What is Comptia Security+?

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical challenge for organizations across various sectors. The demand for cybersecurity professionals is skyrocketing, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 31% growth in the Information Security sector by 2029—much faster than the average for other fields.

Furthermore, a recent report from CyberSeek reveals a persistent skills shortage in cybersecurity, with only 83% of available cybersecurity jobs being currently filled. While approximately 1.25 million professionals are working in cybersecurity across the nation, an additional 265,000 workers are needed to meet current staffing demands.

For those looking to dive into this booming industry, the CompTIA Security+ certification is an excellent starting point. It provides a solid foundation for protecting information systems, making it an ideal choice for aspiring cybersecurity experts.

In this blog post, we will examine the CompTIA Security+ certification, its benefits, and how to obtain it.

What is CompTIA Security+ Certification?

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized vendor-neutral certification offered by CompTIA. It serves as proof of proficiency in information security best practices and foundational knowledge for entry-level cybersecurity professionals. The certification covers essential skills and core knowledge required to secure networks, systems, applications, and data, making it a valuable asset for anyone seeking a cybersecurity career.

The certification exam tests candidates on various topics and basic concepts related to cybersecurity, such as threat management, risk identification and management, cryptography, identity management, and access control. It also covers network infrastructure, organizational security, identity and access management, and operational security.

Understanding the Certification Exam

The new CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) certification stands at the forefront of cybersecurity, equipping professionals with the essential skills to tackle today’s most pressing threats, including automation, zero trust, IoT, and risk management. Achieving this certification ensures you grasp the fundamental skills necessary for success in your role, and it will undoubtedly catch the attention of employers.

The Security+ exam validates your expertise in several critical areas:

• Assessing the security posture of enterprise environments and recommending effective security solutions.
• Monitoring and securing hybrid environments, encompassing cloud, mobile, Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology.
• Navigating applicable regulations and policies while adhering to governance, risk, and compliance principles.
• Identifying, analyzing, and responding to security events and incidents.

Additionally, CompTIA Security+ complies with ISO 17024 standards and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense, meeting Directive 8140.03M requirements.

Regarding the exam structure, candidates will face up to 90 questions to be completed within 90 minutes. A minimum score of 750 on a scale of 100-900 is required to pass.

What Job Roles Should Take the Exam?

CompTIA Security+ is designed for IT professionals with at least two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus or those with equivalent training who aim to kickstart or progress their careers in cybersecurity. This certification equips candidates for various roles, including:

• Systems Administrator
• Network Administrator
• Security Administrator
• Junior IT Auditor/Penetration Tester
• Security Specialist
• Security Consultant
• Security Engineer

By achieving CompTIA Security+, individuals enhance their credentials and open doors to a myriad of opportunities in the security field.

What Is on the CompTIA Security+ Exam?

The CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that establishes the baseline skills required for a career in the IT security industry. The latest version has been updated to reflect the increasing specialization in cybersecurity roles, such as security analytics.

As a result, the importance and demand for CompTIA Security+ have grown across a wider range of job positions. By earning this certification, individuals can validate their skills in the following areas based on the exam objectives:

• Identify strategies developed by cyber adversaries to attack networks and hosts and the countermeasures deployed to defend them
• Understand the principles of organizational security and the elements of effective security policies
• Know the technologies and uses of cryptographic standards and products
• Install and configure network- and host-based security technologies
• Describe how wireless and remote access security is enforced
• Describe the standards and products used to enforce security on web and communications technologies
• Identify strategies for ensuring business continuity, fault tolerance, and disaster recovery
• Summarize application and coding vulnerabilities and identify development and deployment methods designed to mitigate them

Preparation Tips

While the CompTIA Security+ exam is challenging, thorough preparation can lead to success. Start by reviewing the exam objectives provided by CompTIA. Understanding what topics will be covered allows you to focus your studies on the most relevant areas. Moreover, creating a study schedule that allocates dedicated time each day to cover various subjects is also beneficial.

