CCNA vs. CompTIA Security+ Certification
Apr 8, 2025
In today’s competitive IT landscape, certifications serve as valuable credentials that validate technical expertise and enhance career prospects. Whether you’re entering the field or looking to advance, earning the right certification can set you apart from the competition and open doors to better jobs and opportunities.
Among the most sought-after IT certifications are CompTIA Security+ and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Both certifications are respected in the industry, but they cater to different career paths: Security+ focuses on foundational knowledge and skills in cybersecurity while CCNA emphasizes networking concepts and Cisco technologies.
This article provides information to help you determine whether CCNA or Security+ is the right choice for your career. It compares their focus areas, job opportunities, difficulty levels and ideal candidates to guide you toward the best decision based on your goals.
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CCNA and CompTIA Security+: An Overview
CCNA
Cisco Certified Network Associate is an entry-level networking certification from Cisco Systems, a leading provider of networking hardware, software, telecommunications equipment and cybersecurity solutions. Founded in 1984, Cisco is also known for offering IT certifications that are widely recognized in the industry.
CCNA is designed for network engineers and IT professionals who work with Cisco technologies. It validates knowledge of networking fundamentals while also covering aspects of security, automation and programmability. The certification covers:
- Networking fundamentals
- IP addressing and subnetting
- Routing and switching concepts
- Security fundamentals
- Automation and programmability
CCNA is ideal for:
- Aspiring network engineers, system administrators and IT support technicians
- IT professionals looking to specialize in Cisco networking
- Individuals with some IT knowledge and hands-on experience
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification is issued by CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association), a globally recognized non-profit trade association founded in 1982. CompTIA is known for developing IT certifications that validate technical skills across various domains.
Security+ was introduced in 2002 as a standard, vendor-neutral certification for entry-level cybersecurity professionals. Over the years, it has evolved to stay relevant with the latest security trends, technologies and best practices. It serves as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications like CISSP, CEH or GSEC. Security+ is accredited by ANSI and is compliant with ISO 17024, making it widely recognized by employers worldwide, including the US Department of Defense (DoD).
The CompTIA Security+ certification establishes basic cybersecurity skills in the following main areas:
- Threats, attacks and vulnerabilities
- Network security and architecture
- Identity and access management (IAM)
- Risk management and compliance
- Cryptography and PKI
Security+ is best for individuals seeking to enter the cybersecurity field, such as:
- Individuals starting a cybersecurity career
- Help desk technicians, network administrators, system administrators and other IT professionals looking to expand into cybersecurity
- Government and military personnel pursuing cybersecurity roles, as Security+ meets DoD 8570 compliance requirements
CCNA vs Security+: Certification Comparison
These are the key differences between the two certifications:
- Security+ focuses on cybersecurity principles, while CCNA emphasizes networking concepts.
- Security+ covers general IT security while CCNA includes Cisco-specific networking technologies.
- CCNA has simulation-based questions, making it more hands-on than Security+.
And here is a detailed comparison between CCNA and Security+:
Feature | CCNA | Security+ |
|---|---|---|
|
Exam Code |
200-301 CCNA |
SY0-701 |
|
Issuing Organization |
Cisco Systems, Inc. |
CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) |
|
Target Audience |
|
|
|
Prerequisites |
No formal prerequisites. However, the following are recommended:
|
No formal prerequisites. However, CompTIA recommends at least 2 years of IT administration experience with a security focus. |
|
Cost |
$300 |
$392 (varies by location) |
|
Questions |
100 multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, simulation and performance-based questions |
90 multiple-choice, drag-and-drop and performance-based questions |
|
Exam Length |
120 minutes |
90 minutes |
|
Passing Score |
Cisco does not disclose the passing score. The passing score varies across Cisco tests but is usually 80–85% |
Scaled score of 750/900 (approximately 83%) |
|
Exam Content and Topics |
|
|
|
Validity and Recertification Requirements |
|
|
|
Difficulty Level |
High |
Entry-level to intermediate; more conceptual than hands-on |
|
Industry Recognition and Value |
Highly respected in networking roles. High demand in job markets |
Globally recognized (government, DoD, IT security) High demand in job markets |
|
Career Paths |
|
|
Exam Content and Topics Covered
CCNA
The current CCNA 200-301 exam focuses on networking fundamentals, security, automation and more.
