CompTIA
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ Certification (SY0-701)
The most widely held entry-level cybersecurity certification, taken by IT professionals moving into security roles. Frequently listed in job postings and accepted for US DoD 8140/8570 baseline requirements.
Full program: 5 decks, 792 cards.
What's on the exam
SY0-701 Exam Objectives (V7; SY0-801 (V8) launches November 17, 2026 with revised domains/weights; SY0-701 English retires June 11, 2027)
General Security Concepts
12%Security controls · CIA triad and fundamental concepts · Change management impact on security · Cryptographic solutions · Zero trust
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations
22%Threat actors and motivations · Attack vectors and surfaces · Types of vulnerabilities · Indicators of malicious activity · Mitigation techniques
Security Architecture
18%Architecture models (cloud, hybrid, IoT/ICS) · Securing enterprise infrastructure · Data protection strategies · Resilience and recovery · Network security appliances
Security Operations
28%Hardening and baselines · Asset and vulnerability management · Monitoring and alerting · Identity and access management · Automation and orchestration · Incident response
Security Program Management and Oversight
20%Governance and policies · Risk management · Third-party risk · Compliance and audits · Security awareness practices
Frequently asked questions
How much does the CompTIA Security+ cost?
The CompTIA Security+ costs $439. Voucher price varies by region and bundle; confirm current pricing with CompTIA.
How long is the CompTIA Security+ and how many questions does it have?
Up to 90 items — 90 minutes.
What do you need to pass the CompTIA Security+?
750 on a scale of 100–900.
Can you retake the CompTIA Security+?
No wait for second attempt; 14-day wait for third and subsequent attempts.
What is the best way to study for the CompTIA Security+?
Start from the official outline and your primary study materials: the exam is weighted by domain (General Security Concepts 12%, Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations 22%, Security Architecture 18%, Security Operations 28%, Security Program Management and Oversight 20%). Once you've learned the material, spaced-repetition flashcards organized by those domains are an efficient way to retain it and refresh it before test day.
Ready to prepare?
Our CompTIA Security+ program is organized by this outline's domains and scheduled by spaced repetition, with a path from first card to test day.
Flashcards are a memory tool. Learn the material first, then use NoReread to retain it and refresh what you already know. It doesn't replace studying the subject.