The current Security+ certification is not a generic "cyber" badge. CompTIA frames SY0-701 around five weighted domains, hands-on performance-based work, and a fixed exam window of 90 minutes. The voucher price is $425, the exam can include maximum of 90 questions, and the passing score is 750 on a scale of 100-900.
Security+ vs PenTest+
Security+ is broad and defensive. It covers access control, cryptography, risk, governance, operations, cloud, wireless, and threat scenarios. PenTest+ is specialized and offensive — it focuses on penetration testing methodology, reconnaissance, attacks, and reporting. The two certifications serve fundamentally different career paths.
If your target role is analyst, administrator, or compliance-adjacent, Security+ is the more direct credential. If your target role is penetration tester or red team member, PenTest+ is more aligned. Many security professionals hold both, but Security+ is typically the foundation.