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CompTIA® Security+® SY0-701 Certification Guide: Master cybersecurity fundamentals and pass the SY0-701 exam on your first attempt
Build a solid understanding of cybersecurity principles and develop hands-on skills to pave the way for a successful and impactful career in the field.
Purchase of this book unlocks access to web-based exam prep resources, including mock exams and flashcards.
Key FeaturesGain certified cybersecurity knowledge from Ian Neil, a world-class CompTIA certification trainerExplore up-to-date content meticulously aligned with 701 exam objectivesUnlock an exclusive 12% exam discount voucher inside the bookPurchase of this book unlocks access to web-based exam prep resources such as mock exams and flashcardsBook DescriptionBuilding on the success of its bestselling predecessor, this third edition of the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 Certification Guide serves as your one-stop resource for SY0-701 exam preparation. Written by cybersecurity expert Ian Neil, this comprehensive guide helps you unlock the intricacies of cybersecurity and understand the technology behind the SY0-701 certification, ensuring you approach the exam with confidence.
By exploring cybersecurity in detail, this book introduces essential principles, controls, and best practices. The chapters are carefully structured to align with the exam objectives of the 701 update, bringing to you the most recent and relevant exam study material. By mastering cybersecurity fundamentals, you’ll acquire the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate threats, manage vulnerabilities, and safeguard enterprise infrastructure. You’ll be well equipped to apply the principles of security governance and compliance, conduct risk assessments, and excel in audit and assessment tasks. The book also contains mock exams and flashcards to help reinforce your learning and assess your exam-readiness.
Whether you aim to excel the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam, advance your career in cybersecurity, or enhance your existing knowledge, this book will transform you into a cybersecurity expert.
What you will learnDifferentiate between various security control typesApply mitigation techniques for enterprise securityEvaluate security implications of architecture modelsProtect data by leveraging strategies and conceptsImplement resilience and recovery in securityAutomate and orchestrate for running secure operationsExecute processes for third-party risk assessment and managementConduct various audits and assessments with specific purposesWho this book is forWhether you have an IT background or not, if you aspire to pass the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam or pursue a career in certified security, this book is your perfect resource. It is also a valuable companion for US government and US Department of Defense personnel looking to achieve cybersecurity certification. It serves as an excellent reference guide for college students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity.
Table of ContentsCompare and Contrast Various Types of Security ControlsSummarize Fundamental Security ConceptsExplain the Importance of Change Management Processes and the Impact on SecurityExplain the Importance of Using Appropriate Cryptographic SolutionsCompare and Contrast Common Threat Actors and MotivationsExplain Common Threat Vectors and Attack SurfacesExplain Various Types of VulnerabilitiesGiven a Scenario, Analyze Indicators of M
Purchase of this book unlocks access to web-based exam prep resources, including mock exams and flashcards.
Key FeaturesGain certified cybersecurity knowledge from Ian Neil, a world-class CompTIA certification trainerExplore up-to-date content meticulously aligned with 701 exam objectivesUnlock an exclusive 12% exam discount voucher inside the bookPurchase of this book unlocks access to web-based exam prep resources such as mock exams and flashcardsBook DescriptionBuilding on the success of its bestselling predecessor, this third edition of the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 Certification Guide serves as your one-stop resource for SY0-701 exam preparation. Written by cybersecurity expert Ian Neil, this comprehensive guide helps you unlock the intricacies of cybersecurity and understand the technology behind the SY0-701 certification, ensuring you approach the exam with confidence.
By exploring cybersecurity in detail, this book introduces essential principles, controls, and best practices. The chapters are carefully structured to align with the exam objectives of the 701 update, bringing to you the most recent and relevant exam study material. By mastering cybersecurity fundamentals, you’ll acquire the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate threats, manage vulnerabilities, and safeguard enterprise infrastructure. You’ll be well equipped to apply the principles of security governance and compliance, conduct risk assessments, and excel in audit and assessment tasks. The book also contains mock exams and flashcards to help reinforce your learning and assess your exam-readiness.
