How Long Does It Take to Prepare for CompTIA Security+?

How long does it take to prepare for CompTIA Security+? If you’re wondering this, don’t worry—you’re not alone! It’s a common question when considering the CompTIA Security+ certification. The time it takes to prepare depends on your prior experience and study habits.

Whether you’re new to IT or have some tech background, Prepsaret offers a flexible online prep program tailored to your needs. You can choose between a focused 1-month study plan or a more relaxed 2-month approach. 

Our comprehensive study materials set you up for success, no matter where you start. In this article, we’ll explore all the details you need to prepare for the exam.

Understanding the CompTIA Security+ Exam

The CompTIA Security+ certification is one of the most recognized and respected credentials in the field of IT security. It covers a wide range of critical topics such as network security, risk management, cryptography, identity management, and more.

Importance of CompTIA Security+ Certification in IT Security

• Industry recognition: The certification is globally acknowledged and often required by employers.
• Career growth: It opens doors to various roles in cybersecurity and IT security.
• In-demand skills: Companies seek professionals with proven skills in securing networks and managing risk.
• CompTIA Security+ Jobs : With CompTIA Security+, you can qualify for positions like:
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
    
  • Security Administrator
    
  • Network Administrator
    
  • IT Auditor
    

Having CompTIA Security+ on your resume boosts your credibility, increases your chances of landing a job in the booming field of cybersecurity, and can significantly increase your salary, as many employers recognize the value of this certification in hiring and compensation decisions.

The CompTIA Security+ Exam 

To earn your CompTIA Security+ certification, you must pass the SY0-701 exam. This exam is designed to assess your knowledge and skills across a wide range of security-related topics.

Topics covered

The exam covers areas such as network security, risk management, cryptography, threat analysis, identity management, and more.

How Long Is the CompTIA Security+ Exam and What to Expect?

• Question Types: Multiple-choice & performance-based
• Question format: The exam includes:
  • Multiple-choice questions

  • Performance-based questions (real-world scenarios to test practical skills)

• Duration: You have 90 minutes to complete the exam.

• Number of questions: There are 90 questions on the exam.
  

You need a passing score of 750 out of 900 to become certified.

How Long is CompTIA Security+ Valid?

Once you pass the CompTIA Security+ exam, your certification is valid for three years. However, you will need to renew your certification before it expires to ensure your skills stay up-to-date.

Renewal process

You can renew your certification through CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program by earning CEUs through activities like:

• Attending webinars
• Participating in conferences
• Taking additional courses
  

Renewal fee

The renewal fee for CompTIA Security+ certification is structured as follows:

• Annual Fee: $50 per year.
• Total Fee for Three Years: $150.

This fee is part of the Continuing Education (CE) program, which requires certified professionals to earn 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every three years to maintain their certification. 

The annual CE fee must be paid before the certification expires, but you do not have to pay it annually; you can pay the total $150 at any time during the three-year renewal period.

CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost

The CompTIA Security+ exam costs $404. However, this price can fluctuate depending on location and any available discounts or promotions.

While the cost might seem significant at first, the CompTIA Security+ certification is a long-term investment in your career.

 It can open doors to a wide range of job opportunities and significantly improve your earning potential.

How Long to Study for Security+ With No Experience

Preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam with zero IT background might be challenging. But don’t panic! With the right resources and study plan, you can succeed. Most beginners typically need 2-3 months of dedicated study.

Addressing the Challenge of Preparing for the Exam with No Prior Experience in IT

The Security+ exam preparation can be more challenging for those with no prior IT experience, as the exam covers a wide range of concepts, including networking, cryptography, and system security. Here is why:

• Learning fundamental IT concepts: If you’re new to IT, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with basic concepts before diving into the more complex security topics.
• Hands-on practice: The Security+ exam difficulty increases with practical skills needed to configure security systems, perform vulnerability assessments, and handle real-world scenarios. Without prior IT experience, getting comfortable with these practical aspects might take more time.
• Understanding security terminology: Terms like “firewall,” “encryption,” and “malware” may seem unfamiliar at first, and you’ll need time to get used to them.
  

Time Estimates for Beginners

For beginners with no IT experience, it’s realistic to expect that Security+ exam preparation will take anywhere from 3 to 4 months of focused study. Several factors can affect how long it will take to prepare:

• Study pace: If you can dedicate a couple of hours each day to studying, you’ll likely be ready in about 3 months. However, if you can only commit less time each day, you might need 4 months or even longer to feel fully prepared.
• Study plan: Having a structured study plan is essential to stay organized and make the most of your preparation time. Creating a study schedule and using study guides will help you stay on track and ensure you’re covering all the necessary topics efficiently.
• Practice exams: A critical part of your Security+ exam preparation should involve taking practice exams. 

