Security+ Certification Overview
Cybersecurity professionals are in unprecedented demand across every industry sector. This creates an incredible opportunity for newcomers entering the field.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, security analyst jobs are growing 33% yearly¹, which they label “much faster than average.” While traditional tech sectors face uncertainty, cybersecurity continues its relentless expansion. The industry desperately needs qualified professionals, and unlike many technical fields, you don’t need a computer science degree or years of programming experience to break in. Success comes from understanding security fundamentals and proving your knowledge through recognized certifications.
The Certification That’s Opening 700,000+ Career Doors
The CompTIA Security+ certification represents the universal entry point into cybersecurity careers. Developed by CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association), this credential has established itself as the baseline standard for cybersecurity knowledge across industries and government sectors.
Security+ originated in 1999 and has evolved continuously to match emerging threats². With more than 700,000 professionals having earned the certification³, it stands as the world’s most popular cybersecurity credential. The current version, SY0-701, launched in November 2023⁴ with significant updates to address modern security challenges.
What distinguishes Security+ from other certifications? It’s vendor-neutral and specifically designed for beginners.
Unlike product-specific training that ties you to particular tools, Security+ teaches fundamental concepts that apply universally⁵. You’ll master core security principles, threat identification, and defensive strategies that work across any technology environment. It’s the foundation that every cybersecurity career is built upon.
Who Should Look Into This?
Security+ appeals to diverse professionals seeking cybersecurity careers. According to CompTIA, the certification is ideal for those interested in proving their knowledge across fundamental security practices and principles⁶, targeting roles such as:
- Security Analyst (entry to mid-level)
- SOC Analyst
- IT Support Specialist with security focus
- Systems Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Junior Security Engineer
- Compliance Specialist
Career switchers often find Security+ particularly valuable. The certification doesn’t assume extensive technical background, making it accessible to professionals transitioning from fields like finance, healthcare, education, or military service.
Current IT professionals discover that Security+ opens new advancement opportunities. Understanding security principles enhances your value regardless of your specific technical role, whether you work in help desk, networking, or system administration.
Military and government personnel find Security+ especially relevant. The certification meets DoD 8570 requirements⁷, making it mandatory for many federal cybersecurity positions and valuable for veterans transitioning to civilian careers.
Recent graduates should seriously consider this pathway. According to CyberSeek data, there are only 83 cybersecurity workers for every 100 U.S. cybersecurity jobs⁸, indicating significant opportunities for newcomers to the field.
Security+ SY0-701 Domains: The 5 Core Areas That Launch Cybersecurity Careers
Cybersecurity fundamentals center on protection, detection, and response. How do we secure our digital assets? What threats should we watch for? How do we respond when incidents occur?
These questions drive everything security professionals do. Security+ provides the framework to answer them effectively.
The 2025 Security+ exam (SY0-701) encompasses five consolidated domains that mirror real-world cybersecurity responsibilities⁹. CompTIA streamlined the content to focus on practical, scenario-based knowledge¹⁰. Here’s what you’ll master:
Domain 1: General Security Concepts (12%)
This foundational domain establishes core security principles. According to CompTIA, this domain consolidates general security concepts that were previously scattered across multiple areas¹¹, including:
- Security control types and implementation strategies
- CIA triad principles (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability)
- Physical security fundamentals
- Change management processes and security impact
Domain 2: Threats, Vulnerabilities and Mitigations (22%)
The largest domain by weight, focusing on threat landscape understanding:
- Threat actor categories and attack motivations
- Common attack vectors and delivery methods
- Vulnerability types and exploitation techniques
- Indicators of compromise and malicious activity
- Mitigation strategies and defensive countermeasures
Domain 3: Security Architecture (18%)
Covering secure system design and implementation:
- Secure design principles for enterprise environments
- Security frameworks and reference architectures
- Cryptographic implementations and key management
- Secure infrastructure deployment strategies
Domain 4: Security Operations (28%)
The heaviest-weighted domain, addressing operational security management:
- Security monitoring and event analysis
- Incident response procedures and forensics basics
- Vulnerability management programs
- Business continuity and disaster recovery planning
- Security tool deployment and configuration
Domain 5: Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)
Focusing on governance, compliance, and program management:
- Risk assessment methodologies and frameworks
- Regulatory compliance requirements
- Security policy development and implementation
- Training programs and security awareness initiatives
What to Expect From the Exam
The examination combines two question types that test both knowledge and practical application:
- Multiple-choice questions: Standard format testing conceptual understanding
- Performance-Based Questions (PBQs): Interactive simulations requiring hands-on problem-solving
PBQs distinguish Security+ from purely theoretical certifications. These practical exercises assess your ability to solve real-world security problems⁷, such as configuring firewalls, analyzing logs, or implementing access controls.
