Exam code: SY0-701
Industry-standard entry-level cybersecurity certification validating core security skills. Globally recognized by employers and DoD-approved.
$404
CompTIA Security+ is the most widely recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification in the industry. It establishes the core knowledge required for any cybersecurity role and provides a springboard to intermediate-level positions.
The SY0-701 version (released November 2023) focuses on:
If you're reading this in Q1 2026, SY0-701 is still the version you're sitting for. CompTIA hasn't put an SY0-801 release on its public roadmap, so anyone telling you to "wait for the next one" is guessing. Two things that haven't changed and matter for hiring: Security+ is still on the DoD 8140 Qualification Matrix as an IAT Level II baseline (worth checking on cyber.mil if a recruiter asks), and the Robert Half 2026 Salary Guide puts US Cybersecurity Analyst pay between $102,250 and $147,750, with Security+ called out as one of the credentials pulling the top of that range. In practice that means it's still the cheapest credential on the list with the broadest hiring impact.
Security+ is ideal for:
No prerequisites required, though CompTIA recommends 2+ years of IT administration experience with a security focus.
The SY0-701 exam includes:
| Experience Level | Recommended Study Time |
|---|---|
| IT background | 4-6 weeks |
| Some security exposure | 6-8 weeks |
| Complete beginner | 10-12 weeks |
Security+ holders report an average salary increase of 27% after certification. It's required or preferred for:
You will take the SY0-701 at a Pearson VUE testing center or via online proctoring. Arrive 15 minutes early with two forms of ID. The testing environment is monitored by camera, and you cannot bring notes, phones, or any personal items into the room. You will receive a small whiteboard or laminated sheet for scratch notes.
The exam begins with performance-based questions (PBQs), which simulate real scenarios such as configuring a firewall rule, analyzing a log file, or identifying a network topology vulnerability. After the PBQs, you will move to standard multiple choice and multiple select questions. You can flag questions and return to them before submitting.
With 90 questions in 90 minutes, you have roughly one minute per question. Skip PBQs on your first pass if they feel overwhelming; come back to them after finishing the multiple choice section. PBQs are worth more points but can consume disproportionate time if you get stuck. Aim to finish all multiple choice questions within 55 minutes, leaving 35 minutes for PBQs and review.
The most frequent mistake is overthinking scenario questions. CompTIA often includes answers that are technically correct but not the best answer. Look for the response that addresses the specific scenario described, not a general best practice. Another trap: reading too quickly and missing keywords like "MOST," "LEAST," "FIRST," or "BEST" that change the correct answer entirely.
For self-study candidates, start with a comprehensive video course to build foundational understanding, then reinforce with a study guide and practice exams. If you prefer structured learning, CompTIA's own CertMaster Learn program or a bootcamp format keeps you accountable with deadlines.
Free resources:
Paid resources:
| Background | Weekly Hours | Duration | Total Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT professional | 10 to 15 | 4 to 6 weeks | 60 to 70 |
| Some tech experience | 15 to 20 | 6 to 8 weeks | 100 to 120 |
| Complete beginner | 15 to 20 | 10 to 12 weeks | 150 to 200 |
Set up a home lab using VirtualBox or VMware with a Windows VM and a Linux VM (Kali or Ubuntu). Practice configuring firewalls, setting up VPNs, analyzing Wireshark captures, and reviewing log files. These hands-on activities directly map to PBQ scenarios on the exam.
Security+ is explicitly listed as a requirement in thousands of job postings. The most common roles include: SOC Analyst (Tier 1 and Tier 2), Security Administrator, Systems Administrator with security duties, Help Desk Technician (security track), IT Auditor, and any DoD civilian or contractor position requiring IAT Level II clearance.
| Region | Before Cert | After Cert | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | $55,000 | $70,000 | +27% |
| European Union | EUR 38,000 | EUR 48,000 | +26% |
| United Kingdom | GBP 32,000 | GBP 42,000 | +31% |
| Remote (global) | $50,000 | $65,000 | +30% |
Recruiters treat Security+ as a reliable baseline indicator. It tells them you understand core security concepts without needing extensive vetting of your foundational knowledge. For entry and mid-level positions, Security+ often serves as the first filter: candidates without it may not make it past the ATS (applicant tracking system). Compared to alternatives like SSCP or GSEC, Security+ wins on recognition and cost efficiency.
