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How to Get Your CompTIA Security+ Certification

Table of Contents

Attaining a CompTIA Sec+ Certification is a great first step to a successful career in Information Technology. The credential demonstrates the recipient maintains a core understanding of security functions and the knowledge required to perform any cybersecurity role.

In fact, it’s not uncommon to find associate and bachelor IT degree programs that stipulate a CompTIA Security+ exam certificate as a course requirement. Test topics include risk management, access management, threats and vulnerabilities, secure network architecture concepts, and cryptography.

Keep reading for more information on the importance of attaining a CompTIA Security+ exam certificate, how best to study for it, and what jobs it can open up to you.

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Preparing for your CompTIA Sec+ Exam

You can prepare for your CompTIA Security+ exam based on your knowledge and prior experience in the IT field.

Sec+

Step 1: Test Your Knowledge

As part of your exam prep, the first thing you should do is assess how much you know about the material. Check out the CompTIA website to better understand what will be on the exam and what areas you need to work on most.

You can also explore available resources, including eLearning opportunities, virtual labs, study guides, and exam prep software. Don’t forget to go over the practice questions, either.

Step 2: Revise

While examining the sections available on the CompTIA website, be sure to highlight any gaps in your knowledge. Focus on areas you’re least comfortable with and reinforce new material using flashcards, practice quizzes, or other study tools.

Remember, there are six core areas you need to review in preparation for the CompTIA Security+ exam:

  • Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities
  • Technologies and Tools
  • Architecture and Design
  • Identity and Access Management
  • Risk Management
  • Cryptography and PKI

Other topics you should be familiar with include:

  • How to Configure Wireless Security Settings
  • How to Deploy Network Components
  • Management Controls
  • Penetration Testing
  • How to Deploy Mobile Devices Securely
  • How to Summarize Risk Management
  • Vulnerability Scanning Concepts
  • Secure Application Development

Step 3: Retest Your Knowledge

Once you feel confident enough, revisit the practice questions and see how much you’ve improved. Repeat the revision process if you are still experiencing knowledge gaps.

Step 4: Complete Classroom Training

Learn more about the best IT certifications for beginners. See what credentials you qualify for with little to no experience!

Alternatively, if you cannot gain the required knowledge through self-study, you can find nearby schools about classroom preparation for the CompTIA exam. Some institutions run courses specifically to help students prepare for sitting the CompTIA Security+ certification.

How Long Will it Take me to Get CompTIA Security+ Certification?

Sec+ Certification

Candidates typically start studying for the CompTIA Sec+Certification around three weeks before the exam. However, if you’re brand new to the field of IT, you may require some extra time to digest all the core topics.

If you are a beginner, you should start studying 30-45 days in advance. For more experienced individuals, you can estimate how much study time is required based on how many knowledge gaps you have.

Once you feel confident in your knowledge, you can obtain a voucher from the CompTIA website and schedule your exam whenever your schedule permits. You can decide whether or not you want to take the test remotely or in person.

Your result should appear on the screen immediately after completing both the exam and the exit survey to let you know whether or not you’ve passed. That said, you may need to wait a few weeks before your physical certificate arrives.

You will also be able to view your certificate on the CompTIA website. Access will be granted using a password sent to you through email. All of your certifications gained through CompTIA will be stored on the site.

How Do I Take the CompTIA Sec+ Exam?

When you are ready to sit your CompTIA Security+ exam, you can register for a CompTIA account if you haven’t done so already. You can sign up on the Pearson Vue website. If this is your first time signing up for CompTIA, you will have to wait 24 hours after registration for full account activation.

Want to break into the information technology field? Check out these 7 tips on how to get into IT!

Once your profile has been generated, you can then select your exam preferences and requirements. Select the CompTIA Security+ exam, test center, and preferred time and date for sitting the security examination from the menu.

Next, fill out the other formalities and provide proof of identity. Finally, you will need to pay for the examination booking. Alternatively, you can redeem an exam voucher at this stage. Exam vouchers are available on the CompTIA marketplace. As mentioned, CompTIA now allows for online testing.