Testing occurs at Pearson VUE centers globally or through online proctoring. Results appear immediately upon completion.
Current pricing structure includes:
- Exam fee: $404 in the United States¹² (regional pricing varies)
- Retake fee: $404 (same as original exam cost)
- Annual renewal through Continuing Education: $50¹³
- Study materials: $100-$600 depending on chosen resources
While the investment appears substantial, consider the career impact. According to Skillsoft’s IT Skills and Salary survey, Security+ professionals average $91,350 globally¹⁴, with U.S. salaries typically ranging from $75,000 to $90,000 according to industry analysis¹⁵.
Career Impact and Salary Expectations
Professional certifications create measurable career advantages, and Security+ demonstrates particularly strong returns on investment.
According to Skillsoft’s comprehensive IT Skills and Salary survey, Security+ holders earn an average of $91,350 globally¹⁶, with substantial variation based on experience level and geographic location.
Entry-level positions for Security+ holders include:
- Security Analyst: According to StationX analysis, salaries range from $58,000 to $144,000, averaging $91,000¹⁷
- Systems Administrator: Compensation between $53,000 and $128,000, averaging $82,000¹⁸
- SOC Analyst: Entry-level positions starting $45,000-$60,000
- Junior Security Engineer: Averaging around $102,000 for experienced candidates¹⁹
Government employment offers particular advantages for Security+ holders. Federal positions often require this certification due to DoD 8570 compliance mandates²⁰, providing job security and competitive benefits packages.
Career progression potential makes Security+ especially attractive. The certification serves as a stepping stone to advanced credentials like CISSP, CEH, or specialized vendor certifications. Many professionals use Security+ as their launching pad into cybersecurity consulting or management roles.
PayScale market data indicates Security+ professionals earn between $54,000-$137,000²¹, with experienced professionals reaching the higher compensation ranges.
Prerequisites and Experience Requirements
Security+ accessibility represents one of its greatest strengths. According to CompTIA official documentation, Security+ establishes no formal prerequisites for certification²², making it truly entry-level.
However, CompTIA provides success recommendations including:
- Network+ certification and two years of IT administration experience with security focus²³
- Basic networking and operating system knowledge
- Fundamental understanding of security concepts
Don’t let these recommendations discourage you if you lack extensive technical background. Many successful candidates begin with minimal IT experience and acquire necessary knowledge during preparation.
Realistic timeline planning matters more than extensive prerequisites. Newcomers to IT should expect 3-4 months of dedicated study, while professionals with some technical background might succeed with 2-3 months of preparation.
Preparation Strategy: How to Actually Pass
According to preparation guides, successful Security+ candidates typically invest 2-4 months in preparation, studying 10-15 hours weekly²⁴. Individual timelines vary significantly based on prior experience and learning preferences.
CompTIA’s official preparation materials provide comprehensive coverage:
- Official Study Guide: Complete alignment with exam objectives
- CertMaster Learn: Interactive online coursework with integrated labs
- CertMaster Practice: Adaptive practice testing with personalized feedback
- CertMaster Labs: Virtual environments for hands-on skill development
Many candidates enhance their preparation with supplementary resources:
- Video training platforms: Visual learning through Udemy, Pluralsight, and similar services
- Practice examination banks: Essential for format familiarization and weakness identification
- Online study communities: Peer support and knowledge sharing
- Intensive boot camps: Accelerated programs for focused preparation
Proven preparation strategies from successful candidates include:
- Begin with official objectives to understand exact requirements
- Employ multiple learning methods combining reading, video, and hands-on practice
- Take frequent practice tests to gauge progress and identify gaps
- Emphasize conceptual understanding over memorization
- Gain practical experience with security tools and scenarios
According to InfoSec Institute analysis, the SY0-701 examination emphasizes scenario-based problem-solving and practical application²⁵, requiring more than theoretical knowledge alone.
Recent Updates and What’s Changed
CompTIA updates Security+ every three years to maintain relevance with evolving cybersecurity challenges and industry needs.
According to CompTIA’s official announcement, the current SY0-701 version launched in November 2023²⁶, introducing substantial modifications:
- Streamlined from 35 to 28 objectives for enhanced focus
- Consolidated into five domains replacing fragmented topic areas
- Updated 20% of content reflecting current threat landscape
- Increased emphasis on hands-on skills and real-world application
Newly emphasized areas include:
- Zero Trust security architecture implementation
- Hybrid cloud environment protection strategies
- IoT and operational technology security considerations
- Automated security operations and tool integration
- Advanced persistent threat analysis and response
The changes reflect industry evolution. As organizations adopt cloud services, remote work, and interconnected devices, entry-level security professionals need broader foundational knowledge to address complex, distributed environments.
