With rapid development in information technology and the Internet, cybersecurity has become an important aspect of the secure functionality of any organization. So, if you are looking to get a start in a career in IT security the CompTIA Security+ certification path is the perfect option for you.
That’s because, for IT professionals working under the scope of Administrators, Security Engineers, or Analysts, this designation will showcase your knowledge in the latest cybersecurity techniques and the hands-on skills you possess.
There are two versions available for this exam, Exam Labs SY0-601, the new version, and the previous version of the test, Security+ Practice Test (SY0-601), in English, will retire in July 2021.
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What to Know about the Exam?
Both versions of the exam are similar, the only difference is the additional exam objectives in the Exam Labs SY0-501 version. Each test consists of 90 questions that are of performance-based and multiple-choice format. You need a passing score of 750 out of 900 to gain the Security+ certification.
For candidates, it’s important to know that the exam is administered by Pearson VUE and it can be taken online or at a testing center. However, before sitting for the final test it is recommended that you have at least two years of job experience in a security-focused role. It is also an added advantage if you have gained the CompTIA Network+ certification.
Certification Renewal
In case you didn’t know, this certificate is valid for three years only. You can keep your certification up to date with the Continuing Education (CE) program provided by CompTIA, allowing you to extend your qualification. Therefore, you can automatically renew your certificate when you complete Exam-Labs Security+ Practice Test (SY0-601) CE or gain 50 Continuing Education Units.
Tested Knowledge Areas
Both the versions of the exam consist of five domains that revolve around topics related to attacks, vulnerabilities and threats, design and architecture, governance, risk and compliance, implementation, operations, and incident response.
These objectives will test your technical skills needed in risk assessment and management, and for organizational security assessment and incident response procedures that include basic threat detection and digital forensics to turn you into a better problem solver and ensure high performance at your workplace.
Training and Preparation
CompTIA provides a variety of training programs for the CompTIA Security+ certification.
- CertMaster Learn. This is an interactive eLearning solution to train at your own pace.
- CertMaster Lab for Security+ designation is a virtual laboratory developed by CompTIA to enhance your practical skills with hands-on training.
- If you prefer textbooks the official vendor offers study guides that cover all the exam objectives.
- To access your standing, you can take practice tests offered by CompTIA or websites such as Exam-Labs, PrepAway, Certbolt, etc.
Conclusion
In today’s world, most employers look for candidates with knowledge of cybersecurity. This is due to the fact that it’s evolving into a crucial aspect in IT roles as security threats grow every day.
The training and effort put forth for the CompTIA Security+ certificate will help you detect threats and vulnerabilities with easy and implement proper protocols. Therefore, this well-recognized accreditation will get you a step into the industry and give you an edge over other candidates.
