SSCP vs Security+ is a common comparison for professionals who want to advance their cybersecurity careers. These two entry-level certifications are perfect for starting or growing a career in information security.
The Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) and CompTIA Security+ are both highly regarded certifications that validate a professional’s foundational knowledge and skills in cybersecurity. They have some similarities, but they also have differences that can impact your career path and specialization within the field.
This article offers a clear comparison between SSCP and Security+ to help you choose the certification that best fits your career goals in cybersecurity.
What is SSCP?
The Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) is a certification offered by (ISC)², a globally recognized leader in cybersecurity certifications. It focuses on advanced technical skills and knowledge required to implement, monitor, and administer IT infrastructure using security best practices.
SSCP verifies the following skills:
- Implementing and maintaining authentication methods
- Operating and configuring network-based security devices
- Supporting incident response and forensic investigations
- Applying risk management principles
- Understanding and implementing secure protocols
- Administering endpoint device security
SSCP certification is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for the hands-on operational security of an organization’s critical assets. The certification demonstrates a professional’s ability to handle day-to-day security operations and practices.
What is Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is a vendor-neutral, entry-level cybersecurity certification that validates the foundational skills required to perform core security functions. Security+ is often considered the first security certification an IT professional should earn, as it establishes the core knowledge required for various cybersecurity roles. It emphasizes hands-on practical skills and verifies you have the knowledge and skills required to:
- Assess the security posture of an enterprise environment and recommend and implement appropriate security solutions
- Monitor and secure hybrid environments, including cloud, mobile, Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology
- Operate with an awareness of applicable regulations and policies, including principles of governance, risk, and compliance
- Identify, analyze, and respond to security events and incidents
Security+ certification is suitable for individuals who want to start their careers in cybersecurity. Security+ covers fundamental security concepts and is a strong starting point for beginners in the field. It focuses on practical, hands-on skills that are immediately applicable in various IT security positions.
SSCP vs Security+: Key Comparisons
Exam Details and Requirements
| Aspect | Security+ | SSCP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Cost | $381 | $249 |
| Number of Questions | 90 | 125 |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice and performance-based | Multiple choice |
| Exam Length | 90 minutes | 180 minutes |
| Experience Required | None officially, but 2 years recommended | 1 year of cumulative paid work experience |
| Passing Score | 750 on a scale of 100 to 900 | 700 out of 1000 points |
| Validity | 3 years | 3 years |
Winner – Security+
In SSCP vs Security+ comparison, Security+ wins in exam details and requirements due to its shorter exam length and lack of mandatory prerequisites.
Topics Covered
SSCP and Security+ cover a wide range of cybersecurity topics, but they differ in focus. SSCP focuses on practical, hands-on operational security skills, while Security+ provides a broader foundation in cybersecurity concepts, including governance and risk management. Here are the exam domains of each exam.
SSCP:
- Security Concepts and Practices (16%)
- Access Controls (15%)
- Risk Identification, Monitoring and Analysis (15%)
- Incident Response and Recovery (14%)
- Cryptography (9%)
- Network and Communications Security (16%)
- Systems and Application Security (15%)
Security+:
- General Security Concepts (12%)
- Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)
- Security Architecture (18%)
- Security Operations (28%)
- Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)
Winner – SSCP
SSCP covers a broader range of topics with more depth, particularly in areas like cryptography and access controls. Both certifications offer a foundation, but SSCP covers security concepts in greater depth.
Difficulty Level
The SSCP exam is generally considered more challenging due to its length and depth of content. It’s designed for professionals who already have practical experience in IT administration and security operations. The exam requires a solid understanding of complex concepts and their application in business contexts.
Security+, while not easy, is more approachable for those new to the field. It covers a wide range of topics but at a more foundational level. The exam includes scenario-based questions that test the practical application of knowledge. But the overall difficulty is more suitable for entry-level professionals.
