CompTIA Security+
Foundational cybersecurity certification covering network security, threats, and vulnerability assessment. Entry point to security careers.
Provider
CompTIA
Level
Associate
Duration
2–4 months
Cost
$392
Passing Score
750/900
Validity
3 years
Salary Impact
+$10,000–$18,000 avg
Prerequisites
Network+ or equivalent experience
2 years IT experience
Security fundamentals
Exam Format
Two exams or one combined exam, 90 minutes each, $392 total
Exam Topics & Weights
Threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities
23%
Technologies and tools
22%
Architecture and design
21%
Identity and access management
16%
Risk management
18%
8-Week Study Plan
Weeks 1-2
Focus: Security fundamentals and threats
CompTIA Security+ objectives
Threat classifications
Attack vectors
Weeks 3-4
Focus: Cryptography and network security
Encryption algorithms
SSL/TLS
Network protocols
Weeks 5-6
Focus: Security tools and technologies
Firewalls
IDS/IPS
Vulnerability scanning
Weeks 7-8
Focus: Access control and risk management
IAM concepts
Incident response
Disaster recovery
Exam Tips & Strategies
Excellent entry-level security certification
Professor Messer's free videos are highly recommended
Focus on understanding concepts, not memorizing
Practice exams are critical—use realistic exam format
Hands-on labs with actual security tools help retention
Good foundation before pursuing CISSP
Ready to Apply? Use HireKit's Free Tools
AI-powered job search tools for CompTIA Security+
Add to Your Resume
Showcase this certification on an ATS-optimized resume
ATS Resume Checker
Verify your updated resume passes ATS screening
hirekit.co — AI-powered job search platform
Ready to start preparing for CompTIA Security+?
Get a personalized study plan and track your progress toward certification.
Start Learning