Overview
CompTIA Security+ is a global cybersecurity certification that validates the practical skills needed for core security work. It suits roles such as security analyst, security engineer and systems administrator. Version 7 (exam code SY0-701) is current. CompTIA says Version 8 is expected to launch around 17 November 2026.
Who can apply
There is no formal prerequisite. CompTIA recommends Network+ and two years of experience in a security or systems administrator job role.
Exam pattern
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Exam code | SY0-701 |
| Questions | Maximum of 90, a mix of multiple choice and performance-based |
| Length | 90 minutes |
| Passing score | 750 on a scale of 100 to 900 |
| Languages | English, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai |
Syllabus
The exam has five domains.
| Domain | Share |
|---|---|
| General Security Concepts | 12% |
| Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations | 22% |
| Security Architecture | 18% |
| Security Operations | 28% |
| Security Program Management and Oversight | 20% |
Important dates
SY0-701 launched on 7 November 2023. It retires on 11 June 2027 in English, and on 13 August 2027 in Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai.
Preparation tips
Spend most time on Security Operations and Threats, which carry half the exam.
Practise performance-based questions, which ask you to complete a task rather than pick an answer.
If you plan to test after November 2026, check whether you want Version 7 or Version 8.
What is the Security+ passing score?
750 on a scale of 100 to 900.
How many questions are there?
A maximum of 90, mixing multiple choice and performance-based questions, in 90 minutes.