Whether you aim to excel the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam, advance your career in cybersecurity, or enhance your existing knowledge, this book will transform you into a cybersecurity expert.
What you will learnDifferentiate between various security control typesApply mitigation techniques for enterprise securityEvaluate security implications of architecture modelsProtect data by leveraging strategies and conceptsImplement resilience and recovery in securityAutomate and orchestrate for running secure operationsExecute processes for third-party risk assessment and managementConduct various audits and assessments with specific purposesWho this book is forWhether you have an IT background or not, if you aspire to pass the CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 exam or pursue a career in certified security, this book is your perfect resource. It is also a valuable companion for US government and US Department of Defense personnel looking to achieve cybersecurity certification. It serves as an excellent reference guide for college students pursuing a degree in cybersecurity.
Table of ContentsCompare and Contrast Various Types of Security ControlsSummarize Fundamental Security ConceptsExplain the Importance of Change Management Processes and the Impact on SecurityExplain the Importance of Using Appropriate Cryptographic SolutionsCompare and Contrast Common Threat Actors and MotivationsExplain Common Threat Vectors and Attack SurfacesExplain Various Types of VulnerabilitiesGiven a Scenario, Analyze Indicators of M
951 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
September 13, 2024
This is so much easier to understand than the CompTIA book. My whole class used this and passed on the first try!
April 22, 2026
This study guide is amazing and definitely a game changer (MAKING THIS PURCHASE WAS DEFINITELY WORTH IT) as I prepared for my exam. I read the book from front to back several times - reading it the first time then taking notes the second time - then the third time reviewing the notes on the topics I found I had issues with which assisted me grasping the concepts.
This book has been an outstanding resource in my Security+ prep journey. What really sets it apart is how approachable and easy to understand the material is — even complex topics are broken down in a way that’s practical and memorable. The writing feels more like a conversation than a lecture, which helps the content stick and makes studying far less intimidating.
One of the best things about this guide is how it encourages critical thinking. Rather than just handing you textbook definitions, the author focuses on how concepts apply in real-world scenarios. That approach helped me actually understand the “why” behind the “what,” which is crucial not just for the test, but for real-life application in the cybersecurity field.
The chapter reviews and quizzes are also helpful in reinforcing key ideas. They're challenging in a good way and made me reflect more deeply on the material, not just memorize answers. It’s clear that the author put a lot of thought into crafting a learning experience that’s both informative and engaging.
This isn’t just another dry exam cram — it’s a well-written, thoughtfully designed tool that builds real comprehension. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone studying for the Security+ exam or wanting a strong cybersecurity foundation. A must-have on your study shelf!
Pros:
- This is the only Security+ book where each chapter is an exam objective, making it easy to prepare for the exam, they have multiple choice end of chapter questions to ensure you have understood the chapter. Ian has produced three online mock exams of 75 questions so you can measure if you are ready, giving you the look and feel of the real exam, making sure you are ready to spend $404 on booking an exam
- The material is written well and very engaging.
- All material covered in the book fills the knowledge and/or extend further for the scope of the Security+ 701 certification exam.
- The wording is easy to understand.
- When reading the material, it is straight and to the point with no fluff.
- Read, study, take quizzes, then review why you answered incorrectly - do this and understand the basic concept then expect to leave the testing center certified.
- The formatting is understandable and makes sense with the sequence it is in.
Cons (none - I am very satisfied with the material the author presents in this "GEM" of a book).
This book has been an outstanding resource in my Security+ prep journey. What really sets it apart is how approachable and easy to understand the material is — even complex topics are broken down in a way that’s practical and memorable. The writing feels more like a conversation than a lecture, which helps the content stick and makes studying far less intimidating.
One of the best things about this guide is how it encourages critical thinking. Rather than just handing you textbook definitions, the author focuses on how concepts apply in real-world scenarios. That approach helped me actually understand the “why” behind the “what,” which is crucial not just for the test, but for real-life application in the cybersecurity field.