Main Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
|
Network Fundamentals (20%) |
IPv4 and IPv6 addressing and subnettingTCP/IP and OSI modelsSwitching concepts (MAC addresses, VLANs, trunks)Routing concepts (static & dynamic routing, OSPF)Wireless networking fundamentals (standards, security, SSIDs)IP services (DHCP, DNS, NAT, NTP, SNMP, Syslog) |
|
Network Access (20%) |
|
|
IP Connectivity (25%) |
|
|
IP Services (10%) |
|
|
IP Services (10%) |
|
|
Security Fundamentals (15%) |
|
|
Automation and Programmability (10%) |
|
Security+
The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) exam covers a broad range of cybersecurity topics. Below is a breakdown of the key areas.
Main Topic | Sub-Topics |
|---|---|
|
Fundamental Security Concepts |
|
|
Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities |
|
|
Architecture and Design |
|
|
Identity and Access Management |
|
|
Cryptography and PKI |
|
|
Risk Management and Business Continuity |
|
Recertification and Continuing Education
CCNA
The CCNA certification is valid for three years from the date of achievement. To maintain your CCNA status, you must recertify before the expiration date. Cisco provides multiple pathways for recertification, including taking exams or earning Continuing Education (CE) credits.
Renewal Method | Description |
|---|---|
|
Examination |
|
|
Continuing Education (CE) Credits |
Earn 40 CE credits by taking Cisco courses, attending Cisco Live technical sessions or writing exam items for Cisco. To submit your CE credits:
|
Security+
Security+ is valid for three years, and you must renew it to keep your certification active. The following table lists some ways to renew it.
Renewal Method | Description |
|---|---|
|
Earn CEUs |
Earn 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by conducting security-related training, attending conferences and webinars, publishing articles and blogs, volunteering in cybersecurity events, and other activities. Use the CompTIA Continuing Education Portal to log your CEUs and pay an annual fee of $50 per year ($150 for three years). |
|
Complete CompTIA’s CertMaster CE Program |
Take CertMaster CE for Security+, which is a self-paced, online renewal course. The fee is $199. No exam is required; just finish the course to renew your certification. |
|
Pass the Latest Security+ Exam |
Take the latest version of the Security+ exam before your current certification expires. |
|
Take a Higher-Level CompTIA Exam |
Complete a higher-level certification, such as: CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)CASP+ (Advanced Security Practitioner)CompTIA PenTest+ (Penetration Testing) |
Study and Preparation Tips
Earning the CCNA or Security+ certification requires a solid study plan, hands-on practice and strategic test-taking techniques.
CCNA
Preparation Tips
|
Understand the Exam Objectives |
Familiarize yourself with the official CCNA exam topics. Review the detailed syllabus that Cisco provides, and download the official CCNA 200-301 Exam Blueprint from Cisco’s website. |
|
Create a Study Plan |
Draft an 8-week study plan. Here’s a sample one:
|
|
Hands-on Lab Practice |
Set up labs to practice:
|
|
Take Practice Exams |
Take multiple full-length mock tests. Be sure to simulate the real exam environment (no distractions, time yourself). Review your mistakes and focus on your weak areas. |
Books & Study Guides
Books & Study Guides | Amazon Link |
|---|---|
|
CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide Library (Volumes 1 & 2) by Wendell Odom |
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0138221391/ref=sspa_dk_hqp_detail_aax_0 |
|
31 Days Before Your CCNA Exam by Allan Johnson |
https://www.amazon.com/Days-Before-your-CCNA-Exam/dp/0138214255/ |
Video Courses & Lectures
Video Courses & Lectures | Link |
|---|---|
|
Cisco Networking Academy |
A series of three courses on Cisco’s official training platform: |
|
Udemy: Cisco CCNA 200-301 – The Complete Guide to Getting Certified |
|
|
Video-based training with labs |
Practice Labs
Practice Tests & Labs | Link |
|---|---|
|
Cisco Packet Tracer (free simulator from Cisco) |
https://www.netacad.com/learning-collections/cisco-packet-tracer?courseLang=en-US |
|
GNS3 (More advanced) |
|
|
EVE-NG (similar to GNS3 but web-based) |
|
|
Boson NetSim (paid but great for CCNA practice) |
Practice Exams
- Boson ExSim (highly recommended)
- Pearson IT Certification Practice Tests
- ExamTopics (free CCNA practice questions)
Security+
Preparation Tips
|
Understand the Exam Objectives |
Download the official Security+ SY0-701 exam objectives from CompTIA’s website. Review the five Security+ domains:
|
|
Create a Study Plan |
