Practice Questions on CompTIA Security+ Certification Exam
You can’t cram your way through Security+.
The SY0-701 exam isn’t built for memorization. It tests whether you can think like a security professional. Expect scenario-based questions, practical problem-solving, and performance-based tasks that mirror real-world cyber threats.
That’s why practice questions matter. Not just for review—but to build confidence, diagnose weak areas, and learn to apply knowledge under pressure.
In this guide, we break down how to use CompTIA practice questions strategically to pass the exam. You’ll get sample beginner to advanced questions, tips for test-day strategy, and a full breakdown of the Security+ exam format.
Why Practice Questions Matter for CompTIA Security+ Success
Practice questions do more than test your memory. They train your brain to retrieve, apply, and reinforce what you’ve learned, just like you’ll need to do on exam day.
The Value of Reinforcement Through Repetition
Every time you answer a practice question, you strengthen the mental connection between concept and action. That’s the core of memory consolidation. With enough repetition, recall becomes effortless. That’s exactly what you need in a high-pressure test environment.
One of the most effective techniques is spaced repetition. You revisit key topics at strategic intervals just as you’re about to forget them. This method beats cramming by creating long-term retention. It works especially well for Security+ content, such as cryptographic algorithms, incident response steps, and common attack types.
Reading about firewalls is passive. Configuring one through a practice scenario is active. The exam rewards those who can think, not just memorize.
Identify Knowledge Gaps Before the Exam
Not all study time is equal. Practice exams give you real insight into what you know and what you don’t. That’s critical when every hour of prep matters.
Start with a full 90-question practice test. From that baseline, you’ll spot your weak areas across the five exam domains. Maybe you’re solid on Threats and Vulnerabilities but weak on Program Management. Now you know exactly where to double down.
This approach avoids wasted effort. Instead of evenly spreading your study time, you target what matters most. The result: faster improvement and better scores.
Boost Confidence with Real-World Scenarios
Security+ exams aren’t about theory alone. They test whether you can solve problems like a real cybersecurity professional. That’s where performance-based and scenario-driven questions come in.
Work through simulations by analyzing logs, configuring access controls, and locking down a rogue workstation. This hands-on practice builds practical skills and sharpens your mental readiness. Messing up a practice PBQ costs nothing but teaches a lot.
With repetition, confidence grows. You don’t just know the answer. You’ve done the work, seen the result, and proved you’re ready.
Key Insight
According to the 2025 Skillsoft IT Skills and Salary Report, 89% of IT professionals who used practice exams as part of their preparation felt more confident during certification testing. Among Security+ candidates, those who regularly used performance-based questions scored up to 18% higher on average than those who didn’t.
What to Expect on the CompTIA Security+ Exam
A thorough understanding of the exam’s structure and content is the foundation of any successful preparation strategy. Knowing the format, question types, time constraints, and knowledge domains allows a candidate to tailor their study plan and practice regimen to the specific demands of the test.
Overview of Exam Format
The CompTIA Security+ certification is earned by passing a single, comprehensive exam. The current version, exam code SY0-701, is designed to validate the baseline skills required for any core cybersecurity role. The exam is proctored in a secure environment at a Pearson VUE testing center or through an online proctoring service.
The test itself is a blend of different question formats designed to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on ability. Candidates will encounter traditional multiple-choice questions (which may have a single correct answer or multiple correct answers), drag-and-drop activities (which require matching items or ordering steps in a process), and the most challenging format, performance-based questions (PBQs).
These PBQs are interactive simulations where candidates must solve problems in a virtual environment, such as configuring a network device or analyzing security logs. PBQs are weighted more heavily than multiple-choice questions and typically appear at the very beginning of the exam, making time management a critical skill from the outset.
