Author: Justin Dowd

This guide is meant for those planning to take any version of the CySA+ exam.

Is the CompTIA CySA+ worth time and effort? The CySA+ or Cybersecurity Analyst+ certification is one of the newer exams and many have wondered if the new certification is worth it. The CompTIA CySA+ is a great option if you are one that is currently working or attempting to apply for that cybersecurity position and want a respected cybersecurity certification added to your resume. The certification overall also helps expand your current cybersecurity knowledge. In addition, the CySA+ is becoming well known throughout the industry and is a vendor neutral certification that provides value across the different job categories in cybersecurity. The certification is also approved by the department of defense (DoD) as an 8570-baseline certification, which provides guidance and training in the DoD workforce in cybersecurity.

CySA+ Required Experience and Cost

Majority of technical certifications have recommended experience before attempting to pass the exam. Since it is recommended and not required, it is up to any individual on whether to take the exam or not. However, I would say if you have completed or passed the Network+ or Security+ certifications, you would be more than ready to start studying and tackling the exam. In terms of cost of exam, it is not too different from the other certifications such as Security+, Etc. The cost of the CySA+ exam is $349.

What can a CySA+ Expect when it comes to salary?

The average salary ranges between $80,000 to $90,000 per year for security professionals with the CompTIA CySA+ certification. In addition, the salary also fluctuates based on level of experience and expertise. The CySA+ provides great value for some professionals. Keep in mind that the certification may or may not directly increase your current salary depending on your current position, location, but will open doors and will make you more marketable to potential employers.

Retake Policy & Recertification

The retake policy is like the other CompTIA’s IT certifications exams. No waiting period after first attempt and any attempt after the first attempt will require a 2-week waiting period along with having to repurchase the exam voucher. On the other hand, when you pass the exam and become a CySA+ Certified professional, the certification required 60 continuing education credits (CEU) for recertification. Currently for the CySA+, there is a $50 fee each year to submit the completed events/training for CEU. In addition, any higher-level certification that is renewed automatically renews any lower-level CompTIA certifications.