Suggested study timeline (8-week plan):
|
|
Focus on Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) |
PBQs are scenario-based questions that test practical security skills. Examples include configuring a firewall, analyzing security logs, identifying vulnerabilities and managing access control settings. Practice PBQs on platforms like CompTIA Labs, Cyber Ranges and TryHackMe. |
|
Practice Time Management |
The exam is 90 minutes long with up to 90 questions. To succeed:
|
Books & Study Guides
Books & Study Guides | Amazon Link |
|---|---|
|
CompTIA Security+ Study Guide (Sybex) by Mike Chapple & David Seidl |
hhttps://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Security-Study-Guide-Exam/dp/1119736250/ |
|
CompTIA Security+ Get Certified Get Ahead by Darril Gibson |
https://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Security-Get-Certified-Ahead/dp/1939136059/ |
|
CompTIA Security+ Certification Guide by Mike Meyers |
https://www.amazon.com/Meyers-CompTIA-Security-Certification-SY0-601/dp/1260473694 |
Video Courses & Lectures
Video Courses & Lectures | Link |
|---|---|
|
Professor Messer’s free Security+ course |
|
|
Security+ video course (Udemy) |
|
|
CompTIA Security+ Online Training (CBT Nuggets) |
https://www.cbtnuggets.com/it-training/comptia/security-plus |
Practice Tests & Labs
Practice Tests & Labs | Link |
|---|---|
|
CertMaster Practice for Security+ (Official) |
https://www.comptia.org/training/certmaster-practice/security |
|
CompTIA® Security+ (701) Complete Course, Labs, & Practice Exams |
|
|
Hands-on security training |
|
Which Certification Should You Choose?
When deciding between CCNA and Security+, your choice should align with your career goals, industry focus, and experience level. Here’s a comparison to help you decide.
Key Differences & Comparison
| CCNA | Security+ |
|---|---|---|
|
Focus |
Networking: routing, switching, wireless, automation |
Cybersecurity: threats, risk management, cryptography, compliance |
|
Vendor-Specific? |
Yes (Cisco) |
No (vendor-neutral) |
|
Required Experience |
Basic IT knowledge recommended |
No formal prerequisites, but basic IT/security knowledge helps |
|
Exam Code |
200-301 |
SY0-701 |
|
Cost |
$300 |
$392 (varies by location) |
|
Validity |
3 years |
3 years |
Choosing the Right Certification Based on Career Goals
Reflect on the following when considering Security+ vs CCNA.
Choose CCNA if: | Choose Security+ if: |
|---|---|
|
You want a career in networking, working with routers, switches and network infrastructure. |
You are interested in cybersecurity, risk management and security policies. |
|
You are aiming for a role like Network Administrator, Network Engineer or IT Support Specialist. |
You are aiming for a role like Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, IT Security Specialist or Compliance Officer. |
|
You are interested in hands-on technical work with Cisco devices and networking concepts. |
You need a certification that meets US Department of Defense (DoD) 8570 requirements. |
|
You plan to specialize in advanced networking (e.g., CCNP, CCIE) later. |
You plan to pursue more advanced security certifications (e.g., CISSP, CEH, CySA+, CASP+). |
|
You want to work in areas like telecommunications, cloud networking, enterprise IT or service providers. |
You want to work in security-focused sectors like government, finance or healthcare. |
Scenarios Where Both Certifications Are Beneficial
Having both CCNA and Security+ can be highly valuable in the following situations:
- IT Generalists & System Administrators — If you manage both networks and security, having CCNA helps with networking knowledge, while Security+ ensures you understand cyber threats and security best practices.
- Network Security Engineers — If you want to specialize in network security (firewalls, intrusion detection, VPNs), both CCNA and Security+ provide a strong foundation.
- Cybersecurity professionals with network knowledge — Many security threats exploit network vulnerabilities. A SOC Analyst or Cybersecurity Engineer with CCNA-level knowledge can better protect infrastructure.
- Job market competitiveness — Employers often prefer candidates with both networking and security expertise, especially for roles like Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Security Engineer or IT Administrator.
CMMC: Raise Your Cyber Maturity Level
Watch NowConclusion
Choosing the right certification is a critical step in shaping your IT career. Both CCNA and Security+ offer valuable knowledge but they cater to different career paths:
- CCNA is best for those pursuing networking roles that focus on configuring and managing network infrastructure.
