CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 Certification Guide: Master cybersecurity fundamentals and pass the SY0-701 exam on your first attempt; 3rd Edition

I used this and a few other studying tools, such as watching Dark Bird Tech on youtube and using TryHackMe, the website, and easily received certification. I never finished the book because I moved on to video for learning. When skimming through the topics, I found that I already learned the information in later chapters through practical coursework on another website.The book is well written and engaging, at least up until Part 5. The quizzes in the book were straight-forward, and I found little challenge in completing quizzes in order to consolidate my knowledge, but I still reviewed the answers I got negative marks on in order to better understand where I went wrong.The online resources, as of September 2024, are pretty much a joke, with the site only having 3 mock-exams for Security+ at the time of learning. There are 3 sets of flash cards, 3 mock exams, and all of them combined do not feel like the whole book's worth of information. There are also no PBQs, which is something that has a lot of weight on the examination.There is a lot of information that is easy to miss without rereading, so I suggest casually reading and notating what you are unfamiliar with and then re-reading the book while taking more thorough notes. I feel as if this book and a few PBQ videos on youtube will have you ready to eat the paper that this test is written on and turn it into a passing score.Either way, no part of the online content has impacted my 5 stars for this book. The online resources if sold separately would get a 3/5 for being mediocre but serviceable with no PBQs on the website.Online materials completed:Flash Cards: 30%-40% full rote memorization of all flash cards (Averaged)Mock Exam 1: 91% Best ScoreMock Exam 2: 65% Best ScoreMock Exam 3: 66% Best ScoreMy score on the certification is by no means a sign of total comprehension, but I was able to set a reasonable date of 3 months to complete studying and was able to pass without the full utilization of all information given by this author. 5/5 for the book, 3/5 for the online resources.Pros:The material is interestingly written and engaging for what the material entails.Everything covered in the book appears to either fill the prerequisite knowledge or extend further for the scope of the Security+ certification examGiven you study the book thoroughly and answer all the quizzes while correcting mistakes, I see no reason why you should fail.Cons:(book only)I disagree with some of the answers given in the book, about 3 out of some 500 in the entire book that I can remember about 2 to 3 months after ceasing studies, and mostly regarding risk.(online only)No PBQs in online material, these are not available in book format as they require the user to interactThe online resources feel like they do not cover the entirety of the book.The online resources appear to favor later chapters.TL;DR - You can click the book, but the book is better, and you should be able to pass with all the information presented within the confines of its spine and its related online content, possibly with the exception of Part 5.

I’m thrilled to say I just passed my CompTIA Security+ exam, and this book was an essential part of my success! From start to finish, it provided clear, well-structured explanations of all the core concepts covered on the exam. The content is up-to-date, aligned with the exam objectives, and breaks down complex topics in a way that's easy to understand—even for those new to cybersecurity.What I appreciated most were the practice questions and review sections at the end of each chapter. They helped reinforce what I learned and gave me confidence in my understanding. The real-world examples and scenarios were also incredibly helpful in applying the material beyond just memorization.If you’re preparing for the Security+ certification, I highly recommend this book. It’s comprehensive, well-organized, and definitely played a big part in helping me pass on my first try!

This guide was my primary study resource for the Security+ exam, and it delivered. The material is structured logically, with each section building on the last in a way that made the content easy to follow and retain. The sequencing made sense and helped reinforce key concepts at the right pace. What stood out most was how the guide emphasized critical keywords and the mindset needed to approach Security+ questions. It helped me understand not just the facts, but how the exam expects you to think. I passed on my first attempt. This book is a solid asset for anyone preparing for the exam.

This book is an ultimate study guide to pass SEC +, ESPECIALLY for the price. It is not hard to read at all. If anything, it is very straight forward. It will tell you everything you need to know to pass the exam, all it takes is some time. I was seriously amazed at how quickly I was getting it each day and each chapter. Trust me, just like anything life, all it takes is some time and effort. That being said if you are highly motivated to take Security + GET THIS BOOK!To break down this book a little more, it will not only train you to pass the exam but to actually think and engage. It goes very in depth with the terms and practice quizzes at the end of every chapter. These questions purposely seem hard at times but that is precisely the point! To force you into thinking and engaging your mind. Now at the end of the book there are the answers to every question on the quizzes. I Highly suggest reading those to understand WHY and HOW you got it either RIGHT or WRONG. This book teaches you EVERYTHING you NEED.In addition to the end of chapter quizzes there are online test that are in the book (an absolute amazing feature of the book.) That are just as beneficial when it comes to increasing your knowledge about SEC+ and Cybersecurity Overall, it is a very educational and well-made book/study guide. BEYOND informative, I am Completely satisfied.If you are having doubts about this book or SEC +, DON'T. My background is on mining, Underground Coal and Surface iron Mining. I primarily do Maintenance and drive heavy machinery. I just love technology and realize how important this is reflected into our daily lives I decided to move into Cybersecurity. IT IS NOT HARD. Just apply yourself and you will be fine. I am telling you right now if you buy this book, you will not regret it.