{"id":1304,"date":"2024-11-26T00:00:46","date_gmt":"2024-11-26T05:00:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/?p=1304"},"modified":"2025-04-21T07:09:19","modified_gmt":"2025-04-21T11:09:19","slug":"can-i-get-security-plus-certification-without-an-it-background","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/can-i-get-security-plus-certification-without-an-it-background\/","title":{"rendered":"Can I Get Security Plus Certification Without an IT Background?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT security has become a sought-after career path in today&#8217;s digital world, where every sector seems to rely on technology. However, the road to becoming a security expert often seems paved with technical jargon and computer science degrees.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re considering a career switch or just starting out, you might wonder <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">if<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> earning a Security Plus Certification without an IT background is feasible. Let&#8217;s explore this intriguing question and uncover the path to IT security for non-IT professionals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>It\u2019s Easier Than You Think\u2026<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re considering a career in IT but are unsure where to begin, you&#8217;ll be pleased to learn that pursuing another degree\u2014or even a college degree at all\u2014might not be necessary! Let\u2019s debunk some common myths about entering the IT field:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A four-year degree in computer science is essential to break into IT.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You must have a technical degree to land an entry-level tech support role.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The knowledge required to excel in tech jobs is exclusive to a college education.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">IT hiring managers prioritize educational credentials above all else.<\/span><\/i><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you explore job listings in areas such as cybersecurity, help desk support, web, software, and mobile app development on major job sites like <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.indeed.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indeed<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and Monster, you may notice a consistent theme in the qualifications section:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cHigh School diploma or GED required.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many IT positions <\/span><b>do not<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> require a four-year degree\u2014or even a two-year degree\u2014and numerous job listings confirm this.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the absence of a degree has deterred you from pursuing a career in technology, it\u2019s important to understand that most tech roles simply ask for proof of your capabilities, often through certifications and relevant experience. Hiring managers do not automatically dismiss candidates without undergraduate degrees.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Job Stats for IT Professionals Without Degrees:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the U.S <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/emp\/tables\/educational-attainment.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, approximately 25% of IT workers in the United States do not possess a bachelor\u2019s degree or higher.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.comptia.org\/content\/research\/workforce-and-learning-trends-2022\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CompTIA survey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of HR leaders found that 85% support the idea of eliminating or relaxing degree requirements in hiring.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that we&#8217;ve established that a degree is not always required, or even the best way (despite traditional beliefs) to enter the IT field, let&#8217;s explore how you can earn a Security Plus Certification without an IT background.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What Is the Security Plus Certification?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The CompTIA Security+ certification encompasses fundamental principles of network security and risk management. It equips candidates to configure systems that safeguard applications, networks, and devices from attacks across all platforms. More importantly, it empowers professionals to perform core security functions and handle basic troubleshooting tasks- the exact skills hiring managers are looking for, degree or not.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/identitymanagementinstitute.org\/vendor-neutral-and-vendor-specific-certification\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">vendor-neutral certification<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, Security Plus allows professionals to work with any hardware or software products they prefer, enhancing their versatility in the field.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/courses.htm\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2680\" src=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ONLC-Tech-Courses.jpg\" alt=\"tech-courses-onlc\" width=\"2100\" height=\"800\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Importance of the CompTIA Security+ Certification<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The CompTIA Security+ certification offers more than just academic recognition; it serves as a gateway to numerous opportunities in the IT and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cisa.gov\/careers\/cybersecurityit-jobs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cybersecurity fields<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Recognizing the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/security-plus-certification-benefits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">significance of the Security+ certification<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can inspire candidates to persevere through the challenges of exam preparation.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, the skills gained from Security+ certification provide a solid foundation for further education and specialization in the cybersecurity field. By mastering these essential concepts, professionals can seamlessly transition into specialized areas such as ethical hacking, digital forensics, access management, or cybersecurity management.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For those looking to advance as cybersecurity specialists, obtaining the CompTIA Security+ certification is essential. It is particularly prized by organizations, including government agencies, that mandate this foundational certification for their specialists.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Core Skills and Knowledge Areas<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Security Plus Certification covers a broad range of topics. Key areas include network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, application, data and host security, access control, identity management, and cryptography.