CySA+
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst · CompTIA
CySA+ certifies the skills of a security operations centre analyst: detecting and analysing threats, managing vulnerabilities, responding to incidents and reporting. It sits between Security+ and expert certifications and is recognised by the US DoD. Its strength is a clear focus on the SOC analyst’s job with scenario-based questions; its limit is that it is less known than Security+ in France, and simulated questions are no substitute for real experience with a SIEM.
- Exam
- CS0-004 (since 23 June 2026): up to 85 questions in 165 minutes, pass mark 750 on a 100-900 scale. The English CS0-003 remains available until 22 December 2026.
- Exam price
- $439US list price; €323 on CompTIA’s European store. Prices vary by country. Voucher with a retake (Retake Assurance): US$579.
- Required experience
- None required. CompTIA recommends about four years as a SOC or vulnerability analyst, with Network+ and Security+ or equivalent knowledge.
- Validity and maintenance
- Valid 3 years: 60 CEUs plus a US$150 continuing education fee per cycle, or pass the latest version or a higher CompTIA certification (no fee).
- Format
- Multiple choice and hands-on
- Recognition
- ISO/IEC 17024 accredited · DoD 8140 approved
Who is it for?
Junior to mid-level SOC analysts, incident responders and vulnerability management staff who already hold Security+ or equivalent knowledge.
Domains covered
- Security operations: 34%
- Vulnerability management: 26%
- Incident response and management: 24%
- Reporting and communication: 16%
Belinda’s take
Information checked on 2 October 2026 against the official site. Prices exclude tax and training, and may change.
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