What Jobs Can You Get With a Security+ Certification?

In today’s digital economy, cybersecurity threats have become a top concern for businesses, governments, and individuals. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, phishing scams, and insider threats are just a few examples of the dangers lurking online. As a result, organizations across every sector are increasing their investments in cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and prevent operational disruptions.

However, there’s a widespread shortage of skilled professionals who can handle these growing threats. This shortage has made cybersecurity one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying fields in information technology. Employers are seeking qualified individuals who understand security fundamentals, and one of the best ways to demonstrate that knowledge is by earning the CompTIA Security+ certification.

Security+ is widely respected and recognized by employers worldwide. It opens doors to a range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors, even for those without years of experience. It provides the foundational skills needed to launch a successful cybersecurity career.

Understanding the Security+ Certification

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized, vendor-neutral certification designed for entry-level cybersecurity professionals. It is often the first certification individuals pursue when transitioning into a cybersecurity role. It covers the core competencies required to assess the security posture of an enterprise environment, recommend and implement appropriate security solutions, and monitor and secure hybrid environments.

The certification also focuses on practical, hands-on abilities rather than just theory. It includes performance-based questions that simulate real-world security scenarios. This ensures that candidates are job-ready and able to apply their knowledge from day one.

Security+ meets the ISO 17024 standard and is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense to fulfill directive 8140/8570.01-M requirements. This makes it particularly valuable for anyone seeking cybersecurity roles in federal government agencies or military contracting.

Who Should Pursue Security+ Certification

Security+ is ideal for a wide range of individuals, especially those looking to enter the cybersecurity field without prior experience. It’s commonly pursued by:

College graduates in IT, computer science, or related fields
IT professionals looking to specialize in security
Help desk technicians aiming to advance their careers
Military veterans transitioning into civilian cybersecurity jobs
Career changers entering the tech industry

It’s also an excellent starting point for those who want to build a long-term career in cybersecurity. After earning Security+, many professionals go on to pursue more advanced certifications like CySA+, PenTest+, CASP+, CEH, or CISSP.

What You’ll Learn With Security+

The Security+ certification equips candidates with a wide range of security skills and knowledge. The current version of the exam, SY0-701, focuses on the following key domains:

General security concepts and industry standards
Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies
Security architecture and design principles
Identity and access management techniques
Risk management and compliance
Incident response and recovery procedures
Cryptography and public key infrastructure

The exam includes up to 90 questions in both multiple-choice and performance-based formats. You’ll have 90 minutes to complete the exam and must score at least 750 out of 900 to pass.

How to Prepare for the Security+ Exam

Although there are no official prerequisites, CompTIA recommends having the Network+ certification and at least two years of experience in IT with a security focus. However, many candidates succeed without this background, especially if they are willing to commit to focused study.

Common preparation methods include:

Reading official CompTIA Security+ exam guides
Watching online video tutorials and walkthroughs
Enrolling in instructor-led courses or bootcamps
Taking practice exams to identify knowledge gaps
Gaining hands-on experience through virtual labs

Some learners also join online study communities or forums to share tips and resources. With consistent effort and the right study plan, most candidates are able to pass the exam within 8 to 12 weeks of preparation.

Why Employers Value Security+ Certification

Employers trust the Security+ certification because it validates essential skills needed to protect an organization’s systems and data. With Security+, you demonstrate that you:

Understand fundamental cybersecurity concepts
Can identify and respond to threats effectively
Know how to implement security protocols and tools
Are aware of industry standards, regulations, and compliance measures
Can work in a security-focused IT environment

For many entry-level cybersecurity jobs, Security+ is either a requirement or a strong preference. It proves that you’re capable of performing core security functions and that you’re serious about pursuing a career in the field.

Security+ is also listed as an approved certification under the U.S. DoD 8140/8570.01 directive. That means it qualifies you for numerous government and defense contractor positions, making it especially valuable for those interested in national security or military work.

