CompTIA Security+ vs CEH Certification Roadmap 2026: Costs, Exams & Scope
Compare CompTIA Security+ vs CEH certifications for 2026. Discover exam costs, formats, career scope, and salary trends. Start your cybersecurity roadmap today!
- Starting salary
- ₹3-120 LPA (SOC Analyst to CISO) a window, not a promise
- Years of study
- 1-6 years after Class 12
- Entrance exams
- 4 CompTIA Security+, CEH v13, JEE Main
- Demand
- 5 of 5 today
- Stream
- Science from Class 11
What Does a Cybersecurity Specialist Actually Do?
A Cybersecurity Specialist protects computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. You ensure digital safety and privacy for individuals and organizations by monitoring infrastructure, fixing security gaps, and stopping live attacks.
Your ordinary working day follows a fast-paced routine:
- 6:00 AM: Review overnight security alerts and reports for critical incidents.
- 9:00 AM: Attend a team meeting to discuss ongoing threats, vulnerabilities, and project updates.
- 10:00 AM: Analyze security logs and network traffic for suspicious activity using SIEM tools like Splunk or ELK Stack.
- 12:00 PM: Conduct vulnerability assessments on new applications or infrastructure components using tools like Nessus or Qualys.
- 1:00 PM: Lunch break.
- 2:00 PM: Develop and implement security policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- 3:00 PM: Respond to a detected security incident, which might involve isolating affected systems, eradicating malware, and restoring data.
- 5:00 PM: Document security incidents, mitigation steps, and lessons learned for future reference and reporting.
- 7:00 PM: Research emerging cyber threats and security technologies to stay updated and proactive.
You report directly to a Security Operations Center (SOC) Manager, an IT Director, or the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). A good week means system vulnerabilities are patched before hackers find them, automated monitoring captures low-level threats, and your network suffers zero downtime. A bad week means a zero-day exploit breaches your firewall at midnight, ransomware locks operational databases, and your team works round-the-clock to isolate infected servers while communicating with legal and compliance departments.
Hour by hour
- 6:00 AMReview overnight security alerts and reports for critical incidents.
- 9:00 AMAttend a team meeting to discuss ongoing threats, vulnerabilities, and project updates.
- 10:00 AMAnalyze security logs and network traffic for suspicious activity using SIEM tools like Splunk or ELK Stack.
- 12:00 PMConduct vulnerability assessments on new applications or infrastructure components using tools like Nessus or Qualys.
- 2:00 PMDevelop and implement security policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- 3:00 PMRespond to a detected security incident, isolating affected systems, eradicating malware, and restoring data.
- 5:00 PMDocument security incidents, mitigation steps, and lessons learned for future reference and reporting.
- 7:00 PMResearch emerging cyber threats and security technologies to stay updated and proactive.
Who Should Choose This?
Cybersecurity is not just about writing code or guessing passwords. It is an active defensive and offensive field that requires deep systems thinking, constant curiosity, and calm execution under intense pressure.
Do not choose this field if you want a repetitive 9-to-5 job with no after-hours responsibilities, or if you dislike technical troubleshooting. If you panic when software fails unexpected, or if you lack the discipline to follow strict legal guidelines, this path will frustrate you.
The Roadmap
-
Foundation Stage
Build core technical strength in secondary school or early college. Master basic mathematics, computer science fundamentals, and basic programming using Python. Decide whether you prefer defensive security operations or offensive ethical hacking. -
Undergraduate Academic Stage
Enroll in a Bachelor degree program in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity (B.Tech, B.Sc, or BCA). Gain deep familiarity with Linux operating systems, TCP/IP networking protocols, and database structures. -
Baseline Certification Stage
Prepare for and pass vendor-neutral baseline security exams. Earning your CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) validates baseline knowledge across security operations, architecture, and threat management. This step makes you eligible for entry-level SOC roles and federal compliance frameworks like DoD 8570/8140. -
Practical Experience and Internship Stage
Build hands-on skills in virtual labs using platforms like TryHackMe or virtual home networks. Complete internships as a SOC Analyst, Junior Network Administrator, or Systems Administrator to gain verifiable workplace experience. -
Offensive Security Specialization Stage
Transition toward specialized offensive security or penetration testing. Meet eligibility criteria by accumulating two years of verifiable IT security experience or completing official training, then obtain the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH v13) certification. -
Industry Entry Stage
Secure a full-time entry-level role such as SOC Analyst (Level 1), Junior Penetration Tester, or Vulnerability Analyst. Apply theoretical knowledge directly to live SIEM monitoring, threat hunting, and patching security gaps. -
Advanced Mastery and Leadership Stage
Expand your skill set into cloud security (AWS/Azure), DevSecOps, and reverse engineering. Take the optional CEH Practical exam to earn the CEH Master title, or transition into senior technical roles like Security Architect and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Start from where you are
The road is different from Class 9 than from a job. Pick your line; the page remembers it.
