Living in the dynamic digital era, evolving with technology is the need of the hour. Acknowledging the fact, staying ahead of technological advancement is not just an option but a priority. So, what should one do?
To answer this, pursuing one of the leading platforms created by IT experts to boost your IT credentials must help. One such globally recognized platform is CompTIA. CompTIA, known as The Computing Technology Industry Association, provides vendor-neutral IT certifications that are recognized globally.
This certification has several options available, such as CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security +. They both come from the same organization but are significantly different and serve divergent roles in the IT industry. Another demanding question is which one to choose between.
Exploring solutions, we will break down both of them in-depth and find out which one of these should be pursued to achieve your goal in 2025.
CompTIA At a Glance
CompTIA is an advanced platform that is serving its impeccable contribution through education, certification, market research, and more. Proving learning opportunities for 75 million industry and tech professionals, CompTIA stands out for its quality and versatility of courses and understanding of the challenges and needs of a continuously growing industry.
CompTIA, as a platform in the span of four categories named CompTIA Essentials, CompTIA a+ Series, CompTIA Pro Series, and CompTIA Xpert Series, p.
Positioning these certifications at the highest value, we will explore two key certifications, CompTIA A+ and Security +, in this blog. CompTIA is the stepping stone of the upskilling journey for both those who are fresher in the industry and those who already have a certain level of experience. Hence, this will help you decide the best one to align with your personal goals.
What is CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral, entry-level certification offered by CompTIA. Designed to brace for someone who is a beginner in the industry, aiming to validate their skills.
Covering a broad range of base topics, CompTIA A+ is accepted widely and has a strong impact on professional careers.
What is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is a core-level certification that enables a professional with certain experience to upgrade their knowledge. This certification is a vivid selection for candidates who are preparing to master the cybersecurity domain.
This certification particularly focuses on covering subjects like access control, operational security, identifying management, and threats & vulnerabilities.
CompTIA A+ vs Comp Security + choosing the right one for your career!
CompTIA is an extensively known platform for providing certification and enabling aspiring individuals to upskill their current knowledge. In this section, we will discuss the difference between Security+ and CompTIA+ and understand the contrast.
Core Understanding of The Foundational Concepts
Taking the core certification into consideration, there are two factors that need to be determined before making a choice.
One of the major differences between these two certifications is CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification, while Security+ needs one to have some prior exposure in the industry with an entry-level cybersecurity certification. Keeping this in mind below, the image demonstrates their area of skill.
Distinguishing their skill areas now, you know, Security+ mainly focuses on building a career in the domain of cyber security. While on the other hand, CompTIA A+ offers concepts that help you develop awareness of IT concepts.
CompTIA A+ vs Security+: is prior experience needed?
Obtaining certification and attaining a better version of your professional self is necessary to achieve goals. CompTIA A+ and Security+ are certificates that help you acknowledge your skill set and further assist you in standing out from the rest.
CompTIA A+ is a specialization focused on helping beginners. As an entry-level certification, no prior experience is required. However, it is recommended to have 9-12 months of hands-on exposure to IT systems.
Alternatively, Security+ is an entry-level cyber +certification. While there are no strict experience rules, having 2 years of IT experience (especially in network security) will guarantee a foundation for success.
CompTIA A+ vs Security+: is it difficult?
CompTIA A+ stands easy for individuals who have prior experience in the field or the fundamental concepts. That said, it has two examinations requiring you to have knowledge of the field in advance, or else it might come to you as a surprise if you belong to a different industry. Testing the candidate on a vast range and clearing both exams individually is important.
On the other hand, Security+ is concentrated on cybersecurity-related topics, making it necessary for the candidate to have some kind of understanding of the field.
It is recommended to complete CompTIA A+ certification first in order to make an easy attempt at Security+, as there are various concepts that might overlap or are structured similarly.
CompTIA A+ vs Security+: Examination
Both of these certifications require immense focus and understanding of concepts. While CompTIA A+ deals with foundational concepts, Security+ is a level-up that leads to overlapping topics. In comparison, CompTIA A+ focuses on operating systems and mobile devices. On the other hand, Security+ deals with risk management and network attacks and vulnerabilities.
CompTIA A+ certification has two exams, and Security+ has one. To learn everything about the exam, like passing scores and pricing, download this guidebook.
CompTIA A+ vs Security+: Job Opportunities
Upskilling in a dynamic industry is important. CompTIA A+ and Security+ both give professionals to showcase their understanding and grasp of subjects in the field. Known globally and accepted widely, these two certifications can help you be accepted into top companies and further set a stepping stone for your bright future.
There are several job roles that can be achieved after completion of these two certifications.
CompTIA Security+ vs CompTIA A+: The Final Answer
Now that you are aware of both certifications, CompTIA is a promising platform for your career growth.
The final verdict is that if you are a beginner looking to seize your foundational knowledge, CompTIA A+ should be your choice. However, if you have experience and wish to upskill, Security+ is the way to go.
Each certification is customized to add value and upgrade your current position. The right choice depends on your needs and where you stand in your professional career.
In conclusion
CompTIA is a well-celebrated platform, and attaining any kind of certification from this platform helps you to stand out and show your dedication in the field.
With organizations switching to cloud computing and moving all their procedures online, it is important to train yourself and keep up with the fast-changing times.
With organizations switching rapidly to cloud computing, training yourself in the same showcases your commitment.
CompTIA A+ and Security+ both serve different purposes and can help you achieve your specific goals. Careful consideration of your aim and your current position can help you analyse the right fit and further become confident in 2025.
Ready to upgrade your career? Microtek Learning has customized pre- and post-assessments, practice exams, and expert guidance to help you succeed in both CompTIA A+ and Security+ certifications. Join us today to start your journey!
