CISM vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
ISACA
CISM
CISM
Management-focused security certification covering governance, risk management, and incident management.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Security+
SY0-701
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CISM | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $760 USD | ✓$404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$20,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | ISACA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Beginner |
CISM — Prerequisites
5 years information security management experience
CompTIA Security+ — Prerequisites
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
Get CISM if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$20,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from ISACA
Get CompTIA Security+ if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Best CISM courses
udemy
CISM Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Best CompTIA Security+ courses
udemy
CompTIA Security+ Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Frequently asked questions
Is CISM harder than CompTIA Security+?
CISM is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — CISM or CompTIA Security+?
CISM has an average salary uplift of +$20,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. CISM has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISM or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISM.