Cloud+ and Security+ address different domains of IT expertise. Cloud+ validates vendor-neutral cloud infrastructure skills, while Security+ covers cybersecurity fundamentals. Together they are increasingly relevant as cloud security becomes a critical skill set.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| CompTIA Cloud+ | CompTIA Security+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Exam Code | CV0-004 | SY0-701 |
| Level | Intermediate | Entry-level |
| Cost | $369 | $404 |
| Duration | 90 min | 90 min |
| Questions | Up to 90 | Up to 90 |
| Passing Score | 750/900 | 750/900 |
| Renewal | 3 years | 3 years |
| Prerequisites | None required; Network+ and 2-3 years of system administration experience recommended | None required; CompTIA Network+ and two years of IT administration experience recommended |
| Avg Salary Range | $75,000–$110,000 | $65,000–$95,000 |
Focus Areas
CompTIA Cloud+
Cloud architecture and design, security, deployment, operations, troubleshooting, and multi-cloud management across vendor-neutral environments
CompTIA Security+
General security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, architecture, security operations, and security program management and oversight
Who Should Get Which?
Get CompTIA Cloud+ if...
System administrators transitioning to cloud roles, IT professionals who work across multiple cloud platforms, or those who want vendor-neutral cloud validation before specializing in AWS or Azure
Get CompTIA Security+ if...
IT professionals entering cybersecurity, anyone needing a baseline security certification, or those targeting DoD/government security roles
Recommended Order
Get Security+ first in most cases. Security knowledge is foundational to cloud work, and Security+ has broader career applicability. Pursue Cloud+ when you specifically need to validate cloud infrastructure skills across multiple platforms.
Study Tips
About 15-20% of Cloud+ content overlaps with Security+ in areas like cloud security, identity management, and encryption. If you hold Security+, focus your Cloud+ study on cloud architecture, deployment models, and operations. Both benefit from hands-on lab practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CompTIA Cloud+ and CompTIA Security+?
Cloud+ and Security+ address different domains of IT expertise. Cloud+ validates vendor-neutral cloud infrastructure skills, while Security+ covers cybersecurity fundamentals. Together they are increasingly relevant as cloud security becomes a critical skill set.
Should I get CompTIA Cloud+ or CompTIA Security+ first?
Get Security+ first in most cases. Security knowledge is foundational to cloud work, and Security+ has broader career applicability. Pursue Cloud+ when you specifically need to validate cloud infrastructure skills across multiple platforms.
Who should get CompTIA Cloud+?
System administrators transitioning to cloud roles, IT professionals who work across multiple cloud platforms, or those who want vendor-neutral cloud validation before specializing in AWS or Azure
Who should get CompTIA Security+?
IT professionals entering cybersecurity, anyone needing a baseline security certification, or those targeting DoD/government security roles
Test Your Knowledge
Already studying? Try our free tools:
- Security+ Practice Quiz — 300 questions mapped to SY0-701 domains
- CVSS Calculator — Practice scoring vulnerabilities
Deep Dive Guides
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