What is the Passing Rate for the CompTIA Security+ Exam?
If you’re preparing for the CompTIA Security+ certification, you’re probably wondering exactly what score you need to pass. The answer may surprise you; it’s not as simple as earning a certain percentage. CompTIA uses a scaled scoring system, and understanding how it works is critical to exam success.
Many candidates walk into the testing center focused solely on memorizing content, without realizing how question weighting, performance-based questions, and exam structure affect their final score. This lack of insight can hurt confidence and performance on exam day.
In this guide, we’ll explain the Security+ passing score, grading method, and exam difficulty, and, most importantly, how to improve your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Understanding the Security+ Exam
To pass the CompTIA Security+ certification exam (SY0-701), it’s essential to understand its structure and what it assesses. This comprehensive exam evaluates your expertise across key security domains, validating your ability to address modern cybersecurity challenges such as network security, identity and access management, cryptography, and threat detection.
Before worrying about the number, you need to understand the CompTIA Security+ certification exam itself. The current version, SY0-701, isn’t just a vocabulary quiz. It tests your ability to handle real-world cybersecurity problems, covering everything from network security to spotting threats.
You have 90 minutes to complete approximately 90 questions. These are a mix of standard multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). Below is a breakdown of the core domains you’ll need to master:
General Security Concepts (12%)
This section covers the fundamental principles of security, including the CIA triad: Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability. It also introduces security control types, such as preventive, deterrent, and corrective measures, alongside the Zero Trust architecture.
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)
Know your enemy. This covers hackers, phishing, ransomware, and how to stop them.
Security Architecture (18%)
This domain focuses on secure system design, including data classification, protection mechanisms, and high-availability considerations such as load balancing and geographic redundancy.
Security Operations (28%)
As the exam’s most heavily weighted section, this area emphasizes areas like incident response, automation, and orchestration. It focuses on leveraging diverse data sources, such as logs and vulnerability scans, to enhance security investigations and operational efficiency.
Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)
This domain deals with the governance aspects of cybersecurity, including policies, standards, and risk management. It also covers strategic security planning and awareness initiatives, such as phishing prevention and user training.
Mastering these areas will set you up to confidently pass the Security+ exam and show that you’re ready to tackle today’s challenging cybersecurity landscape.
CompTIA Security+ Exam Updates (SY0-701)
First introduced in 2002, Security+ was designed to bridge the gap between foundational IT knowledge and advanced security certifications. Over time, it has evolved to keep pace with real-world cybersecurity demands.
In November 2023, the CompTIA Security+ exam underwent a significant update, shifting from version SY0-601 to SY0-701. This update reflects the evolving cybersecurity landscape, incorporating new and emerging threats, trends, and techniques.
Difference between SY0-601 and SY0-701
The new CompTIA Security+ exam (SY0-701) has several key updates compared to the previous version (SY0-601):
Increased Focus on Cloud and Hybrid Environments
As more organizations adopt cloud computing and hybrid environments, the SY0-701 exam now covers more content on securing these systems. This update highlights the growing need to understand security in today’s modern IT setups.
Inclusion of Additional Threat Types
The SY0-701 exam has added new threat types, such as ransomware and insider threats, to reflect the evolving cybersecurity landscape. This change ensures that candidates are well-equipped to address current security challenges.
Emphasis on Security Tools and Technologies
As technology advances, so do the tools and technologies available for securing IT systems. The SY0-701 exam now includes questions on tools such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS).
With these changes, the CompTIA Security+ exam remains a relevant, up-to-date certification that validates your cybersecurity skills in today’s ever-changing field.
What Is the Passing Score for CompTIA Security+?
Now that you have a better understanding of the CompTIA Security+ exam, you may be wondering what score you need to pass.
To pass the CompTIA Security+ exam, you need a score of 750 on a scale of 100 to 900.
But it’s not as simple as “getting 83% correct.” CompTIA uses a scaled scoring system. This means not every question is worth the same number of points. More complex questions carry more weight to ensure fairness, regardless of which version of the exam questions you draw on test day.
Also note that performance-based questions may carry different point values than standard multiple-choice questions.
Why does the score matter?
Knowing you need a 750 helps you strategize. It shows you that you can’t just rely on easy questions; you need to tackle complex, performance-based scenarios to hit that target.
Factors Influencing the Passing Score
The passing score for the Security+ exam is 750, but achieving it can feel different for everyone. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Section Weighting
The CompTIA Security+ exam is divided into six domains, each carrying a specific percentage of the overall score. Focus on high-weighted sections, such as Security Operations, as this can help secure a significant portion of the score.
