PrepHow do I get Security+ certified?
You get Security+ by passing one CompTIA exam: SY0-701 now, or SY0-801 once it launches around November 17, 2026. There are no formal prerequisites, although CompTIA recommends Network+ and two years of security or systems administration experience. Download the official exam objectives, study the gaps, practise timed questions and book the exam through CompTIA. Our step-by-step Security+ guide walks through each stage.
How hard is Security+?
Security+ is an entry-to-intermediate exam: manageable with a year or two of IT experience, harder for complete beginners. Most candidates say the performance-based questions and the 90-minute limit are the toughest parts, not the concepts. You need 750 on a 100-900 scale. Try our free Security+ practice test to see where you stand.
Is Security+ worth it?
For most people starting in security, yes: Security+ is a common first security credential and is often listed in job ads and government contract requirements. It is vendor-neutral, needs no prerequisites and covers threats, architecture, operations and governance. It is worth less if you already hold a senior certification such as CISSP. See our Security+ guide for who it suits.
What is the Security+ passing score?
The Security+ passing score is 750 on a scale of 100 to 900. The same passing score applies to the current SY0-701 exam and the new SY0-801. CompTIA reports a scaled score, so 750 is not the same as a fixed percentage of questions correct.
How much does the Security+ exam cost?
CompTIA partner sources report a list price of US$439 per exam voucher since mid-2026, up from US$425; regional prices vary. CompTIA's own pages load prices dynamically, so check the CompTIA store for your country before you buy. Renewal later costs a US$150 CE fee per three-year cycle. Details are on our Security+ exam cost page.
Should I take Network+ or Security+ first?
Take Network+ first if networking is new to you; go straight to Security+ if you already understand TCP/IP, ports and basic network design. CompTIA recommends Network+ before Security+ but does not require it. Many people with IT experience skip Network+. Our Network+ vs Security+ comparison covers the trade-off.
Network+ vs Security+: side-by-side comparison and which to take first
What is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is a vendor-neutral, entry-to-intermediate cybersecurity certification from CompTIA. It covers general security concepts, threats and mitigations, security architecture, security operations, and program management and oversight. It is a common first security credential and is widely used to meet job and government contract requirements. See our Security+ certification guide.
How many questions are on Security+?
Security+ has a maximum of 90 questions, and you get 90 minutes to answer them. The exam mixes multiple-choice and performance-based questions, which ask you to complete a task in a simulated environment. The limits are the same for SY0-701 and SY0-801.
Should I take SY0-701 or SY0-801?
Both exams lead to the same Security+ certification, so pick the one that matches your timing. Stay on SY0-701 if you have already studied for it and will test before the English version retires on June 11, 2027. If you are just starting, SY0-801 launches around November 17, 2026. Read what changes in SY0-801.
SY0-801 changes: what Security+ V8 means if you are studying now
How long does Security+ last, and how do I renew it?
Security+ is valid for three years. To renew, earn 50 continuing education units (CEUs) and pay the US$150 CE fee during the cycle, or pass the latest exam version, earn a qualifying higher-level certification, or complete CertMaster CE. A 30-day grace period after expiry lets you submit fees and CEUs, but not earn new ones. Our Security+ renewal guide has the details.
Security+ renewal: every way to renew, and what SY0-801 changes
How long does it take to study for Security+?
As a rough editorial estimate, people with an IT background often prepare in 6 to 10 weeks of part-time study; career changers usually need longer. CompTIA does not publish a study time. The biggest factor is how much of the five domains you already use at work, especially security operations, the largest one.
Can I study for Security+ for free?
Yes, you can prepare largely for free, but the exam voucher itself is paid. CompTIA's official exam objectives are free to download and list every topic that can appear. Our free Security+ practice test has original questions with explanations, and a small home lab built from free tools helps with the performance-based questions.
Is the Google Cybersecurity Certificate a substitute for Security+?
No, they do different jobs: the Google certificate is a training course, while Security+ is a proctored certification exam that employers and contracts often name. Some people use the Google course as a gentle start and then sit Security+. Our Google Cybersecurity Certificate review compares the two.
Is the Google Cybersecurity Certificate worth it? An honest verdict