6 Reasons Why CompTIA Security+ Is Worth It in 2024

People will surely question whether a cybersecurity certification is worth the time and effort required to pass the test. With the growing popularity of the CompTIA Security+ certification, many potential exam takers have wondered, ‘Is the CompTIA Security+ worth it?’

If you are considering a cybersecurity career, aiming to enhance your CV with security credentials, or need to understand network security for your profession, the CompTIA Security+ certification is worth the effort.

That all seems straightforward. However, you might be wondering what sets the Security+ certification apart from other certificates. Let’s delve into some aspects that make the CompTIA Security+ certification an excellent choice.

But before we proceed, let’s provide an overview of this exam. Additionally, don’t forget to take our free CompTIA Security+ practice test to achieve a high score on your real exam on your first attempt.

What is CompTIA Security+?

CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) is one of the world’s leading IT trade associations, with global recognition. Since its foundation in 1982, CompTIA has been a leader in vendor-neutral certifications, issuing over 2.5 million certificates.

It now offers 15 vendor-neutral certificates across five categories: core skills, infrastructure, cybersecurity, data and analytics, and other professional abilities (such as project management or training, for example).

The CompTIA Security+ credential is part of CompTIA’s Core certification portfolio, which also includes the IT Fundamentals+, A+, and Network+ credentials. It is among CompTIA’s most popular certifications.

CompTIA Security+ covers the following IT skills:

• Evaluating the security status of an enterprise environment
• Providing recommendations and implementing suitable security measures
• Overseeing and safeguarding hybrid environments, encompassing cloud, mobile, Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology
• Operating in accordance with relevant regulations and policies, including governance, risk management, and compliance principles.
• Recognizing, analyzing, and responding to security events and incidents

Read more >> CompTIA Sec+ Salary, Jobs and Certification

Is CompTIA Security+ a Difficult Exam?

The Security+ exam does not have any formal requirements for eligibility. This is great news for IT professionals who aspire to enter the field of information security without the need to acquire multiple certifications. 

The CompTIA Security+ certification can help you secure entry-level employment in IT security. Although it is considered an entry-level cybersecurity certification, it should not be underestimated. It delves deep into cybersecurity principles and requires thorough preparation.

Cybersecurity concepts may come easily to some individuals, while others may find them more challenging to comprehend. Regardless of your learning style, CompTIA Security+ will present you with challenges. After all, a simple certification is unlikely to provide you with the expertise necessary for advancing in your IT career.

While passing the CompTIA Security+ exam can be difficult, with the right preparation tools, you can succeed. Even beginners can achieve the CompTIA Security+ certification with the proper mindset and training resources. Click >> here to take practice tests for the CompTIA Big 3 Certifications.

Is CompTIA Security+ a Good Starter Exam?

CompTIA Security+ is an excellent choice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals because it has no prerequisites. However, this does not mean that obtaining specific IT certifications before pursuing CompTIA Security+ is not beneficial. CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ are recommended as prerequisites for CompTIA Security+.

The CompTIA A+ certification provides a comprehensive understanding of various IT subjects. Ideally, every technician would start by earning this credential. CompTIA Network+ equips you with network security skills that will prove valuable as you begin to specialize in cybersecurity.

While it is suggested that candidates for the CompTIA Security+ certification have at least two years of experience in IT administration, preferably with a security focus, this is not a strict requirement.

Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It?

The answer is definitely YES! Let’s explore some reasons to support this answer.

#Reason 1: The US Department of Defense has authorized Security+ to satisfy Directive 8140.03M requirements.

The US Department of Defense (US DoD) has issued Directive 8140.03M, which outlines the training and certification requirements for individuals involved in cybersecurity or information assurance tasks within or for the Department of Defense.

The Security+ certification has been recognized as a fundamental qualification for many of these roles, indicating that the Department of Defense acknowledges the validity and significance of the CompTIA Security+ certification and, in certain cases, even requires it.

One advantage of the CompTIA Security+ certification is its recognition and acceptance by the federal government, as well as its vendors and contractors.

#Reason 2: No experience is required to take the Security+ exam.

As you progress in your cybersecurity profession, you’ll discover that many prominent certifications require a specific number of years of proven experience or completion of an authorized training program before you can take the exam. Some exams even require sponsorship by someone who has previously obtained the certification.

The Security+ certification, like most other CompTIA certifications, has the advantage of not requiring any prior experience or training. You can take the exam as soon as the next day if you wish.

Of course, this places the burden on you, the test taker, to ensure that you are thoroughly prepared. However, it is a valuable benefit for those starting out in the fields of cybersecurity or computer networking to be able to obtain a certification, particularly when work experience is limited and completing a degree takes a significant amount of time.

If you study and prepare diligently, you can add the Security+ certification to your resume in 60 days or less, which is a significant advantage of this certification.

Read more >> 5 jobs that require Security plus certification

#Reason 3: Only one test is required for Security+ certification.

The fact that Security+ requires only one test is fantastic. Many mid- and higher-level certifications, such as Cisco CCNP, often require multiple tests. While this is acceptable, it doesn’t always result in a significant increase in wages or job prospects, especially when considering the additional effort required.

With a one-and-done certification like CompTIA Security+, the time and effort needed to study for and pass a single exam make it much more appealing to add to your resume as a test taker.

#Reason 4: Security+ is cheaper than many other certifications.

