CompTIA Security+ Certification Kit: Exam SY0-701 (Sybex Study Guide)

If you’re studying for CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 and you want a no-fluff, heavy-duty cheat sheet that feels like having a personal cyber-sensei on call, this one-two punch of study guide + practice tests delivers. The explanations are clear, the practice questions hit the right balance of “genuinely tricky” (but not soul-crushing), and the layout makes late-night cramming only slightly less tragic. Pros: Thorough coverage, up-to-date with SY0-701, ideal for self-studying or refreshers. Cons: It’s a brick — plan your bookshelf strategy accordingly (or arm-wrestle for desk space). Bottom line: If you want to walk into the exam room feeling like you own the syllabus, this kit gets the job done — just don’t expect it to make coffee (you’ll still have to stay awake).

This was a good set of books. I enjoyed how the topics were laid out and the review questions at the end of each chapter. Easy to go back and find topics or information I needed to study up on. I also liked the included online tests and flash cards. I combined this with Professor Messer's online classes. I was able to pass my exam without too much trouble.

I learned a ton about stuff I see every day but don't know much in-depth knowledge about. I passed the exam the first time, a lot of the practice exam questions were on the test, this book was a lifesaver.

Easy to use

Study Guide – It is well written but needs more images for easier memorization, especially of the various devices, concepts etc. Even with more images, it could have probably been condensed into about 300 pages instead of 500+. However, I can’t really blame the authors since the CompTIA Security+ objectives themselves are very theoretical (to the point of not being useful) & too broad. For example, definitions and questions like “Is this control corrective or detective?” feel like a ridiculous waste of time. Also, the number of subjects covered is simply too large, especially given how they are presented. Realistically, about 70% of the information learned will be forgotten within six months. There are hundreds of terms and abbreviations that will be forgotten as soon as someone steps out of the exam booth. It feels like an unnecessary waste of time. INDEX - for a book of this size index is very poorly written. Questions and Answers Book – This was helpful, but some of the questions are vague and use confusing language. If that is intentional in order to make it "challenging", it misses the point because that is not what creates knowledgeable IT staff. But regardless, it is a useful tool. P.S. Comptia has to sit down and revise the objectives. CompTIA Security+ could be a great exam that provides way more value than it currently does.

Seems to be a good book, I haven't finished it yet as I am studying CyberSecurity and have a very busy schedule but once I finish school I plan on sitting the CompTIA Security + and the CYSSA. Like this book has practice test and lots of questions, should come in handy before taking this exam.

I passed my Sec+ 701 exam today. I had no formal prior experience and I study for a month. The book is definitely a great way to build a foundation of understanding but I would recommend getting a second source not because of any lack in quality but to see a different perspective on the same material. For me I paired it with Cyberkraft. Lastly, again I highly recommend this book.

Excellent purchase and the buyer receives a years worth of access to the online practice test and electronic flashcards that are extremely valuable.

Livro muito bom!

Nice study guide

5.0 out of 5 stars The Ultimate CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 Certification Kit – Best Investment for Passing on the First Try After earning my Network+ and several other IT certifications, I knew I needed the absolute best resources for CompTIA Security+ SY0-701. This Sybex Certification Kit by Mike Chapple (Ninth Edition) – which includes both the full Study Guide and the dedicated Practice Tests book – is hands-down the most complete, well-organized, and exam-focused package I’ve ever used. I purchased the paperback set a few weeks ago and just passed the SY0-701 exam with a strong score on my first attempt. This kit made the difference. What You Get CompTIA Security+ Study Guide: Thick, comprehensive coverage of every exam objective (threats, vulnerabilities, architecture, operations, incident response, governance, etc.). Mike Chapple’s explanations are clear, professional, and actually make dense security concepts readable. Real-world examples, diagrams, and step-by-step breakdowns of cryptography, network security, identity management, and compliance topics are excellent. CompTIA Security+ Practice Tests Book: This is the killer companion. It contains over 2,000 practice questions (including performance-based ones) that closely mirror the actual exam. I used it daily to identify weak areas and drill until I was consistently scoring 90%+. The two-book format is brilliant. You learn deeply from the Study Guide, then hammer the Practice Tests until the exam feels easy. The books are high-quality print with clean layouts, plenty of white space, and useful review sections at the end of each chapter. The online resources (access codes included) add even more value with flashcards, glossary tools, and additional practice. Why This Kit Stands Out Perfectly aligned to the current SY0-701 objectives (updated for cloud, automation, IoT, and modern threat landscapes) Balanced depth: enough theory to truly understand the material, plus practical application for the exam Tons of practice – way more than most single books provide Professional, no-fluff writing style that respects your time I studied about 4–6 weeks (a few hours most evenings) while working full-time, and this kit kept me on track without feeling overwhelmed. The lighthouse cover images are a nice touch too – very Sybex. Minor Note for Beginners If you’re brand new to IT/security, you might want to pair the first few chapters with a short video course. For anyone with A+ or Network+ knowledge (or equivalent experience), this kit is truly all you need. Whether you’re advancing your career, fulfilling DoD 8570 requirements, or just leveling up your cybersecurity knowledge, this Certification Kit is worth every penny. It’s the gold standard for SY0-701 prep. I’ve already recommended it to several colleagues and will keep both books on my shelf as long-term references. Strongly, strongly recommended – easily 5 stars. If you’re serious about passing Security+ efficiently and actually learning the material, buy this kit. You won’t find better.

Does the job