Should I take SY0 601 or 701?

The SY0-701 is the newer, updated version of the CompTIA Security+ exam, replacing the retired SY0-601, with 701 focusing more on modern, real-world threats, Zero Trust, cloud security, and automation, while 601 was more foundational and theory-based, featuring removed commands and updated domains to reflect evolving cybersecurity roles. The key shift is from breadth (601) to depth in critical operations (701), emphasizing skills for managing complex, hybrid environments and supply chain risks.

How different is SY0-601 from SY0-701?

The SY0-701 exam features the same number of domains as the SY0-601 but with fewer objectives (28 compared to 35), reflecting a more specialized job role in a developing industry. Many domains and objectives have been reordered and renamed to incorporate enhancements in instructional design.

Is SY0-601 still valid?

The English-language version of the CompTIA Security+ SY0-601 exam was released on November 12, 2020 and was retired on July 31, 2024. With the retirement of this exam version, the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam version becomes the current version.

How long is CompTIA security SY0-701 valid for?

The Security+ SYO-701 Certification expires three years from the date you successfully pass your Certification Exam and MUST be renewed before the expiration date.

Which CompTIA exam 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.

Security+ SY0-701 vs. SY0-601

What's the easiest CompTIA exam?

CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+/Tech+): Ideal for First-Timers

If you're completely new to technology, the CompTIA Tech+ (formerly the IT Fundamentals or ITF+) certification is one of the easiest introductions to the field. Tech+ is ideal for people who want to see how IT might fit into their career.

What is the most difficult exam in cyber security?

The Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) Information Security Fundamentals (GISF) is among the toughest cybersecurity certifications. The reason for this is that it covers quite an extensive material. The exam is also quite difficult, and it requires a high level of professional conduct.

Is CompTIA still worth IT in 2025?

Short answer: Yes. CompTIA remains relevant in 2025 — especially for individuals starting their careers or those who need a vendor-neutral foundation. For experienced practitioners, its value depends on career goals and the job market you target.

How much does Security+ raise salary?

Conclusion. The CompTIA Security+ Certification Salary can range from a $50k/year Information Security Analyst salary to a $120/year Network Administrator salary. Obtaining Security+ can broaden your career prospects and put you on a pathway toward long-term success in the field of cyber security.

When did SY0-701 come out?

In November 2023, the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 was formally issued. It replaces the SY0-601 and has a simpler exam format focusing on practical skills and current cybersecurity issues.

Which CompTIA certification should I get first?

The CompTIA A+ certification serves as the industry standard for establishing a career in IT. It covers a broad range of foundational knowledge and skills, making it an excellent starting point.

What percentage is 750 on a scale of 100 to 900?

While the scaled score is 750 out of 900, this roughly equals 83% correct answers.

How to keep Security+ active?

Taking a Higher-Level CompTIA Certification

Passing a higher-level CompTIA certification, such as CySA+, PenTest+, or CASP+, will automatically renew your Security+ cert, as well as any lower-level certifications you may have.

What is CySA+ salary?

CompTIA CySA+ Salary and Job Opportunities. CompTIA reports the potential CySA+ salary range to be from $72,130 USD for the 25th percentile to $153,090 USD for the 90th percentile annually.

Can I get a job with just network+?

Can I get a job with just Network+? Yes, especially in help desk, IT support, and junior networking roles. However, pairing Network+ with Security+ or cloud certifications will open higher-paying opportunities.

Can I do Security+ without network+?

The simple answer is this: No, you don't need Network+ before pursuing Security+. However, having a strong grasp of networking fundamentals will be highly beneficial for your Security+ certification.

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

Fortune 500 corporations in big cities pay as much as $380,000 to $420,000 annually and more to their security head honchos. But a so-called CISO working for a mid-sized corporation is probably looking at a $150,000 to $200,000 salary.

What is the 80 20 rule in cyber security?

In an ever-growing mix of hundreds of potential cybersecurity concerns and even more proposed solutions, CIS applies the Pareto Principle – the concept that for many activities, roughly 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes2 – to help prioritize cybersecurity actions.

What is the highest paid CompTIA certification?

The Top 10 Highest Paying CompTIA Certifications

1. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) ...
2. CompTIA Cloud+ ...
3. CompTIA Security+ ...
4. CompTIA Project+ ...
5. CompTIA Network+ ...
6. CompTIA Linux+ ...
7. CompTIA PenTest+ ...
8. CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)

Is CompTIA security 701 worth IT?

CompTIA boasts that Security+ opens the door to a career in cyber security, and with the right supporting experience, it certainly can. 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.

What is the best certification to get in 2025?

The below professional certifications could elevate your career in 2025 and beyond:

1. Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ...
2. Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP) ...
3. Certified Management Accountant (CMA) ...
4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) ...
5. CompTIA A+ ...
6. Project Management Institute (PMI) certifications.

Which is harder, net+ or ccna?

The CCNA exam is generally considered more difficult than Network+. It tests not just concepts but also specific knowledge about Cisco hardware and software. You'll need to understand network configuration, troubleshooting, and how to work with Cisco's command-line interface.

Is cybersecurity a 9 to 5 job?

Cybersecurity professionals may spend their day in a traditional office, working remotely from home, or going to clients and customers to offer security consulting or help them investigate and recover from an incident. Some security professionals work a traditional 9-5 schedule.

What are the top 5 cybersecurity certifications?

Top 10 Cyber Certifications of 2026

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) ...
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) ...
• Advanced in AI Security Management (AAISM) ...
• PEN-200 OffSec Certified Professional (OSCP) ...
• Certified AI Security Engineer (CAISE) ...
• Certified AI Governance Professional (AIGP)