Best CompTIA Security+ Courses for Certification Success

If you have been searching for the best CompTIA Security+ courses, you are already making one of the smartest career moves you can in tech right now. I have spent years working in cybersecurity education and reviewing dozens of training programs, and I can confidently say that the Security+ certification is still one of the most valuable credentials you can earn in 2026. It is vendor-neutral, globally recognized, and — most importantly — employers actually care about it. Whether you are completely new to IT or already working a help desk job, the right security plus online training can open doors you never expected.

Cybersecurity is growing fast. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analyst jobs are expected to grow by 32% through 2032, which is far above average for most careers. Furthermore, even entry-level cybersecurity roles pay well above the national median income. So, if you are wondering whether now is the right time to get certified, the answer is a clear yes.

In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know — from the best security plus classes online and exam costs to salary data and a practical study plan that actually works. I have personally reviewed the top platforms and courses so you do not waste time or money on the wrong ones. Let us get started.

Quick Tip: This guide focuses on the current SY0-701 exam version. Make sure any course you choose covers SY0-701, not the retired SY0-601.

1. What Are CompTIA Security+ Courses?

CompTIA Security+ courses are structured training programs designed to help you pass the CompTIA Security+ certification exam. These courses cover every domain tested on the exam and teach you practical cybersecurity skills you can use on the job from day one. They come in many formats — live online classes, self-paced video courses, bootcamps, and even free YouTube resources.

What makes good security plus certification classes stand out is that they go beyond simple memorization. The best programs include hands-on labs, realistic practice exams, and real-world scenarios. As a result, you come out ready not just to pass the test but also to actually do the work.

1.1 What Does the Security+ Certification Cover?

The current SY0-701 exam tests six core domains. Here is what you will study:

• Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities — understanding malware, phishing, and social engineering
• Security Architecture — designing and implementing secure networks and systems
• Identity and Access Management — controlling who gets access to what, and how
• Risk Management — identifying, assessing, and reducing organizational risk
• Cryptography and PKI — protecting data through encryption and certificate management
• Incident Response — detecting, responding to, and recovering from security events

Together, these domains give you a solid foundation in both theory and practice. Moreover, the exam includes performance-based questions, which means you need to demonstrate real hands-on skills, not just pick answers from a list.

1.2 Who Should Take Security+ Classes?

Security+ is built for people entering cybersecurity or formalizing their existing IT skills. In my experience, these are the candidates who benefit most from security plus classes:

• Beginners transitioning into IT or cybersecurity for the first time
• Help desk and IT support technicians ready to move into security roles
• Network administrators expanding into security responsibilities
• Systems administrators who want a recognized security credential
• Military and government IT staff (Security+ satisfies DoD 8570 requirements)
• College students finishing a degree in computer science or information technology

You do not need years of experience to start. However, basic networking knowledge helps a great deal. If you are brand new to IT, I would suggest building foundational skills first. Our in-depth cybersecurity skills guide walks you through the exact skills and knowledge base that makes Security+ much easier to absorb.

1.3 Is CompTIA Security+ Good for Beginners?

Yes — absolutely. CompTIA Security+ is widely considered one of the most beginner-friendly cybersecurity certifications available. In fact, CompTIA itself recommends it as your first security credential after completing A+ and Network+. That said, it is not a walk in the park, either.

The SY0-701 exam has up to 90 questions and a 90-minute time limit. You need a score of 750 out of 900 to pass. While those numbers sound manageable, the performance-based questions can trip you up if you have not practiced with hands-on labs. Therefore, I strongly recommend choosing a course that includes simulations, not just video lectures.

2. Best CompTIA Security+ Courses Online

There are honestly dozens of options available, and not all of them are worth your time or money. Based on my years of reviewing platforms and tracking real student outcomes, I have grouped the best security plus online training options into clear categories so you can pick what fits your budget and learning style.

