Security+ Udemy

Yes, Security+ Udemy courses are a highly effective and affordable way to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam, one of the most in-demand entry-level cybersecurity credentials in the IT industry. Platforms like Udemy offer comprehensive, self-paced training that covers all exam objectives for SY0-601 and SY0-701 versions, making them ideal for beginners and career-changers alike. With expert instructors, hands-on practice, and thousands of student reviews backing their quality, Security+ courses on Udemy deliver exceptional value for aspiring security professionals looking to break into the field without breaking the bank.

What Is Security+ and Why It Matters for Your Career

The CompTIA Security+ certification is a globally recognized, vendor-neutral credential that validates foundational knowledge and skills in cybersecurity. It is often the first major certification pursued by IT professionals entering the security field and is frequently listed as a requirement or preferred qualification in job postings for roles such as Security Analyst, Systems Administrator, and IT Support Specialist.

Security+ covers core domains including threat identification, cryptography, network security, identity management, risk management, and incident response. Earning this certification demonstrates to employers that you understand best practices for securing systems and data, comply with regulatory standards, and can respond effectively to security incidents.

One of the key reasons Security+ is so valued is its DoD 8570 compliance, which means it meets U.S. Department of Defense requirements for IT security personnel. This opens doors to government and defense contracting roles, especially for positions at IAT Level I and IAM Level I. Additionally, many cybersecurity bootcamps and college programs now integrate Security+ into their curricula, underscoring its academic and professional relevance.

Why Choose a Security+ Course on Udemy

Udemy has become one of the most trusted platforms for online learning, especially in the IT and cybersecurity space. When it comes to Security+ preparation, Udemy offers several standout advantages:

• Affordability: Udemy courses are frequently discounted, often dropping from $100+ to under $20 during promotions. This makes high-quality Security+ training accessible to students and career-changers on a budget.
• Expert Instructors: Top-rated instructors like Mike Chapple (University of Notre Dame), Joseph Bonneau, and Mike Meyers deliver engaging, in-depth content that breaks down complex topics into digestible lessons.
• Self-Paced Learning: Unlike rigid classroom schedules, Udemy allows you to learn at your own pace, pause, rewatch, and revisit topics as needed.
• Practice Exams and Quizzes: Most top Security+ courses include multiple full-length practice tests that simulate the real CompTIA exam, helping you identify weak areas and build confidence.
• Mobile and Offline Access: The Udemy app lets you study on the go, making it easier to fit learning into a busy schedule.

Among the most popular and highly rated options is Mike Chapple’s “CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Certification Complete Course”, which has over 100,000 students and consistently ranks in Udemy’s top 10 for IT certifications. Another strong contender is “CompTIA Security+ Certification (SY0-601): The Total Course” by Total Seminars, taught by Mike Meyers and Jennifer Newman. Both courses offer 20+ hours of on-demand video, downloadable resources, and real-world scenarios to reinforce learning.

Security+ Exam Details: What You Need to Know

Before enrolling in a Udemy course, it’s essential to understand the structure and requirements of the actual Security+ exam. The current version is SY0-701, launched in November 2023, replacing SY0-601. While older courses may still reference SY0-601, many are being updated or offer both versions.

The exam consists of 90 questions, including multiple choice and performance-based questions, and lasts 90 minutes. It is administered through Pearson VUE testing centers or via remote proctoring. The passing score is 750 on a scale of 100–900.

Exam domains for SY0-701 include:

• 1.0 General Security Concepts (12%)
• 2.0 Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)
• 3.0 Architecture and Design (18%)
• 4.0 Identity and Access Management (16%)
• 5.0 Risk Management (15%)
• 6.0 Cryptography and PKI (12%)
• 7.0 Security Operations (15%)

The exam fee is $399, though CompTIA offers academic and certification bundle discounts. Students who complete a Udemy course are strongly encouraged to supplement their learning with official CompTIA study guides and free resources like the CompTIA CertMaster Learn trial or practice questions on the CompTIA website.

Top-Rated Security+ Udemy Courses Compared

With dozens of Security+ courses on Udemy, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here’s a comparison of the top three based on content quality, instructor reputation, and student outcomes:

1. CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Certification Complete Course – Mike Chapple

This 25+ hour course is widely regarded as the gold standard on Udemy. Dr. Mike Chapple, a cybersecurity professor and CISSP-certified expert, delivers clear, concise lectures with real-world examples. The course includes 6 practice exams, over 500 quiz questions, and downloadable study guides. Priced at $12.99–$19.99 on sale, it offers unmatched value. Students praise its alignment with the latest exam objectives and Chapple’s ability to simplify complex topics like cryptography and risk frameworks.

2. CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601) The Total Course – Total Seminars

With over 150,000 students, this course by Mike Meyers and Jennifer Newman is a staple in IT certification prep. While focused on SY0-601, it still covers 90%+ of SY0-701 content. The teaching style is energetic and engaging, with animated diagrams and hands-on demos. At 28 hours of content and 6 practice exams, it’s one of the most comprehensive options. Regularly on sale for $14.99, it’s ideal for visual learners who prefer a dynamic presentation style.

3. CompTIA Security+ Certification Prep – Sari Greene

Sari Greene, a seasoned security consultant and author, offers a more concise but highly focused 12-hour course. Ideal for learners with some IT background, this course emphasizes practical application and exam strategy. It includes 3 full practice tests and a strong focus on risk management and compliance topics. Priced at $19.99 on sale, it’s a solid choice for those short on time but serious about passing.

