CompTIA Security+ vs CISSP
Compare Security+ and CISSP cybersecurity certifications. Entry-level vs senior security professional - which is right for you?
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA
CISSP
ISC2
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | CompTIA Security+ | CISSP |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | CompTIA | ISC2 |
| Difficulty Level | Foundational | Expert |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes | 4 hours (CAT format) |
| Exam Cost | $392 USD | $749 USD |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice, performance-based | 100-150 adaptive questions |
| Prerequisites | Network+ and 2 years IT experience recommended | 5 years security experience (or 4 with degree) |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years (40 CPE/year) |
| Ideal For | Entry-level security analysts, IT security roles | Security managers, CISOs, senior security architects |
| Salary Range | $65,000 - $95,000 | $120,000 - $180,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
CompTIA Security+ Focus Areas
- Threats
- Network Security
- Cryptography
- Identity Management
- Risk Management
CISSP Focus Areas
- Security Architecture
- Risk Management
- Asset Security
- IAM
- Software Security
- Operations
Our Recommendation
Security+ is the entry point, CISSP is the gold standard for senior roles. Different career stages.
Choose CompTIA Security+
Choose Security+ if you have 0-3 years experience and entering cybersecurity.
Choose CISSP
Choose CISSP if you have 5+ years experience and targeting leadership roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CompTIA Security+ or CISSP?
Security+ is the entry point, CISSP is the gold standard for senior roles. Different career stages.
What are the salary differences between CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ typically offers salaries around $65,000 - $95,000, while CISSP offers $120,000 - $180,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose Security+ if you have 0-3 years experience and entering cybersecurity. Choose CISSP if you have 5+ years experience and targeting leadership roles.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
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