2.1 Best Instructor-Led Security Plus Classes

Live, instructor-led classes are great if you prefer structure and real-time interaction. Here are the top options in this category:

• New Horizons — live virtual Security+ bootcamps, often with exam vouchers included
• Global Knowledge — highly respected for DoD-compliant training, ideal for government workers
• SANS Institute — premium, deep-technical content with strong instructor support
• Infosec Institute — live online classes with a pass guarantee on select packages

These instructor-led formats keep you accountable and give you a direct line to expert help. Furthermore, many bootcamp providers include the exam voucher in the price, saving you over $390 right away. However, live classes do cost more than self-paced options — typically between $1,500 and $3,500 for a full bootcamp experience.

2.2 Best Self-Paced Security Plus Online Training

If you prefer to learn on your own schedule, self-paced courses are an excellent choice. They are flexible, affordable, and you can rewatch lessons as many times as you need.

• Udemy (Jason Dion’s course) — top-rated, affordable, includes comprehensive practice exams
• Mike Chapple’s LinkedIn Learning path — bite-sized lessons, great for visual learners
• Professor Messer’s SY0-701 course — beloved by the community, free videos plus paid study materials
• CompTIA CertMaster Learn — the official self-paced platform built by CompTIA itself

Self-paced security plus online training is my personal favorite for people who have a full-time job and can only study a few hours a day. You can move through the material at whatever pace works for you. Additionally, most platforms let you download content for offline study, which is a huge advantage if you commute.

2.3 Best Free CompTIA Security+ Courses

Yes, you can learn a lot without spending a single dollar. Here are the best free resources I have found and personally used:

• Professor Messer on YouTube — a complete, free SY0-701 video course
• Cybrary — offers a free Security+ course with community discussion forums
• CompTIA’s official website — free exam objectives and sample questions
• Reddit’s r/CompTIA — active study community with guides, tips, and shared resources

Free resources are a great starting point. However, I recommend pairing them with paid practice exams to make sure you are truly ready for test day. You can also explore free AI tools that help with studying and note-taking — some of these tools are genuinely helpful for organizing study notes and generating flashcards.

2.4 Best Premium Courses for Faster Certification

If you want to pass Security+ as quickly as possible, a premium course is worth the investment. These programs typically include:

• Exam voucher bundled with the course price
• One-on-one mentoring or live Q&A sessions with instructors
• Performance-based question simulations that mirror the real exam
• Personalized study plans and progress tracking dashboards
• Pass guarantee with a free retake if you do not pass on the first attempt

Top premium options include Infosec Institute, CompTIA’s own CertMaster bundle, and Jason Dion’s Udemy courses paired with his full practice exam packs. In my honest opinion, the practice exams are the single most important study tool — even more important than the video lectures themselves.

3. Top Platforms Offering Security Plus Classes Online

Let me walk you through the major platforms and what makes each one worth your consideration. I have evaluated these based on content quality, student outcomes, value for money, and how well they align with the SY0-701 exam objectives.

Udemy

Udemy is probably the most popular destination for security plus certification classes. Jason Dion’s CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 course has tens of thousands of students and consistently earns top ratings. The price usually drops below $25 during sales — which happen almost constantly. The course includes video lectures, study notes, and multiple full practice exams. It is a solid all-in-one package for most learners and a great starting point.

Coursera

Coursera provides a more structured, university-style learning experience. Their IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate includes Security+-relevant content and leads to a recognized credential. Additionally, financial aid is available if cost is a concern. It is an ideal platform if you prefer a guided learning path with clear weekly milestones and instructor feedback.

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is built for busy working professionals. Lessons are usually 5 to 10 minutes each, so you can fit them into lunch breaks or commutes. Mike Chapple’s Security+ path on LinkedIn Learning is well-organized and covers all exam objectives clearly. Moreover, completing the course adds a verifiable certificate directly to your LinkedIn profile — a nice bonus for job seekers.

