If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity and asking yourself, “Is CompTIA Security+ worth it?”, the short answer is yes—especially in 2025’s competitive job landscape. Cybersecurity jobs are projected to grow by 32% before 2033, creating immense demand for professionals with validated skills. Security+ happens to be one of the most widely recognized entry-level certifications.

But before investing time and money, it’s essential to understand what the certification covers, its benefits, limitations, and how it compares to other credentials. This guide breaks it all down for aspiring and advancing professionals.

What Is CompTIA Security+?

Overview of the Certification

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification focused on baseline cybersecurity skills such as threat analysis, incident response, governance, cryptography, and network security.

Why It’s Popular in Cybersecurity

Unlike vendor-specific certifications, Security+ is vendor-neutral, meaning its concepts apply across all technologies—from Microsoft to Cisco to cloud-native platforms. This makes it a reliable first step for anyone entering the field.

Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It? The Key Considerations

Global Recognition and Vendor Neutrality

Security+ is recognized globally across public and private sectors. Its neutrality ensures relevance across industries from healthcare to defense.

Career Entry Point for Cybersecurity Beginners

For professionals transitioning from IT support or networking roles, Security+ builds the foundation needed to transition into SOC (Security Operations Center) and junior analyst roles.

Industry Demand for Security+ Holders

Job descriptions for roles like SOC analyst, IT auditor, and information security specialist frequently list Security+ as a preferred or even required certification.

Benefits of CompTIA Security+ Certification

Better Job Opportunities and Pay Increases

Security+ certified professionals often land roles faster and negotiate higher pay. According to surveys, Security+ holders earn on average 10-15% more than uncertified peers in similar roles.

Compliance and DoD 8570 Requirements

Security+ meets U.S. Department of Defense (DoD 8570) baseline requirements for cybersecurity positions—making it essential for military and government jobs.

Strong Foundation for Advanced Certifications

Security+ is viewed as a gateway certification, preparing professionals to earn credentials like CISSP, CEH, or CompTIA CySA+.

Drawbacks and Limitations of CompTIA Security+

Not Always Enough for Senior-Level Jobs

While ideal for beginners, Security+ alone isn’t sufficient for advanced roles like penetration testing or CISO-level leadership.

Certification Renewal and CE Costs

Valid for three years, Security+ requires renewal through continuing education units (CEUs) or retaking the exam—an investment in both time and cost.

Self-Study vs Training Investment

Though affordable compared to advanced certifications, candidates still face costs of $350–$400 for the exam plus optional training expenses.

Careers You Can Pursue with CompTIA Security+

Security Analyst and Incident Responder

Identify and mitigate security threats across organizational networks.

SOC Analyst and IT Auditor

Day-to-day monitoring of systems and ensuring compliance with policies and frameworks.

Government and Defense Cybersecurity Roles

Security+ continues to be a baseline certification for federal agencies, contractors, and military operations.

CompTIA Security+ vs Other Certifications

Security+ vs CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

  • Security+: General foundation for multiple roles.

  • CEH: Focuses specifically on penetration testing and hacking skills.

Security+ vs CISSP

  • Security+: Entry-level, 0–2 years of experience.

  • CISSP: Management/leadership-level, requires 5+ years.

Security+ vs Network+

Network+ often precedes Security+ for those without networking experience. Together, they provide a balanced foundation.

Salary Impact of CompTIA Security+

Average Salary Ranges for Security+ Professionals

  • Security Analyst: $65,000 – $90,000

  • Network Security Specialist: $70,000 – $95,000

  • Systems Administrator: $60,000 – $80,000

Difference Between Certified and Non-Certified Candidates

Employers value certifications as proof of knowledge. Security+ holders frequently command 10-15% higher average salaries than uncertified job seekers.

Tips to Get the Most from Your Security+ Certification

Combine with Hands-On Experience

Real-world projects, internships, or SOC analyst experience amplify the value of certification.

Pair with Networking or Cloud Certifications

Combining Security+ with CompTIA Network+ or cloud certifications like AWS Security Specialty provides a stronger career trajectory.

Stay Updated with Threat Trends

The threat landscape evolves rapidly. Pairing Security+ with learning about AI-driven threats, ransomware defense, and cloud-native security keeps you competitive.

Future of CompTIA Security+ in Cybersecurity

Aligning with Growing Cybersecurity Skill Demands

As threats intensify, entry-level certifications like Security+ remain vital for training the next generation of defenders.

Security+ in Cloud and Zero Trust Environments

The updated Security+ exam now includes cloud security, Zero Trust architectures, and automation topics relevant to today’s IT environment.

Why Employers Continue to Trust Entry-Level Certs

Given the cybersecurity workforce shortage, employers hire Security+ trained talent as a foundation to train internally for advanced roles.

Final Verdict: Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It?

So, is CompTIA Security+ worth it in 2025? Absolutely. It remains one of the most cost-effective, widely recognized, and career-boosting certifications for beginners in cybersecurity.

While it may not guarantee high-level positions alone, Security+ provides credibility, job access, and serves as a springboard to specialized certifications. For anyone aspiring to break into cybersecurity, it’s one of the smartest steps you can take.

FAQs: CompTIA Security+ Worth It

Q1. Is CompTIA Security+ worth it for IT professionals?
Yes. It validates foundational cybersecurity skills, making it useful for IT professionals transitioning into security roles.

Q2. Does Security+ guarantee a job?
Not on its own—but combined with hands-on experience, it significantly improves employability.

Q3. How long does CompTIA Security+ certification last?
It’s valid for three years and requires renewal through continuing education or exam retake.

Q4. How hard is CompTIA Security+?
Moderately challenging for beginners. With structured study, most candidates pass within 2–3 months of preparation.

Q5. Is Security+ better than CEH?
They have different purposes—Security+ for foundational knowledge, CEH for ethical hacking specialization.

Q6. What is the average salary with Security+?
Professionals earn between $65,000–$95,000 depending on role and experience.

Q7. Should I take Network+ before Security+?
If you lack networking experience, Network+ first is helpful, though not mandatory.