- Class 10-12Build a strong foundation in Mathematics and Science. Learn basic computer operations and concepts.
These subjects are crucial for understanding the logic and technical aspects of cybersecurity.
- After Class 12Pursue a Bachelor degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a specialized Cybersecurity program (B.Tech, B.Sc, BCA).
A formal degree provides in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for the field.
- During Graduation (Year 2-3)Start learning core cybersecurity skills like networking, operating systems (Linux), and programming (Python).
These are the building blocks for understanding how systems work and how to secure them.
- During Graduation (Year 3-4)Obtain entry-level cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity Certificate.
Certifications validate your skills to potential employers and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
- During Graduation (Year 3-4)Seek internships in cybersecurity roles.
Internships provide invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
- After GraduationApply for entry-level cybersecurity roles such as SOC Analyst or Security Analyst.
These roles offer practical exposure to real-world security operations.
Your main focus is building core analytical and technical skills. Focus heavily on Mathematics and Computer Applications at school. Start exploring basic computer operations, standard networking concepts, and simple Python scripting during your free time. Your first move this month should be taking free introductory courses on basic networking and computer hardware concepts.
The sequence of steps is clear: finish Class 10 with strong marks in science subjects, opt for the Science or Computer Science stream in Class 11-12, and then prepare for engineering entrance exams like JEE Main. Expect 6-8 years total training before your first full-time role (including 4 years of college and internship period). The biggest trap to avoid is spending money on advanced penetration testing certifications now before you understand basic networking, subnets, and operating system kernels.
- Class 11-12Opt for Science or Computer Science stream. Begin self-learning basic programming (e.g. Python) and networking fundamentals.
These provide a head start for a cybersecurity career.
- After Class 12Enroll in a Bachelor degree program in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Cybersecurity (B.Tech, B.Sc, BCA).
A degree is a recognized pathway and offers structured learning.
- During Graduation (Year 2-3)Deepen your understanding of operating systems (Linux), network security, and ethical hacking basics.
These are essential technical skills for cybersecurity roles.
- During Graduation (Year 3-4)Pursue certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH.
Certifications enhance your resume and prove your capabilities.
- During Graduation (Year 3-4)Complete internships in cybersecurity.
Practical experience is highly valued by employers.
- After GraduationApply for entry-level positions like SOC Analyst, Junior Penetration Tester, or Security Analyst.
These roles offer a practical entry into the field.
Select the Science stream with Mathematics and Computer Science if available. Begin self-learning Linux terminal commands, TCP/IP fundamentals, and basic programming using Python. Your first move this month is to enroll in an online computer networking course (such as NPTEL's Computer Networks) or set up a Linux virtual machine on your home computer.
Your path requires scoring well in Class 12 board exams and engineering entrance tests like JEE Main, JEE Advanced, or state-level exams. Secure a seat in a B.Tech or B.Sc degree in Computer Science, IT, or Cybersecurity. During your college years, complete baseline certifications like CompTIA Security+. Expect 4-6 years before your first full-time job. Avoid the trap of assuming a degree alone guarantees a cybersecurity job; technical recruiters expect practical lab projects alongside your academic credentials.
- ImmediatelyAssess your current skills and identify gaps in IT fundamentals (networking, operating systems, basic programming).
You need a strong technical base to enter cybersecurity.
- 0-6 monthsComplete online courses or bootcamps focusing on IT fundamentals and introductory cybersecurity concepts.
These provide a quick and focused way to gain necessary skills.
- 6-12 monthsObtain entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity Certificate.
Certifications validate your newly acquired skills.
