Should I take Security+ or CEH first?

Security+ first. It is cheaper, vendor-neutral, and the baseline most security jobs require. CEH is a specialized offensive-security cert that makes more sense once you want a penetration-testing or red-team role.

Is CEH worth it compared to Security+?

They serve different goals. Security+ opens the door to most entry security and SOC roles. CEH targets offensive security specifically and costs significantly more, often bundled with training, so its value depends on whether you want a hacking-focused role.

Offline·Progress will sync once you are back on the network.

Compare

Security+ vs CEH

Security+ is a vendor-neutral, defense-focused foundational cert from CompTIA; CEH is an offensive, ethical-hacking cert from EC-Council. They approach security from opposite sides, and Security+ is usually earned first.

Last updated June 2026

Security+ vs CEH side by side
Aspect	Security+	CEH
Vendor	CompTIA	EC-Council
Angle	Broad, defense-oriented baseline	Offensive: ethical hacking and penetration-testing techniques
Level	Foundational	Intermediate
Prerequisites	None (about two years recommended)	Official training, or two years of security experience plus an application
Exam	One exam, up to 90 questions, 90 minutes	125 questions, 4 hours
Passing score	750 on a 100 to 900 scale	A variable cut score, roughly 60 to 85 percent
Cost (US, approx)	About $425	Roughly $950 to $1,200, usually bundled with training
Best for	Breaking into security or a SOC role, DoD 8140 baseline	Aspiring penetration testers and red teamers

Exam prices are approximate US list prices and change over time and by region and reseller. Check the certifying body for the current figure before you buy.

The bottom line

Security+ is the better first cert for almost everyone: it is cheaper, broader, and the baseline employers ask for. CEH makes sense later if you specifically want offensive security or penetration testing. Start with Security+, then specialize.

Lock it in with practice

Reading the difference is a start. SecPlus Mastery drills it with over 1,000 practice questions, timed mock exams, and spaced review across all five SY0-701 domains, so it sticks for exam day.

Create a free account See plans

FAQ

Should I take Security+ or CEH first?
Security+ first. It is cheaper, vendor-neutral, and the baseline most security jobs require. CEH is a specialized offensive-security cert that makes more sense once you want a penetration-testing or red-team role.
Is CEH worth it compared to Security+?
They serve different goals. Security+ opens the door to most entry security and SOC roles. CEH targets offensive security specifically and costs significantly more, often bundled with training, so its value depends on whether you want a hacking-focused role.

More certification comparisons

Security+ concept comparisons

Written to the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 objectives. CompTIA and Security+ are trademarks of CompTIA, used here for identification only.