What is the new CompTIA SecurityX?

In December 2024, CompTIA will launch SecurityX, a rebranded and updated version of their Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) certification. This change goes beyond just a new name - it sits at the top tier in CompTIA's cybersecurity certification pathway and sets new benchmarks for expert-level security skills.

What Makes SecurityX Different?

SecurityX is the only hands-on, performance-based certification built specifically for advanced practitioners in cybersecurity. While other high-level security certifications often focus on management aspects, SecurityX targets the technical experts who build and architect security solutions.

The certification fits security professionals with extensive experience - typically those with 10 years in IT, including at least 5 years focused on security. It's ideal for professionals who have mastered the fundamentals covered in certifications like Security+ and want to showcase their expert-level abilities.

Key Areas of Focus

The SecurityX exam looks at four main domains:

• Security Architecture (27%)
• Security Engineering (31%)
• Security Operations (22%)
• Governance, Risk, and Compliance (20%)

These domains mirror the real-world responsibilities of senior security engineers and architects. The exam tests your ability to design and build security solutions across complex environments, including on-premises, cloud, and hybrid infrastructures.

What Can SecurityX-Certified Professionals Do?

Professionals who earn the SecurityX certification can:

• Design and build enterprise-wide security solutions
• Lead technical teams in setting up cybersecurity measures
• Check an organization's overall security readiness
• Work with both cloud and on-premises environments
• Handle complex security architectures
• Run security operations and incident response
• Work within governance and compliance requirements

Career Impact and Opportunities

The certification opens doors to several high-level positions, including:

• Security Architect
• Senior Security Engineer
• Information Security Officer
• SOC Manager
• Cyber Risk Analyst

These roles often come with substantial pay - security architects in the US can earn between $106,240 and $197,380, with a median salary of $150,270, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's New in SecurityX?

The updated certification includes the latest in cybersecurity:

• Advanced threat management techniques
• Zero trust security architecture
• Cloud-native security solutions
• Artificial intelligence and its security implications
• Modern cryptographic technologies
• Automated security operations

Department of Defense Recognition

SecurityX keeps the same DoD approval status as CASP+, matching 19 NICE work roles and 19 DoD Cyber Work Force roles under Directive 8140.03M. This makes it especially valuable for professionals working in government and defense sectors.

What About Current CASP+ Holders?

If you currently hold a CASP+ certification, don't worry. The switch to SecurityX won't affect your certification status or continuing education requirements. Current CASP+ holders will automatically get the new SecurityX badge and can download updated certificates through CertMetrics.

Preparing for SecurityX

CompTIA offers several training options for SecurityX candidates:

• CertMaster Perform: Hands-on learning with video content and performance-based questions
• CertMaster Labs: Browser-based virtual environments for practical experience
• CertMaster Practice: Adaptive exam preparation tools
• Study Guides: In-depth learning materials in print and digital formats

Maintaining Your Certification

The SecurityX certification stays valid for three years. To keep it current, you'll need to earn 75 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through various professional growth activities. This keeps certified professionals up-to-date with changing security technologies and threats.

Is SecurityX Right for You?

SecurityX might be your next career step if you:

• Have hands-on security experience
• Work in or aim for senior technical security roles
• Want to show expert-level security skills
• Need a vendor-neutral, globally accepted certification
• Work with enterprise-level security architecture

The certification fits those who handle technical solutions rather than just policy-making - it's about the "how" rather than just the "what" of enterprise security.

For cybersecurity professionals looking to show their expert-level skills and advance their careers, SecurityX offers a clear path forward. As security threats get more complex, the need for professionals who can design, build, and run enterprise-wide security solutions keeps growing.