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.