CompTIA Security+ demonstrates foundational IT security knowledge.
Security+ certification proves an IT security professional's competency in topics such as system security, risk management, network infrastructure, access control and organizational security.
Security threats are increasing exponentially in number and severity, and the skills gap between information security jobs and qualified IT security personnel is one of the largest of any technical specialty. Add to this the fact that numerous studies and salary surveys have proven that even in a troubled economy, most businesses plan to maintain or increase their spending on computer security personnel, and it's no wonder that Security+ is one of CompTIA's most demanded certifications.
Skills Measured by Security+ Certification
Passing the CompTIA Security+ certification exam validates your ability to:
- explain the security functions of common network devices and technologies
- apply and implement secure network administration principles & procedures
- implement and configure a wireless network in a safe and secure manner
- identify security threats and perform risk mitigation activities
- understand applicable policies, laws and regulations of IT security
- explain the impacts and proper use of environmental controls
- understand and apply cryptography and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
- explain the concepts of user authentication, authorization & access control
- exemplify the concepts of data Confidentiality, Integrity & Availability - a.k.a. "CIA Triad"
- identify and analyze common attacks, e.g., social engineering, malware, application & wireless attacks
Download the CompTIA Security+ Exam Objectives for a more detailed curriculum.
CompTIA Security+ Certification Exams
You must pass one exam to become Security+ certified:
- Security+ (Exam # SY0-601) - View Exam Objectives
Security+ Time Limit: 90 minutes
Security+ Length: 90 questions max
Security+ Exam Cost: $392
Passing Grade: 750 out of 900
CompTIA Security+ Certification Prerequisites
- Required: No required prerequisites for Security+ certification
- Recommended: CompTIA Network+ Certification and 2 years of technical networking experience with an emphasis on security, or equivalent knowledge, is recommended.
Security+ Training
Browse the top-rated undergrad & graduate degree programs, professional certificates, and self-paced online training courses matching the CompTIA Security+ Certification and related career tracks.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
- Includes Certification Preparation for:
- CompTIA A+, Network+ & Security+
- TestOut Network Pro, Security Pro & Pro PC
- Gain the Skills and Credentials to Pursue Jobs in Cyber Security and Network Management
- Information Security Tools and Techniques
- Design, Build & Manage Secure IT Networks
- Cyber Security Policy and Risk Management
- IT Service and Process Management
Bachelor of Science in Network Technology: Cisco
- Includes Certification Preparation for:
- CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Project+ & Linux+
- Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching
- Design & Manage Cisco Wired / Wireless Networks
- Network Security Threats & Countermeasures
- Install and Support Telecommunications Systems
- IT Project and Process Management Training
- Explore Hot IT Topics inc. RFID Architectures, Enterprise Mobility & Cloud Computing
Master's in Technology Management
- Prepare for Leadership Roles in Business and Information Technology
- Business Intelligence and Data Analytics
- Cyber Security Threats & Countermeasures
- Cloud Computing and Virtual Data Centers
- Globalization and the Modern IT Workforce
- Computer Systems Analysis Tools & Techniques
- Wield Emerging Technologies and IT Personnel to Achieve Business Goals
- No GRE or GMAT Required for Admission
CompTIA Security+ Certification Jobs
Security+ certification helps prepare you for a variety of IT security job roles including:
- Network Security Specialist: Browse Network Security Jobs
- Information Security Analyst: Browse IT Security Analyst jobs
- Cyber Security Consultant: Browse IT Security Consultant Jobs
- IT Risk Analyst: Browse Info Tech Risk Analysis Jobs
- Homeland Security Jobs: Browse Jobs in Homeland Security
Security+ Certification Salary
Average annual wage for Security+ certified professionals and other CompTIA certification holders:
- CompTIA A+: $59,000
- CompTIA Server+: $63,000
- CompTIA Network+: $63,000
- CompTIA Project+: $67,000
- CompTIA Linux+: $70,000
- CompTIA Security+: $72,000
- CompTIA CTT+: $74,000
- CompTIA Cloud+: $74,000
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP): $84,000
Source: Payscale.com
Security+ Certification Cost
The exam voucher to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam costs $392.
Security+ skills training and exam prep will add to the price of getting certified. The cost of Security+ certification training can range from less-expensive programs like these Security+ bootcamps, to more costly online information security degrees with a deep cybersecurity and IT curriculum.
Related Certifications
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- CompTIA Network+ Certification
- Cisco CCNA Certification
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker
- (ISC)2 CISSP Certification
- ISACA Certifications