2. Question Difficulty
Not all exam questions carry the same weight. Multiple-choice questions contribute less to the score compared to performance-based questions. These performance-based items require solving real-world problems in simulated environments and are typically more challenging—but they can significantly boost your final score if answered correctly.
3. Exam Format
The Security+ exam consists of up to 90 questions, including multiple-choice and performance-based ones. Remember, time management is critical, as you’ll have 90 minutes to complete the exam. Allocate enough time for the performance-based questions, which take longer to complete but offer greater scoring potential.
Exam Difficulty Comparison
| Exam Area | Difficulty Level |
| Multiple-Choice Questions | Moderate |
| Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) | High |
| Threat Analysis | Moderate-High |
| Security Operations | High |
| Time Management | High |
| Overall Exam Difficulty | Moderate-High |
PBQs are the most challenging component and often determine pass/fail outcomes.
How to Improve Your CompTIA Security+ Pass Rate
Passing Security+ on your first attempt is very possible. It all comes down to your preparation. Here’s how successful candidates increase their pass rate.
Focus on High-Weighted Domains
CompTIA provides a comprehensive list of objectives for the Security+ exam. Familiarize yourself with each domain and its weight to focus your study efforts on the most impactful areas.
Security Operations (28%) and Threats & Vulnerabilities (22%) account for half the exam, so it’s best to master these first.
Practice Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
Because of their significant scoring weight, allocate ample practice time to Performance-Based Questions (PBQs). These questions mirror real-world scenarios and assess your ability to apply concepts in practice. Platforms like CompTIA CertMaster Labs are excellent for PBQ practice.
Enroll in a Structured Training Program
Instructor-led training can dramatically improve first-time pass rates by clearly explaining complex concepts, providing guided labs, and teaching exam-specific strategies. These structured programs offer the expert guidance and practical experience necessary to navigate the exam’s most challenging material.
With ONLC, you can face your CompTIA certification exam with confidence. Our Security+ curriculum is explicitly tailored for certification success, offering comprehensive exam preparation, an exam voucher, and access to support videos. The instructor-led training dives deeply into exam-focused material, while additional resources are available before and after class to enhance your learning experience.
Take Practice Exams
Mock exams are an excellent way to prepare. They help assess your readiness, improve time management, and familiarize you with the types of questions you’ll face.
Join Communities and Forums
Engage with other CompTIA candidates and certified professionals through forums and online communities like Reddit’s r/CompTIA. These platforms offer valuable insights, tips, and even shared experiences from those who have taken the exam.
Create a Study Schedule
Last but not least, stick to your study plan. Remember, consistency is key. Break down your study material into daily or weekly tasks to ensure you cover all domains thoroughly before the exam date.
FAQs
What’s included in the CompTIA Security+ exam content?
The exam content typically covers specific domains and objectives outlined in the official exam blueprint. To understand which topics and skills will be tested, review CompTIA’s exam objectives.
Can I take the exam online, or do I need to go to a testing center?
You can take the exam online through a secure, proctored system or at an approved testing center. Online testing offers flexibility, while testing centers provide a more traditional exam environment.
What’s the best way to study for the exam?
You’ve got plenty of options. Official CompTIA materials are excellent, but don’t overlook third-party guides, e-learning platforms, and virtual labs. The real secret is sticking to a structured study schedule. Pairing adequate resources with a solid plan is the best way to ensure you’ve covered all your bases.
Are practice questions helpful for exam preparation?
Definitely! Practice questions are a game-changer for getting used to the exam’s format and determining whether you’re actually ready. They’re the best way to spot your weak points so you know precisely what to double down on before test day.
The Value of the CompTIA Security+ Certification
Earning your Security+ certification is more than just passing a test. It’s a stepping stone to a successful career in IT and cybersecurity. This globally recognized credential demonstrates your knowledge of essential security concepts and positions you as a strong candidate for roles such as Systems Administrator, Security Analyst, or Network Engineer.
But it doesn’t stop there. Security+ also lays the groundwork for advancing in the field. It’s often a prerequisite for higher-level certifications like CompTIA CySA+ and CASP+, and it meets the Department of Defense Directive 8570/8140 requirements, making it especially valuable if you’re pursuing government or military positions.
Passing the exam is a significant milestone, but preparation is key. Take the time to study, practice, and stick to a solid plan. Wishing you the best as you work toward becoming Security+ certified!