Professor Messer

Professor Messer is genuinely legendary in the CompTIA community. His free SY0-701 video course covers every single exam objective in clear, easy-to-understand language. If you want to upgrade, his paid study materials — including practice exams and study groups — are absolutely worth it. I personally recommend starting with his free videos as a baseline, regardless of which other course you purchase.

CompTIA Official Training

CompTIA’s own CertMaster platform offers official course materials, labs, and practice tests directly from the certification body. Since CompTIA wrote the exam, their content is the most precisely aligned with actual exam objectives. The downside is the higher price point compared to third-party alternatives. However, if budget is not a major concern, it is a reliable and trustworthy path.

4. How Much Does the CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost?

This is one of the most common questions I get, and it is an important one — especially because the exam alone is a significant investment. Understanding the full cost picture helps you plan your budget before you start studying.

4.1 Current Exam Pricing

As of 2026, the CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) exam costs $392 USD in the United States. Prices may vary by region due to currency differences. For the most up-to-date and accurate pricing, always check CompTIA’s official certification page directly before purchasing a voucher.

You can take the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through remote proctoring — both at the same cost. The online option requires a quiet, private room with a functioning webcam. Some people prefer the structure of a testing center, while others find online proctoring more convenient.

4.2 Additional Costs to Consider

The exam fee is just one part of the total investment. Here is a realistic breakdown of what you might spend in total:

• Course or bootcamp: free (YouTube/Cybrary) up to $3,500 for a premium live bootcamp
• Practice exam packs: $20 to $60 for standalone practice test bundles
• Study guides and textbooks: $25 to $50 for a physical or digital guide
• Retake fee: another $392 if you do not pass on your first attempt

Therefore, your total investment can range from $392 if you only pay for the exam, all the way to over $4,000 if you go the premium bootcamp route. For most people, a mid-range approach — such as a $25 Udemy course paired with a $40 practice exam bundle — offers the best balance between quality and affordability.

4.3 Ways to Save Money on Security+ Certification

Here are some legitimate and proven ways to reduce what you pay:

1. Buy a bundle that includes the exam voucher — many bootcamps and course providers offer this

2. Use CompTIA’s Academic Store if you are an enrolled student — discounted pricing is available

3. Ask your employer — many companies fully reimburse certification and training costs

4. Watch for Udemy and Coursera sales — courses regularly drop to $10 to $25

5. Check if your employer or institution has a CompTIA partner discount program

5. Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It in 2026?

Short answer: yes, without question. However, let me give you the complete picture so you can make the right decision for your specific situation and career goals.

5.1 Security+ Salary Potential

Security+ certified professionals earn strong salaries even at the entry level. Based on data from CompTIA’s IT salary guide and industry sources, here is what you can realistically expect:

• Entry-level cybersecurity analyst: $55,000 to $75,000 per year
• SOC (Security Operations Center) analyst: $65,000 to $90,000 per year
• Network security specialist: $75,000 to $100,000 per year
• Security administrator: $70,000 to $95,000 per year

These numbers vary based on your location, company size, and additional work experience. Nevertheless, even the entry-level figures are well above the U.S. median household income. Furthermore, once you add certifications like CEH, CISSP, or CISM down the road, your earning potential increases significantly.

5.2 Jobs You Can Get with Security+

Security+ opens the door to a wide range of in-demand job titles. Here are the most common roles that list it as a preferred or required qualification:

• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Security Administrator
• IT Auditor
• Systems Administrator with security responsibilities
• Junior Penetration Tester
• Cloud Security Specialist
• Government and DoD IT roles — Security+ satisfies DoD 8570 directive requirements

If you are aiming for a government or defense contractor position, Security+ is essentially mandatory. The DoD 8570 compliance requirement makes it a non-negotiable credential for many federal IT roles. For a detailed breakdown of cybersecurity career paths and the skills employers value most, check out our comprehensive cybersecurity skills guide.

