365 Computer Security Training

The CompTIA Security+ Certification is vendor neutral, meaning that the security topics covered apply to many systems including Windows, Macs, Unix, and includes hardware makers such as Cisco and Sun.

It was developed in 2002 to address the rise of security issues. Currently and according to CompTIA, there are more than 45,000 people around the world who have earned this certification. [1]

CompTIA Security+ proves competency in system security, network infrastructure, access control and organizational security.  Major organizations that employ CompTIA Security+ certified staff includes Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Motorola, Symantec, Hitachi, Ricoh, Lockheed Martin, Unisys, Hilton Hotels Corp., General Mills, the U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines. [2]

It is recommended that candidates have two years of security‐related work experience and a working knowledge of TCP/IP (although not a requirement) and pass the 100-question multiple-choice exam.

The newest version of the CompTIA Security+ certification exam was launched in late 2008.  The 90-minute exam has requires a score of 750 on a scale of 100 to 900 in order to pass.

The test takers are expected to understand the following areas of expertise:

1. General Security Topics, which represents 30% of the exam.
2. Communication Security, which represents 20% of the exam.
3. Infrastructure Security, which represents 20% of the exam.
4. Basics of Cryptography, which represents 15% of the exam.
5. Operational and Organizational Security, representing 15% of the exam.

CompTIA certification exams are provided through Pearson VUE and Prometric. Visit their sites to find the closest testing center to you.  The test is offered in English and Spanish.

The cost for taking the CompTIA test is around $258 US dollars. [3]

Numerous preparation materials are available, including 365 Computer Security Training’s online course in Computer Security Basics **shameless plug**.  Practice exam questions are available from the site here.

The CompTIA Security+ examination is a foundation course level course that is useful for entry level IT security professionals looking for their first jobs.  A Security+ certification is beneficial to more than the IT security novice because the Security+ exam can be applied as an elective to the MCSA: Security and the MCSE: Security specializations from Microsoft.

The CompTIA, Computing Technology Industry Association, is an industry non-profit trade organization created in 1982.  With the mission of “Advancing the Global IT Industry”.

Unfortunately, in January 2010 these ANSI/ISO approved certifications, including the Security+ examination, had their conditions changed from lifetime certifications to certifications that will expire every three years. Current certificate holders will still have valid certification for life, but any new certifications earned after December 31st, 2010 will expire every three years. [4]

Sources:

1. http://www.comptia.org/certifications/listed/security.aspx

2. http://www.comptia.org/Libraries/Certification_Documents/Global_Certification_Prices.sflb.ashx

3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CompTIA