If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, chances are the CompTIA Security+ certification is on your radar. But one of the most common questions beginners ask is: “How hard is the Security+ exam?”

The truth is, the SY0-701 Security+ exam isn’t impossible, but it’s not a walk in the park either. It requires dedication, a good study plan, and hands-on practice. In this guide, we’ll break down the exam’s difficulty, clear up common myths, and give you realistic tips to boost your confidence.

Why People Think Security+ is Hard

• Broad Coverage of Topics: Security+ covers five exam domains, from general security concepts to incident response and risk management. That’s a lot of material for someone new to IT.

• Performance-Based Questions: Unlike multiple-choice, PBQs test you in real-world scenarios. Many students find these tougher than theory-based questions.

• Time Pressure: With 90 minutes to answer up to 90 questions, you have about one minute per question.

What Makes the Security+ Exam Manageable

While the exam can feel intimidating, here’s what makes it realistic for beginners:

• Entry-Level Friendly: Security+ is designed as a foundational certification. You don’t need years of experience to pass.

• Clear Exam Objectives: CompTIA provides detailed exam domains and topics so you know exactly what to study.

• Hands-On Labs and Practice Tests: With the right training provider (like ASM Educational Center), you can practice real scenarios before the exam.

SY0-701 Exam Domains and Weight

The new Security+ SY0-701 exam is divided into these sections:

• General Security Concepts (12%)

• Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)

• Security Architecture (18%)

• Security Operations (28%)

• Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)

Understanding the weight of each domain helps you prioritize your study time.

What is the Pass Rate for Security+?

CompTIA does not release official pass rates, but industry estimates suggest that around 70–80% of students pass on their first try with proper preparation. Students who rely solely on self-study without practice exams or hands-on labs often struggle more.

Common Myths About Security+ Exam Difficulty

• Myth #1: You need years of experience. Not true. Many beginners with 6–8 weeks of focused study pass successfully.

• Myth #2: It’s all memorization. Wrong. The exam tests your ability to apply concepts in real-world scenarios.

• Myth #3: It’s harder than advanced certs. Security+ is foundational, making it easier than CISSP or CEH.

Tips to Build Confidence for the Exam

• Follow a Study Plan: A 6–8 week roadmap works well for part-time learners.

• Use Multiple Resources: Books, videos, practice tests, and labs.

• Simulate Exam Conditions: Take timed practice exams to get used to the pressure.

• Join a Training Program: At ASM Educational Center, you get live instructor-led classes, labs, exam vouchers, and a one-year free retake policy. That kind of support can make all the difference.

Why Choose ASM for Your Security+ Prep

At ASM Educational Center, we provide all-inclusive Security+ training packages:

• Certified instructors with real-world experience

• Hands-on labs and interactive classrooms

• Official exam voucher included

• Practice exams and study resources

• Flexible options: in-person or virtual classes

• One-year free retake policy at ASM HQ

With over 33 years of training experience and a reputation for helping students succeed in IT certifications, ASM is the trusted choice for busy professionals and career changers.