- 12-18 monthsConsider a postgraduate diploma in cybersecurity or a specialized ethical hacking course.
These programs offer structured learning and often include practical labs and placement assistance.
- 18-24 monthsBuild a portfolio of personal projects (e.g. setting up a home lab, practicing penetration testing).
Demonstrating practical skills is crucial for career changers.
- 24-36 monthsApply for entry-level cybersecurity roles, emphasizing your transferable skills and new certifications.
Entry-level roles provide the necessary on-the-job experience.
You must address technical knowledge gaps immediately. Your first move this month is to systematically assess your current IT knowledge and begin learning Linux, networking protocols, and Python. You do not need to repeat a four-year degree, but you must prove equivalent technical skills.
The order of progress starts with completing focused bootcamps or self-study modules on networking fundamentals. Next, sit for the CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) exam to gain an internationally recognized credential that proves baseline competence. After earning your certificate, build a portfolio of home lab projects, such as configuring Splunk SIEM instances or analyzing real traffic pcaps. Expect 1-3 years of dedicated effort to secure your first entry-level role. Avoid the trap of paying high fees for advanced ethical hacking courses without first mastering basic system administration.
- ImmediatelyIdentify how your current work experience (e.g. IT administration, network management, compliance) can be leveraged in cybersecurity.
Your existing skills can provide a significant advantage.
- 0-6 monthsEnroll in part-time online courses or bootcamps focused on cybersecurity fundamentals and specific areas of interest (e.g. ethical hacking, cloud security).
Flexible learning allows you to upskill while working.
- 6-12 monthsEarn industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH.
Certifications are key for validating your expertise in a new field.
- 12-18 monthsNetwork with cybersecurity professionals and seek mentorship.
Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights.
- 18-24 monthsLook for internal opportunities within your current organization to transition into a cybersecurity role, or apply for external positions.
Internal moves can be smoother, while external applications offer broader options.
- OngoingContinuously update your skills and certifications to stay relevant in the evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Cybersecurity is a field of continuous learning.
Leverage your current professional background. If you work in IT support, systems administration, network administration, or compliance, your existing experience gives you a direct path into cybersecurity. Your first move this month is to analyze how your current job overlaps with cybersecurity, such as access management or log reviews, and start studying for the CompTIA Security+ or CEH exam during non-working hours.
Enroll in part-time training programs, clear the CompTIA Security+ (or CEH if you already have two years of verified IT experience), and network with internal security teams at your current workplace. Internal transfers to a SOC team or compliance division are often faster than cold external applications. Expect 1-2 years to switch roles completely. The main trap to avoid is quitting your current job to study full-time; continuous work experience combined with off-hours certification study is far more attractive to hiring managers.
Entrance Exams
Formal academic degrees in cybersecurity rely primarily on engineering entrance exams at the undergraduate level and GATE at the postgraduate level. Professional certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH v13 function as career entry and advancement exams open year-round.
The exams, with your doors
- Admits to
- Validates baseline skills for core security functions
- Who can sit
- No formal prerequisites; CompTIA recommends two years of IT administration experience with a security focus and/or Network+ certification.
- When
- On-demand, year-round
- Attempts
- Not specified, retake policy applies
- Admits to
- Ethical hacking, penetration testing, and offensive security roles
- Who can sit
- At least two years of verifiable work experience in information security or completion of an official EC-Council training program.
- When
- On-demand, year-round
- Attempts
- Not specified, retake policy applies
- Admits to
- Admission to B.Tech/B.E. programs in NITs, IIITs, and government funded technical institutions
- Who can sit
- Class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- When
- January and April
- Attempts
- 2 attempts per year
- Admits to
- Admission to B.Tech/B.E. programs in IITs
- Who can sit
- Top 2,50,000 JEE Main qualifiers; Class 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- When
- May
- Attempts
- 2 attempts in consecutive years
- Admits to
- Admission to M.Tech/M.E. programs and PSU recruitments
- Who can sit
- Bachelor degree in Engineering/Technology or Master degree in Science/Mathematics/Computer Applications.
- When
- February
- Attempts
- Multiple attempts allowed
Who can apply opens the eligibility page when this site has one for the exam. Plan opens your planner with the exam filled in; you set the date the notification gives.
