Security+ plus certification 30-11-2024

Is Security plus certification worth IT?

In today’s increasingly connected world, cybersecurity has become one of the top priorities for businesses, governments, and organizations of all sizes. As cyber threats continue to grow in sophistication and frequency, ranging from data breaches to ransomware attacks, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been more critical. Companies are scrambling to safeguard their networks, data, and systems, creating a booming demand for experts who can help mitigate these risks.

If you're considering a career in cybersecurity or looking to take your IT skills to the next level, the CompTIA Security+ certification training could be your ideal starting point. This foundational credential is widely recognized and valued across the industry, offering a pathway to essential cybersecurity roles and providing you with the tools to help protect organizations from ever-evolving threats. 

But is it worth it? The answer is a resounding "Yes!" Here's why.

What is CompTIA Security+ certification?

CompTIA (The Computing Technology Industry Association) is a non-profit trade association that has been providing IT certifications for over 20 years. Known for its vendor-neutral certifications, CompTIA has earned a reputation for helping individuals get into tech and IT careers. Their certifications, especially CompTIA Security+, are widely respected and recognized in the industry.

What Does Security+ Certification Consist Of?

The CompTIA Security+ certification is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their competency in the field of cybersecurity. The CompTIA Security+ certification focuses on fundamental cybersecurity knowledge and skills. The Security+ exam is a comprehensive test that includes multiple-choice questions, performance-based questions, and simulations, designed to assess your skills in:

  • Network Security: Understanding protocols, network attacks, and how to defend against them.
  • Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities: Recognizing the various types of threats and attacks, and how to protect against them.
  • Identity and Access Management: Understanding how to control user access and enforce security policies.
  • Cryptography and PKI: Knowledge of encryption techniques to protect sensitive data.
  • Risk Management: Identifying risks and implementing processes to reduce them.
  • Security Architecture and Design: Protecting network systems and designing security systems that prevent breaches.

The focus areas of this exam are not only implementing security measures but also analyzing and responding to security risks as well as managing security infrastructure and tools are tested in this exam. Even if you're a beginner, CompTIA Security+ is a great place to start, as it doesn't require prior experience in cybersecurity, making it accessible to everyone.

Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It?

With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, earning the CompTIA Security+ certification can be a game-changer for your career. Let’s look at some reasons why it’s worth your time and effort.

1. High Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

2. Great Earning Potential

3. Career Advancement Opportunities

4. Widely Recognized and Respected

5. Vendor-Neutral Certification

How to Study for Security+

Studying for the CompTIA Security+ certification can feel overwhelming, but there are various resources available to make the process easier.

1. CompTIA Security+ Training Courses

Enrolling in a CompTIA Security+ certification training course is one of the best ways to prepare for the exam. These courses are designed to break down complex security concepts into manageable lessons, and many are available both online and in person. You can find free courses as well as paid options depending on your budget.

CertSolution offers comprehensive Security+ training, which is ideal for both beginners and those with some IT experience. Their course provides all the materials you need, including practice exams and video lessons, helping you feel confident and prepared for the exam day.

2. Practice Exams

One of the most effective ways to study for Security+ is by taking practice exams. These tests simulate the real exam experience, helping you become familiar with the types of questions that will appear on the test. Practice exams also help you identify any knowledge gaps and allow you to refine your study strategy.

3. Study Guides and Books

There are several study guides and books specifically written to prepare you for the Security+ exam. Popular options include the CompTIA Security+ Study Guide and the Exam Cram series. These resources offer detailed explanations of key concepts and practice questions.

4. CompTIA Security+ Free Course Options

If you're on a budget, there are free courses available online, including on platforms like YouTube, Udemy, and others. While these might not be as comprehensive as paid courses, they can still give you a solid foundation in the core concepts.

CompTIA Security+ Certification Exam Objectives

The CompTIA Security+ certification exam is a comprehensive assessment of your cybersecurity knowledge. Here are some essential facts regarding the exam:

Exam Format and Duration

  • Number of Questions:  90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions.
  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Passing Score: 750 out of 900.

Exam Topics

The CompTIA Security+ certification exam is not overly difficult, but it requires a solid understanding of key concepts. The exam covers a wide range of topics related to cybersecurity. Some of the key domains you will be tested on include:

  1. Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities
  2. Architecture and Design
  3. Implementation
  4. Operations and Incident Response
  5. Governance, Risk, and Compliance

CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost

The CompTIA Security+ certification cost is an important consideration when deciding whether to pursue the credential. As of now, the exam fee is approximately USD 370. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are additional costs associated with preparing for the CompTIA security+ certification exam.

  • Training: If you choose to enrol in CompTIA Security+ certification training, you may incur additional costs depending on the method you choose. CompTIA security+ certification training options range from online courses to instructor-led classes, and study guides. Prices can vary, with online courses typically costing between $200 and USD 500, while instructor-led classes may cost significantly more.
  • Study Materials: Books, practice exams, and other study materials may add to the overall cost. For example, CompTIA’s official study guide typically costs around $40 to USD 60, and practice tests can cost $20 to USD 50.

