Exam Comparison
Security+ vs ISC2 CC
Comparing the CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) and the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC). Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the CompTIA & Cisco Exam Prep: A+, Network+, CCNA & More app.
The Bottom Line
Both target beginners, but Security+ is the one employers ask for. ISC2’s CC is a low-cost (often free-training) entry credential that works as a warm-up; Security+ is the DoD-recognized baseline that actually appears in job requirements. If you can afford one exam, make it Security+.
Security+ vs ISC2 CC: At a Glance
| Detail | Security+ | ISC2 CC |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) | ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) |
| Governing Body | CompTIA | ISC2 |
| Number of Questions | 90 | 100 |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes | 3 hours |
| Passing Score | 750/900 | 700/1000 |
| Exam Fee | $392 USD | $199 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | CompTIA & Cisco Exam Prep: A+, Network+, CCNA & More Soon | CompTIA & Cisco Exam Prep: A+, Network+, CCNA & More Soon |
Content Areas Compared
Security+ Domains
- General Security Concepts(12%)
- Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations(22%)
- Security Architecture(18%)
- Security Operations(28%)
- Security Program Management and Oversight(20%)
ISC2 CC Domains
- Security Principles(26%)
- Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery and Incident Response(10%)
- Access Control Concepts(22%)
- Network Security(24%)
- Security Operations(18%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Security+ and ISC2 CC?
The CC (Certified in Cybersecurity) is ISC2’s entry certification, launched with a free self-paced course and low exam cost to pull newcomers into the field, it covers security principles, access control, network security basics, and incident response at a survey level. Security+ covers similar territory but deeper and broader, and carries DoD 8140 approval plus far stronger name recognition with recruiters. The CC’s advantages are price and approachability; Security+’s advantage is that it gets you hired.
Can I take both the Security+ and the ISC2 CC?
Common as a deliberate two-step: CC to break the ice, Security+ to get employable. Maintaining both long-term is unnecessary; the CC’s value is consumed the moment Security+ is on your resume.
Which should I take first, Security+ or ISC2 CC?
If you are brand new and unsure whether security is your field, the CC is a cheap, fast confidence-builder, take it first, then continue to Security+ within a few months while the material is fresh. If you already know security is the goal, skip the CC and put the study time directly into Security+.
Does C3RT cover both the Security+ and the ISC2 CC?
C3RT is building apps for both the Security+ and the ISC2 CC. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) (Security+) is administered by CompTIA. The ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) (ISC2 CC) is administered by ISC2. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.