Exam Comparison
PenTest+ vs NSE4
Comparing the CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003) and the Fortinet NSE 4, FortiGate Security. Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ app.
PenTest+ vs NSE4: At a Glance
| Detail | PenTest+ | NSE4 |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003) | Fortinet NSE 4, FortiGate Security |
| Governing Body | CompTIA | Fortinet |
| Number of Questions | 85 | 60 |
| Time Limit | 165 minutes | 105 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750/900 | 72% (approx 43/60) |
| Exam Fee | $392 USD | Free with NSE training completion (exam voucher required) |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ Soon | Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ Soon |
Content Areas Compared
PenTest+ Domains
- Planning and Scoping(14%)
- Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning(22%)
- Attacks and Exploits(30%)
- Reporting and Communication(18%)
- Tools and Code Analysis(16%)
NSE4 Domains
- FortiGate System Administration and Basic Configuration
- Firewall Policy Configuration and NAT
- Layer 3 Routing (static, policy-based, SD-WAN)
- Firewall Authentication (local, LDAP, RADIUS)
- SSL VPN Configuration and Troubleshooting
- IPsec VPN (site-to-site and dialup)
- Security Profiles (AV, Web Filter, App Control, IPS, DNS Filter)
- High Availability (active-passive, active-active)
- Logging, Monitoring, and Diagnostics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between PenTest+ and NSE4?
The PenTest+ (CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003)) is administered by CompTIA and consists of 85 questions. The NSE4 (Fortinet NSE 4, FortiGate Security) is administered by Fortinet and consists of 60 questions. Both are IT Certifications credentials.
Can I take both the PenTest+ and the NSE4?
Yes, the PenTest+ and NSE4 are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (CompTIA and Fortinet respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, PenTest+ or NSE4?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The PenTest+ is offered by CompTIA with a passing score of 750/900, while the NSE4 is offered by Fortinet with a passing score of 72% (approx 43/60). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the PenTest+ and the NSE4?
C3RT is building apps for both the PenTest+ and the NSE4. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003) (PenTest+) is administered by CompTIA. The Fortinet NSE 4, FortiGate Security (NSE4) is administered by Fortinet. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.