment process.
You will also gain insight into how zero trust and segmentation models ensure continuous validation and adaptive control. Topics such as SASE, SD-WAN, and software-defined networking are covered to illustrate secure, scalable connectivity. Taken together, these principles form the foundation of resilient architectures that enhance visibility, contain exposure, and enforce consistent protection across distributed infrastructures.
Domain 3: Security engineering (31% of the exam)
Security engineering
- Automation — scripting (PowerShell, Bash, Python), event triggers, IaC, cloud APIs, generative AI, containerization, patching, SOAR, and workflow automation.
- Vulnerability management — scanning, reporting, and SCAP (OVAL, XCCDF, CPE, CVE, CVSS).
- Advanced cryptography — PQC, key stretching, homomorphic encryption, forward secrecy, and hardware acceleration.
- Cryptographic use cases — data at rest, in transit, and in use; secure email, blockchain, privacy, compliance, and certificate-based authentication.
- Cryptographic techniques — tokenization, code signing, cryptographic erase, digital signatures, hashing, and symmetric/asymmetric cryptography.
Security engineering summary: This section emphasizes the applied techniques that underpin secure system design and operations. You will learn to use automation for rapid configuration, detection, and remediation, linking policy to execution through tools like SOAR platforms and infrastructure as code. Scripting proficiency across multiple languages helps engineers standardize tasks and integrate security controls across heterogeneous ecosystems.
A strong understanding of advanced cryptography further expands your defensive capabilities. This includes mastering techniques such as key stretching, post-quantum algorithms, and homomorphic encryption to ensure confidentiality and integrity across various states of data. Collectively, this knowledge prepares you to design cryptographic architectures that reinforce both compliance and innovation while enabling privacy-aware, secure transactions in modern digital environments.
Domain 4: Security operations (22% of the exam)
Security operations
- Monitoring and data analysis — SIEM (event parsing, retention, false positives/negatives), aggregate analysis (correlation, prioritization, trends), and behavior baselines (network, systems, users).
- Vulnerabilities and attack surface — injection, XSS, insecure configurations, outdated software, and weak ciphers; mitigations include input validation, patching, encryption, and defense-in-depth.
- Threat hunting — internal intelligence (honeypots, UBA), external intelligence (OSINT, dark web, ISACs), TIPs, IoC sharing (STIX, TAXII), and rule-based languages (Sigma, YARA, Snort).
- Incident response — malware analysis (sandboxing, IoC extraction, code stylometry), reverse engineering, metadata analysis, data recovery, and root cause analysis.
Security operations summary: This section covers the analytical and procedural capabilities necessary for continuous protection of critical systems. You will learn to interpret SIEM outputs, refine behavior baselines, and prioritize security alerts based on correlation and contextual analysis. Proficiency in these areas enables proactive monitoring and responsive adjustments that maintain secure operating conditions and streamline risk management workflows.
The domain also introduces advanced concepts in threat intelligence and incident response. You will explore techniques for threat hunting, evidence handling, and malware analysis to support containment and recovery. By applying consistent methodologies and leveraging intelligence-sharing frameworks, you gain the capacity to anticipate and counter emerging threats with confidence, contributing to the overall agility and strength of an organization's defense posture.
What is the CompTIA SecurityX Certification All About?
The CompTIA SecurityX Certification is a premier credential for senior cybersecurity professionals who design, build, and manage complex security infrastructures. It validates advanced, hands-on skills in security architecture, engineering, and operations—ensuring you’re ready to protect enterprise environments across both cloud and on-premises ecosystems. If you’re passionate about fortifying systems against constantly evolving threats, this certification demonstrates you’re at the forefront of cybersecurity excellence.
Who Should Earn the CompTIA SecurityX Certification?
