Security+CompTIA Security+
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Overview
What is Security+?
CompTIA's Security+ is one of the most widely recognized entry-level certifications for cybersecurity worldwide and enjoys broad acceptance in industry as well as the US government sector (DoD 8570/8140). The current version SY0-701 covers core topics such as threat analysis, cryptography, identity management, cloud and network security, and includes performance-based questions that require practical thinking. The exam is accessible and well-supported by a vast amount of learning material. As a vendor-neutral certification, it serves well as a first recognized foundation – although the proof of deep technical expertise is lower than with GSEC or SSCP. Note: SY0-701 is expected to be replaced by a new version around 2026/2027.
Quick facts
Key details
Cost, prerequisites, exam & renewal
Cost over 5 years
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites. Recommended: 2 years IT experience with security focus + Network+.
Exam format
Max. 90 questions (Multiple-Choice + Performance-based), 90 minutes, Proctored via Pearson VUE. Passing score: 750/900.
Renewal & maintenance
Valid for 3 years. Renewal through 50 CEUs or higher-level CompTIA cert (Stacking) or re-exam.
Classification
CertMap score and matching roles
Rating
Matching NICE roles
More certifications
More certifications
From CompTIA
CASP+CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner+CySA+CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+PenTest+CompTIA PenTest+SecAI+CompTIA Security AI+In GRC
CASP+CompTIACCISC2CGEITISACACRISCISACAGSEGIACGSECGIACPECB 22301FPECBPECB 22301LIPECBPECB 22301SLIPECBPECB 27001LIPECBPECB 27001SLIPECBPECB 27001TPECBPECB 31000FPECBPECB 31000LRMPECBPECB Cybersecurity FoundationPECBPECB DORA FoundationPECBPECB DORA Lead ManagerPECBPECB Lead Cybersecurity ManagerPECBPECB NIS2LIPECBSSCPISC2T.I.S.P.TeleTrusTThis page follows CertMap methodology: editorial content is curated by hand. Score, costs and NICE mapping are aggregated from official provider documents. Score methodology → · TCO methodology →
Transparency: CertMap is operated by Daniel Thomas Heessel, who is also managing director of Threat‑Informed, a company specialising in Threat‑Informed Defense. CertMap currently receives no commissions from certification providers, no affiliate links, no sponsored placements. Podcast and interview guests are not paid for appearances and receive no affiliate commissions.
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