About the Security+ Exam

CompTIA
Security+ SY0-701

ABOUT THE EXAM

  • Exam length: 90 minutes maximum
  • 72-90 questions
  • Mostly multiple choice with a single answer
  • 3-7 multiple choice with multiple answers
  • 1-2 simulations and a few  exhibits, often with multiple actions
  • Mark and review: Yes
  • Go back and change answers: Yes
  • Real exam cost: About $392

Domains covered

  • Domain 1: General Security Concepts
  • Domain 2: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations
  • Domain 3: Security Architecture
  • Domain 4: Security Operations
  • Domain 5: Security Program Management and Oversight

EXAM REVIEW – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Exam Content

The content of this revision of the Security+ exam is 75% similar to its predecessor, SY0-601. New to this version (SY0-701):

  • Recognizing types of attacks
  • Cryptic questions, many with 2 correct answers
  • Cryptography is less in focus and is contained in Domain 1.
  • Much on IoT and cloud security
  • Even less knowledge of ports required
  • More multiple-answer/multiple-choice

Exam Structure

You will receive from 72 to 90 questions but will make 100 choices. You won’t be told how many points each question is worth, but it is generally speculated that one selection equals one point. When you get an exhibit or scenario, it will involve multiple selections.

Example: You could be asked to diagnose a malware outbreak.  You would have to review logs and scan results. Each selection is worth a point.  You might have to make 8-15 selections.

Expect up to a dozen items with multiple-answer choices. The majority of the remaining questions will be single-answer.

Exam Time Crunch

Time is a key factor in this exam. Almost all of the people who fail the exam take too long to examine each question. You only have 90 minutes. Make them count.

Tip: Review the exam quickly, answering what you know, and marking questions for review. When you complete the first viewing of the questions, you will have ample time to go back and review the more difficult questions.

Prep: Take the online quizzes. They are designed to march you through the questions in an aggressive fashion so that you will learn to read and answer the questions quickly and accurately.