Many people are interested in Security+ certification and want to pursue the goal of getting certified. Often times though, people aren’t sure exactly what they want to do with that certification, or even what all the options are.
What kind of work will I be doing?
With a Security+ certification, you will know the ins and outs of network security. Control of company access and accounts will be up to you, and it will be your job to protect the company security. Skills like cryptography will come in handy on a day to day basis. You will also have to be very knowledgeable of privacy laws to know who can access what in a database.
What jobs are available?
Two jobs that are very closely related are Security Architect and Security Engineer. They work hand in hand with each other to create and develop networks, which are protected from threats while remaining user friendly. They must work together to design, deploy, and support a complete security network.
Another career possibility is to work as a Security Consultant. Consultants are usually brought in after a network is set up to make suggestions and improvements to keep the company up to date with security breakthroughs and trends.
Sometimes a person will be hired to do all three of the above mentioned titles. This saves companies money by having one person skilled in all levels of network creation and management.
Another option for a career path is to become an Information Assurance Professional. IAP’s work with companies that have large amounts of information that needs to be protected. Your job will be to make sure the right people have access to data and the wrong people don’t.
What about salary?
The average starting salary for someone with a Security+ Certification is $55,000. This will depend on company location and experience. Large metropolitan areas and big cities may offer jobs that pay more, and smaller suburban areas may offer less. Add 5 years of experience and the average salary is $75,508. Taking things to the next level with a CISSP certification will allow you to expect an average salary of $99,700 with Security+ background and work experience. With continued effort, salaries has high as $152,000 are possible with a CISSP certification
How Do I Get Certified?
In order to be certified, you must pass the Security+ SY0-401 exam. There are a number of things that you want to do to prepare for the exam. Choose a reputable school, such as TrainACE, that offers training in the area of Security+. If you want to pass the exam the first time, sometimes going to class is not enough. Consider a few study guides and practice tests to make sure you’re completely ready when it comes time to exam day.
The below video explains some career and education options, as well as pay:
What a CompTIA Security+ Certification Can Do For You
With the salary potential this field has, an investment in education and study material is a very wise decision to make in exchange for a bright future and interesting career. As you gain more knowledge in various security areas and more work experience in the field, you will only increase your potential for an even better job and better pay. This field continues to grow and expand, as does demand for jobs from skilled professionals. Working towards more education and training will lead to a very good career for someone who is interested in the security field.
