OSCP vs CompTIA PenTest+

Overview

Choosing between OSCP and PenTest+ is a pivotal decision for anyone pursuing a career in penetration testing. Both certifications validate offensive security skills, but they serve different purposes and target different career stages.

OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) is the industry gold standard for penetration testing. It's a grueling 24-hour hands-on exam that proves you can actually compromise systems, write exploits, and document your findings professionally.

PenTest+ is CompTIA's vendor-neutral penetration testing certification. It covers offensive security fundamentals through multiple-choice questions and performance-based simulations, making it more accessible but less rigorous than OSCP.

Key Differences

Exam Experience

The most significant difference lies in how these certifications test your skills:

OSCP Exam:

• 23 hours and 45 minutes to compromise 5 target machines
• 24 additional hours to write a professional penetration test report
• Completely hands-on—no multiple choice
• Proctored via webcam
• Must score 70 points minimum

PenTest+ Exam:

• 165 minutes for 85 questions
• Mix of multiple choice and performance-based questions
• Tests knowledge and scenario-based decision making
• Traditional testing center or online proctoring

Skill Validation

OSCP validates:

• Active exploitation of vulnerable systems
• Privilege escalation techniques
• Buffer overflow exploitation
• Custom exploit modification
• Professional report writing
• Working under pressure

PenTest+ validates:

• Penetration testing methodology
• Attack planning and scoping
• Vulnerability assessment
• Legal and compliance awareness
• Communication and reporting concepts

Cost and Time Investment

Career Impact

OSCP opens doors to:

• Senior Penetration Tester roles
• Red Team positions
• Offensive Security Consultant
• Security Research positions
• Bug bounty hunting (credibility)

PenTest+ qualifies you for:

• Junior Penetration Tester
• Vulnerability Analyst
• Security Consultant (entry-level)
• Government contractor roles (DoD 8570)

Preparation Strategies

For OSCP

1. Build a solid foundation first

   • Master Linux command line
   • Understand networking (TCP/IP, protocols)
   • Learn basic scripting (Python, Bash)

2. Practice on vulnerable machines

   • Complete 50+ boxes on HackTheBox
   • Work through TryHackMe offensive paths
   • Use Proving Grounds (Offensive Security's practice platform)

3. Focus on methodology

   • Document everything as you practice
   • Develop your own enumeration checklist
   • Practice writing professional reports

4. Master buffer overflows

   • This is guaranteed points on the exam
   • Practice until it becomes routine

For PenTest+

1. Use structured study materials

   • Official CompTIA study guide
   • Practice tests from reputable providers
   • Video courses (Dion Training, Professor Messer)

2. Understand the methodology

   • PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standard)
   • OWASP Testing Guide
   • Planning, scoping, and rules of engagement

3. Know the tools

   • Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite basics
   • Focus on understanding when/why to use each tool
   • Less depth than OSCP requires

4. Don't neglect soft skills

   • Report writing questions are common
   • Communication and legal considerations tested

Which Should You Choose?

Choose PenTest+ if:

• You're new to offensive security
• You need a DoD 8570 compliant certification
• You have limited time for intensive study
• You want to validate foundational pen testing knowledge
• Budget is a significant constraint

Choose OSCP if:

• You want to work as a dedicated penetration tester
• You're willing to invest serious time in preparation
• You want the credential that top firms require
• You learn best through hands-on practice
• You want a certification that never expires

Consider Both if:

You're building a long-term career in penetration testing. Start with PenTest+ to build foundations and meet compliance requirements, then pursue OSCP to reach senior-level positions.

The Bottom Line

PenTest+ is an excellent starting point that validates you understand penetration testing concepts. OSCP proves you can actually execute. The industry values OSCP more highly, but PenTest+ has its place, especially for government work and as a stepping stone.

If you're serious about penetration testing as a career, OSCP should be on your roadmap. The question is whether to tackle it now or build up to it through other means—including potentially earning PenTest+ along the way.