What Are the Real Security Plus Career Benefits in Today's Job Market?
When it comes to launching or advancing a cybersecurity career, CompTIA Security+ is a name that consistently shows up in job descriptions. With over 63,620 open positions requiring this credential in the U.S., it's the second most requested certification after CISSP.
Security+ is more than a badge; it's a signal to employers that you understand modern security protocols, threat mitigation, and compliance. According to Infosec Institute, certified professionals average nearly $99,446 in annual salary, thanks in part to their readiness for roles like security administrator, systems analyst, and network engineer.
| Certification | Avg Salary | Job Listings | Clearance Alignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security+ | $99,446 | 63,620+ | DoD 8140/8570.01-M Compliant |
| CISSP | $126,000 | 76,000+ | Yes |
| Network+ | $72,000 | 32,000+ | No |
| No Certification | $56,000 | Fewer | No |
How Security+ Certification Fast-Tracks DoD & Government IT Careers
"Security+ was the only reason I got cleared fast. It aligned perfectly with DoD 8570 and helped my hiring manager expedite the process." – Reddit user via r/CompTIA
The U.S. Department of Defense mandates certifications like Security+ for certain roles under directive 8140/8570.01-M. That means employers, particularly contractors and defense agencies, often prioritize applicants who already hold this credential.
With Security+, you not only become more employable but also move through the security clearance process more quickly—something that can take months otherwise.
What Jobs Can You Land With Just a Security+ Certification?
- Security Analyst: Entry-level role focused on monitoring and responding to security incidents. Salary: $85,000–$100,000
- Systems Administrator: Manages internal IT systems, often needing baseline security knowledge. Salary: $75,000–$90,000
- Network Engineer: Designs and defends network architecture. Security+ proves essential knowledge. Salary: $90,000–$110,000
- Compliance Analyst: Ensures security practices meet legal and regulatory requirements. Salary: $80,000–$95,000
Even Reddit threads like this one validate that Security+ can unlock these roles, especially when paired with hands-on training or a bootcamp experience.
Career Progression: Where Can Security+ Take You in 5 Years?
Security+ serves as a launchpad. But where you go from there? Here's a realistic 5-year trajectory:
| Year | Position | Certifications | Expected Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Security+ Trainee / Analyst | Security+ | $70K–$90K |
| Year 2–3 | Systems Security Admin | CEH / CySA+ | $90K–$110K |
| Year 4 | Security Engineer / Consultant | CISSP | $110K–$130K |
| Year 5+ | Risk Manager / SOC Lead | CISM, CASP+ | $130K+ |
Resources like CompTIA's Career Roadmap and insights from industry blogs emphasize Security+ as the springboard into higher-paying, specialized fields.
CTC Security+ Bootcamp: Real-World Training That Delivers ROI
CTC's Security+ Bootcamp isn't just another online course — it's a career-focused training environment that emphasizes job readiness, live mentoring, and DoD compliance.
| Training Provider | Live Instruction | DoD 8570 Alignment | Job Placement Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| CTC | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Udemy | ✘ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Coursera | Partial | ✘ | ✘ |
Plus, CTC offers strategies to pass on the first try — making your time investment worth it.
Is Security+ Worth It for Career Changers or Entry-Level Tech Talent?
Q: Is Security+ a good first certification?
A: Yes. It's vendor-neutral, widely accepted, and meets many government and enterprise hiring baselines.
Q: I'm switching from finance — will Security+ help?
A: Absolutely. Many professionals with non-IT backgrounds use Security+ as a gateway into cybersecurity, as seen in Reddit stories.
Q: Is there job growth after Security+?
A: Yes. Pairing it with field experience or complementary certifications leads to lucrative paths, supported by CompTIA data.
Next Steps: Enroll in Security+ Training with CTC Today
If you're serious about launching your cybersecurity career or leveling up within the DoD/government contracting space, CTC's Security+ Bootcamp is designed for you.
✔ Aligned with DoD 8140 / 8570 ✔ High pass rates ✔ Instructor-led sessions ✔ Career support & clearance insights
Click here to enroll now and secure your place in one of the most career-relevant IT certification programs available today.
