Roadmap Overview
The CompTIA security path provides a comprehensive foundation for cybersecurity careers. Progress from IT fundamentals through networking and into advanced security topics culminating in the CISSP expert certification.
Certification Progression
Level 1: IT Fundamentals
CompTIA A+ (Two Exams)
- • Duration: 6-8 weeks study
- • Pass Rate: 60-70%
- • Cost: $330 (two exams)
- • Focus: Hardware, OS, troubleshooting basics
- • Salary: $35K-$50K
Level 2: Networking Foundation
CompTIA Network+
- • Duration: 8-10 weeks study
- • Pass Rate: 50-60%
- • Cost: $370
- • Focus: OSI model, TCP/IP, wireless, security basics
- • Salary: $50K-$75K
- • Prerequisite: A+ (recommended)
Level 3: Cybersecurity Specialist
CompTIA Security+
- • Duration: 10-12 weeks study
- • Pass Rate: 60-70%
- • Cost: $370
- • Focus: Threats, encryption, identity management, compliance
- • Salary: $70K-$100K
- • Prerequisite: Network+ (strongly recommended)
Level 4: Advanced Security
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or CISSP
- • Duration: 12-16 weeks study
- • Pass Rate: 40-50%
- • Cost: $500-$700
- • Focus: Penetration testing, advanced threat analysis, security architecture
- • Salary: $120K-$180K+
- • Prerequisite: 3-5 years experience in roles
Total Time Investment
18-24 months
A+ → Network+ → Security+ → CEH/CISSP at moderate pace
Intensive track: 6-8 months | Moderate pace: 18-24 months | Note: Requires hands-on IT experience
Who Should Follow This Path?
- ✓ IT professionals transitioning to security
- ✓ System administrators wanting security expertise
- ✓ Help desk staff advancing their careers
- ✓ Network engineers specializing in security
- ✓ Security analysts and penetration testers
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