CompTIA Security+ Resources for Beginners

There are plenty of CompTIA Security+ resources to help guide you along the way. Using reliable study materials, like the ones offered at Prepsaret, can make a big difference in your preparation. Here’s why:

• Prepsaret study materials reflect the real questions that are tested in the exam, so you’ll know exactly what to expect on test day. This makes studying less intimidating and much more focused.
• Practice questions: Familiarity with the types of questions on the exam will help you feel more confident, especially if you don’t have IT experience. Working through practice questions will teach you how to approach the real exam and improve your chances of passing.
• Structured study plans: Prepsaret provides study plans tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re planning to study for a month or a couple of months, the platform helps you stay on track.

Choose your study plan:

• 1 Month Study Plan
• 2 Months Study Plan

Best Way to Study for CompTIA Security+

Preparing for the CompTIA Security+ certification requires a structured approach to studying. With the right resources and a well-organized plan, you can maximize efficiency and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Structured Study Plans for CompTIA Security+

A CompTIA Security+ study plan helps you stay on track and cover all exam objectives efficiently. Here’s a suggested breakdown:

• Weeks 1-2: Focus on fundamental concepts, including network security, threats, vulnerabilities, and cryptography. Use Security+ certification study tips like summarizing key points and using flashcards.
• Weeks 3-4: Deep dive into security architecture, risk management, and identity management. Take practice quizzes and review weak areas.
• Weeks 5-6: Emphasize hands-on practice with security tools, review official CompTIA Security+ resources, and take full-length practice tests.
• Weeks 7-8 (if needed): Revise weak areas, participate in study groups, and simulate exam conditions.

The Impact of a Proper Study Plan on Preparation Time

A well-structured CompTIA Security+ study plan can significantly reduce preparation time by ensuring consistent progress. Instead of cramming, breaking topics into manageable sections allows for better retention.

 Utilizing CompTIA Security+ resources, such as books, video courses, and hands-on labs, enhances understanding and readiness for the exam.

Best Study Resources for CompTIA Security+

• Prepsaret CompTIA Security+ Test Prep – Has all the materials you need to prepare for the test. 
• Official CompTIA Security+ Study Guide – Covers all exam objectives.
• CompTIA CertMaster – Interactive learning platform with practice questions.
• Professor Messer’s Free Security+ Videos – Ideal for visual learners.
• Practice Tests – Helps assess readiness and identify weak areas.
• Security+ Study Groups – Join online forums and study with peers.

How to Prepare for CompTIA Security+ in 2 Months

Preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam in two months requires a focused and structured study approach. 

With the right resources and an effective IT security certification study plan, you can efficiently cover all exam objectives and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Two-Month Study Plan for CompTIA Security+

A structured study plan helps break down complex topics and ensures consistent progress. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you manage your CompTIA Security+ study time efficiently.

Weeks 1-2: Security Fundamentals & Threats

• Study basic security concepts, including CIA Triad, risk management, and common cyber threats.
• Learn about malware, phishing, social engineering, and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks.
• Use resources like Prepsaret CompTIA Security+ study materials  and the CompTIA Security+ Study Guide.
  

Weeks 3-4: Network Security & Cryptography

• Focus on network security protocols, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless security.
• Learn cryptography basics, hashing, encryption methods, and PKI.
• Take practice quizzes to reinforce concepts and track progress.
  

Weeks 5-6: Identity Management & Risk Management

• Study identity and access management (IAM), authentication methods, and security policies.
• Learn about risk assessment, compliance, and incident response.
• Engage in hands-on labs using tools like Wireshark, Nmap, and Metasploit.
  

Week 7: Practice Exams & Weak Areas

• Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions.
• Identify weak areas and revisit related study materials.
• Participate in study groups to discuss complex topics.
  

Week 8: Final Review & Exam Readiness

• Go through exam objectives and key concepts one last time.
• Use flashcards for quick revision.
• Take a final practice test to boost confidence.
  

How Prepsaret’s 2-Month Study Plan Can Help

Prepsaret offers a structured 2-month study plan tailored for CompTIA Security+ candidates. It provides:

• Daily study schedules to keep you on track.
•  Practice tests to assess progress.
• Expert-curated resources for in-depth learning.
• 2 months of access to CompTIA Security+ study materials

By following this CompTIA Security+ study time strategy and using Prepsaret’s IT security certification study plan, you can efficiently prepare for the exam and achieve certification success in just two months.

How Long Does It Take to Get CompTIA Network+ vs. Security+?

If you’re pursuing a career in IT, you may be wondering how long it takes to prepare for CompTIA Network+ versus CompTIA Security+. 

