Loading page
Security+ and CISSP sit at opposite ends of a security career. Security+ is an entry-level, vendor-neutral credential you can earn with no experience; CISSP is an advanced, management-focused certification that requires five years of paid security experience.
Last updated June 2026
| Aspect | Security+ | CISSP |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | CompTIA | ISC2 |
| Level | Foundational, technical | Advanced, management and leadership |
| Experience required | None to sit the exam (about two years recommended) | Five years of paid security work in two or more of the eight domains (four years with a qualifying degree or credential) |
| Focus | Baseline security skills across five domains | Designing and managing an enterprise security program across eight domains |
| Exam | One exam, up to 90 questions, 90 minutes | Adaptive exam, 100 to 150 questions, up to 3 hours (English) |
| Passing score | 750 on a 100 to 900 scale | 700 on a 1000-point scale |
| Cost (US, approx) | About $425 | About $749, plus a yearly maintenance fee |
| Valid for | 3 years (50 continuing-education units) | 3 years (120 continuing-education credits plus the annual fee) |
| Best for | Breaking into security | Experienced practitioners moving into security leadership |
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.
These are not really either/or. Security+ is where almost everyone starts; CISSP is a senior credential you pursue years later, once you have the required experience. Earn Security+ now, build experience, and target CISSP when you move toward security architecture or management.
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.
Written to the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 objectives. CompTIA and Security+ are trademarks of CompTIA, used here for identification only.