What Are Security+ Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)?

Performance-based questions (PBQs) are interactive simulations on the Security+ exam that test hands-on skills rather than memorized facts. Instead of choosing from multiple-choice answers, you perform tasks in a simulated environment, such as configuring a firewall, analyzing log files, or setting up a wireless network (CompTIA, Performance-Based Questions Explained, checked Sep 25, 2026).

CompTIA doesn't publish how many PBQs SY0-701 has. Candidates commonly report 3-5 PBQs, usually at the beginning of the exam. Commonly reported PBQ types include drag-and-drop matching (e.g., matching attack types to descriptions), network diagram analysis, command-line simulations, and configuration scenarios.

CompTIA also doesn't publish how PBQs are weighted against multiple-choice questions, so treat any point value you read online as a guess. What you can control is time: flag the PBQs, finish the multiple-choice section, then come back, so you don't burn too much time early. To prepare, practice hands-on labs and focus on topics like network architecture, log analysis, PKI configuration, and access control setup. You can try three formats (log analysis, attack classification and incident-response ordering) in the free Security+ PBQ simulator.