CompTIA Security+ resources: Free books, videos, tests and more!

Want to earn your Security+ certification but not sure where to start? First off, you're in good company. The Security+ certification stands out as a cornerstone credential for IT professionals stepping into cybersecurity, validating your ability to assess networks, respond to security incidents and protect organizations from emerging threats. 

While many training options exist, you don't need to break the bank to prepare effectively. There is a wealth of fantastic free Security+ resources available to equip you with the knowledge you need to ace the exam.  

For a comprehensive breakdown of training options — from free self-study to premium live training — check out our guide on the best ways to train for your cybersecurity certification. 

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Free podcasts and webinars 

The internet is full of fantastic free video content created by subject matter experts (SMEs) in cybersecurity. These aren't just dry lectures, either! Think engaging discussions, interviews with industry leaders and deep dives into specific Security+ topics. 

Podcasts like Cyber Work Podcast and Cyber Work Hacks are excellent places to start. They regularly feature SMEs from CompTIA itself, offering insights on the latest exam changes, practice question strategies and the best entry-level CompTIA certifications for your career path. 

Don't forget about the free webinars offered by authorized CompTIA partners like Infosec. We've collaborated with CompTIA to bring you webinars featuring experts like Patrick Lane, whose Security+ SY0-701 webinar dives deep into the newest versions of the Security+ exam, explaining the changes and why they were made. Infosec even offers a free Security+ SY0-701 ebook summarizing the important points from the webinar. 

With so many video platforms like YouTube and TikTok, relevant Security+ training and tips are only a search away. So, grab your headphones or settle in for a video session. The world of cybersecurity knowledge awaits. 

Free online Security+ practice questions 

Preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam involves understanding the types of questions you'll encounter. The exam includes multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions (PBQs). PBQs are challenging as they require you to apply your knowledge in practical scenarios, making them a crucial part of your study plan. While you can't find the exact questions from the current exam, there are plenty of sample questions available to give you CompTIA Security+ exam practice. 

Infosec Security+ instructor Tommy Gober walks through a few Security+ practice exam questions in this episode of Cyber Work Hacks.

For example, the Infosec Skills platform offers over 1,000 Security+ CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 practice test questions. You can create a free account and get seven-day access to these questions. This is a great way to get a feel for the type of questions you'll face and to identify areas where you might need more study. These practice tests mimic the format and difficulty of the actual exam, providing a realistic practice experience. 

There are also many books that include CompTIA Security+ practice test questions. These Security+ resources provide a comprehensive way to prepare for the exam by offering detailed explanations and practice tests. Books like Sybex's CompTIA Security+ Practice Tests: Exam SY0-701 are highly recommended as they cover all Security+ domains with practice questions to test your knowledge. 

Security+ books and study guides 

Books and study guides are essential tools for anyone preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam. One popular option is the CompTIA Security+ Certification Kit: Exam SY0-701, which includes practice questions and study materials tailored to the SY0-701 exam. These CompTIA Security+ books provide practice questions and cover the exam objectives in detail, helping you understand the material thoroughly. 

Another excellent Security+ study guide is the CompTIA Security+ Study Guide by Mike Chapple and David Seidl. This guide is well regarded for its clear explanations and comprehensive coverage of the exam topics. It includes end-of-chapter review questions, practice exams and access to additional online resources. 

While these books aren't free, you might find them at your local library, allowing you to study at no cost. Using these resources can significantly enhance your preparation and boost your confidence as you approach the exam. To get an idea of what these books and the exam cover, download the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 certification guide (PDF). This free Security+ PDF covers the key information you’ll need to know for the exam for free. 

Cybersecurity communities 

One of the most valuable aspects of preparing for the Security+ exam is connecting with other cybersecurity enthusiasts. Online communities provide a platform to ask questions, share insights and learn from experienced professionals. Here are a few popular cybersecurity communities: 

• TechExams: The TechExams platform offers various forums, including one dedicated to the Security+ exam. Here, you can join discussion forms to interact with other learners and get help with specific topics. 

• Reddit: Reddit has several active cybersecurity subreddits, such as r/cybersecurity and r/CompTIA. These communities are great for asking questions, sharing news and discussing industry trends. 

• LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a professional networking platform that can be used to connect with cybersecurity professionals and join relevant groups, like Cyber Security and CompTIA Security+ Certified Professionals. You can also follow industry leaders and stay up to date on the latest news and developments. 

Security+ training videos 

While many Security+ training videos are paid, there are still ways to access Security+ videos without paying a cent. For instance, Infosec Skills offers a 7-day free trial, which includes access to the comprehensive Security+ Learning Path. This learning path includes 23 hours of training materials, covering all exam objectives. This trial can be a valuable resource if you can dedicate a week to intensive study. 

Other providers offer Security+ training videos, though they typically require a subscription or one-time payment. These platforms often provide structured courses, practice labs and additional resources to help you prepare for the exam. 

Security+ training videos can help you gain a deeper understanding of the exam content and improve your chances of passing the CompTIA Security+ exam. Combining these videos with other study materials, such as practice tests and community resources, will give you a well-rounded preparation strategy. 

Paid Security+ training 

While free resources can provide a solid foundation, sometimes you need a more immersive learning experience. This is where paid Security+ training options can help. These can include: 

• On-demand video courses: Just like the training videos mentioned earlier, courses like Infosec's Security+ Learning Path offer in-depth coverage of the exam objectives, but with more features like quizzes, downloadable materials and even instructor support. 

• Live boot camps: For those who crave a more structured and intensive learning experience, live boot camps, like Infosec's CompTIA Security+ Certification Boot Camp, offer a crash course in Security+. These often take place over several days or weeks and involve instructor-led sessions, hands-on labs and practice exams. 

Learn what to expect from an Infosec Security+ Boot Camp in this episode of Cyber Work Hacks.

The cost of paid training varies depending on your chosen format and provider. However, the investment can pay off in the long run. IT professionals with certifications like Security+ can earn significantly more than their non-certified counterparts. According to our research, the average Security+ salary is $99,446. You can learn more about cybersecurity salaries by downloading our free cybersecurity salary guide. 

Security+: Next steps 

The Security+ certification is a valuable stepping stone for anyone looking to launch or advance their cybersecurity career. There are many ways to prepare for the exam, from free online resources to comprehensive paid training options. 

Don't forget to check out our free webinar on the latest Security+ exam changes and download the accompanying free ebook to get started on your journey. 

Finding a learning approach that works best for you is the key to success. Whether you choose to go the free route, invest in paid training or a combination of both, the valuable knowledge and skills you gain from Security+ will empower you to make a real difference in the world of cybersecurity.