The following table provides a consolidated summary of the key logistical details for the SY0-701 exam.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | SY0-701 |
| Number of Questions | Maximum of 90 |
| Question Types | Multiple-Choice (single/multiple response), Drag-and-Drop, Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) |
| Test Duration | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750 (on a scale of 100-900) |
| Recommended Experience | CompTIA Network+ certification and two years of IT administration experience with a security focus |
Table 1: CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Exam at a Glance
Key Domains Covered in the Exam
The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) exam content is organized into five distinct domains, each representing a core area of cybersecurity knowledge. The weight of each domain indicates its relative importance on the exam, providing a clear guide for prioritizing study efforts.
General Security Concepts (12%): This domain serves as the foundation, covering the essential principles that underpin the entire field. Topics include the core security tenets of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (the CIA triad); different types of security controls (technical, administrative, physical); fundamental cryptographic concepts; and the principles of security models like Zero Trust.
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%): This domain focuses on the offensive side of cybersecurity. Candidates must be able to analyze different types of threat actors (e.g., APTs, script kiddies), understand common attack vectors like social engineering and phishing, identify various forms of malware (viruses, ransomware, trojans), and explain the process of vulnerability management and mitigation.
Security Architecture (18%): This domain addresses the design of secure systems and networks. It covers the principles of secure enterprise infrastructure, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments. Key topics include secure network design (e.g., DMZs, segmentation), virtualization security, and secure application development and deployment concepts.
Security Operations (28%): As the most heavily weighted domain, this area represents the day-to-day, hands-on work of a security professional. It covers the use of security tools like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, processes for vulnerability scanning, and the critical phases of incident response, including detection, analysis, containment, eradication, and recovery. Digital forensics concepts are also included.
Security Program Management and Oversight (20%): This domain focuses on the business and policy side of cybersecurity, often referred to as Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). It encompasses risk management processes, the development and implementation of security policies and procedures, compliance with relevant laws and regulations, and the importance of security awareness training for employees.
| Domain Number | Domain Title | Percentage of Exam |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | General Security Concepts | 12% |
| 2.0 | Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations | 22% |
| 3.0 | Security Architecture | 18% |
| 4.0 | Security Operations | 28% |
| 5.0 | Security Program Management and Oversight | 20% |
Table 2: CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Exam Domains and Weighting
Sample CompTIA Practice Questions (with Answers)
To move from theoretical understanding to practical application, it is essential to engage with sample questions that mirror the format and difficulty of the actual exam. This section provides examples of CompTIA security questions and answers at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, complete with detailed explanations that deconstruct the logic behind the correct answers.
Beginner-Level Security+ Questions
These questions typically test foundational knowledge, definitions, and core concepts. They are often straightforward multiple-choice questions that require direct recall of information.
Question 1: Control Types
A company policy requires all employees to use a key card to enter secured areas of the office building. What type of security control is being implemented?
A. Technical control
B. Administrative control
C. Physical control
D. Corrective control
Answer and Explanation:
Correct Answer: C. Physical control.
Physical controls are measures designed to restrict or control physical access to facilities, equipment, and resources. In this scenario, the key card system serves as a physical barrier that controls entry to a physical space, making it a classic example of physical control.
Option A is incorrect because technical controls are those implemented through technology, such as firewalls, encryption, or intrusion detection systems.
Option B is incorrect because administrative controls are policies, procedures, and training programs designed to manage security, such as a company’s password policy or security awareness training.
Option D is incorrect because corrective controls are actions taken to fix a security incident after it has occurred, such as restoring data from backups or patching a vulnerability.
Question 2: The CIA Triad
A system administrator implements a regular data backup schedule to ensure that critical business data can be fully restored in the event of a server hardware failure. This action primarily supports which principle of the CIA triad?
A. Confidentiality
B. Integrity
C. Availability
D. Non-repudiation
Answer and Explanation:
Correct Answer: C. Availability.
Availability is the principle that ensures information and systems are accessible to authorized users when needed. By implementing backups, the administrator is ensuring that even if the primary system fails, the data can be restored and made available again, thus directly supporting the goal of availability.
Option A is incorrect because confidentiality is about preventing the unauthorized disclosure of information, typically through measures like encryption or access controls.