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While these topics may sound intimidating initially, they are essential for building a strong foundation in cybersecurity. The certification ensures that professionals possess the necessary skills required to identify and mitigate security risks and implement effective solutions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Open Career Opportunities<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Security+ certification, recognized worldwide, can enhance your employability and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/what-jobs-can-i-get-with-security-plus-certification\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">career opportunities<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and obtaining this certification can significantly impact your first impression in the job market. This is because potential employers seek candidates who not only grasp cybersecurity principles but also demonstrate the ability to apply them in practice. This certification is a testament to those skills, validating your competence in effectively addressing security challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Pathways to Security Plus Certification<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to obtaining the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/what-comptia-certification-to-get-first\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Security Plus Certification<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, there are multiple pathways to choose from. Let&#8217;s explore the options available for non-IT professionals.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Security Plus Training Courses at ONLC<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ONLC <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/comptia-certification-training-classes.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">CompTIA Security+ training program<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is expertly designed to equip you with and complete the knowledge and skills needed for the certification exam. Here\u2019s what distinguishes our training:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Video Resources<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: ONLC students receive exclusive access to supplementary Network+ (prerequisite) and Security+ videos. These invaluable study aids empower students with the skills necessary to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/how-to-take-the-comptia-security-exam\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">excel in their exams<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Exam Study Preparation &amp; Voucher<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Alongside exceptional security instruction, our program includes a practice CompTIA Security+ exam and a voucher for the official certification test. This practice exam is essential for effectively preparing you for the actual exam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Certification Exam Pass Guarantee<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If you don\u2019t pass the authorized exam on your first attempt, our guarantee ensures that our study programs offer a secure and risk-free pathway to achieving your Security+ certification. Learn more about our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/exam-pass-guarantee.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Review Exam Pass Guarantee here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Optional CompTIA Security+ Class Retake<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Within a year of your initial class, you can retake the instructor-led Security+ course at no additional cost. This opportunity gives you more time to engage with the material and thoroughly prepare for the exam. For further details, please see the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/register.htm#retake\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">class retake details here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Authorized CompTIA Security Training<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: As an authorized partner of CompTIA, ONLC takes pride in delivering a finely crafted training program that maximizes your chances of success in the Security+ exam and facilitates certification attainment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Flexible Learning Options<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Attend instructor-led classes at any of ONLC&#8217;s nationwide centers or participate from the comfort of your home with our online guidance.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>On-Demand Self-Study Module<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Prefer self-study? Our blend of video tutorials, labs, and exercises caters to your learning style, allowing you to learn and prepare for the exam at your own pace. Enjoy 24\/7 access to study materials for several months.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/two-men-looking-at-screen-during-meeting-in-it-sec-2023-11-27-05-33-29-utc.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2332\" src=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/two-men-looking-at-screen-during-meeting-in-it-sec-2023-11-27-05-33-29-utc.jpg\" alt=\"comptia security+ training\" width=\"5420\" height=\"3613\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><b>Self Study Resources<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fortunately, numerous resources are available to help non-IT professionals prepare for the Security Plus Certification. Online platforms such as CompTIA&#8217;s official website, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer comprehensive courses specifically designed for beginners. These courses cover all the exam objectives and provide hands-on labs to reinforce learning.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Joining Online Communities<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, non-IT professionals aspiring to obtain the Security+ certification can benefit from joining online communities dedicated to cybersecurity. These forums provide a wealth of knowledge-sharing opportunities and offer support from current certification holders or other individuals pursuing the same goal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Challenges for Non-IT Students<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While self-study resources and on-demand modules are convenient and flexible, they may not be the best option for students without an IT background. One primary challenge is the lack of foundational knowledge in computing and cybersecurity concepts, which are crucial for understanding the advanced topics covered in the Security+ curriculum. Without this basic grounding, self-directed study can lead to frustration and misunderstandings of core security functions and principles.