Top Jobs You Can Get With Security+ Certification

One of the biggest benefits of earning Security+ is the access it provides to a wide range of job roles. These roles are often available to candidates with minimal experience and serve as stepping stones to more advanced careers in cybersecurity. Below are some of the top positions you can pursue:

Network Administrator

As a network administrator, you’ll be responsible for setting up, managing, and securing the organization’s network infrastructure. Your job will include tasks such as configuring routers and switches, managing firewalls, monitoring network traffic, and troubleshooting connectivity issues.

Security+ gives you the foundational knowledge needed to identify potential vulnerabilities in a network and implement solutions to safeguard against cyber threats. It ensures you can support network operations while also securing the environment.

Systems Administrator

Systems administrators are tasked with managing an organization’s computer systems, including servers, workstations, and storage devices. In this role, you’ll install updates, perform routine maintenance, and respond to system outages or performance issues.

With Security+, you’ll be prepared to secure systems against unauthorized access, configure permissions and user accounts, and apply best practices in system hardening. You’ll also be equipped to identify and fix security flaws within operating systems and software applications.

Security Specialist

Security specialists focus specifically on securing digital assets and managing an organization’s cybersecurity initiatives. Your role may involve assessing existing security measures, recommending improvements, and configuring tools such as antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems.

The Security+ certification prepares you for this position by covering key concepts in threat detection, risk analysis, and policy implementation. It demonstrates your ability to evaluate and strengthen security posture across systems and networks.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity analysts monitor systems for signs of malicious activity and investigate potential security breaches. They also perform risk assessments, prepare security reports, and help develop strategies to protect an organization from both internal and external threats.

Security+ provides a solid foundation for this role by teaching incident response, data analysis, and how to interpret logs and alerts from monitoring tools. With additional hands-on experience or certifications like CySA+, you can grow into more advanced SOC roles.

Security Administrator

Security administrators ensure that proper security measures are in place across the IT environment. This includes managing access controls, enforcing security policies, conducting audits, and ensuring compliance with regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA.

Security+ helps you excel in this role by covering essential governance and risk topics. It gives you the ability to maintain security frameworks that align with both organizational goals and regulatory standards.

Help Desk Technician with Security Focus

Even if you’re starting at the help desk level, Security+ can give you an edge. Many organizations prefer candidates who can assist users with both basic tech support and security-related concerns, such as password management, suspicious email reporting, or antivirus installation.

Help desk experience also serves as a valuable stepping stone into more advanced security roles over time.

Government and Military Cybersecurity Jobs

Because Security+ meets DoD 8140 requirements, it qualifies you for many roles in government and defense. These include positions such as Information Assurance Technician, Security Analyst, and IT Support Specialist for federal agencies and defense contractors.

Working in these environments often comes with additional benefits like job stability, clearance opportunities, and specialized training.

Skills That Make You Employable With Security+

Holding a Security+ certification is just the beginning. To stand out in the job market, you’ll also need a blend of technical and soft skills that make you a well-rounded candidate.

Some of the most valuable skills include:

Analytical thinking and attention to detail
Effective communication and documentation skills
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Familiarity with operating systems, networking, and cloud environments
Hands-on experience with security tools and technologies

If you complement your Security+ knowledge with practice and real-world application, you’ll be in an excellent position to start your career.

Real-World Benefits of Earning Security+

Beyond the job titles and salary potential, earning the Security+ certification boosts your credibility and confidence. It gives you a sense of direction in a constantly changing industry and sets you up for continuous learning.

Most professionals who earn Security+ find that it helps them:

Receive more job interviews and callbacks
Qualify for better-paying jobs sooner
Gain respect and recognition from employers and peers
Access further learning and certification opportunities

Security+ is not just about passing a test; it’s about proving that you can think like a security professional and contribute meaningfully to your organization’s defense efforts.

In a world where cyber threats continue to evolve, the need for skilled security professionals is more urgent than ever. The CompTIA Security+ certification offers a powerful entry point into this high-demand field, equipping you with the skills to succeed and the credentials to get noticed.