Option B is incorrect because integrity ensures that data is not altered or tampered with in an unauthorized manner. Hashing is a common control used to verify integrity.
Option D is incorrect because non-repudiation provides proof that a specific action was taken by a specific entity, preventing them from denying it. Digital signatures are a key tool for non-repudiation.
Question 3: Secure Protocols
A network administrator needs to replace Telnet for remotely managing network routers because of its security vulnerabilities. Which of the following protocols would be the most secure replacement?
A. HTTPS
B. SNMP
C. SSH
D. DNSSEC
Answer and Explanation:
Correct Answer: C. SSH.
Telnet is an insecure protocol because it transmits all data, including usernames and passwords, in cleartext, making it vulnerable to eavesdropping. Secure Shell (SSH) is the industry-standard replacement for Telnet, as it provides a secure, encrypted channel for remote command-line administration.
Option A is incorrect because HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is used for securing web browser traffic, not for general remote terminal access.
Option B is incorrect because SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is used for monitoring and managing network devices, but its primary function is not secure remote shell access.
Option D is incorrect because DNSSEC (Domain Name System Security Extensions) is used to secure the DNS lookup process, preventing DNS spoofing and cache poisoning.
Intermediate Scenario-Based Questions
These questions move beyond simple definitions and require candidates to apply their knowledge within a given context. They test analytical skills and the ability to choose the most appropriate course of action in a realistic situation.
Scenario 1: Social Engineering Attack Identification
An email is sent to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of a large corporation. The email appears to be from the CEO and urgently requests an immediate wire transfer to a new vendor to close a time-sensitive deal. The email address is subtly misspelled (e.g., ceo@cornpany.com instead of ceo@company.com). What type of attack is this?
A. Vishing
B. Whaling
C. Smishing
D. Tailgating
Answer and Explanation:
Correct Answer: B. Whaling.
This scenario describes a specific type of phishing attack known as whaling. Phishing is a broad category of social engineering attacks that uses deceptive emails or messages to trick victims. Whaling is a form of spear phishing that specifically targets high-profile individuals within an organization, such as C-level executives (the “big fish” or “whales”), often with the goal of financial fraud or credential theft. This scenario includes all the classic signs of a whaling attack: targeting the CFO, impersonating the CEO, creating urgency, and requesting a large financial transaction.
Option A is incorrect because vishing (voice phishing) is a social engineering attack conducted over the phone.
Option C is incorrect because smishing (SMS phishing) is conducted via text messages.
Option D is incorrect because tailgating is a physical security attack where an unauthorized person follows an authorized individual into a secure area.
Scenario 2: Threat Actor Analysis
During a post-incident investigation, a forensic team discovers that an attacker had maintained undetected access to the company’s network for over nine months. The investigation reveals that the attacker used custom-built malware and sophisticated techniques to move laterally across the network, slowly exfiltrating small amounts of proprietary research data to avoid detection. Which type of threat actor is most likely responsible for this attack?
A. Script Kiddie
B. Hacktivist
C. Insider Threat
D. Advanced Persistent Threat (APT)
Answer and Explanation:
Correct Answer: D. Advanced Persistent Threat (APT).
An Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a highly sophisticated, well-funded, and patient threat actor, often state-sponsored, that conducts long-term campaigns against specific targets. The key characteristics in the scenario include a long-term, undetected presence (“persistent”), the use of custom tools and sophisticated methods (“advanced”), and a clear, targeted objective of stealing research data. These are the defining features of an APT.
Option A is incorrect because script kiddies are unskilled attackers who use pre-made tools and scripts. They typically cause noisy and easily detectable disruptions without a long-term goal.
Option B is incorrect because hacktivists are motivated by a political or social cause and usually aim to make a public statement through website defacement or denial-of-service attacks, rather than stealthily, long-term data theft.
Option C is incorrect because while an insider threat could have long-term access, the use of custom malware and sophisticated techniques is more characteristic of an external, highly skilled group like an APT.