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, the absence of a live instructor can be a significant hurdle. Instructors provide not only content delivery but also immediate feedback, personalized guidance, and the ability to clarify complex topics that may not be well understood through static resources alone. For those new to IT, this real-time interaction can substantially impact their learning outcomes and confidence. Therefore, non-IT students may find more success in structured training environments that include live instruction and interaction.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Tips to Help You Pass CompTIA\u2019s Security+ Exam<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether you choose to pursue self-study or enroll in a structured course, here are some helpful tips that can help you succeed in the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/what-to-study-before-taking-a-security-plus-training-class\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Security+ exam<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Create a study plan:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Develop a personalized study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses. Allocate enough time for each topic, practice questions, and review.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Understand the exam objectives:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Familiarize yourself with the exam objectives provided by CompTIA. These will guide your studying and ensure that all necessary topics are covered.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Practice, practice, practice: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The more practice questions you work through, the more familiar you will become with the exam format and how to approach different performance-based questions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Don\u2019t crunch: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s better to study consistently over a longer period than to cram everything the night before the actual test. Give yourself enough time to internalize concepts and take breaks when needed.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Join study groups: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Working with others can help you clarify difficult topics, share notes and resources, and provide motivation and support.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Utilize flashcards:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Flashcards are an effective way to memorize key terms and definitions. They can also be used for quick review sessions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Take practice exams:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Simulate the actual exam experience by taking practice tests under timed conditions. This will help you assess your readiness for the real thing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Common Hurdles Faced by Non-IT Professionals<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transitioning to a new career path is challenging, especially when venturing into the technically demanding field of IT. Individuals without an IT background might face a few hurdles along the way, but these challenges are certainly not insurmountable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One common hurdle is the unfamiliarity with technical terminology and concepts. Terms like firewalls, encryption, and malware might seem daunting at first. Additionally, understanding network protocols and troubleshooting methodologies can be overwhelming for those without prior IT experience. However, these challenges can be overcome with dedication and the right resources.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/confident-fbi-agent-or-policeman-showing-murder-we-2023-11-27-05-00-15-utc.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2331\" src=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/confident-fbi-agent-or-policeman-showing-murder-we-2023-11-27-05-00-15-utc.jpg\" alt=\"jobs in cybersecurity\" width=\"6402\" height=\"4268\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h3><b>Overcoming Challenges<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To tackle these challenges, non-IT professionals can adopt a strategic approach. Start by breaking down complex concepts into more digestible parts and focus on understanding the fundamentals. Online tutorials, videos, and forums can be invaluable resources for clarifying technical jargon. Engaging with online communities of IT enthusiasts can provide support and insights from individuals who have successfully navigated similar transitions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The answer to the question posed at the beginning of this blog post is a resounding yes\u2014it is indeed possible to obtain Security Plus Certification without an IT background. While the path may present challenges, perseverance and a willingness to learn can lead to success. The value of this baseline certification extends beyond technical knowledge, as it demonstrates dedication, adaptability, and a commitment to professional growth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For career changers and entry-level professionals, Security Plus Certification opens doors to a wide range of opportunities within the IT industry. It serves as a solid foundation for further specialization and advancement. By embarking on this certification journey, individuals can position themselves for rewarding careers in IT security and contribute to safeguarding the digital landscape.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re ready to start your certification journey, we encourage you to explore the resources mentioned above and connect with others who are pursuing the same goal. Don&#8217;t forget to check out <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/certification-computer-training.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ONLC-certified training courses<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for comprehensive preparation and support!<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>IT security has become a sought-after career path in today&#8217;s digital world, where every sector seems to rely on technology. However, the road to becoming a security expert often seems paved with technical jargon and computer science degrees. If you&#8217;re considering a career switch or just starting out, you might wonder if earning a Security [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":1364,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"no","footnotes":""},"categories":[7,3,40],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1304","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-certifications","category-comptia","category-security"],"aioseo_notices":[],"modified_by":"Blue Tuskr","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1304","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1304"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1304\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2683,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1304\/revisions\/2683"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1364"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1304"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1304"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.onlc.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1304"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}