CISSP
Gold-standard senior security certification covering 8 domains including risk management, architecture, and cryptography.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →CISSP vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CISSP | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $749 USD | ✓$404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$22,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 700/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | (ISC)² | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CISSP
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
- You're targeting senior security, governance, or CISO-track positions
- You want a potential +$22,000/yr salary uplift
- You're entering IT security and need a globally recognised, vendor-neutral credential
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- You prefer credentials that work across vendors, not tied to one platform
Both are in the cybersecurity field but target different career stages. Start with CompTIA Security+ if you're building foundational skills — it's the natural stepping stone. Go straight to CISSP if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$22,000/yr).
Best CISSP courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Is CISSP harder than CompTIA Security+?
CISSP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — CISSP or CompTIA Security+?
CISSP has an average salary uplift of +$22,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISSP or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISSP.
Can I get both CISSP and CompTIA Security+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CISSP and CompTIA Security+ complement each other within cybersecurity. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CISSP or CompTIA Security+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CISSP offers a +$22,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Security+ offers +$8,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.