CompTIA Security+ (SY0-501)
SY0-501
A professional-level exam on the Cybersecurity track, covering Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities, Technologies and Tools, Architecture and Design, and more, rated intermediate in difficulty, recommended for candidates with at least 24 months of hands-on experience, consisting of 90 questions in 90 minutes. Prepare with professionally curated practice questions and walk into exam day with confidence.
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Exam Details
- Time Limit
- 90 min
- Passing Score
- 750
- Exam Questions
- 90
- Exam Fee
- $349
- Format
- Multiple-choice and performance-based
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Exp. Needed
- 24 months
- Cert Valid
- 3 yr
- CE Credits
- 20 credits
- Free Questions
- 15
- Languages
- English
What the SY0-501 Exam Covers
6 official domains
Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities 21%
Technologies and Tools 22%
Architecture and Design 15%
Identity and Access Management 16%
Risk Management 14%
Cryptography and PKI 12%
Who Should Take This
SY0-501 target roles
Certification Path
professional · Cybersecurity
| Prerequisites | None |
|---|---|
| Current Exam | SY0-501 |
| Next Step | SY0-601 |
SY0-501 exam guide
How hard is the SY0-501 exam?
The SY0-501 is rated intermediate in difficulty, most candidates prepare with at least 24 months of hands-on experience. Difficulty varies with your existing hands-on practice, so use the sample questions on this page to gauge where you stand before booking the real test.
What is the SY0-501 exam format?
Expect around 90 questions, 90 minutes to complete, a passing score of 750, formats include multiple-choice and performance-based, the current blueprint is version v5.0, the official exam fee is $349 USD. It is offered in English. Check your local testing provider for delivery options and any regional pricing differences.
Who should take the SY0-501 exam?
This is a professional-level certification, typical target roles include security administrator, security specialist, security consultant, security analyst. If the role you are aiming for appears on that list, the credential is a direct investment in your next job move rather than a general-purpose certificate.
What comes after the SY0-501?
Candidates who pass usually continue with SY0-601, this exam sits on the Cybersecurity track. Map the whole path before you start studying so each certificate builds on the previous one instead of repeating the same ground.
How do you renew the SY0-501 certification?
The certification remains valid for 3 years, that path requires 20 continuing-education credits. Plan the renewal before the expiry date so the credential never lapses on your CV or job application.
Certification FAQ
Other ways to test for SY0-501
15 free questions available — two ways to use them.
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