Top Colleges
Government institutes like IITs and NITs offer lower fees and exceptional peer networks, though admission requires top ranks in competitive exams. Private universities provide specialized B.Tech programs in Cybersecurity with modern lab infrastructure, but charge higher tuition fees.
Colleges and what they cost
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (with cybersecurity electives)
- How to get in
- JEE Advanced
- Aid
- Various merit-based scholarships
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering (with cybersecurity electives)
- How to get in
- JEE Main
- Aid
- Central Sector Scholarship Scheme of Top Class Education for SC/ST Students
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with Specialization in Cybersecurity
- How to get in
- VITEEE
- Aid
- Merit scholarships based on VITEEE rank
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with Specialization in Cybersecurity
- How to get in
- SRMJEEE
- Aid
- Scholarships based on SRMJEEE rank
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with Specialization in Cybersecurity
- How to get in
- Amity JEE / Direct Admission
- Aid
- Scholarships based on academic performance
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with Specialization in Cybersecurity
- How to get in
- JEE Main / GEU Entrance Exam
- Aid
- Merit-based scholarships
- Course
- B.Tech in Computer Science and Engineering with Specialization in Cybersecurity
- How to get in
- LPUNEST / JEE Main
- Aid
- Scholarships based on LPUNEST/JEE Main score
Fees are for the whole course, as published by the college; hostel and mess come on top.
Skills to Build
Foundation
Foundational technical skills are mandatory before attempting any defensive or offensive security certifications. You must understand how computers send data and process system instructions.
- Networking Fundamentals: Learn TCP/IP models, subnets, routers, and switches through the NPTEL Computer Networks course.
- Operating Systems (Linux): Master command-line operations and file permissions using The Linux Foundation's Introduction to Linux on freeCodeCamp.
- Basic Programming (Python): Learn scripting for task automation through the Python for Everybody audit track on Coursera.
Core
Core security skills prepare you for real-world defensive operations, risk management, and vulnerability assessments.
- Security Concepts and Principles: Master risk mitigation, access management, and threat vectors using the CompTIA Security+ official study guide.
- Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT): Practice identifying system flaws and exploits using free rooms on TryHackMe.
- Incident Response: Learn how to handle breaches and contain malware via SANS Cyber Aces Online modules.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Analyze security logs and build dashboards using a Splunk Free Developer License and official tutorials.
- Cloud Security Basics: Understand security controls on AWS, Azure, and GCP through introductory courses from cloud providers.
Edge
Edge skills set you apart in the job market, qualifying you for high-paying specialized roles in threat intelligence and automated defense.
- AI and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity: Learn how modern threat protection systems detect anomalies using Google AI Education tools.
- DevSecOps: Integrate automated security testing into software development pipelines using the OWASP DevSecOps Guideline.
- Threat Intelligence and Hunting: Track cybercrime groups and proactive indicators using Recorded Future University courses.
- Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering: Deconstruct malicious files safely in virtual sandboxes using open-source malware analysis tutorials.
- Blockchain Security: Study smart contract vulnerabilities through Coursera's Blockchain Basics audit track.
The skills ladder
Tick a skill you already have. The ladder keeps your ticks on this device.
Salary Reality
Starting pay for entry-level cybersecurity roles like SOC Analyst (Level 1) ranges from ₹3 LPA to ₹6 LPA. As you gain hands-on experience and certifications, salaries increase steadily. Security Analysts with 1-3 years of experience earn ₹4 LPA to ₹8 LPA, while Ethical Hackers and Penetration Testers with 2-5 years experience earn ₹6 LPA to ₹15 LPA. Specialized Cloud Security Engineers (3-5 years) command ₹14 LPA to ₹22 LPA. Senior roles like Security Architect (5-8 years) draw ₹25 LPA to ₹50 LPA, while Chief Information Security Officers (10+ years experience) earn ₹60 LPA to ₹1.2 Cr.
Government cybersecurity salaries for roles like Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst or Scientist 'B' (Cybersecurity) range from ₹5 LPA to ₹21.3 LPA with statutory job security and benefits. Private sector pay is generally higher, especially in product firms and Big 4 advisory services.
