CySA+ vs Security+: What Is the Difference?

Security+ and CySA+ are different levels in the CompTIA cybersecurity pathway. Security+ is the entry-level certification covering broad security fundamentals. CySA+ is the intermediate certification focused on hands-on threat detection and analysis. Most professionals earn Security+ first, then CySA+ after gaining experience.

Security+ (SY0-701) validates that you understand security concepts: threats, vulnerabilities, cryptography, identity management, and security operations. It is broad but not deep. The passing score is 750/900, and it targets professionals with 0-2 years of experience.

CySA+ (CS0-003) validates that you can actively detect and respond to threats: SIEM analysis, vulnerability scanning, incident response procedures, and threat intelligence. It is narrower but significantly deeper. The passing score is 750/900, and it targets professionals with 3-4 years of experience. CySA+ questions are more scenario-heavy, often presenting log data, network captures, or tool output for analysis.