This certification is perfect for:
- Experienced security engineers or architects
- Senior IT professionals responsible for enterprise security
- Professionals aiming for leadership roles in cybersecurity architecture or governance
- Individuals ready to validate years of practical security experience with a globally recognized credential
SecurityX is designed for experts who already excel in areas like Security+, PenTest+, Cloud+, or CySA+, and want to move forward into high-level strategy and implementation.
What Types of Roles Can I Pursue with the SecurityX Certification?
Earning the SecurityX certification opens the door to advanced roles in the cybersecurity field. It directly supports positions such as:
- Security Architect – designing resilient enterprise defense systems
- Security Engineer – integrating and maintaining security technologies
- Security Control Assessor – analyzing and validating compliance with regulatory frameworks
- Systems Requirements Planner – driving security into the design and planning process
- Research and Development Specialist – innovating with next-generation security solutions
These roles are in high demand across government, finance, healthcare, and critical infrastructure sectors.
What Version of the CompTIA SecurityX Exam is Current?
The latest version of the exam is V5 (Exam Code: CAS-005). This version expands on cloud security integration, automation, cryptography advancements such as post-quantum cryptography, and threat intelligence frameworks. Candidates should ensure their preparation materials align with the CAS-005 update to reflect CompTIA’s most current objectives.
How Much Does the CompTIA SecurityX Exam Cost?
The official CompTIA SecurityX exam costs $529 USD. Your registration fee covers the core exam and one attempt at certification. Depending on your location, taxes or regional exchange rates may slightly impact the total amount. CompTIA occasionally offers bundle discounts for training and retake vouchers through their website.
How Many Questions Are on the SecurityX Exam?
The SecurityX exam includes a maximum of 90 questions. You’ll encounter a mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions designed to test both analytical thinking and practical ability. Multi-select items may require you to choose more than one correct response. Many questions simulate real-world enterprise scenarios to ensure mastery of applied cyber defense concepts.
How Long Do You Have to Complete the CAS-005 Exam?
Candidates have up to 165 minutes to complete the SecurityX exam. This extended time allows for deep analysis of scenario-based problems. Smart time management is key—allocate extra minutes for the performance tasks that involve designing or evaluating security solutions.
What’s the Passing Score for SecurityX?
Unlike traditional numerical grading systems, the SecurityX exam is scored on a pass/fail basis. CompTIA implemented this model to maintain a consistent global standard of expertise. Whether or not you receive a numerical score, earning a passing result signifies you’ve met a high bar of technical mastery recognized across the cybersecurity industry.
What Language Options Are Available for the SecurityX Exam?
Currently, the exam is available in English, with plans for additional languages in future updates. CompTIA may release localized versions to expand accessibility to global candidates as the certification continues to grow internationally.
Is There a Recommended Level of Experience Before Taking the Exam?
Yes. CompTIA recommends at least 10 years of general hands-on IT experience, including a minimum of 5 years specifically in cybersecurity. Professionals with CompTIA Network+, Security+, CySA+, Cloud+, or PenTest+ knowledge are best positioned to succeed. However, motivated learners with equivalent practical experience also excel on the exam.
What Are the Exam Domains and Their Weightings?
The exam blueprint is divided into four core domains that reflect real-world enterprise responsibilities:
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance (20%)
Covers policy frameworks, GRC tools, risk management, and threat modeling frameworks such as ATT&CK and STRIDE. - Security Architecture (27%)
Focuses on secure design across cloud, hybrid, and on-prem environments, including microsegmentation, CASB, and Zero Trust principles. - Security Engineering (31%)
Emphasizes automation, vulnerability management, cryptography, and infrastructure as code (IaC) techniques. - Security Operations (22%)
Involves SIEM management, threat hunting, incident response, and malware analysis.
Each domain interconnects to create the comprehensive expertise expected from senior-level security professionals.
What Key Skills Will You Develop with SecurityX Certification?
After completing the exam, you’ll be ready to:
- Design and implement enterprise-wide secure solutions
- Use automation and monitoring tools to strengthen ongoing security operations
- Apply cryptographic technologies effectively for data protection
- Implement governance and compliance strategies using recognized frameworks
- Proactively detect, analyze, and respond to complex security incidents
These competencies make you a trusted authority in building and maintaining resilient security systems.