While the initial CompTIA Security+ certification cost may seem high, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits.

What is the Difference Between CompTIA Security+ 601 and 701?

The CompTIA Security+ exam 601 and CompTIA Security+ exam 701 are two different versions of the certification, with the 701 being the more recent update. The 701 version, released in 2021, includes updated topics on current security trends, such as cloud security, threat intelligence, and vulnerability management, reflecting the ongoing evolution of the cybersecurity field.

The Security+ SY0-701 exam includes content that is more in line with current security challenges and technologies, whereas the SY0-601 exam had a slightly different focus.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CompTIA Security+ certification is a fantastic investment for anyone interested in a career in cybersecurity. Whether you’re just starting or looking to boost your credentials, CompTIA security+ certification exam offers a pathway to career growth, high salaries, and job stability. With the right resources and training, including CertSolution's specialized Security+ courses, you can set yourself up for success.

If you're ready to begin your journey, CertSolution is here to help you every step of the way, offering CompTIA security+ certification training, practice exams, and expert guidance to ensure you ace your CompTIA Security+ exam and unlock a world of career possibilities in cybersecurity.

FAQs: CompTIA Security+ Certification

  1. How Long Does CompTIA Security+ Last? 

The validity of the CompTIA Security+ certification is three years. After three years, you must renew your certification by earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or taking a recertification exam to stay current with the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

  1. Is CompTIA Security+ for Beginners? 

Yes, CompTIA Security+ is suitable for beginners. Although having some knowledge of networking and IT concepts is helpful, Security+ is an entry-level certification and does not require prior cybersecurity experience. It is a great starting point for those looking to enter the cybersecurity field.

  1. Can I Do CompTIA Security+ With No Experience? 

Yes, you can pursue CompTIA Security+ without any prior cybersecurity experience. The certification is designed for individuals who are new to the field, and many training resources are available to help you get up to speed.

  1. Is the Security+ Exam Hard? 

The hardship of the CompTIA Security+ exam relies on your primary knowledge and practice. For someone with a basic understanding of IT and networking, the exam may be challenging but manageable with the right study resources. Thorough preparation, practice exams, and review of the exam objectives will help increase your chances of success.

  1. How Much Can I Make With Just a Security+ Certification? 

The salary of someone with a CompTIA Security+ certification can vary depending on the role, location, and experience level. On average, individuals can earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually in entry-level cybersecurity roles. With more experience and additional certifications, the earning potential can increase to over $100,000.

  1. How Long Does IT Take to Study for Security+? 

The amount of time required to study for the CompTIA Security+ exam depends on your background and study habits. On average, it can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months of consistent study time to prepare for the exam. For individuals with prior IT or networking experience, it may take less time.

  1. How Many Times Can You Fail Security+? 

If you fail the CompTIA Security+ exam, you can reappear the exam after 14 days. After two failed attempts, you will need to wait a full 30 days before attempting the exam again.

  1. Do I Need CompTIA A+ Before Security+? 

No, CompTIA A+ is not required before pursuing Security+, but it can be helpful. A+ provides foundational IT knowledge, especially in hardware and software, which can make understanding certain aspects of Security+ easier. However, many individuals successfully pursue Security+ without having completed A+ first.

  1. How Many People Fail the Security+ Exam? 

The failure rate for the CompTIA Security+ exam is not disclosed by CompTIA. However, it’s known that the exam is challenging, and many candidates take it multiple times.

  1. Is Security+ Harder Than A+? 

Yes, Security+ is considered more challenging than A+. A+ focuses on basic IT knowledge, such as hardware and software, while Security+ covers complex security topics, such as risk management, encryption, and network security.

  1. How Long is CompTIA Security+ Valid? 

The CompTIA Security+ certification is valid for three years. After that, you will need to renew it by earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or by taking the latest version of the exam.

  1. What Score Do I Need to Pass Security+? 

To pass the CompTIA Security+ exam, you must to score 750 or higher out of 900.

  1. Is Security+ Entry-Level? 

Yes, CompTIA Security+ is considered an entry-level certification in cybersecurity. It provides foundational knowledge and is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in security.

  1. How Many Questions Can I Get Wrong on the Security+ Exam? 

The CompTIA Security+ exam consists of 90 questions. You can afford to get a certain number wrong but to pass the exam, you need to achieve a score of at least 750 out of 900. The exact number of incorrect answers you can have varies based on the question's difficulty.

  1. How Much Can I Make with a Security+ Certification? 

The earning potential with a CompTIA Security+ certification can vary depending on your experience and role. On average, individuals in entry-level positions can make between $50,000 and $80,000 per year, while more experienced professionals or those in management roles can earn well over $100,000