Have you heard about the CompTIA Security exam? No IT professional is unaware of the CompTIA Security exam. It is unsurprisingly one of the most authentic and renowned certifications in the Security niche. It is hardly possible to find a certified networking security professional who has not taken the SY0-701 exam. 97% of the senior security professionals take the exam to get highlighted in the process of hiring. But is the SY0-701 exam worth taking? Why do people consider this exam so hard to take? In this exam, you will get an answer to all your queries related to the CompTIA SY0-701 exam like exam objectives, cost, difficulty level, preparation tips, and resources.
What is the CompTIA SY0-701 exam?
The CompTIA Security+ exam with the exam code SY0-701 is the professional certification that prepares a candidate for advanced security skills. The SY0-601 exam code has been changed to SY0-701. The exam is advanced level so it has some recommended prerequisites. The candidate must be CompTIA Network+ certified. Two years of working experience in CompTIA network security is a plus point.
Number of Questions:
The exam time is 90 minutes against 90 exam questions.
Type of Questions:
There are either multiple-choice or multi-responsive questions. Performance-based questions are also included which are real-world scenario-based questions involving simulations.
Languages:
The exam is conducted in English, with Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish to follow.
Passing Score:
The passing score of the exam is 750. The total number of questions is divided on a scale of 100-900. This implies that 70% of the exam must be done right.
Exam Validity
The exam is valid for 3 years. You must renew your certification prior to its expiry.
What is the Cost of the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam?
The cost of the CompTIA SY0-701 exam can be divided into three main categories as mentioned below:
- The cost for the CompTIA Security+ exam is $404 in the United States. However, the cost varies depending on the region.
- The preparation cost of the exam is variable. It depends on the course bundle that you are choosing.
- The exam retake fee of the exam is applicable in case you are not able to pass the exam. The cost of the CompTIA Security+ retake is equal to the exam registration fee. The retake fee for each attempt is $219.
- The exam maintenance fee is the fee that is paid to maintain the validity of the exam. However, the Continuing Education (CE) fee for the Security+ exam is $50 annually. In case you are thinking of renewing your credential for three years, the CE fee would be $150.
- CompTIA CertMaster course that is taken by the candidates to maintain their CEU requirement. The fee for the course is $205.
Read more: CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost
Why is it Essential to Renew the CompTIA SY0-701 Exam?
Do you want to keep your CompTIA SY0-071 valid? It is essential to renew the CompTIA SY0-701 exam. In case you don’t renew the CompTIA SY0-701 exam within 3 years leads to the expiry of the certification. New things keep on adding in the CompTIA environment so the platform keeps it certain that each certified candidate stays up to date with the trends and innovations.
The following are 3 major options that you can deploy to renew your certification:
- Pass the latest version of Security+ exam
- Obtain the certification that is next in level to the CompTIA Security+
- Study the CompTIA CertMaster CE exam course. It is a self-paced course which is 8-10 hours long. The completion of the course automatically renews the certification.
Why is CompTIA Security+ Hard: 4 Mistakes That You Must Consider Seriously
The difficulty of the CompTIA Security+ exam is subjective and varies from individual to individual. While some find the Security+ exam moderately challenging, others may perceive it as more difficult due to the breadth of topics covered and the need for practical application. Regardless, with focused preparation using various study resources and practical exercises, many candidates successfully pass the exam.
Factors that influence the perceived difficulty include
1. Lack of Adequate Experience
Individuals with a solid background in IT and cybersecurity may find certain concepts more familiar, making the exam seem less challenging. This is a professional experience that requires strong knowledge of security basics. So lack of prior knowledge can make the exam really hard.
2. Outdated Study Resources
Adequate preparation significantly impacts the level of difficulty. Those who invest time in thorough study, hands-on practice, and practice exams are generally better equipped to handle the challenges. Outdated or obsolete study resources and materials are much
3. Insufficient Industry Experience
Practical experience in implementing cybersecurity measures can ease the application of theoretical knowledge during the exam. 2-3 years of working experience in cybersecurity is useful in taking the SY0-701 exam. Lack of work experience may pose difficulty in learning the advanced security concepts.
4. Practicing Old Exam Pattern
Understanding the structure of the exam, including the mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions, can influence how well candidates navigate through it. Since the CompTIA Security+ exam has changed the students must learn the advanced and recent exam pattern. Practicing authentic exam dumps helps you score better for the exam because they give you an idea of what sort of questions will be included within the exams and what technical level the exam would be.
