CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) — Exam Guide, Cost & Study Plan

Security+ tests baseline knowledge across threats, attacks, architecture, operations, governance, and cryptography. The SY0-701 refresh (released late 2023) sharpens focus on cloud-native threats, supply chain, IoT/OT, and zero-trust. It is accepted under DoD 8570 IAT II and is the dominant SOC analyst entry credential in UK MSSP hiring. ## What the exam covers - General Security Concepts - Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations - Security Architecture - Security Operations - Security Program Management and Oversight ## Prerequisites - None required; CompTIA recommends Network+ and 2 years of IT admin experience ## Study plan Plan 6–10 weeks. Professor Messer's free YouTube course is the de-facto curriculum; pair with Jason Dion's practice exams on Udemy. Aim for ≥85% on Dion before booking — performance-based questions account for ~20% of weighted score. ## Cost (UK 2026) Exam fee approx. £370 (vendor list price; bundles + corporate discounts vary). ## Format Up to 90 questions (multi-choice + performance-based), 90 minutes, scaled score 750/900 to pass

Frequently asked questions

Is Security+ enough to land a SOC analyst job?›

Combined with a home lab, basic scripting, and one project on GitHub — yes. Most UK MSSPs explicitly list Security+ as the entry bar.

Security+ vs SSCP for entry-level?›

Security+ has stronger market recognition and lower barrier; SSCP is more technically rigorous and is preferred for direct-hire SOC roles in financial services.

Does Security+ expire?›

Yes, after 3 years. Maintain via 50 CEUs or by earning a higher-level CompTIA cert (CySA+, PenTest+, CASP+).

Can I skip Security+ and go straight to CySA+?›

Technically yes, but recruiters use Security+ as a CV filter. Most candidates take both — Security+ first, then CySA+ within 12 months.

Frequently asked questions

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