SC-900 and Security+ are both entry-level security certifications but from different ecosystems. SC-900 is a Microsoft fundamentals exam focused on security within Microsoft services, while Security+ is a vendor-neutral certification covering broad cybersecurity concepts.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Microsoft SC-900 | CompTIA Security+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Microsoft | CompTIA |
| Exam Code | SC-900 | SY0-701 |
| Level | Entry-level | Entry-level |
| Cost | $165 | $404 |
| Duration | 65 min | 90 min |
| Questions | 40–60 | Up to 90 |
| Passing Score | 700/1000 | 750/900 |
| Renewal | 1 year (free renewal assessment) | 3 years |
| Prerequisites | None required; general understanding of networking and cloud concepts recommended | None required; CompTIA Network+ and two years of IT administration experience recommended |
| Avg Salary Range | $55,000–$80,000 | $65,000–$95,000 |
Focus Areas
Microsoft SC-900
Security, compliance, and identity concepts in Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365, and related services
CompTIA Security+
General security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, architecture, security operations, and security program management and oversight
Who Should Get Which?
Get Microsoft SC-900 if...
Microsoft ecosystem professionals who want a quick security foundations credential, those preparing for AZ-500 or SC-300, or anyone wanting a low-cost entry into Microsoft security certifications
Get CompTIA Security+ if...
Anyone who needs a broadly recognized, vendor-neutral security certification, DoD/government employees, or those who want a certification that applies across all platforms and vendors
Recommended Order
Get Security+ first in almost all cases. It has vastly broader recognition and applies everywhere. SC-900 is only useful as a stepping stone within the Microsoft certification path. If you work exclusively in Microsoft environments, SC-900 can be a quick confidence-building first step.
Study Tips
SC-900 is significantly easier than Security+ and can be passed in 1-2 weeks of study. Security+ requires 4-8 weeks of dedicated preparation. If you plan to get both, start with SC-900 for an easy win, then use that momentum for Security+. Microsoft Learn modules are free and sufficient for SC-900.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Microsoft SC-900 and CompTIA Security+?
SC-900 and Security+ are both entry-level security certifications but from different ecosystems. SC-900 is a Microsoft fundamentals exam focused on security within Microsoft services, while Security+ is a vendor-neutral certification covering broad cybersecurity concepts.
Should I get Microsoft SC-900 or CompTIA Security+ first?
Get Security+ first in almost all cases. It has vastly broader recognition and applies everywhere. SC-900 is only useful as a stepping stone within the Microsoft certification path. If you work exclusively in Microsoft environments, SC-900 can be a quick confidence-building first step.
Who should get Microsoft SC-900?
Microsoft ecosystem professionals who want a quick security foundations credential, those preparing for AZ-500 or SC-300, or anyone wanting a low-cost entry into Microsoft security certifications
Who should get CompTIA Security+?
Anyone who needs a broadly recognized, vendor-neutral security certification, DoD/government employees, or those who want a certification that applies across all platforms and vendors
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
FixTheVuln Store
Get the Study Planner for Microsoft SC-900
Structured study planners with domain trackers, time blocking, and exam strategies. Standard + ADHD-friendly editions.
Shop Microsoft PlannersAlso available: CompTIA, (ISC)2, AWS, Cisco, and 60+ more