CompTIA Security+
CompTIA's Security+ covers baseline skills for core security work: threats and vulnerabilities, security architecture, security operations, and security program oversight. CompTIA describes it as an early-career certification for roles such as security analyst, security engineer, and systems administrator.
Exam Change
Nov 17, 2026: Security+ V8 (SY0-801) is scheduled to launch in English on or around this date. It keeps the 90-question, 90-minute format, reweights the domains and adds coverage of AI-related risks.
Jun 11, 2027: The current exam (SY0-701) retires.
Exam Details
Multiple-choice and performance-based questions, taken at a Pearson VUE test center or online with remote proctoring.
CompTIA lists the Security+ exam voucher at $439 in its US store. A voucher with Retake Assurance costs $579, and bundles that pair CertMaster Practice with a Retake Assurance voucher start at $593. CompTIA offers discounts through academic and nonprofit partners.
Requirements and Renewal
Prerequisites
None required. CompTIA recommends Network+ and two years of experience in a security or systems administrator job role.
Renewal
Earn 50 CEUs in the three-year cycle and pay a $150 CE fee, complete the CertMaster CE course, pass the latest Security+ exam, or earn a higher-level CompTIA certification such as CySA+, PenTest+, or SecurityX.
Current Version
SY0-701, in effect since Nov 7, 2023.
Exam Domains
5 domains| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| General security concepts | 12% |
| Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations | 22% |
| Security architecture | 18% |
| Security operations | 28% |
| Security program management and oversight | 20% |
DoD 8140 Work Roles
19 work rolesThe DoD 8140 Qualification Matrix V2.1 lists Security+ as a foundational qualification option for these DoD Cyber Workforce Framework work roles, up to the proficiency level shown. Lower levels of the same work role are also covered.
Certification Lists
Related Tool Categories
Compliance automation frameworks, SCAP policy scanners, and risk management platforms.
Secrets managers, identity engines, and access control platforms for managing credentials and privilege.
Zero trust access, secure web gateways, firewalls, and perimeter enforcement platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Security+ exam cost?→
The US price for a Security+ exam voucher is $439, or $579 with Retake Assurance.
Is the Security+ exam difficult?→
The SY0-701 exam has up to 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions in 90 minutes. A score of 750 on a scale of 100 to 900 is required to pass.
Do you need Network+ before Security+?→
No. CompTIA recommends Network+ for networking knowledge, but candidates with solid networking knowledge can go directly to Security+.
When does SY0-701 retire?→
The English SY0-701 exam retires on June 11, 2027. The Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, and Thai versions retire on August 13, 2027. The SY0-801 exam (V8) is expected on or around November 17, 2026.
How long is Security+ valid?→
Security+ is valid for three years. Renewal through CEUs requires 50 CEUs in that cycle.
Sources
Exam details are checked against official CompTIA pages. Fees, exam versions, and renewal rules change; confirm with CompTIA before registering. Security+ is a trademark of its owner. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by CompTIA.