Location impacts your earnings. Bangalore leads the market with salaries ranging from ₹4 LPA to ₹40 LPA at companies like Cisco, Palo Alto Networks, and Amazon. Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi offer similar ranges (₹4 LPA to ₹40 LPA), while Pune averages around ₹10 LPA for Cybersecurity Specialists. Remote work is common; entry-level remote security analysts earn a median salary of ₹4.37 LPA in roles like Application Security Engineer and Cloud Security Engineer.
The salary ladder, in lakh a year
Government cybersecurity salaries range from 5 LPA to 21.3 LPA for roles like Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst and Scientist B (Cybersecurity).
Private sector salaries are generally higher, especially in product companies and Big 4 advisory practices.
Many cybersecurity roles are increasingly remote or hybrid. Entry-level remote cybersecurity analysts can expect a median salary of 4.37 LPA. Roles like Infrastructure Engineer Cybersecurity / AI, Cyber Security Trainer, Application Security Engineer, and Cloud Security Engineer are available remote
What It Costs
The financial investment required to enter cybersecurity varies based on the certification path and formal degree choices:
- CompTIA Security+ Exam Voucher (SY0-701): Approx. ₹35,500 ($425 USD). A retake bundle costs around ₹39,600 ($474 USD). Total preparation costs range from ₹50,000 to ₹1,25,000 (600 → 1,500 USD).
- CEH Exam Voucher (v13 ANSI): Approx. ₹79,000 ($950 USD for EC-Council remote proctoring) to ₹99,000 ($1,199 USD at Pearson VUE centers).
- CEH Eligibility Application Fee: Approx. ₹8,300 ($100 USD) if skipping official training. A CEH retake voucher costs around ₹41,500 ($499 USD). Total CEH investment ranges from ₹1,16,000 to ₹2,90,000+ (1,400 → 3,500+ USD). Optional CEH Practical costs ₹45,700 ($550 USD). Renewal requires 120 ECE credits and an annual fee of ₹6,600 ($80 USD/year).
- Short-Term Certificate and Ethical Hacking Courses: ₹15,000 to ₹2,50,000.
- Cybersecurity Bootcamps & Diplomas: ₹50,000 to ₹3,00,000.
- Undergraduate Degree (B.Tech/B.Sc/BCA): ₹2,00,000 to ₹18,00,000 depending on public vs private institution.
Available financial schemes include:
- AICTE-SWAYAM Cybersecurity Vouchers: Provides course fee support for enrolled engineering students taking online cybersecurity modules.
- NASSCOM FutureSkills Prime: Offers government-subsidized learning pathways and exam incentives for cybersecurity skills.
- (ISC)² Foundation Undergraduate & Women's Scholarships: Grants direct tuition assistance for students pursuing information security careers.
- Central Sector Scholarship Scheme: Supports eligible SC/ST/OBC students at premier government institutes like NITs.
What the road costs
| CompTIA Security+ exam voucher | ₹35,500 to ₹35,500 |
| CEH exam voucher | ₹79,000 to ₹99,000 |
| Eligibility application fee for CEH (if no official training) | ₹8,300 to ₹8,300 |
| Cybersecurity certificate courses | ₹15,000 to ₹2.5 lakh |
| Ethical hacking courses | ₹20,000 to ₹2 lakh |
| Cybersecurity bootcamps | ₹80,000 to ₹3 lakh |
| Whole road | ₹2.38 lakh to ₹8.93 lakh |
These costs vary based on the institution, course duration, and included resources like lab access. Hidden costs like exam vouchers and lab subscriptions can increase total expense.
The Years Ahead
The demand for cybersecurity professionals remains high due to widespread cloud adoption, strict data protection laws, and sophisticated cyber threats. Unlike conventional software development, cybersecurity relies on human analysis during high-stakes security incidents, making it resistant to full automation.
Artificial intelligence and automated security tools are transforming daily workflows, but they do not replace specialists. Automation handles routine log filtering and signature matching. However, security teams are needed to triage complex alerts, conduct ethical hacking assessments, configure security policies, and manage incident responses. Roles in manual log auditing and basic rule updating are shrinking, while cloud security, AI-threat hunting, DevSecOps, and industrial control system (ICS) security continue to grow.
Could a machine take this job?
Core triage and basic monitoring are increasingly automated by AI, but threat hunting, strategy, and incident mitigation require complex human reasoning.
