The Short Answer
For most career changers and IT professionals moving into cybersecurity in 2026: yes, Security+ is worth it. It is the single most-requested entry-level cybersecurity credential, DoD 8570 approved, and the gateway to roles paying $65,000-$85,000 in Michigan.
For some people: no — and this guide tells you when.
What Security+ Is Actually Worth, In Dollars
Average Security+-required job salary in Michigan (Indeed, BLS state data, 2025): $68,000-$78,000. Total cost: $392 exam + self-study materials ($0-$500) or structured training. The credential pays for itself in roughly the first month of a Security+-qualified role.
The Eight Job Titles Security+ Qualifies You For
- SOC Analyst Tier 1 ($60K-$72K)
- IT Security Specialist ($65K-$80K)
- Information Security Analyst ($72K-$92K)
- Junior Penetration Tester ($65K-$85K)
- Cybersecurity Consultant Junior ($70K-$95K)
- Compliance Analyst ($65K-$85K)
- Cloud Security Engineer Junior ($85K-$110K)
- Federal Cyber roles requiring DoD 8570 ($70K-$95K + benefits)
When Security+ Is the Wrong Choice
- You have zero IT background and no plan to get one. Security+ assumes A+ / Network+ level networking knowledge.
- You want hands-on red-team or exploit work. Security+ is conceptual. PenTest+ or OSCP fits better.
- You are senior IT staff with 10+ years experience. CASP+ or CISSP signals seniority more clearly.
- Your target employer wants vendor-specific (e.g., Microsoft SC-200). Take the vendor cert first.
For everyone else — career changers, A+/Network+ holders, veterans, federal contractors — Security+ is the standard answer.
Why Security+ Specifically (Not CISSP, Not CySA+)?
CISSP requires 5 years of paid security experience to be fully issued. As a career-changer credential, it does not work. CySA+ is more advanced and assumes Security+ knowledge. Microsoft and AWS security certs are vendor-specific.
How Long Does Security+ Actually Take?
- Someone with A+ and Network+ already: 6-10 weeks of focused study
- Someone with no IT background: 4-6 months including foundational learning
- Experienced sysadmin or network engineer: 4-6 weeks
The DSDT Security+ program is 12 weeks because it includes labs, PBQ practice, and mock interviews — not just exam prep.
Self-Study vs Structured Training
Self-study works for self-disciplined people who already have a networking background. Structured training works better for career changers, veterans transitioning out of service, and people who need accountability and job placement support.
Pass rates: self-study averages 60-65% first attempt; structured training averages 80-90% first attempt.
What is New on the 2026 Security+ Exam (SY0-701)
- Zero-trust architectures
- Cloud-native security (CSPM, CWPP)
- Supply chain attacks
- AI-related threat vectors
- Modern identity (SSO, MFA, conditional access)
If you are studying from pre-2024 materials, your knowledge will have gaps. Use only objective-aligned 2024+ resources.
The DoD 8570 Factor
For anyone targeting federal contractor work, Security+ checks the DoD 8570 IAT Level II / IAM Level I requirement. This single fact makes Security+ uniquely valuable for veterans, GovCon employees, and clearance-holders.
Veteran-Specific Value
- Free Security+ vouchers via DoD COOL programs
- GI Bill® coverage of training (DSDT and others)
- Post-9/11 housing allowance during training
- Direct hiring preference for federal cyber roles
The Verdict
Security+ in 2026 is worth it for almost every IT career path that touches security. The question is not whether to take it — the question is when, and which certification track to put it in.
If you are ready to take it: explore DSDT Security+ training program or talk to an admissions advisor.
