CompTIA A+ vs Security+: Which Certification Is Right for You?
CompTIA A+ vs Security+: Which Certification Is Right for You?
If you’re trying to break into IT or pivot into cybersecurity, the difference between CompTIA A+ vs Security+ can set the direction of your entire career. Both certifications carry weight, but they serve different purposes. A+ is the recognized starting point for general IT roles, covering essential hardware, software, and troubleshooting skills. Security+ dives straight into cybersecurity fundamentals, preparing you for roles focused on threat management, risk analysis, and security architecture. This guide breaks down the key differences, job outcomes, and training paths to help you decide which certification fits your current experience and long-term goals.
Understanding the Purpose of Each Certification
Before comparing the two, it’s important to understand what each certification is designed to do. A+ builds a broad IT foundation for general tech roles, while Security+ focuses on the skills needed to secure systems and data. Both are entry points, but they prepare you for very different paths.
What Is CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ is the go-to certification for launching a career in IT support. Recognized globally, it validates the core skills needed for roles like Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, and Desktop Support Analyst. The certification tests real-world troubleshooting ability through performance-based questions and covers a wide range of vendor-neutral technologies, making it relevant across many IT environments.
To earn the certification, you must pass two exams:
Core 1 (220-1201): Focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and cloud computing.
Core 2 (220-1202): Covers operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), security, software troubleshooting, and standard IT procedures.
This two-exam format reflects the day-to-day demands of IT generalists who need to handle both physical hardware and software issues. CompTIA A+ equips you with the skills to support users, manage systems, and solve problems across a broad range of technologies.
What Is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that covers the core skills needed for entry-level cybersecurity roles. It is often the first certification IT professionals pursue when transitioning into security-focused careers. Security+ builds foundational knowledge in areas like threat detection, risk management, and incident response, making it ideal for roles such as Security Administrator, Systems Administrator, Security Analyst, and Junior Penetration Tester.
The exam includes performance-based questions to test real-world problem-solving and hands-on security tasks. Unlike more general IT certifications, Security+ focuses specifically on identifying and addressing security threats in live environments.
Security+ is also valued in the government and defense sectors. It meets ISO 17024 standards and is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense under Directive 8140/8570.01-M, making it a required credential for many cybersecurity roles in federal agencies and defense contracts.
While A+ prepares you for general IT support, Security+ positions you to protect networks, data, and systems, making it a clear step toward a specialized cybersecurity career.
Key Differences Between CompTIA A+ and Security+
Both certifications are foundational; however, their differences in focus, prerequisites, exam structure, and career application are distinct. The technical and career implications of CompTIA A+ vs Security+ are crucial for making a smart certification choice.
Focus Areas and Core Skills Taught
The most fundamental difference is the scope and nature of the skills taught. CompTIA A+ cultivates a broad, generalist skill set, whereas Security+ cultivates a deep, specialist skill set.
CompTIA A+: The curriculum is centered on comprehensive problem-solving across a wide array of technologies. The primary function of an A+ professional is to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to hardware, software, operating systems, and basic networking to keep end-users productive. It provides, as one source notes, “a little about a lot,” which is precisely what is needed for a first-line support role.
CompTIA Security+: The curriculum is focused on defensive cybersecurity principles. The primary functions of a Security+ professional are to secure systems, assess security posture, and respond to incidents. The content delves into core security concepts like the Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA) triad, risk management frameworks, threat intelligence, and security architecture design.
The difference between CompTIA A+ and Security+ comes down to what they teach, who they’re for, and how they shape your career path.
