In a recent press release from Downers Grove, Illinois on December 17, 2024, a new vendor-neutral expert-level cybersecurity certification for cybersecurity professionals was announced by CompTIA, the global leader in IT certifications and training. This certification, known as CompTIA SecurityX, is part of the CompTIA Xpert Series aimed at IT professionals with multiple years of work experience who wish to validate their expert-level knowledge of business-critical technologies.
This new certification follows the introduction of CompTIA DataX earlier this year and will be followed by the release of CompTIA CloudNetX for advanced network and systems architects in the near future. CompTIA SecurityX, which replaces the previous CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+), is specifically designed for security architects and senior security engineers responsible for enhancing an enterprise’s cybersecurity readiness.
According to Patrick Lane, director of cybersecurity product management at CompTIA, CompTIA SecurityX is a hands-on, performance-based certification for advanced practitioners rather than managers in the cybersecurity field. It is the only certification program that qualifies technical leaders to assess an organization’s cyber readiness and implement effective solutions to combat potential threats.
Recent data from CyberSeek reveals that there is a significant shortage of cybersecurity workers in the U.S., with approximately 265,000 more professionals needed to address the current staffing needs. Despite incremental growth in the cybersecurity workforce since 2013, there remain unfilled job positions in the industry due to a lack of qualified personnel.
CompTIA SecurityX equips professionals with the technical knowledge and skills required to architect, engineer, integrate, and implement secure solutions across complex environments. The certification program also emphasizes governance, risk, and compliance considerations to support a resilient enterprise. Additionally, CompTIA SecurityX complies with ISO/ANSI 17024 standards and aligns with the DCWF work roles specified in U.S. DoD Directive 8140.03M.
Included in the CompTIA Xpert Series is CertMaster Perform, which focuses on bridging knowledge gaps for learners by assessing their skills and tasks throughout the learning process. This program is particularly beneficial for individuals pursuing expert-level certifications who wish to enhance their practical skills and understanding of key concepts.
The SecurityX CAS-005 learning product will transition to CertMaster Perform, emphasizing hands-on security architect and senior security engineer skills in real-world scenarios. Learners with prior experience in security architecture and senior security engineering will benefit from this focused approach to learning. Additionally, new features like enhanced virtual machine labs, demonstration videos, podcast videos, robust assessment content, and interactive activities have been integrated into the curriculum to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
For more information on CompTIA SecurityX and related CompTIA learning resources, interested individuals can visit https://www.comptia.org/certifications/securityx. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, certifications like CompTIA SecurityX play a vital role in ensuring that professionals have the necessary skills to address the ever-changing threats in the digital realm.