CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →Professional Scrum Master I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+ vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Security+ | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | ✓$200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | ✓+$9,000/yr |
| Passing score | 750/1000 | 85/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
Professional Scrum Master I
None required
- 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
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$9,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in agile teams and want to formalise Scrum Master skills
CompTIA Security+ and Professional Scrum Master I lead to entirely different careers — cybersecurity vs project management. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with CompTIA Security+ — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Best Professional Scrum Master I courses
Is CompTIA Security+ harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
Both CompTIA Security+ and Professional Scrum Master I are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CompTIA Security+ or Professional Scrum Master I?
CompTIA Security+ has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Security+ or Professional Scrum Master I?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Professional Scrum Master I.
Can I get both CompTIA Security+ and Professional Scrum Master I?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Security+ and Professional Scrum Master I complement each other, covering cybersecurity and project management respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CompTIA Security+ or Professional Scrum Master I?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Security+ offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; Professional Scrum Master I offers +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.