Udemy Security+

If you're searching for "Udemy Security+" to find an affordable, flexible way to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ certification, you're in the right place. This comprehensive guide breaks down the top Udemy courses that align with the Security+ (SY0-601 and SY0-701) exam objectives, helping IT professionals build foundational cybersecurity knowledge and advance their careers. With self-paced video instruction, hands-on practice, and lifetime access, Udemy offers some of the most cost-effective training paths for beginners and career-changers alike. In this article, we’ll explore the best Security+ prep courses on Udemy, compare their features, pricing, difficulty, and real-world ROI, and help you decide if this route is right for your cybersecurity journey.

What Is CompTIA Security+ and Why It Matters

CompTIA Security+ is one of the most widely recognized entry-level cybersecurity certifications in the IT industry. Administered by CompTIA, it validates foundational knowledge in network security, threat detection, risk management, cryptography, and identity management. The current versions of the exam are SY0-601 (still active) and SY0-701 (launched November 2023), with the latter emphasizing cloud security, automation, and zero-trust models.

Earning Security+ opens doors to roles such as Security Analyst, Systems Administrator, Network Engineer, or IT Auditor. It's also often a baseline requirement for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) 8570-compliant positions and is approved under the DoD Directive 8140. Because of its vendor-neutral approach, Security+ is respected globally and serves as a stepping stone to advanced certifications like CISSP, CySA+, or CASP+.

Unlike proprietary certifications, Security+ doesn’t tie you to a specific technology stack, making it ideal for broad career mobility. It's also a common prerequisite or recommended credential for mid-level cybersecurity roles, especially in managed service providers (MSPs), government agencies, and financial institutions.

Top Udemy Courses for Security+ Preparation

Udemy hosts several high-quality Security+ prep courses taught by industry experts like Mike Chapple, Joseph xo, and Jason Dion. These instructors have years of IT and cybersecurity experience and have helped hundreds of thousands of students pass certification exams.

Here are the top-rated Udemy courses for Security+:

• CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601) Complete Course & Exam by Mike Chapple – This 25+ hour course covers every domain of the SY0-601 exam, including threats, architecture, operations security, and cryptography. Chapple, a cybersecurity professor and former CISSP, delivers clear, concise lectures with real-world examples. Price: $12.99–$19.99 on sale (regularly $94.99). Includes 3 practice exams and downloadable study guides.
• CompTIA Security+ Certification (SY0-601): The Total Course by Joseph xo – With over 200,000 enrollments, this course blends technical depth with engaging visuals and analogies. Joseph xo breaks down complex topics like PKI, SIEM, and incident response into digestible modules. Duration: 22 hours. Price: $12.99–$19.99. Includes hands-on labs and exam tips.
• CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) Certification Course by Jason Dion – One of Udemy’s most trusted IT instructors, Dion offers a forward-looking course tailored to the new SY0-701 exam. The course includes 20+ hours of video, 6 practice tests, and performance-based question simulations. Price: $14.99–$19.99. Lifetime access and mobile compatibility included.

Each course includes downloadable resources, quizzes, and lifetime access, allowing learners to revisit material as needed. While none of these courses are officially endorsed by CompTIA, they align closely with exam objectives and are frequently updated.

Udemy Security+: What You Get for the Price

One of the biggest advantages of choosing "Udemy Security+" courses is affordability. Most top-rated Security+ prep courses cost between $12.99 and $19.99 during frequent Udemy sales—significantly less than traditional training providers like CertMaster or Infosec Institute, which can charge $500–$1,000.

For this price, you receive:

• 20–25 hours of on-demand video content
• Practice exams that simulate the real CompTIA test environment
• Downloadable flashcards, cheat sheets, and study planners
• Lifetime access across devices
• 30-day money-back guarantee

Compare this to a $392 CompTIA exam voucher (required to sit for the actual test), and the Udemy investment becomes a high-ROI supplement. While the course fee doesn’t include the exam voucher, the comprehensive prep can drastically improve your chances of passing on the first try—saving you time and potential retake fees.

Some instructors, like Jason Dion, also offer exam voucher bundles through third-party partners, though these are not sold directly on Udemy. Be sure to budget separately for the official CompTIA exam, which is administered through Pearson VUE testing centers or online proctoring.

Course Difficulty and Who Should Enroll

Security+ is designed for IT professionals with at least two years of experience in IT administration, particularly in network or system support. While the exam is considered entry-level for cybersecurity, it’s not a beginner-friendly test if you lack foundational IT knowledge.

Udemy Security+ courses assume you understand basic networking concepts (like TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls) and operating systems (Windows, Linux). If you're new to IT, consider pairing a Security+ course with a foundational course like CompTIA Network+ or A+ before diving in.

The difficulty level of Udemy courses is generally moderate to challenging. Instructors like Mike Chapple and Jason Dion don’t oversimplify content—they aim to prepare you for the real exam. You’ll encounter performance-based questions (PBQs), drag-and-drop scenarios, and situational judgment items that require critical thinking.

Students report spending 60–80 hours total to complete a course and study adequately. Most recommend a study schedule of 2–3 hours per day over 4–6 weeks. The courses are self-paced, so you can accelerate or slow down based on your background.

How Udemy Compares to Other Security+ Training Options

While Udemy is a popular choice, it’s not the only path to Security+ certification. Let’s compare it to other common training formats:

• Official CompTIA CertMaster Learn – This is CompTIA’s official e-learning platform. It includes adaptive learning technology, labs, and performance tracking. Price: ~$399. More structured than Udemy but significantly more expensive. Best for learners who need guided pacing and official content.
• Infosec Institute or Cybrary – These platforms offer in-depth Security+ training with virtual labs and mentorship. Prices range from $99/month to $999 for lifetime access. They’re ideal for visual and hands-on learners but come at a higher cost than Udemy.
• Self-Study with Books (e.g., Mike Meyers' CompTIA Security+ Get Certified Get Ahead) – A low-cost option (~$30–$50), but lacks video instruction and interactive elements. Best used as a supplement to Udemy courses.