While both certifications are valuable, they differ in content, difficulty, and preparation time. Understanding their study timelines can help you decide which exam suits your career goals and schedule.

CompTIA Network+ vs. CompTIA Security+ Preparation Time

How Much Time Is Needed to Pass Security+ Exam?

The Security+ exam timeline is typically 6-8 weeks for candidates with networking or IT experience.

If you’re new to cybersecurity, you may need up to 3 months to fully grasp security concepts like risk management, identity access control, and cryptography.

Which Exam Is Better for You?

Choose Network+ if:

• You want to build foundational networking skills before diving into cybersecurity.
•  You’re pursuing roles in IT support, networking, or system administration.
  

Choose Security+ if:

• You already have networking knowledge and want to specialize in cybersecurity.
• You’re targeting roles like Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, or IT Security Administrator.

If you’re new to IT, it’s often recommended to start with Network+, as it provides a strong foundation for Security+. 

However, if you already have networking experience, you can dive straight into Security+ by following a structured study plan.

Factors That Impact the Study Time for CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ study time varies based on several factors. While some candidates can prepare in a few weeks, others may need 2-3 months to fully grasp the material. Below are key factors that influence how long it takes to prepare for the Security+ exam.

Prior Knowledge & IT Experience

• If you have experience in networking, cybersecurity, or IT support, you may need 6-8 weeks of study.
• If you’re new to IT, expect to spend 2-3 months mastering key concepts like threat management, cryptography, and risk mitigation.

Study Habits & Learning Style

• Structured learners who follow a detailed study plan can prepare faster.
• Hands-on learners may need extra time for practical exercises and labs.
• Self-paced vs. instructor-led learning can also impact study duration.
  

Study Resources Used

Using high-quality CompTIA Security+ resources can significantly affect your preparation time. The best materials include:

• Books: CompTIA Security+ Study Guide (Sybex), CompTIA Official Study Guide
• Video Courses: Professor Messer (free), Udemy, LinkedIn Learning
• Practice Tests:  Prepsaret Practice tests
• Labs: TryHackMe, CompTIA CertMaster Labs
  

Time Commitment

• Studying 10-15 hours per week can help you prepare in 6-8 weeks.
• Studying 5-8 hours per week may require 3+ months.
  

Security+ Exam Difficulty

The Security+ exam covers a broad range of topics, including:

• Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities
• Network Security and Architecture
•  Identity and Access Management
• Cryptography and Risk Management

Due to its depth, some candidates may need additional study time, especially if they’re new to cybersecurity.

Security+ Certification Study Tips

Preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam requires a strategic approach to studying. Below are some key tips to help you succeed:

Follow a Structured Study Plan

• Break down the exam objectives into manageable topics.
• Dedicate at least 6-8 weeks for preparation, depending on your background.
• Use a combination of books, videos, and hands-on labs.
  

Use Reliable Study Resources

• CompTIA Security+ Study Guide – Official study material from CompTIA.
• Prepsaret CompTIA Security+ Study materials. – (Recommended)
• Video Courses – Professor Messer (free), Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning.
• Practice Exams – Take full-length tests to identify weak areas.
• CompTIA CertMaster – Interactive training platform for structured learning.
  

Take Practice Tests Frequently

• Start with topic-based quizzes to test your understanding.
• Gradually move to full-length timed practice exams to simulate real test conditions.
• Review incorrect answers to learn from mistakes.
  

Join Study Groups and Online Communities

• Participate in Security+ study groups on Reddit, Discord, or Facebook.
• Engage in discussions to reinforce concepts.
• Ask and answer questions to deepen your understanding.
  

Focus on Hands-On Learning

• Set up a virtual lab using Kali Linux or Security Onion for practical experience.
• Experiment with security tools like Wireshark, Nmap, and Metasploit.
  

Master Key Exam Topics

• Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities
• Network and System Security
• Identity and Access Management
• Cryptography and PKI
• Risk Management
  

 Manage Exam Day Stress

• Get enough rest before the exam.
• Arrive early and review key concepts briefly.
• Read each question carefully before answering.
• Pace yourself and avoid spending too much time on difficult questions.
• Use elimination strategies for multiple-choice questions.

By following these CompTIA Security+ certification study tips, you can improve retention, build confidence, and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Continue Reading: How to pass CompTIA Security+ 

FAQs

Conclusion

Preparing for the CompTIA Security+ certification requires a solid study plan, dedication, and the right resources. Your Security+ exam preparation timeline will depend on your background, study habits, and commitment. Whether you need six weeks or three months, setting a clear goal and following a structured study schedule is key to success.

For a guided approach, Prepsaret offers customized study plans to help you prepare efficiently. Don’t leave your certification to chance—start your journey today and gain the skills needed to pass the Security+ exam with confidence!