The Security+ Exam Information

Introduction

Security+ by CompTIA is a certification that validates the baseline skills of an individual required to perform core security functions and peruse a career in IT security. The exam emphasizes on hands-on skills that ensure the IT security professional is prepared to solve a variety of issues. It also focuses on the latest risk management techniques, risk mitigation, threat management and intrusion detection.

CompTIA Security+ SY0-501: The new update

This is the new and updated version of the exam. This update is introduced to reflect the best practices for risk management and mitigation. Now, there will be more emphasis on practical and hands-on experience to identify and address the security attacks, threats and vulnerabilities.

Security + will serve as a baseline for all cybersecurity jobs. The new version of the exam has been updated to reflect how cybersecurity is becoming more specialized.

Jobs that you can apply for after Security+

Here is the list of jobs that use Security+:

• Network administrator
• Security Consultant
• Security Specialist
• Security Engineer
• Junior IT Auditor/ Penetration Tester
• Security Administrator
• Systems Administrator

Security+ Domains

The Security + exam consists of the following 6 domains:

• Threats, attacks and vulnerabilities
• Technology and tools
• Architectures and design
• Identity and access management
• Risk management
• Cryptography and PKI

Security+ Exam details: Number of Questions, Time, and language

Security+ exam will consist of 90 questions and they will be multiple choice and performance based questions. The time allotted to complete the exam is 90 minutes. It is available in English, Japanese, Portuguese and Simplified Chinese.

Passing score for Security+ Exam

The exam is graded on a scale from 100 to 900, with a minimum of 750 to pass. Any score less than 750 is considered a failing grade.

How to find if you pass the exam?

Once you are finished taking the exam, your score will appear on the screen and you will receive an email too. If you have passed, congratulations!

If you fail the test, don’t despair. Your report will show you the areas you need to focus on. If this is your first failure, you can retake the test at your earliest convenience CompTIA allows candidates to retake the test after the second failure without any need to wait. However, if you need to take the test the third time, then you must wait for 14 days from the date you took the exam.

Cost of taking the Security+ Exam

The exam costs $330. However, the price of the exam varies depending on your location. You can find the price of the exam according to your location by visiting the company’s website.

Every time you take the exam, you have to pay full price for the exam. This also applies to rescheduling and cancellations, unless the request for rescheduling or cancellation is made within 24 hours of the testing date

Once you have passed the exam and you are now a certified individual, it validates your knowledge and skills to install and configure systems to secure applications, networks, and devices; perform threat analysis and respond with appropriate mitigation techniques; participate in risk mitigation activities; and operate with an awareness of applicable policies, laws, and regulations.

How to prepare for the Security+ Exam?

• CompTIA’s training tool

The CompTIA’s official website has training materials, class room training an online learning tool called CertMaster to prepare for the exam. It is also a comprehensive guide on the curriculum of Security+.

• Infosec Institutes resource

Anyone can get overwhelmed when taking such exams, especially if it is your first time. But with the right resources, you cannot just prepare well but pass the exam too. There are lots of free sources available that can help you understand the concepts of security. You can also join the Security + Boot camp to prepare for the exam and increase your chances to become Security + certified.

Be Safe

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Hannah
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