Benefits of Passing SY0-501 Exam and Earning CompTIA Security+ Certification

It’s clear that becoming CompTIA certified has numerous benefits. This top trade association offers vendor-neutral credentials that are recognized globally. When your skills are validated by this body, you can work on any technology platform. Besides, CompTIA invests in continuous research to keep up with industry trends and changes. This enables them to come up with courses that meet current and future IT needs. If you wish to undertake IT security roles, one of the fundamental credentials you should consider is the new CompTIA Security+ certification. This credential is awarded after successful completion of SY0-501 exam.

The Examsnap.com CompTIA Security+ certification was renewed in October 2017 and comes with added benefits. Security+ certification exam has performance-based questions that test fundamental cybersecurity concepts which means that it focuses on practical skills, rather than theoretical knowledge. Candidates will gain handy skills that they can apply in their jobs to solve various security issues.

Additionally, the training for this exam is created to update candidates on the latest trends and cybersecurity issues. Consequently, candidates will learn current techniques in risk mitigation, risk and threat management as well as intrusion detection. Such skills are paramount for anyone interested in junior IT audit or penetration testing roles. These skills will also come in handy for systems administrators, network administrators, and security administrators.

General Information About CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ certification is ISO 17024 and DoD 8570 compliant. It means that this credential will not only help you launch your career in cybersecurity but will also make you very competitive in the field. According to PayScale, professionals who hold the CompTIA Security+ credential earn an approximate annual salary of $72K and work for prestigious companies such as General Dynamics Information Technology Inc., Northrop Grumman Corporation, and U.S. Air Force (USAF).

The skills validated in SY0-501 exam are core and will come in handy when pursuing other CompTIA cybersecurity certifications. Holders of the CompTIA Security+ credential can easily pursue advanced certifications such as CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), CompTIA PenTest+, and Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+).

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-501) Exam Details

This exam focuses on validating core knowledge required for every cybersecurity role. After passing, it is expected that one can competently detect, mitigate, and manage IT security risks.

The minimum score for SY0-501 exam is 750. Once you attain this score, you will be awarded the Security+ certification. The test covers a maximum of 90 questions and should be done within one and a half hours. The exam features both multi-choice and performance-based questions. There are no necessary prerequisites for this test, nevertheless, you are recommended to have the CompTIA Network+ certification and possess at least two years’ experience as an IT security administrator. The exam cost is $339.

Important Skills Acquired Through SY0-501 Exam

One of the reasons you should consider this exam is the kind of knowledge you acquire during your preparation for the same. Passing SY0-501 test validates your prowess in various IT security skills which include:

• Detecting threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities: you will learn about the various kinds of security compromises and understand the process of penetration testing. This section will also cover various vulnerability scanning concepts.

• Identity and access management: this section deals with installing and configuring identity access services and management controls.

• Security risk management: you will learn how to implement the best practices of risk management. You will also study how risk management practices impact the business.

• Network technologies and tools: this topic involves installing and configuring components as well as carrying out assessments and troubleshooting any security issues affecting an organization.

• Cryptography and PKI: this chapter covers the installation and configuration of wireless security settings. It also includes implementing a public key infrastructure.

• Architecture and design: this section measures your ability to implement secure systems design and network architecture concepts.

CompTIA Security+ Exam Preparation Tips

It is important to acquaint yourself with the subjects tested in SY0-501 exam before booking. This will help you create a comprehensive study schedule and know when you are likely to complete the coursework. Make sure to follow your schedule and go through the necessary study materials before taking the exam.

When choosing your exam preparation materials, it is wise to select approved study resources. For instance, CompTIA recommends various test preparation materials that are developed by their seasoned cybersecurity experts. These resources include the e-learning platform CompTIA CertMaster Learn, virtual labs, eBooks, video training, and instructor-led training. CompTIA offers various options to purchase these resources and vouchers. The plans range between $339 and $899.

You can also shop around for other affordable resources that can help you lower your certification budget. Examsnap is one of such sites. This community of certified IT professionals helps candidates to prepare for their IT credentials. They offer both free and paid resources such as exam dumps, study guides, and video lectures. You can get all these at a pocket-friendly price of $67 or less depending on the prevailing discounts.

Conclusion

Passing the CompTIA Security+ SY0-501 exam opens a world of opportunities. These include launching your IT career in cybersecurity, getting a better salary and working with top IT companies. However, achieving this dream starts with preparing adequately for your exam. Once you have booked your test, it is important to have a structured study program that will help you to cover the course objectives. Remember to rely on reputable study materials to prepare for your exam.