If you’re unable to attend a nearby test center or simply prefer to take the exam at home, you can do so by following the organization’s test policies and procedures.

How Long Does the CompTIA Sec+ Exam Take?

Examinees have 90 minutes total to complete the CompTIA Security+ exam. If you’re taking the security exam in person, it is recommended that you show up at the test center at least 20 minutes before your examination start time. This will give you sufficient time to register and settle in before starting.

If you’re sitting for the security exam at home, it’s best to have your computer ready long before your requested start time. It would be smart to make sure your laptop has sufficient charge and that you are not experiencing any technical or connection-related issues.

You will have up to 90 quick questions to complete. The majority of the questions will be presented in multiple-choice format, while others will be drag-and-drop based. You will be graded on a scale between 100 and 900 and must attain at least 750 points to pass the security exam.

Once the 90 minutes are up, you have the option to complete the multiple-choice exit survey.

What Kinds of Jobs Can I Get With a Sec+ Certification?

Security+ Certification

A CompTIA Security+ Certification is recommended to anyone starting a career in IT, though those interested in the security sector should definitely pursue the credential.

Some careers may require additional academic achievements, but the Sec+ examination is a great way to set yourself up for success in a number of ways. Jobs you can pursue with the certification include:

Security Administrator

In this role, you will detect common security issues, assess security functions, and produce reports on your analysis.

Systems Administrator

Often, systems administration refers to a wide range of responsibilities, from organizational security, implementing public key infrastructure, and more.

IT professionals in California can develop the technical and professional skills needed to install, manage and troubleshoot software in today’s market with ICOHS College. Request more information about our IT Systems Administrator program today.

Junior IT Auditor

A junior IT auditor maintains public key infrastructure so that a company’s technological infrastructure can run smoothly. Junior IT auditors will typically also have to implement public key infrastructure.

Security Engineer

A security engineer maintains computer networks against hacks and other forms of cyberattacks.

Security Specialist

Security specialists build security systems for clients and identify any vulnerabilities in these network systems.

Security Consultant

Security consultants assess a company’s security systems and determine whether or not an update is required.

Network Administrator

Network administrators troubleshoot problems and update security networks if necessary.

Conclusion

The CompTIA Security+ certification exam is a great way to transition into the information technology profession. The skills and topics covered in this exam will come up regularly throughout your experience, so it’s a good idea to get ahead of the information early on in your journey.

Many college courses may also require a CompTIA Security+ certificate. You’ll also need this credential to complete any other certification exams offered by CompTIA.

Apply for a CompTIA Security+ certification exam, and enroll in ICOHS Security+ Bootcamp today to begin your journey towards becoming an IT professional!

ICOHS College offers a five-week Security+ Bootcamp to help you prepare for the exam. We also provide Bootcamps for certification in the following areas:

We also offer certification programs for those interested in careers as system administrators or network specialists. Scholarships and title IV funding are available for IT and other programs. Give us a call at (858) 581-9460 or email us for more information on tuition and assistance. 

Students will also receive career counseling services before completing their programs. All graduates enjoy lifetime access to our job placement program as well. You can fill out our program form to get started on a successful career in information technology today. 

ICOHS College is accredited by the ACCET (Accrediting Council for Continuing Education, accet.org). To learn more about ICOHS College accreditations and licenses, visit our accreditation page.

FAQ

What is the Security+ Certification?

A CompTIA Security+ certification validates those who attain it as entry-level professionals at organizational security. Those who achieve this certificate can resolve common security issues.

How do I become Sec+ certified?

To become Security+ certified, you must create a CompTIA security account and pass a CompTIA Security+ exam. The CompTIA security examination lasts 90 minutes and mainly involves multiple-choice questions.

Is a Security+ Certification worth it?

A Security+ certification is a great way to launch your career in IT security. It also teaches vital skills that are transferable and relevant to most other jobs in IT.

Where can I take a CompTIA Security+ course?

You can take a CompTIA Security+ course at many colleges, institutions, or even online. ICHOS College in San Diego offers a tailored CompTIA Security+ Bootcamp that prepares you for your security certification exam over five weeks.

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