Cloud security engineering, AI security, DevSecOps, and specialized threat hunting.
Routine manual log reviews and basic Level-1 SOC alerting tasks without AI tool proficiency.
Pros and Cons
- High market demand across private corporations, defense contractors, and government agencies.
- Above-average compensation packages, particularly for certified specialists in major tech hubs.
- Strong career resilience against AI automation due to complex incident response needs.
- Clear certification paths (CompTIA Security+, CEH, CISSP) to validate technical expertise.
- High availability of remote and hybrid work environments.
- High-stress working conditions during active security breaches or system incidents.
- Requires continuous off-hours study to keep up with evolving threats and software updates.
- High exam voucher fees for specialized certifications like CEH.
- Strict legal and moral requirements; ethical mistakes can ruin a career.
- Requires working night shifts or on-call rotations in Security Operations Centers.
Mistakes Students Make
✓ Do not attempt ethical hacking or penetration testing exams without understanding TCP/IP, subnets, and operating system permissions. Master foundational networking and obtain CompTIA Security+ before pursuing offensive certifications like CEH.
✓ Avoid unaccredited private training centers that offer internal certificates instead of preparing you for globally recognized exams like CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) or CEH v13. Check that course fees cover actual industry certification vouchers.
✓ Relying solely on multiple-choice study guides will leave you unprepared for practical technical interviews. Build home labs, complete TryHackMe challenges, and practice analyzing real network traffic pcaps with Wireshark.
✓ Cybersecurity is not exclusively about hacking tools. Employers expect knowledge of risk management frameworks, data privacy rules, and compliance standards like ISO 27001, NIST, and DoD 8570/8140 directives.
✓ Jumping straight to advanced certifications often leads to exam failures due to foundational gaps. Use CompTIA Security+ to establish core baseline security knowledge, then move to specialized paths like CEH for offensive security.
The mistakes, and the fix
✓ Start with CompTIA Security+ or foundational networking skills first before pursuing advanced offensive certifications.
✓ Practice on hands-on platforms like TryHackMe or build home labs using Linux and SIEM software.
✓ Always ask for a full cost breakdown to verify if official exam vouchers and lab subscriptions are included.
✓ Learn standard frameworks like DoD 8570/8140 and ISO 27001 alongside technical hacking tools.
Plan B
Network Engineer
If you prefer network architecture over threat hunting, focus on network engineering. It uses the same TCP/IP, routing, and firewall basics, making it a natural fit for those with networking skills.
Systems Administrator
If you enjoy configuring servers, user access, and operating systems without managing daily incident response, systems administration relies on the same core OS and security controls.
IT Compliance Analyst
If you prefer policy, auditing, and corporate governance over deep command-line technical operations, a role in IT compliance uses your Security+ knowledge to maintain industry standards.
Cloud Support Engineer
If you are interested in cloud infrastructure, cloud support engineer roles leverage your foundational networking, Linux skills, and cloud security basics to manage remote deployments.
FAQs
What is the main difference between CompTIA Security+ and CEH?
CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level, vendor-neutral certification covering foundational security functions, defensive operations, and risk management. CEH focuses on ethical hacking, penetration testing tools, and offensive security techniques.
Which certification should I take first, Security+ or CEH?
Take CompTIA Security+ first to build a broad technical foundation across all core security domains. Once you have built foundational skills and met experience requirements, take CEH to specialize in offensive security.
What are the exam costs for CompTIA Security+ and CEH in 2026?
The CompTIA Security+ voucher costs around ₹35,500 ($425 USD). CEH v13 vouchers range from ₹79,000 ($950 USD) for remote proctoring to ₹99,000 ($1,199 USD) at Pearson VUE centers, plus a ₹8,300 ($100 USD) eligibility fee if applying without official training.
Are there prerequisites for the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam?
There are no formal prerequisites for CompTIA Security+. However, CompTIA recommends having two years of IT administration experience with a security focus or earning a Network+ certification prior to the exam.
What are the eligibility criteria for the CEH exam?
To qualify for the CEH exam (312-50), you must complete official EC-Council training or submit proof of at least two years of verifiable work experience in information security alongside a non-refundable $100 application fee.
How long are CompTIA Security+ and CEH certifications valid?
