An individual is required to take and pass the SY0-501 exam in order to achieve the CompTIA Security+ credential. It is a globally respected and recognized certification. CompTIA Security+ is a vendor-neutral certificate that validates the candidate’s competency in terms of compliance and operational security, network security, system security, access control and identity management, vulnerabilities and threats, as well as cryptography. It confirms the fundamental skills required to fulfill core security functions and pursue a career in IT security. The certification is DoD 8570 compliant and it focuses on the newest techniques and trends in risk mitigation, intrusion detection, risk management, and threat management. This CompTIA credential is aimed at those professionals who take up roles as penetration testers, Junior IT auditors, systems administrators, security administrators, and network administrators.

The CompTIA SY0-501 exam is made up of 90 questions with a total time allotment of 90 minutes for the completion. The student is expected to score at least 750 on the scale of 900 possible points. The test involves performance-based and multiple-choice questions. Passing the SY0-501 certification exam validates that one has the capacity to apply the knowledge of security concepts, procedures, and tools to mitigate security incidents while anticipating security risks and guarding against them. The professionals taking this test must be ready to display their skills and knowledge in the field of security. There are no formal requirements for writing the SY0-501 exam. However, it is recommended that the candidate has a two-year experience working in the field of security before writing this test. The students are also advised to have an experience in IT administration (focusing on security) and general knowledge of security implementation.

The exam results have a validity period of three years, after which the candidate will be expected to retake the test. The individuals can take the current version of the SY0-501 exam or earn CEUs by taking part in qualified activities like publishing white paper or an article. One can also obtain another certification within the industry or attend relevant event or conference.