How Long Is the CompTIA SecurityX Certification Valid?
The SecurityX certification remains valid for three years from the date you pass the exam. To maintain your certification, you can renew through CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program or by passing the newest version of the SecurityX exam. Staying current ensures your skills evolve alongside industry trends.
What Should You Study to Prepare for the Exam?
Focusing on these areas will help you perform well:
- Mastery of cloud security architecture and containerization
- In-depth understanding of risk analysis and compliance auditing
- Strong familiarity with cryptographic technologies
- Expertise in automation scripting (PowerShell, Python, Bash)
- Ability to interpret SIEM data for threat hunting
Hands-on practice and simulation exercises are highly beneficial, as the exam tests real-world decision-making.
Where and How Can You Register for the CompTIA SecurityX Exam?
You can register for the SecurityX certification exam online through Pearson VUE, CompTIA’s official testing partner. Testing is available both remotely (online proctored) and in-person at approved Pearson VUE centers. When registering, select the CAS-005 SecurityX exam and schedule a date that fits your preparation timeline.
How Difficult Is the CompTIA SecurityX Exam?
This is an advanced-level certification designed for seasoned professionals. However, if you have solid experience in IT security and dedicate time to structured study, you’ll find it an exciting opportunity to demonstrate your expertise. Many candidates enhance their readiness by using realistic CompTIA SecurityX practice exams like those offered at top-rated CompTIA SecurityX practice tests and exam prep resources, complete with simulations and detailed explanations of security concepts.
What Is the Format of the SecurityX Exam?
The test presents a mix of multiple-choice, multi-select, and performance-based questions. The performance-based items may involve evaluating architectures, identifying threats, or recommending mitigation strategies. Expect real-world scenarios that mirror enterprise security design, making each question both engaging and relevant.
How Can This Certification Advance My Career?
Earning the CompTIA SecurityX certification establishes you as a senior-level cybersecurity expert. Organizations value SecurityX-certified professionals for their technical insight and strategic vision. With this credential, you’ll stand out for roles involving cyber defense leadership, enterprise architecture, and governance oversight, positioning yourself for promotion and higher responsibility.
What Are the Primary Technologies and Frameworks Emphasized in SecurityX?
SecurityX focuses on modern, enterprise-level security concepts including:
- Zero Trust and SASE
- Cloud orchestration and Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
- Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) and homomorphic encryption
- SIEM, SOAR, and advanced threat intelligence feeds
- Compliance frameworks like NIST, CSF, and COBIT
Mastering these ensures you can lead security innovation and align technical decisions with governance objectives.
How Is the SecurityX Different from Other CompTIA Certifications?
While Security+ assesses foundational security understanding, SecurityX verifies advanced abilities to design and manage enterprise security solutions. It’s not only about knowledge but about applying that expertise to real-world, complex systems. If you already hold intermediate certifications, SecurityX demonstrates your readiness to lead in architectural and strategic roles.
What Certifications Can You Pursue After SecurityX?
Once certified, you can continue to grow through specialized or managerial routes such as:
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) (if not already held, depending on certification evolution)
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) for strategic leadership roles
- Cloud Security or DevSecOps certifications for domain specialization
Each path builds upon the foundation of SecurityX to expand your influence across security strategy and technology leadership.
Where Can You Learn More About the SecurityX Certification?
For detailed information, including exam registration, training options, and continuing education requirements, visit the official CompTIA SecurityX certification page hosted by CompTIA. It serves as your authoritative resource for updated announcements, objectives, and community insights.
The CompTIA SecurityX Certification represents the pinnacle of practical cybersecurity mastery. Whether you design complex infrastructures or lead enterprise risk programs, this credential proves your ability to safeguard modern digital ecosystems with confidence, precision, and professionalism.
