CompTIA Security+ Study Guide: Everything You Need to Pass in 2026

CompTIA Security+ is the most widely recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification. It validates foundational security skills and is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense for baseline technical roles.

This guide covers everything you need to know to pass the SY0-701 exam, from domain breakdowns to a structured 10-week study plan.

Why CompTIA Security+ Matters

Security+ is vendor-neutral, meaning the skills you learn apply across any technology stack. It is recognized globally and frequently listed as a requirement for cybersecurity job postings.

The certification covers practical security concepts that apply to real-world scenarios, making it valuable for both career changers and IT professionals looking to specialize in security.

Key benefits include:

• Meets DoD 8570 compliance requirements
• Recognized by employers across industries
• No prerequisites required (though Network+ is recommended)
• Validates hands-on security skills through performance-based questions
• Valid for three years with continuing education options

SY0-701 Exam Overview

The current exam version is SY0-701, which was released to reflect the evolving threat landscape.

Detail	Information
Exam Code	SY0-701
Number of Questions	Up to 90
Question Types	Multiple choice and performance-based
Duration	90 minutes
Passing Score	750 out of 900
Cost	$404 USD

The Five Exam Domains

Domain 1: General Security Concepts (12%)

This domain covers foundational security principles including the CIA triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability), zero trust architecture, and security control categories.

Key topics to study:

• Security controls: technical, managerial, operational, physical
• CIA triad and AAA framework
• Zero trust principles and implementation
• Gap analysis and security assessment
• Change management and its security implications

Domain 2: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)

The largest domain focuses on understanding the threat landscape and how to mitigate risks.

Key topics to study:

• Common threat actors and their motivations
• Attack surfaces and vectors (phishing, social engineering, supply chain)
• Vulnerability types (software, hardware, cloud-specific)
• Indicators of malicious activity
• Mitigation techniques for each threat category

Domain 3: Security Architecture (18%)

This domain covers designing and implementing secure systems, including cloud, on-premises, and hybrid architectures.

Key topics to study:

• Network security architecture and segmentation
• Secure infrastructure design patterns
• Cloud security considerations (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
• Resilience and recovery strategies
• Embedded and IoT device security

Domain 4: Security Operations (28%)

The second largest domain focuses on day-to-day security operations, monitoring, and incident response.

Key topics to study:

• Security monitoring and alerting tools
• Vulnerability management and scanning
• Incident response procedures
• Log analysis and SIEM concepts
• Digital forensics fundamentals
• Automation and orchestration

Domain 5: Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)

This domain covers governance, risk management, compliance, and security program management.

Key topics to study:

• Security governance and policy frameworks
• Risk management concepts and processes
• Compliance requirements (GDPR, PCI DSS, HIPAA)
• Security awareness training programs
• Audit and assessment procedures

10-Week Study Plan

Weeks 1-2: General Security Concepts

Start with Domain 1 to build your foundational knowledge. Study the CIA triad, security controls, and zero trust principles. Take notes using active recall techniques.

Weeks 3-4: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations

Spend two weeks on Domain 2 since it carries the most weight. Create flashcards for each threat type and its corresponding mitigation.

Weeks 5-6: Security Architecture

Focus on understanding how secure systems are designed. Draw network diagrams and practice identifying security flaws in sample architectures.

Weeks 7-8: Security Operations

Study monitoring tools, incident response, and vulnerability management. Set up a home lab if possible to practice with real tools.

Week 9: Security Program Management

Cover governance, risk management, and compliance frameworks. Create a comparison chart of major compliance standards.

Week 10: Review and Practice Exams

Take at least three full practice exams under timed conditions. Review every incorrect answer and identify knowledge gaps.

Study Resources

Official resources:

• CompTIA CertMaster Learn and CertMaster Practice
• CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 Exam Objectives document (free download)

Recommended books:

• CompTIA Security+ Get Certified Get Ahead (Darril Gibson)
• CompTIA Security+ All-in-One Exam Guide (Wm. Arthur Conklin)

Video courses:

• Professor Messer's Security+ Course (free on YouTube)
• Jason Dion's Security+ course (Udemy)

Practice labs:

• TryHackMe Security+ learning path
• CompTIA CertMaster Labs

Exam Day Tips

1. Read every question twice — Performance-based questions often contain details you will miss on the first read.
2. Flag and skip — Do not get stuck on any single question. Flag it and return after completing easier questions.
3. Manage your time — You have roughly one minute per question. Keep pace.
4. Eliminate wrong answers — On multiple choice, eliminating two options gives you a 50/50 chance.
5. Do not change answers — Your first instinct is usually correct unless you misread the question.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare for Security+?

Most people need 8-12 weeks of consistent study, depending on their existing IT knowledge.

Is Security+ hard?

It is challenging but achievable with structured preparation. The performance-based questions require hands-on understanding, not just memorization.

What jobs can I get with Security+?

Common roles include Security Analyst, Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, IT Auditor, and Security Consultant.

Should I get Network+ before Security+?

It is recommended but not required. If you already have networking experience, you can go directly to Security+.

What Comes After Security+

After passing Security+, consider advancing to CISSP certification or exploring specialized paths in penetration testing and incident response.