Read more: CompTIA IT Certification Roadmap
7 Excellent Tips to Pass CompTIA Security+ Exam
While the Security+ exam is demanding, proper preparation can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
TIP 1. Understand the Exam Objectives
Review the CompTIA Security+ exam objectives thoroughly. Create a study plan that aligns with these objectives to ensure comprehensive coverage of the material. Make sure that you learn all the topics with keen depth. Start with the one that you find easy or you have a good grip on it. Try to link the security concepts together.
Tip 2. Take Virtual Labs
Cybersecurity is a hands-on field. Gain practical experience by setting up virtual labs or utilizing online platforms that allow you to simulate real-world scenarios. This practical knowledge will be invaluable during the exam.
Learn the Virtual labs from
TIP 3. Use Reliable Study Resources
Utilize a variety of study resources, including official CompTIA materials, reputable cybersecurity textbooks, online courses, and practice exams. Diversifying your sources will provide a well-rounded understanding of the topics.
Some reliable preparation sites are given below:
Tip 4. Make Precise Revision Notes
Create flashcards to aid in memorizing key concepts, acronyms, and terminology. This can be particularly helpful for the vast amount of information covered in the exam. Regularly review your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly. Focus on areas where you may be weaker and iterate your approach to ensure continuous improvement.
Tip 5. Practice Under Exam-like Setting
Practice time management during your study sessions and practice exams. The Security+ exam has a time limit, and being able to allocate your time effectively is crucial for completing all questions. Take practice exams under simulated exam conditions. This not only helps in assessing your knowledge but also familiarizes you with the exam format and time constraints.
Tip 6. Take Regular Security+ Feed
Regularly check for updates in the field of cybersecurity. Follow industry news, blogs, and subscribe to reputable cybersecurity publications to stay informed about the latest trends and threats. Engage with cybersecurity forums and communities to discuss concepts, share experiences, and seek advice. Networking with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and additional resources.
Tip 7. Stay Confident at the Exam Table
Approach the exam with confidence, knowing that you have adequately prepared. Practice relaxation techniques to manage exam-day stress, ensuring a clear mind for effective problem-solving.
Read more: How to pass CompTIA Security+ Exam
4 Motivating Reasons Contributing to CompTIA Security+ Sy0-071 Worth
- Learn Solid Security Concepts
The Security+ certification provides a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles, covering topics such as network security, cryptography, identity management, and risk management. This versatility is crucial, as it equips professionals to address a broad range of security challenges.
- Vendor-Neutral Approach
One notable aspect of the CompTIA Security+ certification is its vendor-neutral approach. Unlike certifications tied to specific products or technologies, Security+ focuses on fundamental principles, making it applicable across different environments and technologies.
- Various Job Opportunities
Earning the CompTIA Security+ certification can open doors to various job roles, including security analyst, security consultant, and network administrator. Many employers specifically seek candidates with this certification, making it a valuable asset for career advancement.
- Earn 5-figures Salary
You can earn a minimum of a five-figure salary using the CompTIA Security+ exam. According to ZipRecruiter, the average earning made by a Security+ expert is $71,689 per year. This makes it a much more rewarding Security credential.
Follow up: Security+ vs EC Council
Closure
In conclusion, while the CompTIA Security+ exam poses challenges, diligent preparation and a strategic approach can lead to success. The exam polishes your skills and prepares you as a substantial candidate to perform the duties of a Security officer. The candidate has to learn the basic IT skills to create a strong basis for learning the exams. Thus SY0-701 exam is challenging for the candidates. Moreover, the preparation of the exam adds to the difficulty of the exam. However, the right preparation resources and learning schedule can help to crack the exam easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone take the Sy0-071 exam?
In general, anyone can take the Sy0-071 exam. However, it is important to notice that the exam involves advanced security and networking concepts that can only be understood by candidates who have prior working knowledge. So, it is recommended for the candidates who have taken the CompTIA Network+ exam or who have been working in the security environment.
Can I take the Sy0-071 exam online?
Pearson OnVUE offers online and onsite exam facilities for the CompTIA exams. You must create a Pearson VUE account to register for the exam.
How long does it take to prepare for the Sy0-071 exam?
The time for the preparation of the CompTIA Security+ exam varies. Usually, the preparation time depends on prior knowledge and experience. To specify further, the
Is it worth taking the Sy0-071 exam?
CompTIA Security+ is widely recognized in the IT industry as a foundational certification for cybersecurity professionals. It serves as a testament to one’s understanding of core security concepts, making it a valuable addition to your skill set.