| Certification | Domain | Percentage of Exam | Key Competencies Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA A+ Core 1 | Hardware | 25% | Identifying, using, and connecting components like CPUs, RAM, and storage devices. |
| Networking | 23% | TCP/IP protocols, Wi-Fi standards, SOHO network configuration, and using networking tools. | |
| Mobile Devices | 13% | Installing and configuring laptops and other mobile devices; mobile network setup and synchronization. | |
| Virtualization & Cloud Computing | 11% | Understanding cloud models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and client-side virtualization. | |
| Hardware & Network Troubleshooting | 28% | Diagnosing and resolving hardware, network, and connectivity problems using a defined methodology. | |
| CompTIA A+ Core 2 | Operating Systems | 28% | Installing and configuring Windows, macOS, and Linux; command-line tools and system management. |
| Security | 28% | Implementing security best practices for workstations, detecting and removing malware, and physical security. | |
| Software Troubleshooting | 23% | Resolving OS, application, and mobile device software issues. | |
| Operational Procedures | 21% | Best practices for documentation, safety, environmental impacts, and professional communication. | |
| CompTIA Security+ | General Security Concepts | 12% | CIA triad, risk management, Zero Trust, AAA, and cryptographic concepts. |
| Threats, Vulnerabilities, & Mitigations | 22% | Analyzing attack vectors, threat actors, and various vulnerabilities; implementing mitigation techniques. | |
| Security Architecture | 18% | Securing on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments; data protection and resilience strategies. | |
| Security Operations | 28% | Vulnerability management, monitoring, digital forensics, and incident response procedures. | |
| Security Program Management & Oversight | 20% | Governance, risk, and compliance (GRC); third-party risk management and security awareness training. |
Table 1: Exam Domain Breakdown
Key Insight
A+ focuses on hardware (53% of its first exam), a topic Security+ doesn’t cover. Security+ dedicates 70% of its exam to specialized security domains (Threats, Architecture, Operations, Program Management), which A+ only briefly touches upon.
Certification Prerequisites (If Any)
Neither A+ nor Security+ has official prerequisites. You can take the exams at any time. However, CompTIA offers clear recommendations that reflect the skill level expected for each.
A+ Recommendation: 9 to 12 months of hands-on experience in a lab or field support role. This suggests A+ is best suited for those beginning their IT careers.
Security+ Recommendation: Prior completion of Network+ and at least two years of IT administration experience with a security focus. This indicates a higher level of readiness is expected.
This difference in recommendations is not a gatekeeping mechanism but a roadmap for success. Attempting Security+ without a solid IT foundation means learning both security concepts and the underlying tech they rely on. That is why many professionals follow the A+ to Network+ to Security+ path—it builds the right knowledge in the right order.
Exam Format and Difficulty Level
Another important difference between CompTIA A+ and Security+ is how the exams are structured and what kind of challenge each presents. In truth, each poses a different kind of challenge: A+ tests breadth, while Security+ tests depth.
Why A+ Might Feel Harder: A+ requires two 90-minute exams, each with its objectives. Candidates must cover a wide range of topics, from hardware specs to operating system commands. The volume of content, combined with the need to pass two separate exams, can feel overwhelming.
Why Security+ Might Feel Harder: Security+ is a single exam, but it demands a deeper understanding of security concepts. It has a higher passing score (750 versus 675 or 700 for A+), and many questions are scenario-based, testing judgment and reasoning. It assumes you already understand networks and system operations, so the learning curve is steep if you’re new to those areas.
Pro Tips
Difficulty is subjective. If you prefer memorizing facts, A+ may feel more manageable. If you enjoy problem-solving and conceptual thinking, you might find Security+ a better fit.
| Metric | CompTIA A+ | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Exams | Two | One |
| Exam Codes (Current) | Core 1: 220-1201 / V15 Core 2: 220-1202 / V15 | SY0-701 |
| Total Questions | Maximum of 90 per exam | Maximum of 90 |
| Test Length | 90 minutes per exam | 90 minutes |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice (single/multiple response), drag-and-drop, performance-based questions (PBQs) | Multiple-choice (single/multiple response), performance-based questions (PBQs) |
| Passing Score | Core 1: 675 / 900 Core 2: 700 / 900 | 750 / 900 |
| Recommended Experience | 9-12 months of hands-on IT experience | CompTIA Network+ and 2 years of security-focused IT administration experience |
| Exam Cost (USD) | ~$253 per exam Total: ~$506 | ~$404 |
Table 2: Exam Format and Requirements
Role in IT vs Cybersecurity Career Paths
The key difference between A+ and Security+ lies in where they lead.
A+ as the Starting Point: A+ is ideal for landing your first job in IT. It opens doors to roles like help desk support and field technician, which are essential for gaining hands-on experience. This practical foundation is often required before moving into specialized areas, including cybersecurity.
Security+ as the Cybersecurity Entry: Security+ is for professionals ready to shift into security-focused roles. It builds on existing IT knowledge and signals that you understand how to protect systems and data. After earning Security+, you can pursue more advanced credentials like CySA+ or PenTest+ to deepen your cybersecurity expertise.
Job Opportunities and Career Progression
The choice of certification directly correlates with the job opportunities available, the starting salary expectations, and the potential for long-term career growth. Security+ consistently leads to higher pay, but A+ is often the key to unlocking the experience required to be a viable candidate for those security roles.