Certifications aren’t cheap, and some cybersecurity certifications cost $500 or more, which is a significant amount of money to spend unless you’re confident you’ll pass.

CompTIA has kept its fees low, even for the Security+ certification, which costs a little over $400. CompTIA frequently offers student discounts, so if you qualify, you might be able to purchase a voucher for Security+ for less than $200.

#Reason 5: Security+ training is widely available at numerous locations.

Due to the popularity of the CompTIA Security+ test, most colleges and universities offer test preparation at some point during the academic year, including online instruction.

Furthermore, various training companies provide additional online course materials to help prepare for the test.

While the quality of these courses may vary, there is an abundance of Security+ study material available at a moderate cost, which is another advantage of preparing for the test.

#Reason 6: Security+ certified professionals have a high average salary.

On Skillsoft’s list of the top 20 highest-paid IT certificates, the CompTIA Security+ salary is ranked 18th. The top 20 list also includes the Google Cloud’s Professional Cloud Architect certificate, which ranks first, Google Cloud’s Professional Data Engineer certificate, which ranks second, and Project Management Professional (PMP), which ranks third.

Security+ is typically one of the first certificates obtained by prospective IT security professionals because it is an entry-level credential. It certifies that a candidate has the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform various junior and entry-level security tasks, such as penetration testing, junior IT auditing, and systems, network, or security administration. Security professionals, engineers, and security consultants all utilize Security+ skills.

As of January 31, 2024, a CompTIA Security+ certification holder earns an average annual salary of $121,653. Individual wages are influenced by several factors, including job title, years of experience, industry sector, and geographic location.

Read more >> Top 12 Best Security Certifications to Get You Hired

What Are the Advantages of CompTIA Security+?

CompTIA Security+ is a prominent and globally recognized credential that attests to a professional’s mastery and familiarity in the realm of cybersecurity. This certification not only showcases an individual’s dedication to the industry but also opens the door to numerous benefits that can propel their career forward. Let’s delve into some of the standout advantages of obtaining CompTIA Security+.

A Gateway to a World of Job Opportunities

One of the paramount advantages of earning CompTIA Security+ is the sheer multitude of job opportunities it presents. Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field that is in high demand, with organizations actively seeking experts who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to secure their digital infrastructure. CompTIA Security+ provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of cybersecurity, attesting to the holder’s proficiency in defending against security threats. Consequently, professionals who hold this certification are highly sought after by employers looking to fill cybersecurity positions.

A Boost to Your Earning Potential

CompTIA Security+ not only opens doors to job opportunities but also enhances professionals’ earning potential. Cybersecurity experts with CompTIA Security+ certification are in high demand, and organizations are willing to pay a premium for their specialized skills and knowledge. The median salary for cybersecurity professionals holding CompTIA Security+ certification is significantly higher than the median salary for individuals without the certification.

A Hands-on Approach to Cybersecurity

CompTIA Security+ offers a hands-on approach to cybersecurity. The certification exam is designed to test the practical, real-world scenarios that professionals will encounter in their daily work, thereby building their confidence and enhancing their understanding of the concepts and technologies used in the field. By gaining hands-on experience, individuals can prepare themselves for the challenges they may face in their careers, better equipping themselves to tackle the complexities of the field.

FAQs

How much preparation is required for Security+?

The amount of time and study required to pass the Security+ test varies from person to person, depending on your past knowledge and experience, but a decent estimate is that you’ll need to spend roughly 60 hours studying before taking the exam.

Do you need prior experience to pass the Security+ exam?

We have already mentioned that you can take the Security+ exam at any time, even without prior job experience, but it is not necessarily recommended.

If you intend to take the CompTIA Security+ exam without any previous technical work experience, you can still pass the test, but it is essential to have a strong understanding of computer networking.

This does not mean that you must acquire such experience in a professional setting or that you must first obtain the Network+ certification. It simply means that you should be proficient in those areas, even through self-study, before delving into the network security topics covered in Security+.

Will businesses inquire about why you have the Security+ certification instead of the Network+ or A+?

Some individuals are concerned about skipping certifications or giving the impression of possessing a higher-level certification without having completed a lower-level certification on the track.

In reality, we have rarely encountered instances where companies question why a candidate does not hold a lower-level certification or hold it against them. Most companies place value on higher-level certificates and assume that expertise in less critical areas is sufficient.

For further details on this matter, you can refer to the article “Do you need A+ for Security+” to gain a more comprehensive understanding.

The Bottom Line

So, Is CompTIA Security+ worth it? Businesses require well-trained security specialists who can manage all types of situations. Obtaining the CompTIA Security+ certification is the first step towards becoming an information security professional who can assist businesses in combating and mitigating cybercrime.

It is true that certifications make a difference. Certifications provide IT workers with skills that enable them to execute tasks more quickly and effectively, and they typically lead to higher pay. The CompTIA Security+ is an excellent vendor-neutral credential that will add value to your certification portfolio if you are new to the IT security profession and want to prove your abilities to existing or future employers.

Now that you have learned about the benefits of CompTIA Security+, you might be wondering, ‘Is CompTIA Security+ worth it?’. CompTIA Security+ is a good starting point if you want to work in cybersecurity.

If you have decided to pursue the Security+ certification and need assistance in passing the exam, we have created practice tests to help you in your preparation.