Advanced Performance-Based Questions
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) are the most practical and heavily weighted component of the Security+ exam. They require candidates to perform tasks in a simulated environment, directly testing their hands-on skills. These questions can take various forms, including drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, and command-line or GUI-based simulations.11 Mastering PBQs is critical for passing the exam.
The value of these questions lies in their direct correlation to real-world job functions. They assess not just rote knowledge but applied logic. For instance, a PBQ might require a candidate to understand that a specific “deny” rule in a firewall must be placed before a general “allow” rule to be effective. This tests an understanding of security logic, not just command syntax. It demonstrates the ability to translate a business requirement (e.g., “block this threat”) into a precise technical control, which is the essence of a security professional’s work.
Example PBQ Walkthrough: Firewall Rule Configuration
This walkthrough demonstrates a common type of PBQ where the candidate must configure an Access Control List (ACL) on a firewall to meet a specific security policy.
The Scenario:
You are a security administrator for a small company. A new security policy has been implemented, and you must configure the network firewall to enforce the following rules:
A specific external host with the IP address 203.0.113.53, which has been identified as malicious, must be blocked from accessing the company’s public web server (IP address 198.51.100.10) on the standard HTTP port.
All other external hosts must be allowed to access the public web server on the standard HTTP port.
An intern’s internal workstation (IP address 192.168.1.75) must be completely blocked from accessing external websites.
The Simulated Environment:
The exam presents you with a simplified firewall configuration interface. It is a table with several rows for rules. Each row has the following columns that you can edit via drop-down menus or text fields: Rule #, Source IP, Destination IP, Protocol, Port, and Action.
Step-by-Step Solution:
The key to solving this PBQ is to create the correct rules in the correct order. Firewalls process rules sequentially from top to bottom, and the first rule that matches a traffic pattern is applied.
Step 1: Create the Rule to Block the Malicious Host.
o This is the most specific rule and must come first to ensure it is processed before the more general “allow” rule.
o Configuration:
§ Rule #: 1
§ Source IP: 203.0.113.53
§ Destination IP: 198.51.100.10
§ Protocol: TCP
§ Port: 80
§ Action: Deny
o Explanation: This rule explicitly denies any TCP traffic from the malicious IP address destined for the web server’s HTTP port (port 80). Placing it as Rule 1 ensures that this traffic is dropped immediately.
Step 2: Create the Rule to Allow Legitimate Web Traffic.
o This rule allows all other hosts to access the web server.
o Configuration:
§ Rule #: 2
§ Source IP: Any
§ Destination IP: 198.51.100.10
§ Protocol: TCP
§ Port: 80
§ Action: Allow
o Explanation: This rule allows TCP traffic from any source IP to the web server on port 80. Because it comes after Rule 1, traffic from the malicious IP 203.0.113.53 will have already been matched and denied.
Step 3: Create the Rule to Block the Intern’s Internet Access.
o This rule prevents the specified internal workstation from accessing any external websites via HTTP.
o Configuration:
§ Rule #: 3
§ Source IP: 192.168.1.75
§ Destination IP: Any
§ Protocol: TCP
§ Port: 80
§ Action: Deny
o Explanation: This rule blocks any outbound traffic from the intern’s workstation that is destined for any external IP address on port 80. Note that a more comprehensive block would also include HTTPS (port 443), but based on the prompt, this rule is sufficient.
| Rule # | Source IP | Destination IP | Protocol | Port | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 203.0.113.53 | 198.51.100.10 | TCP | 80 | Deny |
| 2 | Any | 198.51.100.10 | TCP | 80 | Allow |
| 3 | 192.168.1.75 | Any | TCP | 80 | Deny |
Concepts Tested:
This single PBQ effectively tests a candidate’s understanding of:
Firewall Access Control Lists (ACLs)
The principle of rule order precedence
IP addressing (public vs. private)
Common protocols (TCP) and port numbers (HTTP/80)
The ability to translate security policy requirements into technical configurations.