Is Security+ Worth It in 2025?
Absolutely, and the evidence is compelling.
Cybersecurity represents one of the few technology sectors experiencing consistent growth regardless of economic conditions. According to InfoSec Institute research, job growth in security analyst roles reaches 33% annually²⁸, far exceeding most other professions.
Security+ provides unique value as the universally recognized entry-level standard. It functions like a passport that employers worldwide immediately understand and respect.
Compare Security+ to alternatives:
- Vendor-specific certifications limit you to particular technologies or platforms
- Advanced certifications require extensive experience you might not possess yet
- University degrees demand years of time and significantly higher costs
Security+ offers the optimal balance: comprehensive enough to demonstrate real competence, practical enough for immediate application, and respected enough to open career doors.
The certification also provides recession-proof career security. Cybersecurity remains essential regardless of economic conditions, making certified professionals valuable in any business environment.
Getting Started: Your Next Steps
If you’re considering Security+ certification, approach it strategically:
Step 1: Evaluate Your Current Knowledge
Take a diagnostic practice test or review exam objectives to understand your starting point. This assessment helps establish realistic preparation timelines.
Step 2: Select Your Learning Approach
Choose between self-study, structured courses, or hybrid approaches based on your learning style, schedule, and budget constraints.
Step 3: Develop a Study Plan
According to study guides, most candidates need 2-4 months of consistent preparation²⁹. Create weekly goals for each domain and maintain disciplined progress.
Step 4: Emphasize Hands-On Practice
Configure virtual labs, experiment with security tools, and practice with simulation software. The exam’s performance-based questions require practical experience.
Step 5: Schedule Your Examination
Book your test date 2-4 weeks before feeling completely prepared. This deadline creates positive motivation to complete your preparation.
Step 6: Plan Your Career Progression
Security+ represents the beginning, not the end. Research specialization areas and plan your next certification or training objectives.
Cybersecurity offers exceptional opportunities for motivated professionals willing to learn and adapt. Security+ provides the essential foundation for building a rewarding career protecting organizations from digital threats.
Ready to launch your cybersecurity journey? Security+ might be the certification that transforms your professional future.
For more information and to begin your Security+ journey, visit comptia.org/certifications/security
About Tech Jacks Solutions: We provide comprehensive cybersecurity training and certification guidance to help professionals advance their careers. Visit our website for more certification guides and training resources.
References
¹ Infosec Institute – Security+ Salary Guide 2025
² Infosec Institute – Security+ CBK Domains Information and Updates
³ Infosec Institute – Security+ CBK Domains Information and Updates
⁴ CompTIA – CompTIA Security+ 601 vs. 701: What’s the Difference?
⁵ CompTIA Official Security+ Certification Page
⁶ CompTIA Official Security+ Certification Page
⁷ CompTIA Official Security+ Certification Page
⁸ Infosec Institute – Security+ CBK Domains Information and Updates
⁹ ExamSnap – SY0-701 Updates Explained: The 2025 CompTIA Security+ Guide
¹⁰ CompTIA – CompTIA Security+ 601 vs. 701: What’s the Difference?
¹¹ Infosec Institute – Security+ CBK Domains Information and Updates
¹² Edurely – Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It in 2025
¹³ Edurely – Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It in 2025
¹⁴ Skillsoft – Top 11 CompTIA Certifications and What They Pay in 2025
¹⁵ PrepsAreT – CompTIA Security+ Salary
¹⁶ Skillsoft – Top 11 CompTIA Certifications and What They Pay in 2025
¹⁷ StationX – CompTIA Security+ Certification Salary (2025)
¹⁸ StationX – CompTIA Security+ Certification Salary (2025)
¹⁹ StationX – CompTIA Security+ Certification Salary (2025)
²⁰ CompTIA Official Security+ Certification Page
²¹ PayScale – CompTIA Security+ Salary
²² ExamCompass – CompTIA Security+ Certification Exam Overview
²³ CompTIA Security+ Study Guide
²⁴ Gururo – Ultimate Guide To Pass The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Exam In 2025
²⁵ Infosec Institute – Security+ CBK Domains Information and Updates
²⁶ CompTIA – CompTIA Security+ 601 vs. 701: What’s the Difference?
²⁷ CompTIA – CompTIA Security+ 601 vs. 701: What’s the Difference?
²⁸ Infosec Institute – Security+ Salary Guide 2025
²⁹ Gururo – Ultimate Guide To Pass The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Exam In 2025
