Cybersecurity
CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)
CompTIA Security+
Quick facts
| Provider | CompTIA |
|---|---|
| Exam code | SY0-701 |
| Level | intermediate |
| Format | Multiple choice and performance-based questions |
| Questions | Maximum 90 questions |
| Duration | 1h 30m |
| Passing score | 750 / 900 |
| Exam fee | $404 |
| Validity | 3 years (continuing education) |
| Languages | EN, JA, PT, ES |
Overview
CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) is the most common entry-level cybersecurity certification. It is vendor-neutral and covers the broad foundations: threats and attacks, security architecture, operations, and governance and risk.
It is widely listed as a baseline requirement in security job postings and meets the US DoD 8570/8140 baseline for certain roles. The exam includes performance-based questions that ask you to complete tasks, not just pick answers.
Who it is for
- People entering cybersecurity from IT support or helpdesk roles
- Career changers who want a recognised first security credential
- Anyone needing a baseline certification for compliance-driven roles
Who it is not for
- Experienced security engineers who already hold CISSP/CISM — Security+ will feel basic.
- People targeting a developer or pure-networking role (look at AWS or Cisco tracks).
- Anyone expecting a guaranteed job — it is an entry credential, not a placement.
Exam structure
| General Security Concepts | 12% |
|---|---|
| Threats, Vulnerabilities and Mitigations | 22% |
| Security Architecture | 18% |
| Security Operations | 28% |
| Security Program Management and Oversight | 20% |
How the exam is weighted
- General Security Concepts 12%
- Threats, Vulnerabilities & Mitigations 22%
- Security Architecture 18%
- Security Operations 28%
- Security Program Management & Oversight 20%
Realistic study time
- Some IT/networking background 40-60 hours over 6-8 weeks
- Brand new to IT 80-120 hours; do Network+ basics first
Bars show relative effort, not a guarantee. Your time depends on background and study method.
What it really costs
| Exam voucher | ~US$404 |
|---|---|
| Retake | Full fee again |
| Study materials | US$0-250 — Professor Messer is free; bundles cost more |
| Renewal | CEUs over 3 years — continuing-education program |
Fees change and vary by region. Confirm the current amount on the official site before you register.
Is it worth it?
Yes as a first cybersecurity certification. It opens doors to analyst and SOC roles and is frequently a screening requirement. Once you have a few years of experience, higher-level certifications such as CySA+ or CISSP carry more weight.
What to do next
After Security+, branch into CySA+ (defensive analyst) or aim long term at CISSP. Compare Security+ vs CySA+ to pick your next step.
FAQ
- Is Security+ worth it in 2026?
- For people entering security, yes. It is one of the most-requested baseline certifications and is recognised across government and private-sector roles. Experienced professionals usually aim higher.
- How long does it take to study for Security+?
- Most candidates need six to ten weeks of part-time study. An IT background shortens this considerably.
- Does CompTIA allow AI-generated practice questions?
- No. CompTIA prohibits unauthorised training materials, including AI-generated exam questions. Use the official objectives and reputable study guides, and treat any 'real questions' site as a policy and copyright risk.
Related exams
- CISSP (ISC2)— ISC2
- CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003)— CompTIA
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)— EC-Council