Top 8 Reasons Why CompTIA Security+ is Popular among Security Experts

Organizations are becoming more conscious about cybersecurity challenges that have permeated the world of technology. Various job titles, such as an ethical hacker, a penetration tester, and a cybersecurity analyst are coming up on all IT job websites, and many new ones are being created on a regular basis. Security experts are in high demand in the IT world and various institutions are developing certification contents to validate the experience and skills of professionals working in cyber security field.

Before delving into the popularity of the CompTIA Security+ certification among security experts, it is important to understand what cybersecurity is all about. The first explanation is that it is the practice of protecting network, programs, and systems from various digital attacks. These attacks are targeted at accessing, destroying, or changing sensitive information, interrupting normal processes of business, or defrauding users. Cybersecurity has remained a serious challenge for many businesses especially because of the growth of online business transaction. According to a survey carried out by CSOnline, about one-fifth of organizations have experienced serious system disruptions because of security vulnerabilities in 2017. McAfee also reported that about 71% of companies believe that the shortage of cybersecurity experts has made them the core target for cyber attacks from hackers. What this means is that security experts are highly required in the IT industry today.

However, simply saying that you are an expert in cybersecurity cannot earn you a job. You have to demonstrate your skills and knowledge. The best way to do this is to have a certification to validate your claim. CompTIA Security+ is one of the top credentials you can earn to certify your knowledge and skills in the field of cyber security. Therefore, it is not surprising to notice that this certificate has become very popular among security experts. In this certification guide, we look at the different reasons why Security+ has become very popular among security experts in the field of Information Technology.

Why is CompTIA Security+ popular among security experts?

Among all security certifications, CompTIA Security+ stands out as a well-respected and globally recognized credential in the industry. Many professionals starting out in the field of security are currently pursuing this certification because of many beneficial reasons. If you consider getting this CompTIA certificate, the benefits highlighted below will help you make the right decision.

1. Industry standard for cybersecurity certifications

The CompTIA Security+ credential is globally considered to be one of the fundamental security certifications in the field of cybersecurity. Administered by CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association), the Security+ credential is also validated by ANSI and is designed to demonstrate the ability of an individual to utilize the skills, knowledge, and features needed to be compliant with ISO 17024 standard.

2. Vendor neutral certification

The credential is vendor neutral, which implies that you do not have to focus on technology and security of a particular vendor. Thus, you can cover the general components of cybersecurity. The wide skills and knowledge gathered while completing the certification program make security consultants and network administrators become very much in demand in the IT marketplace. This gives you the ability to explore various opportunities in the industry.

3. Prerequisites and required experience

Since it is an entry-level credential, it is not required to have much experience. This is one of the reasons why many people entering the security industry decide to obtain it in order to enhance their career potentials significantly. Unlike other cybersecurity credentials, this one doesn’t have any mandatory requirements. It is only recommended that the professionals taking the certification exam should have about two years of working experience in security and networking fields to increase their chances of passing the test and getting hired in time.

4. High salary potentials

The professionals with the Security+ credential have greater possibilities of earning higher salaries than their non-certified colleagues. With this certification, you can expect to earn an average salary of between $42,130 and $95,830 as a network engineer. It is important to mention that there are other factors that determine how much you earn, and these factors include your level of experience and accreditation. Within a couple of years, the professional with the CompTIA Security+ certification can earn about $66,890 per annum.

5. High career opportunity

The professionals in the field of cybersecurity are demanded by organizations in private and public sectors. The CompTIA Security+ credential gives you an edge to handle security and network administration tasks. With this certification, you can take up a wide range of jobs with different services, such as Compliance and Operational Security, Data and Host Security, Cryptography, Threats and Vulnerabilities, Access Control and Identity Management, and Application.

6. Opportunity to take up government work

If you want to get a cybersecurity or networking position in any government agency, earning the CompTIA Security+ certification is the perfect starting point for you. The credential meets the DoD 8570 standard. It is known as a compliance standard that is utilized for citing many prerequisite necessary for government employees and contractors at different levels of work in the IT area. As a matter of fact, the credential meets the DoD 8570 compliance standards that are required for both Technical Level Two and Management Level One positions.

7. Opportunity to learn and develop

Before you can earn the certification, you will be required to cover the exam objectives and contents. After serious preparation, you have to pass the test. In the course of preparing for the test, you will learn different things about cybersecurity. Besides, you will develop skills and knowledge that will help you become a better security expert. This is why hiring managers always look out for the professionals with this CompTIA certification. The credential is a proof of your knowledge and skills in the job area.

8. Opportunity to work anywhere in the world

One significant benefit of earning the CompTIA Security+ credential is that it is widely recognized, accepted, and respected all over the world. Wherever you desire to work, this certification can open the door for you. If you want to work in the USA, Security+ will make it possible for you. For instance, it is approved by the United States Department of Defence and can act as an ice breaker for any government agency job. If you want to work as a network cybersecurity professional, this CompTIA certificate is a must-have for you.

 The CompTIA Security+ credential is one of the certifications in Information Technology that offers you the opportunity for continuous learning and development of your knowledge and skills in the cybersecurity field. When you earn the Security+ certificate, you are required to renew it every three years to maintain your certification. This process of re-certification, which comes with different renewal methods, offers you a constant opportunity to enhance and maintain your knowledge base and professional skill level.

Conclusion

The CompTIA Security+ certification is your pathway to a career in cybersecurity. If you are just starting out in the industry, earning this credential is surely a good idea. With all the points that have been highlighted above, it is no surprising to see that the certification is very popular among security experts in the IT industry. There are various benefits and opportunities that come with pursuing the credential. Of course, before you earn your certification, you will be required to go through the process of writing the exam. Although the test requires hard work and intense study, the reward is worth every investment you make to earn it.