What Jobs Can You Get with CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ is the preferred qualifying credential for a range of technical support and IT operational roles. It signals to employers like Dell, HP, Intel, and Nissan that a candidate has the verified skills to support their core technologies.
Common job titles for A+ certified professionals include:
IT Support Specialist: This is a versatile role responsible for installing, configuring, and maintaining an organization’s computer hardware, software, systems, and networks. They provide technical support to employees and ensure smooth operation of IT infrastructure.
Help Desk Technician (Tier 1 and Tier 2): Serving as the first point of contact for users experiencing technical issues, help desk technicians diagnose problems, provide solutions over the phone or via remote access, and escalate more complex issues to other teams. They need a blend of technical knowledge and strong communication skills.
Field Service Technician: These professionals travel to client sites to perform hands-on installation, maintenance, and repair of hardware and networks. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working directly with equipment and solving complex physical IT problems.
Desktop Support Analyst: Focusing on end-user computer systems, these specialists handle issues with desktop and laptop computers, applications, and peripherals. They provide direct support to ensure users can work effectively.
Associate Network Engineer: In this entry-level role, individuals assist senior network engineers with the design, implementation, and management of networks. A+ provides the foundational hardware and basic networking knowledge to begin this career path.
What Jobs Can You Get with CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ opens the door to dedicated cybersecurity roles and is a prerequisite for many positions in government and defense contracting.
Common job titles for Security+ certified professionals include:
Security Administrator: This role involves implementing and managing an organization’s security infrastructure, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access control policies. They are responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of security systems.
Systems Administrator (with a security focus): While a general systems administrator manages servers and applications, one with a Security+ certification also takes responsibility for hardening systems, applying security patches, managing user accounts with a security mindset, and ensuring the overall security posture of the systems they oversee.
Security Analyst: This is a frontline defensive role. Security analysts monitor network traffic for suspicious activity, analyze security alerts, investigate breaches, and report on an organization’s security status. They are an organization’s digital watchmen.
Security Engineer: Security engineers are involved in designing and building secure network architectures and enterprise systems. They take a proactive approach, creating secure solutions rather than just managing existing ones.
Junior IT Auditor / Penetration Tester: The Security+ certification provides the foundational knowledge to begin a career in compliance and offensive security. A junior auditor helps assess systems against security policies and regulations, while a junior penetration tester helps find vulnerabilities by simulating attacks.
Which Certification Leads to Higher Salaries or Faster Growth?
CompTIA Security+ generally leads to higher starting salaries and stronger long-term earning potential. However, this advantage depends heavily on your experience level.
Salaries in IT vary based on factors like location, industry, company size, and years of experience. While Security+ roles tend to pay more, they also assume a stronger background in IT. Entry-level A+ roles may offer lower starting pay but provide the hands-on experience needed to move up quickly, especially if you plan to specialize later.
| Certification | Experience Level | Typical Job Roles | Realistic Salary Range (USD) | Key Influencing Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA A+ | Entry-Level (0-2 years) | Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, Field Service Technician | $45,000 – $60,000 | Location (higher in major tech hubs), specific company pay scales. |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | Tier 2 Support, Desktop Support Analyst, Junior Systems Administrator | $55,000 – $75,000 | Gaining additional skills, moving to a higher-cost-of-living area. | |
| Experienced (5+ years) | Systems Administrator, IT Manager, Associate Network Engineer | $65,000 – $90,000+ | Specializing (e.g., networking, cloud), earning further certifications. | |
| CompTIA Security+ | Entry-Level (0-2 years post-IT experience) | Security Analyst, Security Administrator, Systems Administrator | $65,000 – $85,000 | Prior IT experience is assumed; government/DoD roles often start higher. |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | Security Engineer, Security Consultant, IT Auditor | $80,000 – $110,000 | Industry (finance/defense pays well), acquiring specialized skills (e.g., cloud security). | |
| Experienced (5+ years) | Senior Security Engineer, Penetration Tester, Security Architect | $100,000 – $140,000+ | Earning advanced certs (CySA+, PenTest+, CISSP), moving into management. |
Table 3: Career Roles and Salary Range
On the other hand, Security+ roles command higher salaries, and the concept of “faster growth” requires a more nuanced understanding. The most effective career progression is not about skipping steps but about building a solid foundation.
The A+ certification is the key that unlocks the entry-level IT job. That job, in turn, provides the critical hands-on experience that employers look for when hiring for Security+ level positions.
This progression can be viewed as a two-stage rocket. A+ is the first stage, providing the initial thrust to get a career off the ground and into the professional atmosphere (an IT job).