Whether you’re an aspiring cybersecurity analyst, network administrator, or systems engineer, Security+ opens doors to career paths that are stable, well-paying, and impactful. With the right preparation, dedication, and hands-on practice, your journey into cybersecurity can start now—and it starts with Security+.

Exploring Entry-Level Roles with Security+

One of the primary appeals of earning the Security+ certification is the immediate job readiness it provides. Security+ is often described as a baseline credential, but don’t underestimate its weight in the hiring process. It qualifies professionals for a variety of entry-level roles that form the backbone of cybersecurity teams.

Among the most accessible roles for newly certified individuals are Security Analyst, Security Administrator, Help Desk Technician, and Systems Administrator. These positions may not carry the glamour of elite penetration testing or security consulting, but they are essential and provide a launchpad for long-term career growth.

Employers view Security+ as evidence that a candidate understands core principles like risk management, access control, and threat response. For federal contractors or defense-related organizations, Security+ is often not just preferred—it’s a requirement under the DoD 8570/8140 mandate.

Security Analyst: The Frontline Defender

Security Analysts are the first line of defense against cyber threats. Individuals in this role monitor networks for suspicious activity, analyze logs, respond to incidents, and recommend protective measures.

Security+ prepares candidates well for this position. By emphasizing incident response procedures, detection tools, and malware analysis, the certification lays the groundwork for the skills needed on the job. In many environments, the Security Analyst serves as the eyes and ears of the security operations center (SOC), helping to identify breaches before they escalate.

According to recent salary surveys, Security Analysts with one to three years of experience can expect to earn between $60,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on location and industry.

Systems Administrator: Maintaining Secure Infrastructure

While Systems Administrators are traditionally associated with managing servers and networks, modern sysadmin roles also require a firm grasp of cybersecurity principles. That’s where Security+ makes a real difference.

Security+ certified sysadmins bring an understanding of secure system design, identity access management, patching, and vulnerability mitigation. Their role bridges IT operations and security, which is especially crucial in small to mid-sized businesses where the same person may wear multiple hats.

Employers often seek out certified professionals because they are more likely to implement systems that are resilient to breaches. Even in organizations with dedicated security teams, sysadmins are key contributors to overall risk reduction.

Help Desk and Technical Support: A Cybersecurity Starting Point

While it may seem like a basic position, Help Desk support often serves as the first rung on the ladder to more advanced security roles. Security+ gives Help Desk professionals a competitive advantage by demonstrating an ability to troubleshoot with security in mind.

As end-users report suspicious emails, login issues, or system slowdowns, Help Desk staff must discern whether the problems are technical hiccups or signs of an attack. This frontline interaction with users plays a vital role in threat identification and containment.

Moreover, organizations that encourage internal promotion often prefer Help Desk agents with certifications. It shows initiative and a foundational understanding of enterprise-level security issues. A Security+ certified Help Desk professional is often fast-tracked into analyst or administrator roles.

Security Administrator: Guarding Systems and Policies

Security Administrators are tasked with implementing and maintaining an organization’s cybersecurity policies and infrastructure. They install and manage firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and configure user permissions according to the principle of least privilege.

This job requires attention to detail, a strong knowledge of system hardening techniques, and an awareness of current threats—all of which are covered in the Security+ curriculum. A Security Administrator is more than a technician; they are policy enforcers who ensure the organization’s digital assets are protected around the clock.

These roles often report to Security Managers and play an integral part in incident response teams. In some cases, they serve as internal consultants, advising on secure software implementations or vendor risk assessments.

Federal and Government Jobs Requiring Security+

Many jobs in federal agencies or government-contracted environments require Security+ certification as a minimum baseline. This is largely due to compliance with DoD 8570/8140, which mandates certain certifications for specific roles within the U.S. Department of Defense and related entities.

These positions span across various branches of government and defense-related contractors. Roles such as Information Assurance Technician, Network Support Technician, and Cybersecurity Specialist are often available to Security+ holders.