Security+ is the launching pad, not the destination. A typical progression looks like: Security+ (Year 1), then CySA+ or PenTest+ (Year 2 to 3), then CISSP, OSCP, or a cloud security specialty (Year 4+). Each step roughly doubles the salary ceiling.
EUR amounts are approximate (CompTIA bills in USD).
| Item | 2026 Cost |
|---|---|
| Exam voucher (standalone) | ~€372 ($404 USD) |
| Complete Bundle: voucher + retake + CertMaster Learn + Labs + Practice | ~€1,185 ($1,288 USD) |
| Self-study materials (Dion course + practice exams) | ~€28 to €46 ($30 to $50 USD) |
| Optional: CertMaster Labs alone | ~€110 ($119 USD) |
| Optional: TryHackMe subscription (2 months) | ~€26 ($28 USD) |
| Total (self-study, minimal) | ~€400 to €418 |
| Total (with labs and practice) | ~€507 to €553 |
| Total (Complete Bundle) | ~€1,185 |
Security+ is valid for 3 years. To renew, you must earn 50 Continuing Education (CE) credits and pay an annual maintenance fee (~€46 / $50 USD per year, ~€138 / $150 USD over 3 years). CE credits can be earned through free activities: attending webinars, completing online training, publishing articles, or earning a higher CompTIA certification (CySA+, CASP+, or SecurityX) which automatically renews Security+.
Security+ delivers an estimated 11% salary boost for entry-level professionals with a ~€4,600 to €9,200 ($5,000 to $10,000 USD) premium on the ~€372 ($404 USD) cost. Roles requiring or preferring Security+ pay ~€78,000 to €96,000 ($85,000 to $105,000 USD) in total compensation. With study time of 100 to 200 hours, the hourly return far exceeds any other professional development activity available at this career level.
CompTIA occasionally offers exam bundles that include a free retake voucher. Academic pricing is available for students. Many employers will reimburse the exam fee upon passing; ask your HR department before paying out of pocket. Military personnel can use the DoD voucher program to take the exam at no personal cost.
The Unihackers Cybersecurity Bootcamp includes structured Security+ Preparation and the official exam voucher as part of Unit 12 (Career Coaching and Certification Preparation). The combined preparation and voucher value exceeds $985 USD, which is bundled into the broader 360-hour program alongside:
Security+ is most valuable when it sits on a foundation of practical skill rather than as a standalone exam. The bootcamp's curriculum maps domain by domain to Security+ exam objectives:
| Security+ Domain | Bootcamp Unit Coverage |
|---|---|
| 1. General Security Concepts | Unit 1, Unit 2 |
| 2. Threats, Vulnerabilities, Mitigations | Unit 3, Unit 6 |
| 3. Security Architecture | Unit 2, Unit 4, Unit 11 |
| 4. Security Operations | Unit 7, Unit 8 |
| 5. Security Program Management | Unit 5, Unit 12 |
Most graduates pass Security+ in the final weeks of the program or within 30 days of completion, leveraging the structured preparation and the included voucher. Read the post-bootcamp pathway for the recommended exam timing within the 90-day post-graduation roadmap.
Before scheduling your exam, you should be able to:
Schedule your exam 2 weeks after you start consistently scoring above 80% on practice tests. This gives you time for final review without losing momentum. Avoid scheduling more than 4 weeks out, as motivation tends to decline.
Security+ is designed to be passable for motivated beginners. The exam is not trying to trick you; it is testing whether you understand security concepts well enough to apply them. Trust your preparation, manage your time, and remember that most people who study diligently pass on their first attempt. The 83% first-attempt pass rate among prepared candidates confirms this.
The exam heavily emphasizes "Security Operations" (28% weight), so spend extra time on SIEM, log analysis, and incident response procedures. Many candidates under-prepare for the "Security Program Management" domain because it feels less technical, but it represents 20% of your score.
