The CySA+ is where you go after Security+. It’s built for analysts already working in security operations — people who aren’t just learning what threats are, but actively hunting them, triaging alerts, and writing incident reports.
CS0-003 Domain Breakdown
- Security Operations: 33% — Log analysis, IAM analytics, vulnerability assessments, network architecture in security context
- Vulnerability Management: 30% — Scanning tools, output analysis, prioritization, remediation validation
- Incident Response and Management: 20% — IR procedures, MITRE ATT&CK, kill chain, digital forensics
- Reporting and Communication: 17% — Vulnerability reporting, metrics, compliance, stakeholder communication
Security Operations + Vulnerability Management = 63% of the exam. CySA+ is a practitioner exam — it tests whether you can do the work.
Exam Day Logistics
- Questions: Up to 85 (MCQ + performance-based)
- Time: 165 minutes (2hr 45min)
- Passing: 750/900
- Cost: $392
- DoD 8140: CSSP Analyst
165 minutes gives you more time per question than most CompTIA exams — use it. Performance-based questions require analysis of log files, scan results, and network captures.
How to Study
CS0-003 changed significantly from CS0-002: four domains (down from five), stronger MITRE ATT&CK integration, cloud/hybrid environment focus, updated SIEM/SOAR/EDR tooling, and Reporting as its own domain. Baseline in Security+, then study SOC-specific content: log analysis workflows, SIEM correlation rules, incident response playbooks, and vulnerability scan output interpretation. Practice with real tool output, not just definitions.
Watch: 100 CompTIA CySA+ Terms to Know
Build your vocabulary before diving into practice questions — explained clearly, no fluff.