- Security+ is ideal for those interested in cybersecurity because it covers security principles, risk management and compliance. It is also a good choice for individuals who are new to IT and want an entry-level certification.
- In some cases, obtaining both certifications can significantly enhance job prospects, especially for roles involving network security.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your interests and career goals. Take time to evaluate your aspirations, consider your current skills and make an informed decision that aligns with your ambitions.
FAQ
Is CCNA harder than Security+?
CCNA is generally considered more technically challenging than Security+ due to its hands-on networking focus and lab-based exam format. CCNA requires deep understanding of routing, switching, and network protocols, plus practical configuration skills on Cisco equipment. The exam includes simulation questions where you must configure actual network devices. Security+ covers broader cybersecurity concepts at a foundational level with multiple-choice questions, making it more accessible for beginners. CCNA typically requires 3-6 months of intensive study with hands-on lab practice, while Security+ can be achieved in 2-3 months with focused study. However, difficulty depends on your background: network professionals find CCNA more intuitive, while those with general IT experience may find Security+ concepts easier to grasp. Both certifications require dedication, but CCNA demands more technical depth and practical skills.
Should I get CCNA or Security+ first for cybersecurity?
For cybersecurity careers, Security+ should typically come first because it provides the foundational security knowledge you’ll need regardless of your specialization. Security+ covers essential concepts like risk management, cryptography, and security protocols that apply across all cybersecurity domains. It’s also a DoD 8570-approved certification, opening government and contractor positions immediately. CCNA is valuable if you’re targeting network security roles specifically, but modern cybersecurity is increasingly identity-focused rather than perimeter-focused. Start with Security+ to establish your security foundation, then add CCNA if you want to specialize in network security. This approach aligns with the industry shift toward identity-based security models, where understanding user access and data protection matters more than traditional network boundaries. Data security that starts with identity makes Security+ knowledge more immediately applicable to current threat landscapes.
Do you need CCNA for cybersecurity?
You don’t need CCNA for most cybersecurity roles, but networking knowledge helps in specific specializations such as network security, incident response, and security architecture. Modern cybersecurity focuses more on identity management, cloud security, and data protection than traditional network perimeter defense. Roles in identity and access management, compliance, security analysis, and vulnerability management don’t require deep networking expertise. However, CCNA provides valuable context for understanding how attacks move through networks and how security controls function at different layers. If you’re targeting roles such as security engineer, network security analyst, or SOC analyst investigating network-based threats, CCNA knowledge becomes more relevant. For most entry-level cybersecurity positions, Security+ provides better foundational knowledge. Focus on identity security, cloud platforms, and data protection skills that align with current threat vectors rather than traditional networking concepts.
Does CCNA help with cybersecurity?
CCNA absolutely helps with cybersecurity by providing essential networking knowledge that supports security implementations and threat analysis. Understanding how networks function helps you configure security devices, analyze network traffic for threats, and implement proper network segmentation. CCNA covers access control lists, VPNs, and network security fundamentals that directly apply to cybersecurity roles. Many security tools and concepts build on networking principles: firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and network monitoring all require networking knowledge to implement effectively. However, remember that cybersecurity has evolved beyond perimeter defense. Modern threats target identities and cloud environments where traditional networking concepts are less applicable. CCNA helps most in network security roles, but don’t overlook identity-focused security skills that address how attackers actually operate today. The strongest cybersecurity professionals combine networking knowledge with identity security expertise.
Is CCNA worth it for cybersecurity careers?
CCNA is worth pursuing for cybersecurity if you’re targeting network security specializations, but it’s not essential for most modern cybersecurity roles. The certification provides strong foundational networking knowledge that supports security implementations, but cybersecurity has shifted toward identity-based threats and cloud environments. CCNA is valuable for roles such as network security engineer, SOC analyst investigating network incidents, or security architect designing network controls. However, for identity and access management, compliance, or data security roles, other certifications provide better return on investment. Consider your career goals carefully: if you want to specialize in network security or work for organizations requiring both networking and security skills, CCNA is worthwhile. For general cybersecurity careers, focus on Security+, cloud security certifications, or specialized credentials in identity management. The key is understanding that modern data security starts with identity, making identity-focused skills often more valuable than traditional networking knowledge.
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About the author
Adam Turner
Chief Academic Officer
As Chief Academic Officer for CompTIA Tech Career Academy and Vice President of Training & Program Operations for CompTIA, Adam Turner is passionate about developing new ways of delivering excellence through training and helps people prepare for, secure and be successful in information technology careers.