Security+ is the powerful second stage that, once ignited, pushes that career into a higher, more lucrative orbit (a cybersecurity job).
Pro Tips
Launching the second stage without the first often leads to failure. Similarly, a candidate might hold a Security+ certificate but lack the practical experience to succeed in an interview, resulting in them being over-certified and under-experienced.
Which Certification Should You Take First?
When deciding between CompTIA A+ vs Security+, the right starting point depends on your experience level and where you want your career to go. By understanding what each path prepares you for, you can make a clear, strategic decision that fits your professional profile.
If You’re New to Tech or Just Starting Out
If you’re starting with little or no IT experience, begin with CompTIA A+. It lays the groundwork for everything else in IT, including cybersecurity.
A+ covers the essential hardware, software, and networking knowledge that every tech role builds on. Skipping it often creates gaps that make advanced topics harder to grasp. Both CompTIA and experienced professionals agree that A+ is the best place to start.
If You’re Focused on Cybersecurity from the Start
Even if your goal is cybersecurity, you need to choose your first certification carefully. There are two main paths:
The Recommended Path: Start with A+, then move to Network+ and Security+. This approach builds your skills in the right order. You learn how devices and operating systems work, then how networks function, and finally how to secure them. It helps close knowledge gaps and increases your chances of passing each exam while preparing you for real-world roles.
The Direct Path: Some candidates go straight to Security+, but this only works if you already have strong IT and networking experience from a degree, years of hands-on work, or extensive home-lab practice. For beginners, this route often leads to passing the exam through memorization, but struggling to apply the knowledge in interviews. This creates a mismatch between certification and capability, making it harder to land a job.
If You Want a Broader IT Foundation Before Specializing
If you’re interested in tech but unsure which path to take, start with CompTIA A+. It builds your core skills and gives you entry-level experience, helping you explore different areas like networking, cloud, Linux, or cybersecurity. You gain real-world credibility while keeping your career options open.
To simplify this decision, the following matrix can be used to self-identify the most appropriate path.
| Your Profile | Recommended First Certification | Rationale | Next Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
| “I am brand new to IT with no professional experience or relevant degree.” | CompTIA A+ | Establishes the essential, non-negotiable foundation required for all IT roles. It is the most direct path to a first IT job, which provides critical experience. | Gain 6-12 months of experience in an A+ related job, then pursue CompTIA Network+. |
| “I have some IT experience (1-2 years in a non-security role) or a relevant IT degree.” | CompTIA Network+ (then Security+) | Your experience or degree may cover the A+ material. Network+ is the direct prerequisite knowledge for Security+ and is a valuable cert in its own right. | After passing Network+, immediately begin studying for Security+. Your combined experience and certifications will make you a strong candidate for security roles. |
| “I am a mid-career IT professional (e.g., Network Admin, Systems Admin) looking to pivot to security.” | CompTIA Security+ | Your existing experience is the foundation. Security+ is the credential that will validate your security knowledge and facilitate the career transition. | After passing Security+, look for roles like Security Analyst or Engineer. Consider advanced certs like CySA+ or PenTest+ for further specialization. |
| “My primary goal is a U.S. government or DoD-related IT job.” | CompTIA Security+ (but foundational knowledge is still required) | Security+ is a baseline requirement for DoD 8570/8140 compliance. You cannot be hired for many roles without it. | Even if targeting Security+ directly, you must first acquire the foundational A+ and Network+ level knowledge through self-study, boot camps, or prior experience to pass the exam and the technical interview. |
Table 4: Choosing Your First Certification Based on Profile
How to Choose the Right Learning Path for Your Goals
Many learners compare CompTIA A+ vs CompTIA Security+ when mapping out their study timeline, but your decision should align with job market demands and your current skill set.
Consider Your Career Objectives (IT Support vs. Cybersecurity)
Let your end goal be your guide. If your immediate objective is to get “a job in tech” as quickly as possible to start gaining experience and earning an income, the A+ certification is your target.
Your learning path should be focused on mastering the Core 1 and Core 2 objectives. If your long-term objective is “a job in cybersecurity,” your immediate goal should be to build the foundational knowledge required to pass the Security+ exam, which, for most people, means starting with A+ and Network+ concepts first.
Look at Industry Requirements and Job Postings
Theory and recommendations are valuable, but real-world data is paramount. Conduct your market research. Go to major job boards and search for the entry-level roles you desire in your geographic area.
What certifications are listed under “required” or “preferred”?
