PRINCE2 Foundation
Widely recognised in Europe and the UK, PRINCE2 Foundation validates understanding of the PRINCE2 project management framework.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →PRINCE2 Foundation vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PRINCE2 Foundation | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$400 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$10,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 55/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 60 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Axelos | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
PRINCE2 Foundation
None required
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
- You're new to project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$10,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in Europe or the UK, where PRINCE2 is widely required by employers
- 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
PRINCE2 Foundation and CompTIA Security+ lead to entirely different careers — project management vs cybersecurity. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with PRINCE2 Foundation — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best PRINCE2 Foundation courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Is PRINCE2 Foundation harder than CompTIA Security+?
Both PRINCE2 Foundation and CompTIA Security+ are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — PRINCE2 Foundation or CompTIA Security+?
PRINCE2 Foundation has an average salary uplift of +$10,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. PRINCE2 Foundation has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PRINCE2 Foundation or CompTIA Security+?
PRINCE2 Foundation is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA Security+.
Can I get both PRINCE2 Foundation and CompTIA Security+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PRINCE2 Foundation and CompTIA Security+ complement each other, covering project management and cybersecurity respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — PRINCE2 Foundation or CompTIA Security+?
Both are worth it in 2026. PRINCE2 Foundation offers a +$10,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Security+ offers +$8,000/yr. PRINCE2 Foundation has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.