CompTIA Security+ vs CEH
Compare Security+ and CEH certifications. Foundational security vs ethical hacking.
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA
CEH
EC-Council
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | CompTIA Security+ | CEH |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | CompTIA | EC-Council |
| Difficulty Level | Foundational | Intermediate |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes | 4 hours |
| Exam Cost | $392 USD | $1,199 USD |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice + performance-based | 125 questions |
| Prerequisites | Network+ recommended | 2 years experience or training |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Entry-level security professionals | Aspiring penetration testers |
| Salary Range | $65,000 - $95,000 | $85,000 - $130,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
CompTIA Security+ Focus Areas
- Threats
- Architecture
- Implementation
- Operations
- Governance
CEH Focus Areas
- Ethical Hacking
- Penetration Testing
- Tools
- Techniques
Our Recommendation
Security+ is foundational and broad; CEH is specialized in offensive security.
Choose CompTIA Security+
Start with Security+ for foundational security knowledge.
Choose CEH
Add CEH if you want to specialize in penetration testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CompTIA Security+ or CEH?
Security+ is foundational and broad; CEH is specialized in offensive security.
What are the salary differences between CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ typically offers salaries around $65,000 - $95,000, while CEH offers $85,000 - $130,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Start with Security+ for foundational security knowledge. Add CEH if you want to specialize in penetration testing.
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