Exam Comparison
CySA+ vs GPEN
Comparing the CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003) and the GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN). Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ app.
CySA+ vs GPEN: At a Glance
| Detail | CySA+ | GPEN |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003) | GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) |
| Governing Body | CompTIA | GIAC |
| Number of Questions | 85 | 82 |
| Time Limit | 165 minutes | 3 hours |
| Passing Score | 750/900 | 74% |
| Exam Fee | $392 USD | $949 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ | Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ |
Content Areas Compared
CySA+ Domains
- Security Operations(33%)
- Vulnerability Management(30%)
- Incident Response and Management(20%)
- Reporting and Communication(17%)
GPEN Domains
- Comprehensive Pen Test Planning, Scoping, and Recon
- Scanning, Enumeration, and Exploitation
- Password Attacks and Credential Access
- Web Application Pen Testing Fundamentals
- Post-Exploitation and Pivoting
- Domain Exploitation and Active Directory Attacks
- Pen Test Workflow Documentation and Reporting
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CySA+ and GPEN?
The CySA+ (CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003)) is administered by CompTIA and consists of 85 questions. The GPEN (GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)) is administered by GIAC and consists of 82 questions. Both are IT Certifications credentials.
Can I take both the CySA+ and the GPEN?
Yes, the CySA+ and GPEN are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (CompTIA and GIAC respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, CySA+ or GPEN?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The CySA+ is offered by CompTIA with a passing score of 750/900, while the GPEN is offered by GIAC with a passing score of 74%. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the CySA+ and the GPEN?
Yes. Both the CySA+ and GPEN are covered in the Cyber Security Cert Exam Prep: CISSP, CEH & CySA+ app for iOS and Mac.
The CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003) (CySA+) is administered by CompTIA. The GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) is administered by GIAC. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.