Winner – Security+
Secuirty+’s entry-level focus and more manageable difficulty make it a better starting point for those beginning their cybersecurity career. The exam’s design allows newcomers to demonstrate their knowledge without requiring extensive prior experience.
Experience Requirements
For the SSCP certification, candidates must have a minimum of one year of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the seven domains covered by the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge.
Interestingly, SSCP offers flexibility for candidates who don’t meet the experience requirement. Such individuals can take the exam to become an Associate of ISC2 and have two years to gain the necessary experience for full SSCP certification.
Further, SSCP recognizes that earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, information technology, or related fields can satisfy up to one year of the required experience. Part-time work and internships can also count towards the experience requirement.
On the other hand, CompTIA Security+ does not have any formal prerequisites or experience requirements. However, CompTIA strongly recommends that candidates have:
- At least two years of IT administration experience with a security focus
- CompTIA Network+ certification or equivalent practical network experience
While these are not mandatory, they particularly increase a candidate’s chances of success in the exam. Security+ validates core cybersecurity skills, which is ideal for entry-level positions or transitioning from general IT roles.
Winner – Security+
Security lack of formal prerequisites makes it more achievable to a wider range of candidates, especially those just starting in cybersecurity or looking to transition from general IT roles.
Related: 12 Best IT Security certifications for 2024
Career Paths and Job Roles
Both SSCP and Security+ certifications open doors to various cybersecurity careers, but they offer slightly different experience levels and job roles.
Here’s a comparison of how each certification can open doors to different roles and long-term career prospects.
Security+ Career Paths and Job Roles
The Security+ is especially beneficial for individuals interested in foundational security knowledge, including network and penetration testing, and positions that involve both technical and analytical skills. Key job roles for Security+ certified professionals include:
- Cloud Penetration Tester – Conducts vulnerability assessments and penetration tests within cloud environments to identify potential security risks. Cloud Penetration Testers earn an average salary of 119,895 per year.
- Network Security Operations Specialist – Focuses on monitoring and securing network operations, identifying intrusions, and managing alerts and responses. This role earns an average salary of $105,204 per year.
- Penetration Tester – Performs simulated attacks on networks and systems to identify weaknesses and test defenses. Penetration testers earn around $111,244 annually on average.
- Network Security Analyst – Analyzes and monitors network traffic, assessing security events and recommending updates to improve network security. The average salary for network security analysts is $101,319 per year.
- Web App Penetration Tester – Tests web applications for vulnerabilities, ensuring robust defenses against attacks. Web app penetration testers typically earn $111,244 annually.
- Security Architect – Develops security architectures for IT systems and networks, laying out secure frameworks to mitigate security risks. The average annual salary for a security architect is $160,027.
Security+ is ideal for roles that support network and application security. The skills gained are applicable in a range of environments, including small businesses, enterprises, and cloud-based services.
SSCP Career Paths and Job Roles
The SSCP certification emphasizes operational security, and its holders often take on roles that involve the direct management and safeguarding of organizational IT infrastructure. Common roles for SSCP-certified professionals include:
- Network Security Engineer – Focuses on designing, implementing, and maintaining secure network architectures, often handling complex security issues. The average annual salary for this role is $119,109.
- Systems Administrator – Manages and secures IT systems, overseeing server and application security configurations. This position typically earns around $84,970 per year.
- Security Analyst – Monitors systems for security events, responds to threats and conducts risk assessments. Security analysts earn an average salary of $112,985 annually.
- Systems Engineer – Ensures secure system operations, often collaborating with other IT teams to implement security measures across hardware and software environments. The annual salary for this role is approximately $110,084.
- Security Consultant – Advises organizations on best security practices, conducting audits, and providing recommendations for improvement. Security consultants earn about $103,853 per year.
- Security Administrator – Manages and enforces security policies within an organization, configuring and maintaining security software and hardware. The average annual salary for security administrators is $82,525.