Both certifications are valid for three years. CompTIA Security+ is renewed through Continuing Education Units (CEUs). CEH is renewed by earning 120 EC-Council Continuing Education (ECE) credits over three years and paying an annual $80 membership fee.
Does CompTIA Security+ satisfy DoD directives?
Yes, CompTIA Security+ satisfies the US Department of Defense (DoD) 8570/8140 compliance directives, making it a key qualification for defense contractors and government agency roles.
What is the CEH Practical exam and how does it relate to CEH Master?
CEH Practical is an optional 6-hour hands-on exam featuring 20 real-world security challenges that costs $550. Earning both the CEH knowledge exam (312-50) and the CEH Practical exam grants you the CEH Master designation.
⚖️ CompTIA Security+ vs CEH: Side by Side Comparison
| CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) | Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH v13) | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus & Scope | Vendor-neutral entry-level certification validating baseline skills for core defensive security functions. | Specialized certification focused on ethical hacking, penetration testing, and offensive security techniques. |
| Exam Format & Duration | Up to 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions in 90 minutes. | 125 multiple-choice questions in 4 hours (ANSI exam code 312-50). |
| Prerequisites & Eligibility | No formal prerequisites. 2 years IT administration experience with a security focus recommended. | 2 years verifiable information security work experience OR completion of official EC-Council training ($100 application fee if self-study). |
| Direct Exam Voucher Cost | ~$425 USD (voucher only) or ~$474 for voucher plus retake bundle. | ~$950 for remote proctoring or ~$1,199 at Pearson VUE testing centers. |
| Passing Score Criteria | 750 on a scale of 100-900. | Variable cut score ranging from 60% to 85% depending on exam form. |
| Average Salary Expectation | Entry-level roles average around $72,000 annually ($70,000-$100,000 mid-level). | Median salaries for specialized roles range from $102,600 to $236,318. |
| Renewal & Maintenance | Valid for 3 years. Renew via CEU credits or higher exam. | Valid for 3 years. Earn 120 ECE credits and pay $80 annual membership fee ($240 total). |
🎯 Choose Security+ to establish core baseline defensive skills at a lower cost, or pick CEH if you have experience and want an offensive security role.
🧭 Which Cybersecurity Certification Should You Take First?
Answer each question, get to the fix. Take the same path you would at the bench.
See the whole map at once
- Do you have 2+ years of verifiable work experience in information security?YesNo
- What is your primary career focus right now?Foundational / General Security OperationsOffensive Security / Ethical Hacking
- Can you afford official training ($1,400-$3,500+) or paying a $100 eligibility application fee?No, need low budget (~$425)Yes, budget available
- Are you aiming for offensive roles (Ethical Hacker / Pen Tester) or general security baseline?Offensive Security & Pen TestingGeneral Security & Defense Baseline
- Start with CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) → Take CompTIA Security+ first. It requires no formal work experience, costs ~$425 for the voucher, fulfills DoD 8570/8140 compliance, and validates core defensive capabilities.
- Start with Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH v13) → Take CEH (312-50) first. Target this if you have 2 years of security experience or complete official EC-Council training, seeking offensive hacking skills and higher median salary potential.
🕐 Recommended Cybersecurity Certification Progression Pathway
- Build Baseline Security Knowledge (Security+)1-3 months preparation
Prepare for and pass CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) to validate fundamental concepts in Security Operations, Threat Mitigation, Architecture, and DoD compliance.
- Gain Relevant IT & Security Work Experience2 years experience
Work in roles like Security Analyst, IT Support Specialist, or Network Administrator to fulfill the 2-year practical security requirement for advanced certs.
- Apply for CEH Eligibility & Exam1-2 weeks process
Submit 2-year work experience verification with the $100 application fee or enroll in official EC-Council training for CEH v13.
- Pass the CEH Knowledge Exam (312-50)2-4 months preparation
Complete the 4-hour, 125-question multiple-choice ANSI exam covering ethical hacking methodologies and offensive tactics.
- Earn CEH Master Designation (Optional)1-2 months preparation
Complete the optional CEH Practical exam (6 hours, 20 hands-on practical challenges, $550 fee) to attain the full CEH Master recognition.
Your decision notebook
Two lines now save you a wrong year later. Everything stays on this device.
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