There are numerous resources available for those preparing for the Security+ exam. One excellent option is ONLC’s CompTIA Security+ Training, which offers comprehensive courses that cover all exam domains in detail. These courses provide hands-on labs and real-world scenarios, equipping you with the practical skills needed to excel.

Practice exams are another valuable resource. They simulate the actual test environment, helping you to become familiar with the question format and time constraints. Additionally, joining online forums and study groups can be helpful. Engaging with others preparing for the exam allows you to share tips, clarify doubts, and keep motivated.

Benefits of Earning the Certification

Obtaining the CompTIA Security+ certification brings numerous advantages to IT professionals. First, it helps enhance cybersecurity skills and knowledge, making certified individuals more competent in handling security-related tasks. This certification ensures professionals are well-versed in key concepts, core security functions, and techniques.

Additionally, Security+ certification can significantly boost job prospects. Many employers value this credential as it demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity and verifies technical acumen. Security+ certified professionals often find themselves with increased job opportunities, potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement. For instance, roles such as security analysts and consultants usually require or prefer candidates with Security+ certification.

Lastly, Security+ serves as a prerequisite for advanced security certifications. Those who wish to pursue specialized certifications, like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), will find that Security+ provides a strong foundation to build upon. This makes it a strategic step for IT professionals planning a long-term career in cybersecurity.

Is the Security+ Certification Worth Pursuing?

Passing the Security+ exam requires a significant investment of both time and money. The return on this investment largely hinges on your career and aspirations. If you’re aiming for a career in cybersecurity, having the Security+ credential on your resume can provide you with a competitive advantage during job applications. 

Additionally, the benefits of this certification extend beyond just securing a job; preparing for the exam helps enhance your cybersecurity skills and boosts your confidence in managing real-world security threats.

Overall, achieving Security+ certification is a notable accomplishment and could serve as the foundation for a successful career in cybersecurity. 

How Much Can I Make with CompTIA Security+ Certification?

The average salary for an IT professional with CompTIA Security+ certification is $86,000 per year, according to the PayScale website. However, salaries vary depending on location, experience level, and job role.

For example, a security analyst with CompTIA Security+ certification can earn an average of $99,400 annually in the United States. A network administrator with this certification can make an average of $83125 annually. Ultimately, having CompTIA Security+ on your resume can help you negotiate a higher salary and increase your earning potential within the cybersecurity field.

Real-World Applications

CompTIA Security+ is more than just a credential—it has practical applications that benefit organizations. Certified professionals are equipped to identify and mitigate potential threats, thus safeguarding sensitive data and systems. For example, Security+ holders can design secure network architectures and security controls to prevent unauthorized access to critical information.

In the workplace, security skills contribute to effective incident response. Certified individuals are trained to analyze and respond to security breaches swiftly, minimizing damage and ensuring continuity of operations. This capability is crucial today, where cyberattacks are increasingly sophisticated and frequent.

Furthermore, Security+ certified professionals are vital in establishing and enforcing security policies within organizations. They help create guidelines and procedures that promote a culture of security awareness among employees, reducing the risk of insider threats and human error.

Conclusion

For IT professionals and cybersecurity enthusiasts, pursuing CompTIA Security+ is a worthwhile investment in your future. This certification not only validates your skills but also demonstrates your dedication to the field of cybersecurity. With Security+, you’ll have the core knowledge to tackle security challenges and protect valuable information assets.

The first step toward certification can feel daunting, but the rewards are substantial. By obtaining Security+, you’ll position yourself as a credible and competent professional in the eyes of employers, opening doors to exciting career opportunities. Whether you’re a job seeker entering the IT industry or an established professional looking to specialize in cybersecurity, Security+ is the credential that can set you apart.

We encourage you to explore available resources and consider enrolling in courses like ONLC’s CompTIA Security+ Training to enhance your preparation. With determination and effort, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a certified security expert, ready to significantly impact the IT community.