Security+ vs GSEC
The published facts of both certifications side by side. Which one fits depends on your role, experience and goals; the Plan Advisor and Role readiness weigh them against your own profile.
| Security+ CompTIA Security+ |
GSEC GIAC Security Essentials | |
|---|---|---|
| Issuer | CompTIA | GIAC |
| Level | Beginner | Intermediate |
| Domain | Security & Risk Management | Security & Risk Management |
| Exam fee | $439 | $999 |
| Experience required | None stated | None stated |
| Prerequisite certifications | None | None |
| Exam | Max 90 questions (MCQ + PBQ), 90 minutes | Proctored exam, 106 questions, 4 hours |
| Passing score | 750 (100-900) | 72% |
| Renewal | Every 3 years · 50 CEU per cycle | Every 4 years · 36 CPE per cycle |
| Annual fee | $50 | None |
| Career tracks that use it | 17 | 0 |
Fees and requirements change: each certification's page links to the issuer's own terms. CertAscent lists them side by side; no issuer pays to be listed or compared.