Is security harder than A+?

Yes, CompTIA Security+ is generally considered harder and more specialized than CompTIA A+, as A+ covers foundational IT basics (hardware/software), while Security+ dives into complex cybersecurity concepts like risk management, cryptography, and network security, requiring broader IT knowledge. A+ is a prerequisite for many, offering broad IT fundamentals, whereas Security+ builds on that foundation for a specific security career path, making it a step up in difficulty and focus.

Which is harder, Security+ or a+?

It may seem odd that Security+ is the easier of the two exams. While it may be easier to pass than either individual A+ Core exams, A+ requires you to take two exams, unlike Security+.

Can I pass Security+ without A+?

No, you do not need to get A+ before getting Security+. Doing the progression of A+, Network+, then Security+ is only a recommendation, not a requirement.

What is the pass rate of Security+?

The pass rate for the CompTIA Security+ exam is about 85%. So, it's important that you study properly, go through practice exams, and seek additional resources such as study guides and online courses to increase your chances of passing the exam.

Which is easier, network+ or a+?

A+ certification majorly focuses on the foundational level IT skills related to the troubleshooting of hardware and software. This is easier for all those who are new in technology. Network+ is more complex due to its deep penetration of networking concepts, protocols, and configurations.

Reality of working in Cyber Security | Pros and Cons

Which CompTIA is the hardest?

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+): Still considered one of the most difficult due to its advanced topics. CompTIA Security+: Moderate difficulty, but highly sought after in 2025 for cybersecurity roles. CompTIA Network+: Slightly easier than Security+, but still challenging for beginners.

How tough is Security+?

Security+ sits at the early-intermediate level of difficulty. It's not as advanced as CISSP or CEH, but it's more complex than entry-level certifications. For many, the key challenge isn't depth—it's the breadth of material.

Is CompTIA still worth IT in 2025?

Yes, CompTIA certifications remain highly relevant in 2025, especially for foundational IT roles like Help Desk (A+), Networking (Network+), and Security (Security+), acting as crucial entry points and building blocks for broader IT careers, with updates like the A+ launch in March 2025 ensuring they cover evolving tech, although some argue for more advanced certs for senior roles. 

Is 701 easier than 601?

Whether CompTIA Security+ 701 is "easier" than 601 depends on your background, but 701 focuses more on applying skills in current job roles, with fewer objectives but a more practical, relevant scope, while 601 had more foundational content, so experienced pros might find 701 better, but newcomers might struggle with the real-world application focus of 701, though some find 701 less demanding overall due to updated content.
 

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Yes, earning $200,000 a year in cybersecurity is absolutely achievable, especially in senior, specialized, or high-demand roles like CISO, Security Architect, Lead Security Engineer, Cloud Security Engineer, Sales Engineer, or penetration testers in large companies or high-cost-of-living areas, often requiring significant experience, advanced skills (coding, cloud, leadership), and sometimes certifications, with top earners exceeding this significantly. 

What if I fail Security+?

Fortunately, candidates can take the Security+ exam as many times as they wish. After failing the first attempt, there is no waiting period before the second attempt. However, candidates must wait at least 14 calendar days from their last attempt for the third attempt or any subsequent attempts.

Is a Security+ cert good enough to get a job?

Yes, the CompTIA Security+ certification is generally very good for getting an entry-level IT or cybersecurity job, acting as a strong foundational credential that validates core security skills and significantly boosts marketability, especially for roles in government (like DoD) or companies needing baseline security knowledge, though it's often best paired with some practical experience or used to enter general IT before specializing. 

Is Security+ a big deal?

While passing the Security+ exam alone won't guarantee a job, it remains one of, if not the, most widely recognized entry-level certification in this field. It's DoD 8570/8140 compliant, vendor neutral, and aligns with the expectations of roles in both government and private sector.

What jobs can I get with S+?

These include positions such as:

• Cybersecurity analyst.
• Security engineer.
• Penetration tester.
• Information assurance technician.
• IT auditor, and more.

Which pays more, networking or cybersecurity?

Cyber security programs prepare graduates to protect systems against cyber threats in a rapidly growing field. These roles often command higher salaries than network engineering, typically exceeding by about $14,000 annually.

How much does sec+ cost?

The CompTIA Security+ exam (SY0-701) costs $425 USD when purchased directly from CompTIA's official store as of July 2025. This price applies to North America, though pricing may vary by region.

Is CompTIA A+ really hard?

The CompTIA A+ is moderately difficult, challenging but achievable, especially for beginners, due to its broad scope covering hardware, networking, security, and troubleshooting across two exams with tricky performance-based questions, requiring hands-on practice and dedicated study to master the extensive material and time pressure. It's not overwhelmingly hard but requires understanding concepts and applying knowledge, not just memorization.
 

Do CompTIA certificates expire?

If you've earned one of the eligible CompTIA certifications, you'll have three years from the date your certification was earned or renewed to complete the CE Program requirements and maintain your certification.

How many people fail Security+?

Security+ Pass Rates

About 70-75% of people pass this test on their first try. Many say it's harder than A+ or Network+ because you need to know so many different security tools and ideas. Plus, the questions often make you consider many more real situations you might face at work than the previous certifications.

What is the hardest certification exam?

The USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) stands as America's most challenging standardized test. This three-step examination process requires medical students to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge across all aspects of medicine.

How long do I study for Security+?

Studying for CompTIA Security+ usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, but can range from 2 weeks to 3+ months, depending heavily on your prior IT/cybersecurity experience, with experienced pros needing less time and beginners needing more for the vast amount of terminology and concepts. Aim for 15-20 hours per week, focusing on official objectives, hands-on labs, and plenty of practice tests to solidify knowledge. 

Which CompTIA makes the most money?

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) is the highest-paid CompTIA certification. It targets senior cybersecurity professionals and validates advanced skills in enterprise security, risk management, and threat analysis, leading to higher salary potential than other CompTIA credentials.

What is the hardest cybersecurity certification?

6 Most Difficult IT Security Certifications

1. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
2. CCIE Security. ...
3. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) ...
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) ...
5. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) ...
6. AWS Certified Security – Specialty. ...

Is CompTIA A+ easier than Security+?

Which certificate is harder, A+ or Security+? A+ delves into a broad range of topics, while Security+ is focused solely on cybersecurity. If you juggle multiple study areas, you might find A+ easier, but if you want to focus on one topic, then Security+ is perfect for you.