Pro Tips
Practicing with realistic CompTIA Security+ exam questions like these ensures you’re prepared for both the format and complexity of the real test.
How Many Questions Are on CompTIA Exams?
Understanding the structure of CompTIA exams, including question counts and time limits, is crucial for developing effective test-taking strategies. This section provides a comparative analysis of the Security+ and A+ certifications and delves into the practical challenges of managing time pressure during the exam.
Security+ vs A+ Exam Comparison
For many individuals beginning their IT career journey, the CompTIA A+ and Security+ certifications are key milestones. While A+ is the industry standard for establishing a foundational IT career, Security+ is the benchmark for entering the cybersecurity field. Understanding their differences is essential for proper career planning.
The CompTIA A+ certification requires candidates to pass two separate exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). Each exam contains a maximum of 90 questions and has a 90-minute time limit. In contrast, the CompTIA Security+ certification is earned by passing a single exam.
The content focus also differs significantly. A+ Core 1 centers on hardware, mobile devices, networking fundamentals, and hardware troubleshooting. A+ Core 2 covers operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), software troubleshooting, operational procedures, and a foundational introduction to security concepts.
The Security+ exam expands upon the security topics introduced in A+ Core 2 exponentially, diving deep into cryptography, risk management, incident response, and security architecture. For those starting out, CompTIA A+ practice questions can be a helpful first step in building foundational IT knowledge before tackling Security+.
For this reason, CompTIA officially recommends having the Network+ certification and two years of security-focused IT administration experience before attempting the Security+ exam.
| Feature | CompTIA A+ (220-1101 & 220-1102) | CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Exams | Two (Core 1 and Core 2) | One |
| Total Questions | Max 180 (Max 90 per exam) | Max 90 |
| Key Topics | Core 1: Hardware, Networking, Mobile Devices, Troubleshooting Core 2: Operating Systems, Security Basics, Software Troubleshooting |
Threats & Vulnerabilities, Security Architecture, Security Operations, Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC), Cryptography |
| Target Audience | Entry-level IT support specialists, help desk technicians, field service technicians | Entry-level cybersecurity analysts, security administrators, junior penetration testers |
| Certification Level | Foundational IT | Foundational Cybersecurity |
Table 3: Comparison of CompTIA Security+ and A+ Exams
What to Know About Question Limits and Time Pressure
The CompTIA Security+ exam includes up to 90 questions in 90 minutes, which makes time management essential. This averages out to approximately one minute per question, a pace that leaves little room for hesitation or getting stuck on a single difficult item.
The biggest challenge is that the exam starts with the most complex and time-consuming questions, called PBQs. This design tests how well candidates manage pressure and prioritize.
One of the best strategies? Flag and skip. When you hit a PBQ and don’t know the answer right away, mark it and move on. Knock out the multiple-choice questions first to build momentum and confidence. Some of those later questions might even remind you of a detail that helps solve the PBQ.
This approach avoids spending too much time on a few tough questions and missing easier ones. It’s about strategic triage, similar to how real-world security professionals handle multiple issues at once.
The bottom line: Mastering the format and using smart test strategies are just as important as knowing the material.
How to Use Practice Questions Effectively in Your Study Plan
Practice questions are only powerful when used with intent. To truly benefit, don’t just answer questions. Instead, use them to simulate the exam, identify weak areas, and monitor your progress. Here’s how to use them the right way:
Simulate Test Conditions
Use full-length CompTIA practice questions that mix multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and PBQs.
Time yourself strictly. Use a 90-minute limit, just like the real thing.
Find a quiet, distraction-free spot. Turn off your phone and notifications.
Use platforms with on-screen timers to build comfort with time pressure.
Track Progress and Performance Trends
Log your results after every practice test.
Break scores down by domain: General Security Concepts, Threats and Vulnerabilities, etc.
Track dates, total scores, and percentage correct per domain.
