The CySA+ exam focuses on security operations, threat detection, and vulnerability management. If you have taken the Security+, expect this exam to be more hands-on and require a deeper understanding of logs, tools, and incident response.

This certification is considered to be intermediate; anyone taking it should have a baseline understanding of cybersecurity and the tools/concepts mentioned within the exam objectives.

The test is on version (003).

Exam Scoring and Structure

• Scored out of 900

• Passing score 750

• Number of questions: 85 max

• Format: Multiple choice, performance-based, and drag-and-drop

What’s Covered in the Exam:

Security Operations (33%)

• Analyzing network and system logs

• Detecting and responding to security threats

• Using security tools for monitoring

Vulnerability Management (30%)

• Identifying, assessing, and remediating vulnerabilities

• Conducting security assessments and penetration testing

• Prioritizing risks based on threat intelligence

Incident Response and Management (20%)

• Developing an incident response plan

• Containing and eradicating threats

• Performing forensic analysis

Reporting and Communication (17%)

• Writing security reports and documentation

• Communicating security findings to different teams

• Following compliance and regulatory requirements

Resources I Used:

CySA+ is definitely more difficult than Security+, so you will need to put in extra effort. The exam is more technical and goes more in-depth into what cybersecurity analysts do. Definitely take the time to study the tools and their interfaces because knowing how they work will help a lot. Also, double down on the vulnerability management section since it is a big part of the test.

Udemy:
I used the Total Seminars course, which covered all the key concepts with detailed explanations and practice questions.
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst CySA+ The Total Course by Total Seminars

CertMaster Practice Tests:
CompTIA’s CertMaster Practice tests are a solid way to check your knowledge and get used to the exam format. You can find them, along with discounted vouchers, at the CompTIA Academic Store.

This exam requires more than just memorization. You need to understand how different security tools work and how to analyze data effectively. Study hard, practice often, and you will be ready. Good luck!

(PS: Don’t forget those acronyms!!!!!!! STUDY THEM)