The chapter reviews and quizzes are also helpful in reinforcing key ideas. They're challenging in a good way and made me reflect more deeply on the material, not just memorize answers. It’s clear that the author put a lot of thought into crafting a learning experience that’s both informative and engaging.
This isn’t just another dry exam cram — it’s a well-written, thoughtfully designed tool that builds real comprehension. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone studying for the Security+ exam or wanting a strong cybersecurity foundation. A must-have on your study shelf!
Pros:
- This is the only Security+ book where each chapter is an exam objective, making it easy to prepare for the exam, they have multiple choice end of chapter questions to ensure you have understood the chapter. Ian has produced three online mock exams of 75 questions so you can measure if you are ready, giving you the look and feel of the real exam, making sure you are ready to spend $404 on booking an exam
- The material is written well and very engaging.
- All material covered in the book fills the knowledge and/or extend further for the scope of the Security+ 701 certification exam.
- The wording is easy to understand.
- When reading the material, it is straight and to the point with no fluff.
- Read, study, take quizzes, then review why you answered incorrectly - do this and understand the basic concept then expect to leave the testing center certified.
- The formatting is understandable and makes sense with the sequence it is in.
Cons (none - I am very satisfied with the material the author presents in this "GEM" of a book).
April 22, 2026
After failing the Security+ SY0-701 exam twice, I was honestly discouraged and questioning if I was even on the right path. This book completely shifted things for me.
The way the material was explained made it finally click not just memorizing terms, but actually understanding how everything connects in real-world scenarios. It gave me the clarity and confidence I was missing before.
I went back, took the exam again, and passed.
If you’re struggling or feeling stuck with Security+, don’t give up. The right resource can make all the difference and this one did for me.
The way the material was explained made it finally click not just memorizing terms, but actually understanding how everything connects in real-world scenarios. It gave me the clarity and confidence I was missing before.
I went back, took the exam again, and passed.
If you’re struggling or feeling stuck with Security+, don’t give up. The right resource can make all the difference and this one did for me.
April 22, 2026
This book is the only Sec+ book that follows the CompTIA exam objectives. It comes with great real world examples and 500 multiple choice questions. Each chapter has a summary and lays out the exam objectives. There is a free self study guide that accompanies it at https:/:securityplus.training
I certified first time. Highly recommended
I certified first time. Highly recommended
April 1, 2026
GREAT BOOK!!!
This book is an amazing guide!!! Helped me pass and get my Sec+ certification!! Can’t recommend this book enough! If you need a great study material, this one is the absolute best!!
This book is an amazing guide!!! Helped me pass and get my Sec+ certification!! Can’t recommend this book enough! If you need a great study material, this one is the absolute best!!
April 22, 2026
As an IT proffesional and Trainer I've taught hundreds of students Security+ (501,601, and 701). The Ian Neil books have been on of the best tools I've used alongside the official CompTIA courseware.
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to take and pass the 701 Security+ exam.
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to take and pass the 701 Security+ exam.
January 3, 2025
Passed my certification by reading this book and taking the practice quizzes.
August 11, 2025
It was the best of times... it was the worst of times. A well-written tragedy that will most assuredly bring you to tears. Plot twist - the ending is totally up to you.
April 22, 2026
Great book , simple straightforward and easy to use.
Highly recommend.
Highly recommend.
October 6, 2024
Night and day as compared to the brown spine for the 601 I'd read before decided to take the new test. Is clear, concise, yet elaborative in all the right places. Did very well on the test, am attributing that largely to this.
March 21, 2025
I have Signed copy, because I was taught by this man. The course was by far the best possible way to learn. Teaching in a way to get the hardest and longest parts out the way first helps a HELL of a lot. And then follow that up with learning what you have trouble with, then finally all the areas that covers everything else. I passed on my first attempt due to his teaching methods. Ian, Cheers 🍺! You made Africa a core memory for me. Thanks!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews