CompTIA A+ vs. Security+: What’s the Difference?

If you're looking to build a career in IT infrastructure or cybersecurity, CompTIA certifications can serve as vital stepping stones. Vendor-neutral, CompTIA certifications are not tied to any specific vendor, meaning the skills you acquire remain relevant across diverse operating systems, networks, or technologies. According to a 2022 report by Statista, CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security + ranked among the top three IT certifications held by technologists in the United States [1].

Read on to discover how CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+ compare and determine which certification aligns best with your career goals.

What is CompTIA A+?

The CompTIA A+ certification affirms your core IT competencies across a broad spectrum of devices and operating systems. At its core, CompTIA A+ proves your readiness for a career in IT. Obtaining this certification equips you to handle tasks such as:

• Troubleshooting IT service and support issues

• Configuring and managing various devices and operating systems

• Assisting with IT infrastructure and networking tasks

• Applying fundamental IT security skills

• Managing client-based and cloud-based software

• Carrying out essential data backup and recovery procedures

Who should pursue the CompTIA A+ exam?

The A+ certification involves two exams: CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2) [2]. Core 1 assesses your understanding of mobile devices, networking systems, hardware, cloud computing, and virtualization. Core 2 tests your proficiency in operating systems, security, software, and operational procedures.

While no set prerequisites exist, CompTIA recommends having nine to 12 months of practical experience in the field [2]. Consider taking the exam if you plan to pursue any of the following positions:

• Help desk technician

• IT specialist 

• Field service technician

• IT support manager

• Business analyst

• Data support technician

• Technical support specialist

• Managed service provider (MSP) personnel 

• IT server technician

The two exams pertinent to A+ cost $253 each [2]. Taking both exams brings the total cost to $506 [2].

Advantages of CompTIA A+

The CompTIA A+ certification can be a beneficial asset to an IT professional. Some of the notable benefits include: 

Greater job opportunities 

A+ is ISO/ANSI accredited. This accreditation assures employers across the world that your IT skills adhere to the highest industry standards, making you a highly sought-after candidate in the job market. 

Increased salary 

The average base salary for CompTIA A+ certified professionals in the US is $74,000 per year, according to Payscale [3]. Note that your skills and experience level can also impact your final compensation. 

Disadvantages of CompTIA A+

Although CompTIA A+ has its perks, it also has some disadvantages. Consider the following factors before making a decision:

May be difficult to pass

Because the CompTIA A+ certification requires the passing of two exams, those with a busy work schedule may run into difficulty finding the right amount of time needed to study. Utilizing learning resources such as the CompTIA CertMaster Practice for A+ Training can help improve your chances of success. 

Requires upfront investment

While CompTIA offers some free resources, such as sample questions, most of their comprehensive study materials, including CertMaster Learn, CertMaster Labs, and CertMaster Practice, are paid resources. The costs add up quickly, as separate materials are needed for each of the two exams.

What is CompTIA Security+?

The Security+ certification from CompTIA validates your ability to perform essential security tasks, helping you lay the foundation for a career in IT security. It prepares you to handle a range of security responsibilities, including:

• Evaluating enterprise security and deploying necessary security solutions

• Surveilling cloud, mobile, and Internet of Things (IoT), among other hybrid environments 

• Implementing relevant governance, risk, and compliance regulations and policies

• Managing responses to security events and incidents

Who should pursue the CompTIA Security+ exam?

Earning the Security+ certification requires clearing just one exam: CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 [4]. CompTIA Security+, like CompTIA A+, has no set prerequisites. However, CompTIA advises obtaining the CompTIA Network+ certification and gaining two years of experience in a security or systems administrator position. You may consider taking the CompTIA Security+ exam if you’re aiming for positions such as:

• Cloud penetration tester

• Network security operations

• Penetration tester

• Network security analyst

• Web app penetration tester 

• Security architect

As of January 2025, the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 costs $404 [4]. 

Advantages of CompTIA Security+

If you’re in the security field, pursuing the CompTIA Security+ certification is a great step forward. It can offer you the following benefits:

Recognized by the US government 

CompTIA Security+ is ISO accredited and recognized by the US Department of Defense (DoD), giving you a competitive edge when applying for government or defense IT security roles. This recognition not only boosts your professional credibility but also shows your alignment with government security standards, making you a highly desirable candidate for key positions in the industry.

Higher compensation 

CompTIA Security+ certified professionals in the US earn an average base salary of $86,000 per year, according to Payscale [5]. As you continue to grow professionally, consistently expanding your skill set will position you for higher-paying opportunities. 

Disadvantages of CompTIA Security+

Before committing to the CompTIA Security+ certification, you might want to carefully consider a few potential downsides. Evaluating these aspects in advance can help you make a more informed and confident decision.

Might be tough to clear

Despite being an entry-level certification, CompTIA Security+ can still prove difficult for beginners or entry-level IT professionals. Even if you are familiar with the material, you may still need to spend an adequate amount of time studying, which may be hard for working professionals. 

Limited in scope 

While CompTIA Security+ can open doors to entry-level cybersecurity roles, the rapidly evolving nature of the field demands ongoing learning and staying current beyond the certification. To remain competitive, you'll need to continuously update your skills and keep up with new security technologies.

Should you take CompTIA A+ before Security+?

Yes. CompTIA advises obtaining the CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA A+ certifications before pursuing the CompTIA Security+ certification. Following Security+, CompTIA recommends advancing your qualifications with certifications like CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA)+ and CompTIA PenTest+.

CompTIA certification paths

A survey by Skillsoft revealed that CompTIA-certified professionals earn, on average, 16 percent more than their non-certified peers, who typically earn $71,279 [6]. Along with A+ and Security+, CompTIA provides certifications in five key areas: Core, Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Data and Analytics, and Professional. You may want to explore these pathways based on your interests and career aspirations.

Core Pathway

The Core pathway encompasses four certifications. Together, they form a solid foundation for pursuing specialized CompTIA certifications:

• CompTIA ITF+

• CompTIA Network+

• CompTIA A+

• CompTIA Security+

Infrastructure

The Infrastructure pathway extends the Core with three certifications: Server+, Linux+, and Cloud+. Earning these CompTIA certifications helps you develop the expertise required to succeed in IT operations.

Cybersecurity

The Cybersecurity pathway expands on the Core pathway with PenTest+, CySA+, and CASP+ certifications. Together, the Core and Cybersecurity pathways equip you with the practical skills needed to defend organizations against cyber threats.

Data and analytics

The Data and Analytics pathway adds the Data+ certification to the Core pathway. Earning this certification helps you refine your data analysis skills and empowers you to assist businesses in making data-driven decisions.

Professional 

Project+ and Cloud Essentials+ make up the Professional pathway. Combined with the Core pathway, they strengthen your professional skills and support career advancement in fields like project management and training.

Get started in information technology

The CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+ certifications are excellent for making a start in IT. Complement your preparation with the Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals Specialization by IBM. Available on Coursera, this Specialization can help you develop the technical and troubleshooting skills necessary for an IT customer support role.