What Is the CompTIA Security+ Certification Exam?
Administered by CompTIA, (the Computing Technology Industry Association), the CompTIA Security+ Certification exam is a globally recognized benchmark for IT security. It’s designed to validate the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career.
The exam consists of a mix of 90 multiple-choice or performance-based questions that must be completed in 90 minutes. A passing score is 750 on a scale of 100-900. The CompTIA Security+ exam covers a broad spectrum of security topics including:
Risk assessment and management
Incident response
Forensics
Enterprise networks
Hybrid/cloud operations
Who Can Take the CompTIA Security+ Certification Exam?
Anyone can take the exam, as there are no formal requirements to sign up. However, there are a few recommendations as far as experience goes. CompTIA recommends that examinees first pass the Network+ Certification and have at least two years of IT experience in a security/systems administrator job role.
The Top 3 CompTIA Security+ Exam Study Guides
To save you the time of researching dozens of CompTIA Security+ Study Guides, we rounded up the best of the best for you. Here are the study guides that test-takers rave about most.
1. CompTIA Security+ Study Guide from CompTIA | $169
When preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam, what better resource to trust than the creators of the exam itself?
What’s Inside:
The CompTIA Security+ Study Guide is packed with:
Interactive lessons that delve deep into the exam’s core subjects.
A variety of quizzes to test your knowledge as you progress.
Performance-based questions that simulate real-world scenarios.
Who Makes It:
This study guide is created and maintained by CompTIA—the leading body responsible for the CompTIA Security+ certification. This ensures that all the material is not only comprehensive but also completely aligned with the exam objectives.
With direct insights from the source, this guide offers the most reliable preparation material available.
User Reviews:
“The official study guide is a great resource. It covers 100% of the exam objectives in enough depth to understand the contents and pass the exam.” -Reddit User
“It’s very useful for the test. I passed my test and got the certificate. All the questions in my test are covered by the book. If you want to pass your test, this is the necessary book you should buy.” -Amazon Reviewer
2. CBT Nuggets CompTIA Security+ Study Guide | $59 / Month
CBT Nuggets is tailored for both beginners and seasoned IT professionals. This study guide is designed to make complex concepts accessible and to prepare candidates thoroughly for the Security+ exam.
What’s Inside:
The CBT Nuggets CompTIA Security+ Study Guide includes:
Online training videos that cover all exam domains
Simulation exams
Practice questions
Who Makes It:
CBT Nuggets is a leading provider of IT certification training with a reputation for creating high-quality, engaging multimedia learning experiences. CBT Nuggets has helped thousands of learners achieve their certification goals.
User Reviews:
“CBT Nuggets is honestly the reason I passed Core 2 of A+.” -Reddit User
“Helps me learn the skills I need when I need them.” -Thomas S., Systems Engineer and Consultant
3. Sybex CompTIA Security+ Study Guide: Exam SYO-601 8th Edition | $28.99
The “CompTIA Security+ Study Guide: Exam SY0-601 8th Edition” is a comprehensive resource for those preparing to take the CompTIA Security+ exam.
What’s Inside:
This study guide includes:
Practical examples
Review questions
Practice exams
Electronic flashcards
Who Makes It:
Published by Sybex, this guide is authored by Emmett Dulaney and Chuck Easttom, both respected authorities in the field of IT security education.
User Reviews:
“That’s a great book for exam preparation. Helped me a lot!” -Amazon Reviewer
“Excellent guide. Professionally written. A great help for the exam.” – Amazon Reviewer
Next Level Learning: CompTIA Security+ Certification Course With MedCerts | $3,100
MedCerts provides an online CompTIA Security+ Certification course that goes beyond traditional study guides. This 6-week course is designed to fast-track your education and preparation for the exam.
What really sets MedCerts apart from traditional study guides is that your tuition covers all exam fees and all study materials.
The MedCerts CompTIA Security+ Course will help you learn how to:
Assess security risks and identify potential threats to hardware, software and physical location
Conduct risk mitigation for systems, hardware and peripherals
Implement best practices and procedures for host and OS hardening
Utilize the best models for authentication, identity management and access control
Implement disaster recovery procedures and security contingency plans
CompTIA Security+ Exam: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the CompTIA Security+ exam cost?
Typically, the CompTIA Security+ exam voucher costs $404, but if you’re enrolled in a MedCerts program, the cost of the exam is covered by your tuition. For U.S. students with a valid student ID and an .edu email address, the voucher is available at a discounted price of $209 through the CompTIA Academic Marketplace.
How do I register for the CompTIA Security+ exam?
Sign up for the exam via the CompTIA website, select your exam date and location and pay the fee (note: MedCerts students do not have to pay the fee, as it’s already included in their tuition).
How many questions are on the CompTIA Security+ exam?
The CompTIA Security+ exam consists of up to 90 questions, which are a mix of multiple-choice and performance-based types. After completing the exam, you will have the option to participate in a 12 multiple-choice question survey regarding your study practices and motivations for obtaining the certification.
How hard is the CompTIA Security+ exam?
The CompTIA Security+ exam is moderately challenging, necessitating comprehensive preparation to pass. Candidates must manage their time effectively, as the exam consists of up to 90 questions to be completed within 90 minutes, covering a broad spectrum of IT security topics.
Where to take the CompTIA Security+ exam?
The CompTIA Security+ exam is proctored at Pearson VUE testing centers, which provide a secure environment for high-stakes exams. Pearson VUE can also be accessed online. To locate a Pearson VUE testing center near you and schedule your exam, visit the Pearson VUE website.
Can I take the CompTIA Security+ exam online?
Yes, the CompTIA Security+ exam can be taken online as well as in person at a testing center.
How long does it take to get a CompTIA Security+ certification?
To adequately prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam, it’s recommended to study for 2-3 months. Creating a structured study schedule, regularly taking practice exams and consistently reviewing study materials are key strategies. Focus your studies on essential topics, such as network security, cryptography and risk management to build a strong foundation for the exam.
How many times can I take the CompTIA Security+ exam?
You can retake the CompTIA Security+ exam as many times as needed to pass. The passing score is 750 on a scale of 100-900. Each attempt requires paying the exam fee, but there are no limits on the number of retakes.
Get Ready To Pass the CompTIA Security+ Exam Now
Don’t wait to join one of the fastest-growing industries. Start preparing for your Security+ Certification through MedCerts today!
