SecurityX
CompTIA SecurityX (formerly CASP+) · CompTIA
SecurityX, formerly CASP+, is CompTIA’s expert-level certification: it validates the ability of a senior practitioner to design secure architectures, engineer and operate security solutions and handle governance, risk and compliance. It is recognised by the US DoD and is aimed at hands-on experts rather than managers. Its strength is a technical alternative to the CISSP for those who want to stay on the ground; its limit is low visibility in France and a pass/fail result with no score.
- Exam
- CAS-005 (since 17 December 2024): up to 90 questions (multiple choice and performance-based) in 165 minutes. Pass/fail result only, with no scaled score.
- Exam price
- $544US list price; €400 on CompTIA’s European store. Prices vary by country. Voucher with a retake (Retake Assurance): US$709.
- Required experience
- None required. CompTIA recommends at least ten years of hands-on IT, including five in hands-on security, with Network+, Security+, CySA+, Cloud+ and PenTest+ or equivalent knowledge.
- Validity and maintenance
- Valid 3 years: 75 CEUs plus a US$150 continuing education fee per cycle, or pass the latest version (no fee).
- Format
- Multiple choice and hands-on
- Recognition
- ISO/IEC 17024 accredited · DoD 8140 approved
Who is it for?
Senior security engineers and architects with around ten years in IT, including five in hands-on security, who want an expert credential without moving into management.
Domains covered
- Governance, risk and compliance: 20%
- Security architecture: 27%
- Security engineering: 31%
- Security operations: 22%
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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