CompTIA Security + Is it Worth it? A Salary Perspective

IT security is expected to increase by 28% between 2016 and 2026, making this an attractive career option. Many professionals turn to certifications to gain a reasonable edge in the marketplace. Today we take a closer look at CompTIA Security + certification and ask the question: Is it value it?

Security is unique of the fastest-growing zones in IT. The US Department of Labor (BLS) Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts employment growth of 28 percent in computer and information technology for information security analysts between 2016 and 2026.)

With growth rates above the national average, IT security positions remain a very beautiful career opportunity for those who assume security functions or seek a career change.

Nearly 90% of IT professionals have at least one certification. Many IT professionals see certifications as a way to gain a competitive advantage in the labor market. Unfortunately, not all certifications are the same, and popularity does not necessarily guarantee a return that will help you find a new job or ensure much-needed growth.

Today, we’ll look at one of CompTia’s outstanding certifications – CompTIA Security + and see if it offers employment and higher wages benefits.

Information about CompTIA Security +

CompTIA is recognized worldwide and one of the largest IT trade associations in the world. CompTIA is a leading supplier of vendor-neutral certifications and has provided more than two million certifications since its launch in 1993.

Currently, the company offers 13 vendor-neutral certifications in four key areas: core competencies, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and more. professional skills (eg project management or training).

One of CompTIA’s most popular certifications, CompTIA Security + Certification, is part of the CompTIA core certification portfolio, which includes IT +, A + and Credit + networks. Security + is based on the technical and network knowledge acquired through A + and Network + certifications. Both A + and Network + are recommended requirements for Security plus certification jobs, as well as two years of experience in security-oriented IT management.

Security + is an entry-level accreditation and ideal for people who want to establish themselves as IT security experts. Certification is for IT professionals who troubleshoot, configure, and manage network problems.

It not only settles a candidate’s knowledge of the core issues of cybersecurity but also his ability to perform the core tasks of cybersecurity. Holders of security and credentials are able to identify and resolve security issues. You are very familiar with managing and mitigating risk then detecting threats.

The latest version of the certification test is sy0-501. As with many other certifications, Security + is valid for a limited period of while and requires training for each renewal.

CompTIA Security +: Salary Overview for Certified Professionals

Security + is often one of the first certifications that potential IT security experts have received. It is confirmed that a candidate has the knowledge and skills to perform a variety of security-related roles for juniors and newcomers, such as: penetration testers, junior IT examiners and system administrators, network or security. Security + Skills are also used by security professionals, engineers and security consultants.

According to the April 2017 Report for Employment and Wages for Employment (BLS), the national average salary for security analysts is $ 99,690, the first ten percent earning over $ 153,000. A number of factors – such as the particular role of the job, years of experience, industry and geography – affect individual wages. The report finds that the use of IT security is the highest in Virginia, California, Texas, New York and Florida.

On the other hand, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York, Virginia and Maine are the top winners if you are looking for excellence. (Similarly, the Global Knowledge and Technical Knowledge Report 2018 on Global Knowledge states that respondents from the south and northwest have received lower salaries and higher salaries in Eastern European countries.)

The BLS report also shows that the five industries where most IT security professionals are paid are: (1) wholesalers, agents and electronic brokers; (2) securities, freight contracts and other financial assets and related activities; (3) scientific research and development services; (4) construction of supply systems; and (5) legal services. For more information on job opportunities and security benefits in your location and in your industry, visit the Employment and Salary website in May 2017.

CompTIA Security + Is it worth it?

Are Certifications Important? The answer is a clear YES!

According to CompTIA, 96 percent of managers seek certifications when they find candidates or include certifications as part of the job requirements.

Data from the IT Knowledge and Salaries Report from IT Global Knowledge 2018 shows that 15 percent of respondents said adding new certifications to skills has led to an increase, while some respondents reported increases of up to 16 percent.

The Global Knowledge Report also recognizes that IT professionals earn 22% more than their non-certified peers. This strongly speaks in favor of obtaining certifications.

Are Employers Looking for Security Experts + Certified?

The CompTIA Security + ID card is very popular with both jobseekers and employers. A simple hunt for “CompTIA Security +” on SimplyHired has resulted in 2,250 jobs where employers are looking for candidates with the + security certificate.

How About Earning Opportunities?

CompTIA Security + occupies the 10th place in the global knowledge list with the 20 most successful payment certificates. Also included in the first 20 lists are CISSP (CISP) 2 (first place) and ISACA’s Information Security Manager (CISM) 6th place.

As you can see from the following table, the average salary of persons with CISSP or CISM status is $ 20,000 more than the average Security + Certification holders earn. This pay gap is not surprising, as CISSP and CISM are experts who are dedicated security professionals with experience at the height of their careers, while Security + is an entry-level model.

Certifications make the difference. Certified IT professionals acquire skills that allow them to work faster, easier and more safely, often with higher salaries.

If you are new to IT security and want to test your skills against current or potential employers, CompTIA Security + is an excellent vendor-neutral reference that adds value to the certification portfolio. However, if you are an experienced security expert, you should take a closer look at CISM or CISSP, as these certifications are more appropriate for security professionals.

If you have chosen the Security + certificate and need help with the exam, read a practical test and study guide we have prepared to assist you on your preparation journey.