5.3 Is CompTIA Security+ Hard?

Security+ is challenging, but it is absolutely passable with the right approach. The exam includes both multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions (PBQs), which require you to complete real tasks — like configuring a firewall rule or analyzing a suspicious network log. These hands-on questions are what trip up most unprepared candidates.

In my experience, most candidates need 60 to 90 days of consistent, focused study to feel truly ready. That translates to about one to two hours of study per day — covering the six exam domains, watching video lectures, reviewing notes, and completing full timed practice exams. If you already have IT or networking experience, you can likely reach exam-readiness in four to six weeks. Either way, never skip the practice exams — they are your single best indicator of whether you are truly ready.

6. How to Choose the Best Security Plus Training Program

With so many options competing for your attention, choosing the right course can feel overwhelming. Here is exactly how I evaluate security plus training programs whenever I recommend one to a student or reader.

Always Check for the SY0-701 Version

This is the most critical factor. Many older courses still teach SY0-601 content, which is no longer tested on the current exam. Always verify that any course you purchase explicitly states it covers SY0-701. Check the course description, the last update date, and the student reviews for confirmation. Using outdated materials is one of the most costly mistakes you can make.

Prioritize Practice Exams and Hands-On Labs

Practice exams are, in my opinion, the single most important study tool for Security+. Aim to complete at least 500 to 1,000 practice questions before you schedule the real exam. Additionally, hands-on labs that simulate real cybersecurity tasks are essential for preparing for the performance-based portion of the test. Any course worth taking should include both.

Match the Format to Your Learning Style

Think honestly about how you learn best. If you need accountability and real-time feedback, a live class or bootcamp is probably the better investment. On the other hand, if you are self-motivated and have a busy, unpredictable schedule, self-paced video courses give you the flexibility you need. Platforms like CompTIA’s CertMaster combine both approaches, offering videos, labs, and practice tests in one place.

Read Reviews and Check Student Outcomes

Before buying any course, spend time reading recent student reviews. Look specifically for comments about whether students passed the SY0-701 exam after finishing the course, how current and accurate the content is, and how responsive the instructor is to student questions.

You can also benefit from comparing Security+ with other in-demand tech certifications. For example, if you are also exploring cloud computing, our AWS certification courses guide is an excellent companion read. Similarly, if you want to combine cybersecurity knowledge with emerging tech skills, our breakdown of the top AI skills for 2026 is worth exploring — the overlap between cybersecurity and AI is growing fast.

7. Step-by-Step Study Plan for Passing CompTIA Security+

I have helped many people map out their Security+ study journey, and this 90-day plan is the structure that consistently delivers results. Adjust the timeline based on your current knowledge level and how many hours you can commit per day.
 

Month 1: Build Your Core Knowledge

Start with the fundamentals. During the first month, your goal is to get comfortable with all six exam domains. Do not try to memorize everything at once — instead, focus on building a solid conceptual understanding.

6. Watch all video lectures from your chosen course — Professor Messer or Jason Dion on Udemy

7. Take notes in your own words to reinforce retention and understanding

8. Download and read the official CompTIA SY0-701 exam objectives document (free on their website)

9. Complete end-of-chapter quizzes after finishing each domain section

10. Join an online study community — Reddit’s r/CompTIA and Discord study groups are excellent

This first month is about building your foundation. Do not rush it. Furthermore, building in a daily study habit now — even just 60 minutes — sets you up for success in the weeks ahead.

Month 2: Practice Labs and Full Mock Exams

This is where the real learning happens. In your second month, shift your focus from consuming content to actively applying it through practice and simulation.

11. Complete at least three full practice exams of 90 questions each, under timed conditions

12. Review every wrong answer carefully — understand why it was wrong, not just what the correct answer is

13. Complete at least five to ten hours of hands-on lab work using TryHackMe or CompTIA CertMaster Labs

14. Revisit and re-study any domain where your practice exam score is below 75%

15. Begin timing yourself — practice finishing questions in under 60 seconds each

By the end of month two, you should be scoring consistently in the 75% to 85% range on practice exams. If you are not there yet, that is fine — just identify your weak areas and focus your remaining study time accordingly.

