Failing CompTIA Security+ means a 14-day wait and $404 retake fee. Security+ is the most in-demand entry-level cybersecurity certification and is required for U.S. Department of Defense positions under DoD 8570/8140 compliance. With a 750/900 passing score and broad coverage of modern security threats, many first-time test-takers fall short. This guide helps you recover and pass on your next attempt.
CompTIA's standard retake policy applies: 14 calendar days between attempts, $404 per attempt, unlimited retakes. The exam covers General Security Concepts (12%), Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%), Security Architecture (18%), Security Operations (28%), and Security Program Management and Oversight (20%). With up to 90 questions in 90 minutes, time management is critical.
The 750/900 passing score means you need to answer approximately 83% of questions correctly, making Security+ one of the more demanding CompTIA exams. The exam includes both multiple-choice and performance-based questions that test your ability to apply security concepts in realistic scenarios.
Overemphasis on memorization. Security+ tests applied knowledge, not definitions. You need to understand why a specific security control is appropriate for a given scenario, not just what each control does. Scenario-based questions require you to analyze situations and select the best response from multiple valid-sounding options.
Weak cryptography knowledge. Many candidates struggle with encryption algorithms, hashing, digital certificates, PKI, and key exchange protocols. These concepts appear throughout multiple domains and are heavily tested in performance-based questions. Understanding symmetric vs. asymmetric encryption, certificate chains, and common cryptographic attacks is essential.
Ignoring governance and compliance. The Security Program Management domain covers risk assessment frameworks, compliance regulations (GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS), incident response procedures, and security awareness training. Many technically-focused candidates neglect these topics, losing critical points.
Insufficient PBQ preparation. Performance-based questions on Security+ can involve configuring firewalls, analyzing log files, setting up wireless security, identifying attack types from packet captures, or configuring access control lists. Without hands-on practice, these questions are significantly more difficult.
Security Operations (28%): This is the largest domain. Focus on incident response procedures, digital forensics concepts, vulnerability scanning tools, log analysis, and security monitoring. Understand SIEM platforms, IDS/IPS systems, and how to interpret security alerts in context.
Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%): Study common attack vectors including phishing, social engineering, malware types, and application attacks like SQL injection and cross-site scripting. Understand vulnerability assessment methodologies and appropriate mitigation strategies for each threat type.
Security Program Management (20%): This domain covers governance frameworks, risk management processes, compliance requirements, and security policies. Study frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, and understand concepts like business impact analysis, risk assessment matrices, and disaster recovery planning.
Security Architecture (18%): Focus on network security design, cloud security models, zero trust architecture, and secure application development. Understand defense-in-depth strategies, network segmentation, and how different security controls work together in an enterprise environment.
At $404 per attempt, strategic cost management matters. Check if your employer offers certification reimbursement—many companies in cybersecurity provide full exam fee coverage. Military personnel can use the DoD certification voucher program. Students should check for academic pricing through CompTIA Academic programs. Exam bundles with retake vouchers are available from authorized training partners and can save significant money.
14 calendar days after each failed attempt.
$404 USD per attempt. Look for exam bundles with retake vouchers for potential savings.
750 out of 900, which requires approximately 83% correct answers.
Unlimited attempts with a 14-day wait between each.
Most candidates find Security+ more challenging because it requires understanding threat analysis, risk management, and cryptographic concepts beyond standard networking knowledge.
Failed attempts are tracked internally in your CompTIA account but are not visible to employers. Only passed certifications appear on verification systems.
Yes. CompTIA offers online proctored testing through Pearson VUE, allowing you to take the exam from home with a webcam and stable internet connection.
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