All three courses offer 30-day money-back guarantees, lifetime access, and regular updates. For most beginners, Chapple’s course is the top recommendation due to its depth, accuracy, and instructor credibility.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for Security+ on Udemy

Preparation time varies based on your prior IT experience, but most learners spend between 40 to 60 hours studying for the Security+ exam. A typical study plan using a Udemy course might look like this:

• Weeks 1–2: Watch core lectures (Domains 1–3), take notes, complete quizzes. (~20 hours)
• Weeks 3–4: Dive into identity, risk, and cryptography (Domains 4–6), complete practice labs. (~20 hours)
• Week 5: Take full-length practice exams, review weak areas, use flashcards. (~10 hours)
• Week 6: Final review and exam scheduling.

Students with no prior IT experience may need 80+ hours and should consider supplementing with free resources like Professor Messer’s YouTube videos or the CompTIA Security+ Study Guide (SY0-701) by Darril Gibson. Those with experience in networking or system administration may be able to pass in as little as 3–4 weeks with dedicated study.

Udemy’s self-paced format allows you to accelerate or slow down as needed. Most top courses recommend spending at least 1–2 hours per day for optimal retention and understanding.

Cost Breakdown: Udemy vs. Other Training Options

One of Udemy’s biggest advantages is cost-effectiveness. Here’s how it compares to other training methods:

Training Option	Average Cost	Duration	Best For
Udemy Security+ Course	$12.99–$19.99 (on sale)	Self-paced (40–60 hrs)	Budget-conscious learners, self-starters
Official CompTIA CertMaster	$119–$199	6–8 weeks	Structured learners, official content
In-Person Bootcamp	$2,000–$3,500	5–7 days	Fast-track learners, employer-sponsored
Community College Course	$500–$1,200	8–12 weeks	Credit-seeking students

When you factor in the $399 exam fee, the total cost of earning Security+ via Udemy is under $420—significantly less than alternatives. Even if you fail and need to retake the exam (CompTIA allows one free retake with the exam voucher purchase), the return on investment remains strong.

Career Outcomes and ROI of Security+ Certification

Earning your Security+ certification can be a career game-changer. According to CompTIA’s 2023 IT Industry Outlook, Security+ holders earn an average salary of $75,000–$85,000 in the U.S., with higher figures in government and defense roles. Entry-level cybersecurity analysts with Security+ report 20–30% higher starting salaries than those without certifications.

Common job titles that value Security+ include:

• Security Analyst
• Systems Administrator
• Network Administrator
• IT Auditor
• Security Consultant (entry-level)
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Technician

Many organizations, including Dell, HP, Intel, and government agencies, list Security+ as a preferred or required credential. It also serves as a stepping stone to advanced certifications like CISSP, CySA+, and CASP+.

The ROI is clear: for an investment of under $500 (course + exam), you gain a credential that boosts employability, qualifies you for DoD roles, and opens doors to six-figure career paths in cybersecurity. Even if you’re transitioning from a non-IT role, Security+ is one of the most accessible entry points into the field.

FAQs About Security+ Udemy Courses

Can I pass Security+ just by taking a Udemy course?

Yes, thousands of students pass the Security+ exam using only a high-quality Udemy course, especially when combined with practice exams and supplemental reading. However, success depends on consistent study, active note-taking, and self-testing. Top courses like Mike Chapple’s include all the knowledge needed to pass, but you must put in the hours.

Is the Security+ exam hard?

For beginners, Security+ is challenging but manageable with proper preparation. It tests both memorization and applied knowledge, especially through performance-based questions that simulate real-world scenarios. With 40–60 hours of focused study using a Udemy course, most students are well-prepared.

Do Udemy courses include practice exams?

Yes, the best Security+ Udemy courses include multiple full-length practice exams that mirror the format and difficulty of the real test. Mike Chapple’s course, for example, offers six timed exams with detailed explanations for each question—critical for identifying knowledge gaps.

Which version of Security+ should I take: SY0-601 or SY0-701?

SY0-701 is the current version as of November 2023 and will remain valid for several years. If you’re just starting, choose a course that covers SY0-701. However, SY0-601 content is still largely relevant, and many Udemy instructors offer updates or separate sections for the new exam.

How much does a Security+ Udemy course cost?

Most top-rated Security+ courses on Udemy are priced between $12.99 and $19.99 during frequent sales. The regular price is usually $99.99, but Udemy runs promotions almost every week, so it’s rare to pay full price.

Can I get college credit for completing a Security+ Udemy course?

No—Udemy is not an accredited institution, so course completion does not grant college credit. However, earning the actual CompTIA Security+ certification may qualify for credit at some colleges through prior learning assessment (PLA) programs.

Do employers respect Security+ certifications earned via Udemy?

Yes—employers care about the certification, not how you studied for it. As long as you pass the official CompTIA exam, your Udemy preparation is irrelevant. In fact, self-directed learning via platforms like Udemy is often seen as a sign of initiative and resourcefulness.

How long is the Security+ certification valid?

Security+ is valid for three years. To maintain it, you can either retake the exam or earn 50 Continuing Education (CE) credits through the CompTIA Continuing Education Program by attending webinars, taking other courses, or earning higher certifications.