Month 3: Final Review and Exam Day

In the final month, your job is to sharpen what you already know and eliminate any remaining weak spots. Avoid introducing new material at this stage — it can create unnecessary confusion.

16. Take two to three additional full practice exams — aim for consistent scores above 80%

17. Review your notes and any topics that still feel uncertain or fuzzy

18. Book your exam about two weeks into month three — a firm deadline is genuinely motivating

19. Do a light review of your notes (no new topics) the evening before the exam

20. Get a full night of sleep and log in or arrive at your testing center at least 15 minutes early

For more study strategies and techniques that work across technical certifications, our AI courses for beginners guide covers many of the same learning principles. Additionally, if you are thinking about adding Python scripting skills alongside your Security+ prep — which I highly recommend for security roles — our best Python course guide for 2026 is worth bookmarking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Note: FAQ word count is excluded from the main article word count per SEO content structure guidelines.

What is the best online course for CompTIA Security+?

In my experience, Jason Dion’s Security+ course on Udemy combined with Professor Messer’s free SY0-701 video series is the best combination for most learners. Dion’s course includes excellent practice exams, while Messer’s videos are clear and thorough. Together, they cover all exam objectives at a price that fits almost any budget.

Is CompTIA Security+ good for beginners?

Yes, it is designed with beginners in mind. However, having basic IT or networking knowledge helps significantly. If you are completely new to technology, consider building foundational knowledge first — CompTIA A+ or a basic networking course is a great starting point. Most people with basic IT familiarity can pass Security+ after 60 to 90 days of focused study.

How much does the Security+ exam cost?

The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) exam costs $392 USD in the United States as of 2026. Prices may vary by country. You can purchase exam vouchers through CompTIA’s website or Pearson VUE, or through training providers who sometimes include the voucher in their course bundles.

How long does it take to study for Security+?

Most candidates need 60 to 90 days of preparation, spending about one to two hours per day. If you already have IT or networking experience, you might be ready in four to six weeks. If you are brand new to the field, allow the full three months and do not rush the process. Consistent daily practice beats last-minute cramming every single time.

Is CompTIA Security+ harder than A+?

Yes, generally Security+ is more challenging than A+. CompTIA A+ focuses on hardware and basic troubleshooting, while Security+ requires a deeper understanding of security concepts, risk management, cryptography, and network defense. However, if you have already earned your A+, you are in a much stronger position to tackle Security+.

Can I pass Security+ without IT experience?

It is possible, but significantly more difficult without an IT background. Security+ assumes familiarity with networking concepts like TCP/IP, firewalls, DNS, and VPNs. If you lack that foundation, I recommend spending a few weeks on free networking basics before diving into Security+ material. Professor Messer also offers a free Network+ course that covers most of what you would need.

What jobs can I get with CompTIA Security+?

Security+ qualifies you for roles like cybersecurity analyst, security administrator, SOC analyst, IT auditor, and junior penetration tester. It is also required for many government and DoD IT positions. Entry-level salaries typically range from $55,000 to $75,000 per year, with considerable growth potential as you gain experience and add advanced certifications.

Which Security+ version should I study for in 2026?

Always study for the current SY0-701 version. The older SY0-601 has been retired and is no longer a valid exam option. Make sure every course, book, and practice test you use clearly states it covers SY0-701. Accidentally using outdated materials is one of the most common mistakes candidates make, and it can seriously hurt your score.

  About the Author
  This guide was written by a cybersecurity educator with hands-on experience in certification training, curriculum design, and IT career coaching. All course recommendations are based on thorough research, platform testing, and verified student outcomes. The author holds multiple industry certifications and has guided hundreds of students to exam success.