Udemy strikes a balance between cost, quality, and flexibility. It’s not as interactive as lab-heavy platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box, but it excels in clear instruction and exam alignment. For budget-conscious learners who prefer video-based learning, Udemy is often the optimal starting point.

Career Outcomes and Return on Investment (ROI)

Earning your CompTIA Security+ certification can significantly boost your employability and earning potential. 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.

Common job titles that list Security+ as a requirement or preferred qualification include:

• Security Analyst
• IT Security Specialist
• Network Administrator
• Systems Engineer
• Security Consultant

Many organizations, especially federal contractors, require Security+ for compliance. Holding the certification can make your resume stand out in competitive entry-to-mid-level cybersecurity roles.

When you factor in the low cost of Udemy courses (~$15) and the average $392 exam fee, your total investment is under $410. If Security+ helps you land a job that pays $5,000 more annually, your ROI is achieved in less than a year. Even if you're already employed, certification can justify a raise or internal promotion.

Additionally, Security+ serves as a foundation for advanced paths. Many professionals use it as a springboard to certifications like:

• CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)
• CompTIA PenTest+
• (ISC)² CISSP
• ISACA CISA

Udemy’s lifetime access means you can revisit content years later when preparing for these advanced exams—further increasing long-term ROI.

Tips for Passing Security+ Using Udemy Courses

Enrolling in a Udemy Security+ course is just the first step. To maximize your chances of passing, follow these proven strategies:

1. Follow a study plan – Use the instructor’s suggested roadmap or create your own. Allocate time for videos, quizzes, and review. Most students pass within 6–8 weeks of consistent study.
2. Take notes actively – Don’t just watch—write down key terms, acronyms, and concepts. Flashcards (digital or physical) are invaluable for memorizing ports, protocols, and attack types.
3. Practice with exams – Most top Udemy courses include 3–6 full-length practice tests. Aim to score 80%+ consistently before scheduling your real exam.
4. Use supplemental resources – Pair your Udemy course with free tools like the CompTIA Security+ exam objectives PDF, Anki flashcards, or YouTube review videos.
5. Focus on performance-based questions – These simulate real-world tasks like configuring a firewall or identifying a phishing email. Jason Dion’s courses include PBQ walkthroughs that are especially helpful.
6. Schedule your exam early – Committing to a test date creates accountability. Most students perform better under mild pressure.

Remember: The Security+ exam is adaptive and includes multiple-choice and performance-based items. Time management is crucial—practice pacing yourself during mock exams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Udemy Security+ enough to pass the certification exam?

Yes, for many learners, Udemy courses are sufficient—especially when combined with additional study. Courses from instructors like Jason Dion and Mike Chapple cover 100% of the exam objectives and include practice tests that closely mirror the real exam. However, supplementing with hands-on labs (e.g., via TryHackMe or Cisco Packet Tracer) and flashcards can improve retention, especially for visual or kinesthetic learners.

How long does it take to complete a Udemy Security+ course?

Most comprehensive Udemy Security+ courses range from 20 to 25 hours of video content. If you study 2–3 hours per day, you can finish in 3–4 weeks. However, total preparation time—including review, practice exams, and lab work—typically takes 60–80 hours over 6–8 weeks for beginners.

Which is better: SY0-601 or SY0-701?

SY0-701 is the newer version, launched in November 2023, and includes expanded content on cloud security, zero trust, automation, and AI-driven threats. If you’re just starting, SY0-701 is the better long-term choice. However, SY0-601 remains valid until July 2024, so if you’re already studying with SY0-601 materials, you can still take that version. Always check CompTIA’s official site for retirement dates.

Do Udemy courses include the actual Security+ exam voucher?

No, Udemy courses do not include the CompTIA exam voucher. You must purchase the voucher separately through CompTIA’s website or authorized partners like Pearson VUE. The current price is $392 for U.S. test-takers. Some instructors offer bundle deals through external sites, but these are not hosted on Udemy directly.

Can I get a job with just Security+ and a Udemy course?

Yes—especially in entry-level cybersecurity or IT support roles. Security+ is often the minimum requirement for government and defense positions (per DoD 8570). While hands-on experience strengthens your profile, the certification itself signals competence and commitment. Pairing it with internships, homelab projects, or volunteer IT work increases employability.

Are Udemy instructors certified in Security+?

Yes, top Udemy instructors like Jason Dion, Mike Chapple, and Joseph xo are not only Security+ certified but also hold advanced credentials like CISSP, CEH, or CISM. Their courses are built from real-world experience and are regularly updated to reflect exam changes. Always check the instructor’s bio and reviews before enrolling.

Is Security+ worth it in 2024 and beyond?

Absolutely. With cyber threats rising and remote work expanding attack surfaces, demand for certified security professionals continues to grow. CompTIA reports that Security+ is among the top 10 most in-demand certifications for employers. It’s also a stepping stone to higher-paying roles and advanced credentials. Given the low cost of entry via Udemy, the long-term career benefits far outweigh the investment.

Can I renew my Security+ certification after it expires?

Yes. CompTIA Security+ is valid for three years. You can renew it by earning 50 Continuing Education (CEU) credits through activities like taking courses, attending webinars, or earning higher certifications. Renewal costs $50/year after year three. Alternatively, you can retake the current version of the exam. Udemy courses can count toward CEUs if they’re on the approved list.