CCT-ITS7527 - CompTIA Security+ and PenTest+
Course Description
Accelerate your cybersecurity career with this comprehensive training program, combining the foundational skills of CompTIA Security+ with the advanced penetration testing expertise of CompTIA PenTest+. Designed for aspiring and early-career cybersecurity professionals, this course equips learners with the knowledge and practical skills to secure enterprise environments, detect and mitigate threats, and perform advanced penetration testing across modern IT infrastructures.
Through hands-on labs, real-world scenarios, and performance-based learning, students will master critical concepts, from core security functions to advanced penetration testing techniques. By the end of this course, participants will be prepared to earn two globally recognized certifications and enter or advance in the dynamic field of cybersecurity.
Course Outline
CompTIA Security+
- General Security Concepts:
- Security controls, cryptographic solutions, and change management.
- Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigation:
- Threat actors, attack surfaces, and mitigation strategies.
- Security Architecture:
- Enterprise infrastructure protection, data security, and recovery strategies.
- Security Operations:
- Vulnerability management, monitoring, and incident response.
- Governance, Risk, and Compliance:
- Risk management, audits, and compliance frameworks.
CompTIA PenTest+
- Engagement Management:
- Planning, scoping, and legal considerations.
- Reconnaissance and Enumeration:
- Network mapping and identifying attack vectors.
- Vulnerability Discovery and Analysis:
- Tools and methods for vulnerability scanning and prioritization.
- Exploits and Attacks:
- Web-based, enterprise, and specialized attacks.
- Post-Exploitation and Reporting:
- Data exfiltration, lateral movement, and stakeholder reporting.
Learner Outcomes
By completing this course, participants will:
- Assess and improve the security posture of hybrid environments, including cloud, IoT, and on-premises networks.
- Identify, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity incidents with compliance and governance in mind.
- Execute all phases of penetration testing, including reconnaissance, vulnerability discovery, exploitation, and reporting.
- Demonstrate competency in key cybersecurity and penetration testing tools, techniques, and strategies.
- Prepare for and successfully pass the CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) and CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003) certification exams.
Notes
Target Audience
This class is recommended for:
- IT professionals seeking entry- or intermediate-level cybersecurity certifications.
- Individuals aiming to begin or advance careers as security specialists, penetration testers, or vulnerability analysts.
- Professionals preparing for globally recognized certifications in cybersecurity.
Occupational Outlook
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing industries, with a 35% projected growth in information security analyst roles from 2021 to 2031 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Over 13% of cybersecurity job openings require Security+, and penetration testing roles offer median annual salaries of $131,970.
Upon completing this course, learners will be well-prepared to pursue roles such as:
- Security Specialist ($80,000 median salary for Security+ certified roles)
- Penetration Tester ($91,520–$174,980, depending on experience)
- Security Analyst, Vulnerability Analyst, and related positions
With CompTIA Security+ and PenTest+ certifications, participants gain the credentials and confidence to excel in a competitive and rewarding field.
Information Technology Continuing Education Certificate
A certificate of completion for the class will be issued to participants with at least 80% attendance, class participation, and completion of hands-on practice and projects.
Industry Certification
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA PenTest+
Method of Instruction
Lecture with demonstration, discussion, hands-on exercises, and problem-solving. May have outside assignments.
Evaluation
Participation in class discussions and completion of skill practices in and outside of the classroom is expected.
Prerequisites
Prerequisite knowledge
Individuals without 1-3 years of IT Support or networking experience are advised to consider first completing a course like CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA A+ before taking the Security/PenTest+ training course.
Materials
This class does not include course materials. Students are required to purchase the necessary materials directly from the bookstore or our designated partner. Instructions will be sent prior to the start of class.
Resources
Students must have access to a working Windows-based computer (capable of running the latest updates), reliable internet, a camera, a headset, and preferably dual monitors.
Recommendations
IMPORTANT: Please make sure to have your Network Login, DUO authentication, and student email before the first day of class.