CompTIA Security+

What it is

CompTIA Security+ is a vendor neutral certification covering foundational cybersecurity knowledge: general security concepts, threats and vulnerabilities, security architecture, security operations, and security programme management. It proves breadth, not deep hands-on skill, which is exactly why it suits someone starting out.

Which version to book

As of 2026-09, per CompTIA's official pages:

• Security+ V7, exam SY0-701 launched on November 7, 2023. It has a maximum of 90 questions (multiple choice and performance based), lasts 90 minutes, and needs 750 on a 100 to 900 scale to pass. The English exam retires on June 11, 2027; Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai versions retire on August 13, 2027.
• Security+ V8, exam SY0-801 is expected to launch on or around November 17, 2026, with the same question maximum, length and passing score, and expanded coverage of areas such as AI related risks, security operations and modern environments.

If you start studying now, pick the version you will actually sit and make sure your course and practice questions match that exam code. For a few months both will be available.

Why it is the common starting point

Security+ is not tied to one company's products, so employers treat it as proof that you understand the shared vocabulary of the field. CompTIA's V7 page maps it to many US Department of Defense DoD 8140 work roles, such as cyber defense analyst and incident responder, which is part of why it is recognised well beyond the private sector. Outside the US it is simply one of the most widely recognised entry level security certifications.

Free versus paid

The exam is paid. CompTIA's certification pages did not show an exam price when checked, and prices vary by country, so check the CompTIA store for your region before booking. Study material does not need to be paid: Professor Messer's free video course covers the full SY0-701 syllabus, and combining it with a practice question set is a common, budget friendly route.

Time needed and prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites. CompTIA recommends some prior IT experience, such as Network+ or equivalent knowledge, because the exam assumes networking literacy. Most people study for several weeks to a few months alongside a degree or job.

What comes after

Security+ is a foundation, not a specialisation. CompTIA positions CySA+ as the next step for defensive and SOC work, and PenTest+ for people interested in authorised penetration testing. Hands-on practice on platforms such as LetsDefend or TryHackMe matters at least as much as the next certificate.

Common questions

Does it expire? Yes. CompTIA certifications are valid for three years and are renewed through continuing education; check the current renewal rules on CompTIA's site. Is it enough to get a job on its own? No certificate is. It helps you pass an initial screen, and a portfolio of lab work, write-ups and projects does the rest.