CompTIA Security+ · SY0-701

Pass Security+ on your first try

Your complete guide to the SY0-701 exam — domains, study plan, common mistakes and how to prepare smart on your smartphone.

Exam at a glance

90 minDuration
90Questions
750/900Passing score
3 yearsValidity

Why Security+ matters

🌍 Globally recognized

The industry-standard entry-level certification for cybersecurity roles worldwide.

📈 Career boost

Required or preferred for SOC Analyst, Security Admin and many DoD-aligned roles.

🛠 Hands-on focus

Performance-based questions test real skills, not just memorization.

🏗 Solid foundation

The perfect launchpad into CySA+, PenTest+ and CISSP.

The 5 SY0-701 exam domains

DomainWeight
1. General Security Concepts12%
2. Threats, Vulnerabilities & Mitigations22%
3. Security Architecture18%
4. Security Operations28%
5. Security Program Management & Oversight20%

📚 Your 5-step study plan

1

Map the official objectives

Download the SY0-701 Objectives PDF and use the CompTIA Security+ A+ Trainer app as your structured checklist — every objective is covered.

2

Learn with 400+ flashcards

Build core knowledge in short mobile sessions. Compact flashcards make even complex topics easy to memorize on the go.

3

Train with 450+ quiz questions

Practice exam-style multiple-choice questions across all 5 domains and track your weak spots directly in the app.

4

Simulate the exam

Use timed quiz mode to recreate exam pressure. Review explanations after every question to lock in the reasoning.

5

Book your voucher

Once you score consistently above 80% in the app, book your exam online (OnVue) or at a Pearson VUE test center.

Common mistakes to avoid

❌ Only reading books

Passive reading doesn’t prepare you for performance-based questions. Active recall wins.

❌ Skipping weak domains

Security Operations alone is 28%. Don’t dodge the topics you find harder.

❌ Ignoring acronyms

Security+ is acronym-heavy. Drill them daily with flashcards.

❌ Cramming last minute

Plan 6–10 weeks. Short, consistent mobile sessions beat marathon study days.

Start preparing today

Get 450+ exam-style quiz questions and 400+ flashcards aligned with all SY0-701 objectives — on your smartphone, anywhere.

Get the Security+ Trainer App →

Frequently asked questions

How much does the Security+ exam cost?
A standard voucher is around $404 USD. CompTIA also offers bundles with retake insurance and study materials.
Do I need prior knowledge?
CompTIA recommends Network+ and 2 years of IT administration experience, but motivated beginners can pass with focused preparation.
How long should I study?
Most candidates need 6–10 weeks of consistent daily practice. Short mobile sessions with flashcards and quizzes are highly effective.
Can I take the exam online?
Yes — via Pearson VUE OnVue from home with a webcam and a quiet, private room, or at a Pearson VUE test center.
What’s the difference between Security+ and CySA+?
Security+ is the entry-level foundation. CySA+ is the next step, focused on threat hunting, behavioral analytics and incident response for SOC roles.
How long is the certification valid?
Three years. You can renew through CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program or by passing a higher-level certification.