Moreover, Security+ compliance with ANSI and ISO/IEC 17024 standards makes it a globally recognized benchmark. This recognition ensures that professionals certified under this framework can qualify for both domestic and international roles in government and defense.

IT Auditor and Compliance Support

While IT auditing is often considered a more advanced career path, some organizations hire junior auditors or compliance support staff with Security+ certification. These professionals assist in evaluating internal security measures, ensuring that procedures align with industry regulations such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, or GDPR.

The Security+ exam covers risk management frameworks and access control policies, both of which are critical components of any compliance audit. Individuals in these roles often work closely with security teams and report directly to senior IT leadership or compliance officers.

Additionally, compliance support specialists may assist with drafting security policies, creating incident documentation, and maintaining internal controls documentation. The job demands attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) principles.

Transitioning from IT Support to Cybersecurity

One of the strengths of the Security+ certification is its utility in helping existing IT professionals transition into cybersecurity. A Network Administrator, for example, may earn the Security+ certification to expand their role into network security or firewall management. Similarly, a Systems Engineer might use the credential to pivot into cloud security or endpoint protection.

Security+ provides a structured framework for learning security best practices, making it easier for those with technical experience but no formal cybersecurity background to gain traction in this competitive field.

Because the exam balances technical knowledge with operational understanding, it’s a suitable bridge certification for those seeking mid-level security roles in the future. Many job seekers have used Security+ as a pivot point to successfully change careers from help desk to analyst, or from systems admin to security admin.

Security+ as a Stepping Stone to Advanced Roles

While Security+ is categorized as an entry-level certification, its reach extends further. For many professionals, it marks the beginning of a specialization path—toward penetration testing, cloud security, governance, or digital forensics.

As professionals gain on-the-job experience, they often pursue more advanced certifications such as CompTIA CySA+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). However, even in these advanced journeys, Security+ remains foundational.

Many employers use Security+ as a prerequisite for more senior roles, such as:

Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst II
Information Security Engineer
Security Compliance Analyst
Cloud Security Specialist

These roles typically demand more experience, but starting with Security+ provides an essential framework for understanding their responsibilities.

Remote Work Opportunities with Security+

The global shift toward remote work has also impacted cybersecurity roles. Many Security+ related jobs are now offered in a remote or hybrid format, especially for positions like SOC Analyst, Technical Support Specialist, or Cybersecurity Consultant.

Organizations are increasingly adopting distributed models, which introduces new attack vectors. As a result, they require professionals who understand how to secure cloud environments, remote endpoints, and home-office networks.

Security+ covers both on-premises and cloud security fundamentals, making its holders versatile in today’s flexible work culture. Remote-friendly employers include consulting firms, managed service providers (MSPs), government contractors, and tech companies.

Remote work has not only opened new doors for jobseekers but also broadened competition, making certifications like Security+ even more crucial to standing out in applicant pools.

Soft Skills That Complement Security+

While Security+ validates technical proficiency, success in the roles discussed also depends on key soft skills. Communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and adaptability are crucial when working in cybersecurity teams.

For instance, a Security Analyst must write clear incident reports. A Help Desk Technician needs to explain technical problems to non-technical users. A Compliance Support professional must be detail-oriented and organized in policy tracking.

Employers often highlight these soft skills in job descriptions. While Security+ gets your foot in the door, strong interpersonal and problem-solving abilities will help you climb the career ladder faster.

How to Gain Experience After Getting Certified

One of the most common concerns after passing the Security+ exam is how to gain practical experience. Employers often list experience requirements that seem unreachable to newcomers. However, there are several ways to bridge this gap.

Volunteering with non-profits, joining cybersecurity clubs or competitions (such as Capture the Flag), contributing to open-source security projects, or setting up a home lab are all ways to demonstrate hands-on knowledge.

Entry-level internships and apprenticeships are also valuable. Many government and private-sector programs specifically target Security+ certified individuals looking to gain workplace exposure.