PBQs on the real exam are simpler than most practice PBQs you will find online. They test whether you can perform a specific task (like matching attack types to descriptions, or configuring a basic rule), not whether you can solve a complex multi-step lab.
Schedule for a morning slot when your focus is sharpest. Avoid scheduling on Mondays (higher stress) or Fridays (mental fatigue from the work week). Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday mornings between 9:00 and 11:00 AM tend to produce the best results. Book at least 10 days in advance to secure your preferred time.
Do not study the night before. Review your weak areas briefly in the afternoon, then stop. Get a full night of sleep. Eat a balanced meal in the morning. Arrive early. You have prepared; now trust the work you have put in.
Average before
€40,000
$55,000
Average after
€50,000
$70,000
Average increase
€10,000 (+27%)
$15,000
Source: CompTIA IT Salary Research 2024
The CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam voucher costs ~€372 ($404 USD) as a standalone purchase. Bundle options include the Complete Bundle with Voucher Plus Retake Assurance at ~€1,185 ($1,288 USD) (voucher, retake, CertMaster Learn + Labs, and CertMaster Practice). Eligible students may qualify for academic pricing through CompTIA's marketplace.
Study time varies: 4 to 6 weeks with IT background, 6 to 8 weeks with some security exposure, 10 to 12 weeks for complete beginners. A structured bootcamp typically covers Security+ material in 8 to 12 weeks of evening study alongside the broader curriculum.
Yes. Security+ appears in 70% or more of cybersecurity job postings, is DoD 8570/8140 approved, and delivers an estimated 11% salary boost for entry-level professionals with a typical ~€4,600 to €9,200 ($5,000 to $10,000 USD) premium on the ~€372 ($404 USD) cost. It is the single most credible entry-level signal in the field.
Security+ qualifies you for SOC Analyst, Security Administrator, Systems Administrator, IT Auditor, government and DoD security roles, junior penetration tester apprenticeships, and many compliance support positions. Salary range with Security+ as the primary credential is typically $85,000 to $105,000 in total compensation in the US market.
Yes. The Unihackers Cybersecurity Bootcamp includes structured CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Preparation as part of Unit 12 (Career Coaching and Certification Preparation), plus the official exam voucher. The combined preparation and voucher value exceeds $985 USD, making the bootcamp a more cost-effective path to Security+ when bundled with broader cybersecurity training, mentorship, career coaching, and a Certiprof voucher.
The SY0-701 exam covers five domains: General Security Concepts (12%), Threats Vulnerabilities and Mitigations (22%), Security Architecture (18%), Security Operations (28%), and Security Program Management and Oversight (20%). The exam is 90 minutes, up to 90 questions (multiple choice and performance-based), with a passing score of 750 on a 100 to 900 scale.
Yes. CompTIA Security+ is valid for three years. To renew, you must earn 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) over the three-year cycle and pay an annual fee of ~€46 ($50 USD), or ~€138 ($150 USD) for the full three years. CEUs can be earned through training, conferences, publications, and approved professional activities. Earning a higher-level CompTIA certification (like CySA+, CASP+, or SecurityX) automatically renews Security+.
Authoritative sources for exam objectives, study guides, and hands-on labs.
Vendor page with current pricing, exam objectives, and CertMaster bundles.
Hands-on browser-based rooms covering networking, Linux, Windows, and security fundamentals tested in SY0-701.
Govern–Identify–Protect–Detect–Respond–Recover model referenced across the exam.
Adversary tactics and techniques used to frame threat scenarios.
Authoritative control catalog underlying many SY0-701 architecture and operations objectives.
Federal incident response lifecycle (Preparation–Detection–Containment–Recovery) tested in Domain 4.
Curated US government catalog of no-cost defensive tools to practice on the SY0-701 exam objectives.
Included
The Unihackers Cybersecurity Bootcamp includes the exam voucher, structured exam preparation, and 360 hours of training that map directly to the certification objectives. You graduate ready to sit the exam.
CompTIAIntermediate security analyst certification for threat detection, analysis, and response. Bridge the gap between Security+ and advanced certifications.
CompTIAThe intermediate penetration testing certification validating hands-on vulnerability assessment and management skills. A practical stepping stone to OSCP.