Comparing : Security+ and ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) |

Q: Do I need prior IT experience for Security+?

Prior IT experience can be helpful but is not required. Beginners can pass Security+ with disciplined study, hands-on practice, and a focus on key concepts like networking, threats, and security operations.

Q: How long is the Security+ exam?

The exam lasts 90 minutes and includes up to 90 questions, combining multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions (PBQs) that test practical skills.

Q: How long is Security+ valid?

Security+ certification is valid for three years. Renewal can be done by earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs), taking higher-level certifications, or retaking the exam.

Q: What jobs can I get with Security+?

Security+ opens doors to roles such as Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, Network Security Administrator, and Systems Administrator. It is widely recognized for entry-level cybersecurity positions, including government roles compliant with DoD 8570/8140 standards.

Security+ vs ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) Comparison

Choosing the right cybersecurity certification can be overwhelming, especially with so many options for beginners and professionals. Two popular choices are

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) and ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC). This comparison will help you understand their differences and decide which path is right for you.

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates essential security skills, with a strong focus on hands-on, technical expertise. It is widely respected in the industry and often required for government roles under DoD 8570/8140 compliance. Candidates will gain knowledge in areas such as risk management, identity and access management, network security, and cryptography. Security+ is ideal for those looking to start or advance their careers in IT security.

ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

ISC2 CC is designed for beginners and career changers who want a foundational understanding of cybersecurity. It introduces core concepts such as cybersecurity principles, network security, and incident response. One notable benefit is that ISC2 membership often provides access to a free exam voucher, making it an accessible option for newcomers.

FAQ: Security+ Exam

Is Security+ difficult to pass?

The CompTIA Security+ exam can be challenging, but with 8–12 weeks of consistent study using books,labs, and practice exams, most dedicated students pass on their first try.

Do I need prior IT experience for Security+?

How long is the Security+ exam?

How long is Security+ valid?

What jobs can I get with Security+?

FAQ: ISC² Certification

1. Certification Overview

The Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification is an entry-level credential designed for individuals seeking to start a career in cybersecurity. It demonstrates foundational knowledge in key security principles and practices, making it ideal for those new to the field.

2. Exam Details

Duration: 2 hours
Number of Questions: 100
Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
Item Format: Multiple-choice and advanced items
Languages Available: English, Chinese, Japanese, German, Spanish
Testing Center: Pearson VUE Testing Center

3. Exam Domains and Weighting

The CC exam covers the following domains:

Security Principles – 26%
Business Continuity (BC), Disaster Recovery (DR), & Incident Response Concepts – 10%
Access Controls Concepts – 22%
Network Security – 24%
Security Operations – 18%

4. Exam Format Transition

Beginning October 1, 2025, the CC exam will transition to a Computer Adaptive Test (CAT) format. Candidates will answer between 100 to 125 multiple-choice and advanced item types. This change aims to provide a more tailored assessment experience.

5. Prerequisites

There are no work experience requirements for the CC certification, making it accessible to individuals without prior cybersecurity experience.

6. Certification Validity

The CC certification is valid for three years. To maintain certification, professionals must earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits and adhere to the ISC² Code of Ethics.

7. Preparation Resources

ISC² offers various preparation resources, including:

Self-Paced Online Training: Comprehensive modules covering all exam domains.
Official Study Guides: Detailed materials aligned with the exam objectives.
Practice Exams: Simulated tests to assess readiness.

8. Career Pathways

Earning the CC certification can open doors to various entry-level cybersecurity roles, such as:

Security Analyst
Network Security Administrator
IT Support Specialist
Incident Response Technician

Mind Map

The new Cybersecurity Certification Constellation Map, created by ASM, is an interactive tool designed to help students visually explore their ideal IT career path. Instead of guessing which certification to pursue next, users can navigate a dynamic constellation of certs that branch based on real-world decisions, job roles, and progression routes. Each star represents a certification, and each connecting line shows how one credential naturally leads to another—whether you’re starting with foundational skills or advancing toward specialized, high-level security roles. Built directly into our website, this ASM-designed map gives visitors a clear, intuitive way to understand their options and plan a personalized certification journey.

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Comparing : Security+ and ISC² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

Security+ ISC² CC Comparison

If you’re still unsure about taking the course, check out more of our blogs or visit our main website at www.asmed.com for more information or to get in touch with us. You can also view our upcoming Evening Boot Camp schedule and choose the one that best fits your availability here: www.asmed.com/s1.

If you are currently unemployed and live in the Washington, D.C. area, you may qualify for a grant that fully funds your IT training. To find out if you’re eligible, please fill out this short form: www.asmed.com/wd.

Good luck on your learning journey and we hope to see you in class soon!