- Systems/Network Analyst – Analyzes and supports network infrastructure, focusing on secure data flow and efficient system operations. The annual salary for this role is $110,215.
- Database Administrator – Manages database security, ensuring data integrity and compliance with security protocols. Database administrators earn an average salary of $94,842 per year.
Winner – Security
Security is a broad entry-level certification designed for those beginning in cybersecurity or shifting from other IT roles. It provides a strong foundation for pursuing specialized roles in the field. Besides, Security+ is recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense, which can open up government-sector opportunities.
Related: CCSP vs CISSP: Which is Right for Your Career? (2024)
Certification Maintenance and Renewal
Security+
Security+ certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the exam. To maintain the certification, professionals must complete 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within these three years. CompTIA offers different ways to earn these CEUs, including:
- Earn Non-CompTIA IT industry certifications
- Publish a relevant article, white paper, blog post, or book
- Complete training and higher education
- Gain related work experience
- Participate in IT industry activities
Moreover, Security+ holders must pay a $50 annual maintenance fee, which totals $150 over the three-year certification cycle. If unable to complete the CEUs, professionals can retake the Security+ SY0-701 exam to renew their certification.
SSCP
SSCP certification, on the other hand, follows a slightly different model. It also has a three-year cycle but requires 60 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. (ISC)² provides multiple opportunities to earn these credits, such as:
- Taking a course from ISC2 such as Skill-Builders, Certificate learning, or Certification training
- Attending ISC2 Security Congress
- Reading a cybersecurity white paper
- Publishing an article on cybersecurity
- Taking a higher education course in cybersecurity (or related field)
- Preparing for a presentation or teaching information related to cybersecurity
SSCP holders must pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) of $135, which includes the (ISC)² membership fee. This totals $405 over the three years. SSCP offers 90 grace days for submitting missing CPE credits after the certification expiration date. If a professional fails to meet these requirements, their certification may be suspended or terminated. To reinstate their certifications, professionals must retake the SSCP exam.
Winner – Security+
Its lower cost ($150 vs $405), fewer credits required (50 vs 60), and flexible payment schedule make it easier for professionals to maintain. Further, CompTIA’s wider range of certification options can make it easier to earn CEUs through related certifications.
Final Verdict – Security+
In the SSCP vs Security+ comparison, both certifications offer valuable paths for cybersecurity professionals. SSCP is ideal for experienced professionals who want hands-on operational security skills, while Security+ provides a broader base and is easier for beginners in cybersecurity.
The final verdict favors Security+ as the overall winner due to its wider industry recognition, flexibility, and ease for entry-level professionals. However, the best choice depends on your career goals and experience level.
For complete exam preparation, 591Cert offers training and practice exams that closely mirror the actual tests to help candidates feel confident and well-prepared for either certification.
FAQs
Security+ is generally better for beginners and offers broader industry recognition, while SSCP is better for those with experience seeking deeper operational security knowledge.
SSCP is generally considered harder than Security+. Both cover similar topics, but it goes into more technical details and requires hands-on experience. Security+ is broader but less in-depth, so it is more suitable for entry-level professionals.
Yes, SSCP is worth getting for IT professionals with some security experience. It validates advanced technical skills in implementing and managing security operations. SSCP can lead to roles like Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer, and Systems Administrator, potentially opening doors to higher-level positions.
SSCP is not strictly entry-level. It requires at least one year of cumulative, paid work experience in one or more of the seven SSCP domains. However, candidates can take the exam without experience and become an Associate of (ISC)², with two years to gain the required experience for full certification.
Getting SSCP before CISSP can be helpful especially if you do not have the required experience for CISSP. SSCP builds a solid foundation in security practices and can be a good step toward CISSP. However, if you already have sufficient experience and aim for leadership roles, you might consider going directly for CISSP.
SSCP certification is valid for three years. To maintain the certification, holders must earn 60 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over the three-year cycle and pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) to (ISC)².
