How many parts in CompTIA Security+?

How many parts in CompTIA Security+? The answer is simple: 5 key domains. But what exactly do these five parts cover? What topics are included, and what kind of questions can you expect? Don’t worry – this article from Easy Prep will break down each domain in detail, offering you a clear and comprehensive overview of what to focus on to ace your CompTIA Security+ certification.

How many parts in CompTIA Security+?

The CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam is divided into 5 parts, with the following weightings:

1. General Security Concepts (12%)
2. Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)
3. Security Architecture (18%)
4. Security Operations (28%)
5. Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)

Next, we’ll break down each part of the CompTIA Security+ exam:

Part 1: General Security Concepts (12%)

General Security Concepts

The General Security Concepts section of the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam focuses on foundational knowledge of security principles. This part covers topics such as security policies, risk management, business continuity, and compliance. You’ll need to understand key concepts like the CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability), which is the cornerstone of cybersecurity, as well as the principles of least privilege and defense in depth. The questions in this section might ask you to identify the best security approach in various scenarios or explain how different concepts, like risk management frameworks, contribute to an organization’s security posture.

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Part 2: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)

Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations

In this section, the focus is on understanding threats, vulnerabilities, and how to mitigate potential risks. You’ll explore different types of attacks (e.g., phishing, malware, denial-of-service), how vulnerabilities in systems can be exploited, and how to implement defenses to prevent them. The questions will cover attack vectors, attack types, and how vulnerabilities in software and hardware can lead to breaches. You’ll also study techniques such as patch management, security configuration, and how threat intelligence helps organizations anticipate and defend against new attacks.

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Part 3: Security Architecture (18%)

Security Architecture

The Security Architecture section focuses on designing, implementing, and managing secure networks and systems. This section emphasizes the understanding of how security technologies (such as firewalls, VPNs, encryption, and identity management systems) fit together to form a secure architecture. You’ll learn about security zones (e.g., DMZ, internal network), secure design principles (e.g., redundancy, availability), and how to implement security controls at different levels of the IT environment. You may also encounter questions about implementing cloud security, securing virtual environments, and understanding different types of security models, such as mandatory access control (MAC) or discretionary access control (DAC).

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Part 4: Security Operations (28%)

Security Operations

This section is the largest and deals with the day-to-day management and monitoring of an organization’s security posture. Security Operations focuses on topics like incident response, disaster recovery, monitoring, and maintaining the security of systems through continuous oversight. You’ll also study security policies and procedures for handling incidents, from identifying and analyzing threats to containing and mitigating damage. Expect questions that test your ability to identify different types of incidents (e.g., data breaches, system failures) and how to respond to them. 

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Part 5: Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)

Security Program Management and Oversight

The Security Program Management and Oversight section focuses on the governance, risk management, and leadership aspects of cybersecurity. This section tests your ability to manage and oversee security programs, including the alignment of security policies with organizational goals, budgeting for security initiatives, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. You’ll also learn how to perform risk assessments, manage security audits, and establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure security effectiveness. Questions will focus on the application of security frameworks and standards (such as NIST, ISO 27001, GDPR), as well as governance structures within an organization. 

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Each part of the exam builds upon fundamental knowledge and practical application. Make sure to study each part thoroughly, as real-world scenarios often blend topics from multiple sections. This will help you prepare for the exam and ensure you’re ready for the challenges of securing today’s complex environments.

Conclusion

How many parts in CompTIA Security+? As we’ve explored, the exam is divided into five crucial domains that cover a broad range of cybersecurity topics. Understanding each domain in detail will help you prepare more effectively for the CompTIA Security+ exam. With this knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to approach the test with confidence and clarity. Good luck on your journey to CompTIA Security+ certification!