Platforms that simulate cybersecurity incidents or offer guided labs can also help develop practical skills. These can be mentioned in resumes or discussed in interviews to demonstrate initiative and applied learning.

Exploring Advanced Career Paths After Earning Security+ Certification

The CompTIA Security+ certification is widely known as a solid entry point into cybersecurity. However, its benefits don’t end with entry-level roles. For those willing to continue learning and growing their skills, Security+ can serve as a springboard into more advanced positions. The cybersecurity field is constantly evolving, and so are the career paths for those who start with foundational certifications like Security+.

This final article in the series explores advanced jobs that become attainable after acquiring Security+ and gaining real-world experience. It also examines how professionals can build on Security+ to reach senior-level, specialized, or leadership roles in cybersecurity.

Career Growth After Security+: What Comes Next?

Once you’ve secured an entry-level position with Security+, you’re in a prime spot to grow. Employers increasingly favor those who combine practical experience with continuous certification-based learning. While Security+ provides the basics of cybersecurity principles, risk management, and best practices, more specialized certifications and hands-on experience can push you toward more rewarding and higher-paying positions.

Security+ holders often find themselves moving into roles that require greater responsibility, deeper knowledge, and strategic thinking. Examples include network security analysis, cloud security, threat intelligence, and management positions.

Security+ as a Stepping Stone to Mid-Level and Senior Roles

The skills gained from Security+—such as analyzing risks, managing security incidents, and configuring secure networks—align closely with many mid-level cybersecurity roles. Once you accumulate two to five years of experience, new opportunities begin to open up.

Here are some examples of mid- to senior-level positions Security+ can help you transition into:

Security Analyst

Security Analysts are responsible for monitoring security systems, analyzing potential threats, and implementing security measures to protect an organization’s information assets. While some entry-level positions exist in this field, more advanced analyst roles typically require hands-on experience and deeper understanding of intrusion detection systems, SIEM tools, and security protocols.

Professionals with Security+ and a few years of experience often move into this role naturally, especially if they continue their education with certifications like CySA+ or Certified SOC Analyst (CSA).

Security Engineer

Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain secure network systems. They focus on protecting company infrastructure against cyber threats by configuring firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems. Although this is a more technical and advanced role than Security+ alone prepares you for, many professionals begin their journey with Security+, then gain real-world experience before taking on engineering responsibilities.

Certifications that pair well with Security+ to prepare for this role include Cisco’s CCNP Security, Microsoft SC series, or vendor-specific firewall training like Palo Alto or Fortinet.

Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker)

Penetration Testers simulate cyberattacks to find and fix vulnerabilities in a network. Security+ provides the foundational knowledge of threats, vulnerabilities, and risk mitigation. Although Penetration Testing is a highly technical and specialized field, Security+ is often a starting point for aspiring ethical hackers who later pursue certifications such as CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CompTIA PenTest+, or OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional).

Entry into this role may require lab experience, participation in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, and the ability to demonstrate hands-on skills.

Incident Response Analyst

These professionals respond to active cybersecurity breaches and work to mitigate damage. Their job includes investigating security incidents, documenting findings, and creating prevention strategies. The Security+ certification introduces the basic concepts of incident response, which are further expanded upon in certifications like CompTIA CySA+ or GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH).

The incident response career path suits individuals who remain calm under pressure, have strong analytical thinking, and enjoy forensic investigation.

Compliance and Risk Analyst

Organizations often need to align their operations with regulatory standards such as HIPAA, GDPR, or PCI-DSS. Risk and Compliance Analysts ensure that security controls are in place to meet these requirements. While Security+ covers governance and risk management fundamentals, professionals in this field often pursue certifications like CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control) or CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) to specialize.

This is an ideal path for professionals interested in policy, governance, and security auditing.

Pathway to Cybersecurity Management and Leadership Roles

While technical expertise is essential in cybersecurity, so is leadership. As professionals climb the ladder, they often transition from hands-on roles to strategic positions where they oversee teams, design enterprise-level security policies, and make risk-based decisions.

