Azure Security Engineer vs CompTIA Security+
Compare Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500) and CompTIA Security+ for cybersecurity careers.
Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Microsoft
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500) | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Microsoft | CompTIA |
| Difficulty Level | Associate | Foundational |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $165 USD | $392 USD |
| Exam Format | 40-60 questions + labs | Multiple choice, performance-based |
| Prerequisites | AZ-104 or equivalent | Network+ and 2 years experience recommended |
| Validity Period | 1 year (renewal) | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Cloud security engineers on Azure | Entry-level security analysts |
| Salary Range | $120,000 - $165,000 | $65,000 - $95,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500) Focus Areas
- Azure AD Security
- Platform Protection
- Security Operations
- Data Security
CompTIA Security+ Focus Areas
- Threats
- Network Security
- Cryptography
- IAM
- Risk Management
Our Recommendation
AZ-500 is Azure-specific and advanced; Security+ is vendor-neutral and foundational.
Choose Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Choose AZ-500 if you already have Azure experience and want cloud security focus.
Choose CompTIA Security+
Choose Security+ first for foundational security knowledge, then specialize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500) or CompTIA Security+?
AZ-500 is Azure-specific and advanced; Security+ is vendor-neutral and foundational.
What are the salary differences between Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)?
Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500) typically offers salaries around $120,000 - $165,000, while CompTIA Security+ offers $65,000 - $95,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose AZ-500 if you already have Azure experience and want cloud security focus. Choose Security+ first for foundational security knowledge, then specialize.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
Ready to Get Certified?
Start your certification journey with our free practice exams and study guides