CySA+CompTIA CySA+
Threat detection and analytics for security analysts
Details last reviewed January 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) is CompTIA's intermediate security certification focused on behavioral analytics, threat intelligence, and incident response. It bridges the gap between Security+ and the advanced CASP+ or CISSP.
MyCertPath verdict
The natural next step after Security+ for anyone aiming at a SOC analyst or blue-team role. CySA+ tests defensive security work — behavioral analytics, vulnerability management, incident response — and the performance-based questions actually simulate analyst tasks rather than rehearse terminology.
What it actually tests
Up to 85 questions in 165 minutes, including several PBQs that drop you into a simulated SOC view. The exam expects you to interpret log snippets, recognize attack patterns, and recommend response actions. Less terminology-heavy than Security+, more applied reasoning.
Common traps
Things candidates underestimate or get wrong on this exam.
- Treating it like Security+. CySA+ is applied — you read logs, not just recognize attack names.
- Skipping the threat-hunting domain. It's the area CompTIA refreshed most in CS0-003.
- Not practicing with simulated log or SIEM exercises before exam day.
What you'll validate
- ✓Threat intelligence
- ✓Vulnerability assessment
- ✓Security monitoring
- ✓Incident response
- ✓Compliance and assessment
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +DoD 8570 approved
- +Fills the gap between Security+ and CISSP
- +Practical analytics and detection focus
Disadvantages
- −Less recognized than Security+ or CISSP
- −Narrow audience vs broader certs
Who it's for
Best for
- →SOC analysts advancing their credentials
- →Security+ holders targeting analyst roles
Not ideal for
- ×Penetration testers
- ×Security managers
Career paths this unlocks
CySA+: quick answers
- How much does the CySA+ exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $392 (USD). Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for CySA+?
- We estimate roughly 150 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the CySA+ exam?
- The exam is 165 minutes with about 85 questions.
- How long is the CySA+ credential valid?
- 3 years.
Study Resources
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Register for the exam
Official vouchers — watch for bundle discounts and CompTIA CertMaster bundles
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
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Jobs for CySA+ holders
Pay depends on role, location, and experience more than on any single credential. Check current postings below for real ranges in your market.
LinkedIn Jobs
Posted in the last 7 days
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
CyberSeek (cyber only)
NIST-backed supply/demand tool
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by MyCertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $392
- Exam Duration
- 165 minutes
- Questions
- ~85
- Passing Score
- 750/900
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice + Performance
- Study Time
- ~150 hours
- Validity
- 3 years
- Salary Impact
- Moderate (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- January 2026
Prerequisites
- !Security+ recommended; 3–4 years of IT/security experience
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