Here are some examples of leadership positions Security+ can help you reach with continued education and experience:

Security Manager

Security Managers oversee an organization’s entire security program. They ensure security protocols are being followed, supervise technical staff, and align the security posture with business goals. Although a manager role requires experience and leadership abilities, starting with Security+ lays the foundation for technical credibility, which is crucial when leading a security team.

Certifications such as CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) or CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) are usually required for this position.

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The CISO is the highest-ranking executive responsible for an organization’s cybersecurity strategy. While it may take years of experience to reach this role, Security+ can be the first stepping stone on that journey. CISOs need to understand both technical and business aspects of cybersecurity, including budget management, policy development, and executive communication.

Professionals who begin with Security+ and evolve through various roles—analyst, engineer, manager—can eventually qualify for this prestigious leadership title.

Certifications That Complement Security+ for Career Advancement

For those looking to continue their certification journey, there are several credentials that align well with Security+ and provide pathways to specialized or higher-paying jobs.

CompTIA CySA+ – Focuses on threat detection and response
CompTIA PenTest+ – Ideal for aspiring ethical hackers
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Recognized globally in offensive security roles
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Advanced security management certification
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) – Tailored to cloud-based security practices
Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate – Entry to intermediate SOC analyst credential
GIAC Certifications – Offer deep dives into incident response, forensics, and penetration testing

These credentials allow professionals to pivot into more specialized roles and expand their influence within an organization.

Real-World Example Career Progression

To visualize how Security+ can lead to advanced positions, consider this example career path:

IT Support Specialist or Help Desk Technician
- Earns Security+ certification
- Gains 1–2 years of hands-on experience
Security Analyst or Network Administrator
- Works with firewalls, IDS/IPS, and SIEM tools
- Begins certification with CySA+ or CEH
Security Engineer or Penetration Tester
- Designs systems or conducts ethical hacking
- Pursues advanced certifications like OSCP or CISSP
Security Manager
- Leads a team of analysts or engineers
- Aligns IT security with business goals
Chief Information Security Officer
- Oversees the entire security infrastructure of the organization
- Makes strategic decisions for cyber risk management

Industries Where Security+ Professionals Thrive

Security+ opens doors across a variety of industries, as cybersecurity is a universal need. Professionals can find advanced roles in:

Government and Military – High demand for risk analysts and incident responders due to national security concerns
Healthcare – Growing need for compliance officers and cloud security experts due to HIPAA regulations
Finance – Roles for penetration testers and risk managers to protect sensitive financial data
Retail and E-commerce – Demand for security architects and SOC analysts to handle customer data
Technology Companies – Abundant roles for security engineers, DevSecOps, and cloud specialists

The universal application of cybersecurity principles ensures that Security+ certified professionals can build careers almost anywhere.

Developing a Long-Term Strategy for Cybersecurity Career Growth

To maximize the return on investment from your Security+ certification, it’s crucial to approach your career with a long-term vision.

Set Clear Goals: Decide whether you want to specialize technically or aim for leadership
Gain Hands-On Experience: Labs, internships, and job roles are more valuable than just collecting certifications
Network With Other Professionals: Attend cybersecurity conferences, webinars, and local meetups
Stay Updated: The threat landscape is constantly evolving—so should your skills
Consider Formal Education: Degrees in cybersecurity or information systems may complement your certifications
Create a Portfolio: Show your projects, skills, and experience through a personal website or GitHub repository

Final Thoughts

The Security+ certification is more than just an entry ticket to the cybersecurity world—it’s the first chapter in a career that can lead to challenging, impactful, and highly paid roles. With each job and certification, your expertise grows, opening doors to analyst, engineer, manager, or even executive positions. Whether you want to become a penetration tester uncovering vulnerabilities or a CISO shaping enterprise strategy, Security+ can set you on the right path.

A structured, curious, and committed approach will help you transition from basic IT roles to becoming a vital part of an organization’s cybersecurity team. Start with Security+, but don’t stop there—the journey ahead is rich with opportunity.