Use a spreadsheet, notebook, or built-in dashboards like CertMaster Practice.
Monitor patterns. Are weak areas improving? Are strong areas slipping?
Focus on Weak Areas Strategically
Use performance trends to guide your next study block.
Prioritize domains with the lowest scores.
Don’t just reread material. Go deeper with:
Targeted videos
Hands-on labs
Domain-specific quizzes
Retest after studying. If scores go up, move on to the next weak spot.
Follow this loop: Test → Analyze → Focus → Re-test.
This cyclical process ensures that study time is always directed where it will have the maximum impact on the final score. Incorporating CompTIA Security+ questions practice into each review cycle reinforces retention and builds applied skill under pressure.
Combine Practice with Boot Camp-Style Learning
Set aside a day for a self-paced mini boot camp.
Pick one challenging domain like “Security Operations.”
Stack your session like this:
Watch a complete video course
Do hands-on virtual labs
Take focused quizzes or CompTIA Security+ practice questions to lock it in
Why Choose Training Camp for CompTIA Security+ Prep
Not everyone thrives with self-study. If you’re looking for structure, speed, and expert support, Training Camp offers a proven alternative.
High Pass Rates and Proven Success Stories
Training Camp promotes pass rates of 94% to 96% for first-time takers. That’s nearly double the average of those who prep on their own. These numbers are backed by testimonials from professionals at companies like Booz Allen Hamilton, Comcast, and Hewlett-Packard.
Flexible Online and In-Person Boot Camps
We offer two main formats:
Instructor-Led Boot Camp (4–5 days):
Available online or in person
Includes live expert instruction
Comes with official CompTIA materials, exam voucher, and hands-on labs
Success Guarantee: one free retake + a second exam shot if needed
Self-Paced Bundle (12-month access):
On-demand videos
800+ practice questions
Virtual labs (CertMaster Labs)
Satisfaction Guarantee (based on course completion)
| Feature | Instructor-Led Boot Camp | Self-Paced Bundle |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Live Online or In-Person | Self-Paced Online |
| Duration | 4-5 Days (Intensive) | Flexible (12-month access) |
| Key Materials | Official CompTIA Courseware, Study Guides, Video Access (90 days) | Video Lessons, Interactive Content, Progress Tracking |
| Included Labs | Hands-On Labs | Interactive Virtual Labs (CertMaster Labs) |
| Exam Voucher | Yes | Can be bundled |
| Success Guarantee | Yes (Course Retake & Second Shot) | Satisfaction Guarantee (contingent on completion) |
Table 4: Overview of TrainingCamp’s Security+ Prep Offerings
Expert-Led Sessions for Career-Focused Professionals
Boot camps offer one big advantage: access to real instructors who can clarify tough topics and keep you on track. This structure is efficient and high-impact for professionals needing certification to secure a job or promotion.
Trusted by Thousands of IT and Cybersecurity Pros
TrainingCamp stands out as a trusted name in the certification space. As a CompTIA Platinum Partner, we’ve built strong credibility among IT and cybersecurity professionals. Our client roster includes Fortune 500 companies and government agencies, reflecting industry-wide confidence in the programs.
Our focus on practical, results-driven instruction makes us a go-to option for professionals who need to get certified quickly and effectively.
Acing the CompTIA Security+ Exam
The Security+ exam is a launchpad for building a stronger, more secure career in IT. CompTIA practice questions help you build skill, boost confidence, and pinpoint exactly where to focus. But strategy is everything.
Study independently or train with our client’s boot camp. Either way, here’s how to approach it:
Start with a diagnostic test to find your gaps
Simulate test-day conditions early and often
Use performance data to study smarter, not harder
Reinforce learning with labs, videos, and hands-on practice
Get Access to Exclusive Practice Questions and Expert-Led Training
TrainingCamp’s Security+ program delivers what serious candidates need: official materials, over 800 CompTIA practice questions, interactive labs, and real-time instruction from certified experts.
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