CompTIA Security+ FAQ
The most common questions about the exam — answered clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need both exams?
Yes — you must pass both Core 1 and Core 2 to earn the A+ certification.
Which exam should I take first?
Core 1 (220-1101) first — it covers hardware and networking fundamentals used in Core 2.
What's the best study material?
Professor Messer's free video series + Jason Dion's Udemy course + Mike Meyers' CompTIA A+ book.
How much experience do I need?
CompTIA recommends 9–12 months of hands-on experience, but self-study with labs can substitute.
How is A+ different from Network+ or Security+?
A+ = hardware/OS support. Network+ = networking infrastructure. Security+ = cybersecurity fundamentals.