CompTIA Security+ Certification
Security+ certification proves an IT security professional’s competency in topics such as system security, risk management, network infrastructure, access control and organizational security.
Security threats are increasing exponentially in number and severity, and the skills gap between information security jobs and qualified IT security personnel is one of the largest of any technical specialty. Add to this the fact that numerous studies and salary surveys have proven that even in a troubled economy, most businesses plan to maintain or increase their spending on computer security personnel, and it’s no wonder that Security+ is one of CompTIA’s most demanded certifications.
Skills Measured by Security+ Certification
Passing the CompTIA Security+ certification exam validates your ability to…
- explain the security functions of common network devices and technologies
- apply and implement secure network administration principles & procedures
- implement and configure a wireless network in a safe and secure manner
- identify security threats and perform risk mitigation activities
- understand applicable policies, laws and regulations of IT security
- explain the impact and proper use of environmental controls
- understand data cryptography and can apply cryptographic tools
- explain the concepts of user authentication, authorization & access control
- exemplify the concepts of data Confidentiality, Integrity & Availability – a.k.a. the “CIA Triad”
- identify and analyze common attacks, e.g., social engineering, malware, application & wireless attacks
CompTIA Security+ Certification Exams
You must pass one exam to become Security+ certified:
- CompTIA Security+ Certification (Exam code SY0-301)
Security+ Exam Type: Computer based, Multiple choice questions (of which there may be more than one correct answer)
Security+ Test Duration: 90 minutes
Security+ Exam Length: 100 questions
Security+ Exam Cost: $226 USD for CompTIA members & $266 USD for non-members
Security+ Passing Score: 750/900
CompTIA Security+ Certification Prerequisites
- Required: No required prerequisites for Security+ certification
- Recommended: CompTIA Network+ Certification and 2 years of technical networking experience with an emphasis on security, or equivalent knowledge, is recommended.
Security+ Certification Training & Education
Browse the top-rated undergrad & graduate degree programs, professional certificates, and self-paced online training courses matching the CompTIA Security+ Certification and related career tracks.
Security+ Certification Salary
Average salary for Security+ certified professionals† and other CompTIA certification holders:
- CompTIA A+: $73,956
- CompTIA Network+: $74,644
- CompTIA Project+: $80,354
- CompTIA Server+: $82,287
- CompTIA Security+: $84,420
- CompTIA Linux+: $89,316
- CompTIA Storage+: $94,196
