Security+ / Security+ vs CompTIA A+
Security+ vs CompTIA A+: Which Certification Fits Better?
Security+ suits IT professionals who want to add security credibility to their resume. CompTIA A+ suits students with no IT experience who need a credible starting point. If you plan to earn both, start with CompTIA A+: it is the more foundational of the two, and the concepts it builds carry directly into Security+. Tackling Security+ first usually means re-learning fundamentals under exam pressure.
| Category | Security+ | CompTIA A+ |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Intermediate | Foundational |
| Vendor | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Exam | SY0-701 | 220-1201 (Core 1) + 220-1202 (Core 2) |
| Exam format | Single proctored exam (multiple-choice + performance-based questions) | Two-exam sequence, both must be passed to earn CompTIA A+ |
| Renewal cycle | 3 years, renew by earning 50 CEUs, passing CySA+, PenTest+ or SecurityX (formerly CASP+), or re-taking | 3 years, renew by earning CEUs, passing a higher CompTIA cert, or re-taking |
| Recommended experience | Baseline IT literacy with some networking and systems exposure (Network+ recommended but not required) | Beginner-friendly with consistent practice and troubleshooting discipline |
| Training hours | 30 hours | 40 hours |
| Course price | $699 | $599 |
| Typical Canadian salary band | $55K-$100K CAD | $38K-$58K CAD |
| Best-fit roles | Security Analyst | IT Support Specialist |
| Recommended starting point | No formal prerequisite, but basic networking and systems knowledge help. | No prior certification or professional experience required. |
When Security+ is the better choice
- IT professionals who want to add security credibility to their resume
- Students targeting SOC, analyst, compliance, or security operations roles
- Career changers who want a recognized baseline cybersecurity certification
When CompTIA A+ is the better choice
- Students with no IT experience who need a credible starting point
- Career changers targeting help desk, desktop support, or field support roles
- Learners who want to build confidence before networking, cloud, or security tracks
What Security+ training covers
- Threats, attacks, and defensive controls
- Identity, access, and network security
- Risk management, governance, and response
- Security operations and practical hardening
What CompTIA A+ training covers
- Hardware and endpoint support
- Windows, macOS, and basic Linux workflows
- Troubleshooting methodology and support procedures
- Introductory security and networking concepts
Comparison FAQs
Which certification is better for beginners: Security+ or CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ is usually the easier starting point, while Security+ makes more sense once you already have stronger fundamentals.
How do the Security+ and CompTIA A+ exams compare?
Security+ is earned by passing one exam, CompTIA SY0-701. It has up to 90 questions in 90 minutes. The passing score is 750/900 on CompTIA's scaled scoring. CompTIA A+ is earned by passing two CompTIA exams, 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2). Each has up to 90 questions in 90 minutes. The passing scores are 675/900 for Core 1 and 700/900 for Core 2.
How should I choose between Security+ and CompTIA A+?
Security+ suits IT professionals who want to add security credibility to their resume. CompTIA A+ suits students with no IT experience who need a credible starting point. Pick the one that matches the job you want next.
Which pays more: Security+ or CompTIA A+?
Typical Canadian roles tied to Security+ run $55K-$100K CAD, while CompTIA A+-related roles run $38K-$58K CAD. Actual pay depends far more on the specific role, your experience, and the city than on the certification alone.
Can I earn both Security+ and CompTIA A+?
If you plan to earn both, start with CompTIA A+: it is the more foundational of the two, and the concepts it builds carry directly into Security+. Tackling Security+ first usually means re-learning fundamentals under exam pressure.
Need a direct recommendation between Security+ and CompTIA A+?
Talk to CISNET and get a recommendation based on your current skills, not generic internet rankings.
Get in Touch