Do the job descriptions for “Security Analyst” require 2-3 years of prior IT experience?
Do the “Help Desk” roles frequently mention CompTIA A+? The answers to these questions will provide the most accurate and personalized guidance for your career path, confirming whether A+ is the necessary first step in your local market.
Assess Your Existing Skills and Confidence Level
The most effective way to avoid choosing a path that is either too basic or too advanced is to perform an honest self-assessment. CompTIA provides the detailed exam objectives for all its certifications for free.
Download the A+ (Core 1 and Core 2) and Security+ exam objectives.
Read through them carefully. For each bullet point, ask yourself: “Do I understand this concept? Could I explain it to someone else? Could I perform this task?”
Be honest with your answers. If most of your A + goals feel unfamiliar or challenging, that is your starting point. You will struggle with the Security+ exam if you do not have a firm grasp of the A+ and Network+ level concepts it builds upon. If the A+ objectives feel like a comfortable review, you may be ready to assess your knowledge against the Network+ and Security+ objectives.
How TrainingCamp Helps You Succeed—Whichever Path You Choose
If you want a faster, more structured way to get certified, choose an instructor-led boot camp that keeps you focused and on track. TrainingCamp delivers dedicated A+ and Security+ boot camps and earns recognition as a trusted CompTIA Platinum Partner with a strong record of helping students succeed.
Expert-Led A+ and Security+ Boot Camps
Our model is built on intensive, immersive training designed to prepare candidates for certification in a compressed timeframe.
CompTIA A+ Boot Camp: This is a comprehensive 5-day program designed to cover all objectives for both the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. The accelerated format includes expert instruction, hands-on labs to build practical skills, and extensive practice tests.
CompTIA Security+ Boot Camp: This is a focused 4 or 5-day program that covers all domains of the SY0-701 exam. The curriculum is aligned with the latest security trends and includes an exam voucher and a retake option to reduce student stress.
Key Insight
Both boot camps are offered in flexible formats, including live online sessions and in-person classroom training, and come with pre-course study materials to help students prepare for the intensive pace.
| Feature | TrainingCamp A+ Boot Camp | TrainingCamp Security+ Boot Camp |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 Days | 4-5 Days |
| Exams Covered | Core 1 (220-1201) & Core 2 (220-1202) | SY0-701 |
| Stated First-Time Pass Rate | 94% | 96% |
| Key Features | Free Course Retake, Complete Study Materials, Hands-on Labs, Expert Instructor Access, Practice Questions | Exam Voucher Included, Free Exam Retake (“Second Shot”), Free Course Retake, Hands-on Labs, Expert Instructor Access |
| Target Audience | Aspiring IT support professionals, career changers, and individuals seeking a foundational IT credential. | IT professionals with existing experience, individuals seeking to enter cybersecurity, and government/DoD employees. |
Table 5: TrainingCamp Boot Camp Comparison: CompTIA A+ vs Security+
High Pass Rates and Career-Aligned Instruction
At TrainingCamp, we deliver first-time pass rates of 94% for A+ and 96% for Security+. Many students come to us after struggling with self-study. They credit our immersive boot camps, expert instructors, and focused structure for helping them succeed. Our programs build confidence and equip students with real strategies to tackle the exam.
However, we set clear expectations. Our boot camps are fast-paced and intense, designed for those who already have some foundational knowledge or need to certify on a deadline.
Success depends on preparation and commitment. We don’t promise shortcuts, but we do offer a faster, more effective path with the structure and support needed to stay on track.
Trusted by Students, Veterans, and Career Changers Nationwide
We’ve built our reputation by helping thousands of professionals take the next step in their careers. As a CompTIA Platinum Partner and recipient of CompTIA’s Outstanding Leader Award, we’ve trained corporate teams, supported career changers, and worked closely with military veterans using GI Bill benefits. Our proven track record gives our students the confidence to invest in their future with us.
Still Deciding Between A+ and Security+?
Choosing between CompTIA A+ vs Security+ comes down to where you are in your IT journey and where you want to go.
If you’re new to the field, A+ gives you the strongest foundation to launch a broad IT career. If you’re ready to specialize and already understand core IT concepts, Security+ opens the door to higher-paying cybersecurity roles.
Both are valuable, but they serve different goals. Start with the one that aligns with your current experience and long-term vision.
Enroll in a Career-Ready Boot Camp
If you’re still unsure which path to take, talk to one of our advisors. We’ll help you choose the right certification based on your goals and background.
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