Server+
CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)
CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) validates the skills to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot server hardware and software in physical and virtual environments. It covers server hardware components, RAID configurations, virtualization platforms, server operating systems, security hardening, disaster recovery planning, and systematic troubleshooting — for data center technicians and server administrators managing on-premises infrastructure.
Server+ Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) |
| Governing Body | CompTIA |
| Number of Questions | 90 |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750/900 |
| Exam Fee | $358 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App Available On | iPhone, iPad, and Mac |
| Official Source | CompTIA official website ↗ |
Server+ Content Areas and Domains
| Domain / Content Area | Exam Weight |
|---|---|
| Server Hardware Installation and Management | 18% |
| Server Administration | 27% |
| Security | 19% |
| Storage | 12% |
| Troubleshooting | 24% |
Domain weights are approximate and based on the CompTIA content outline. Always verify at the official source before your exam.
Topics Covered
- ✓ Server Hardware Installation & Management — rack servers, blades, ECC RAM, server CPUs, RAID levels (0,1,5,6,10)
- ✓ Server Administration — Windows Server, Linux server OS, remote management (IPMI, iDRAC, iLO)
- ✓ Security & Disaster Recovery — backup types (full, incremental, differential), BCP, DRP, server hardening
- ✓ Troubleshooting — POST, hardware diagnostics, performance monitoring, log analysis
How C3RT Helps You Pass the Server+
Adaptive Practice
Questions adapt to your weak areas automatically so every study session on the Server+ is time well spent.
Diagnostic Mocks
Full-length mock exams timed to the real Server+ format with detailed score breakdowns by topic.
Mistake Bank
Every wrong answer is saved for targeted re-drill. The system resurfaces your mistakes until they stick.
Native on iOS & Mac
Built with SwiftUI, not a web wrapper. Instant load, offline support, hardware-speed rendering.
Server+ Frequently Asked Questions
What does Server+ stand for?
Server+ stands for CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005). It is administered by CompTIA.
Who administers the Server+?
The CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) (Server+) is administered by CompTIA. For official information, visit the CompTIA website.
How many questions is the Server+?
The Server+ consists of 90 questions. Candidates are given 90 minutes to complete the exam.
What is the passing score for the Server+?
The passing score for the Server+ is 750/900, as set by CompTIA. Scoring methodology and passing standards may be updated periodically. Always verify current requirements with the governing body.
How much does the Server+ exam cost?
The Server+ exam fee is $358 USD. This fee is set by CompTIA and may vary by testing centre, region, or membership status. Additional fees for registration or rescheduling may apply.
What RAID levels does Server+ test?
Server+ tests RAID 0 (striping, no redundancy, max performance), RAID 1 (mirroring, 50% capacity, full redundancy), RAID 5 (striping with distributed parity, needs 3+ drives), RAID 6 (dual parity, can lose 2 drives), and RAID 10 (mirroring + striping, best performance + redundancy). Understanding which RAID level to recommend for given scenarios (performance vs redundancy vs cost) is a core exam topic.
What remote management tools does Server+ cover?
Server+ covers out-of-band management tools that allow remote server administration even when the OS is down: IPMI (Intelligent Platform Management Interface), Dell iDRAC (Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller), HP iLO (Integrated Lights-Out), and Lenovo IMM. These tools let administrators access the server console, monitor hardware health, and restart servers remotely via a dedicated management network.
Is Server+ the right certification for data center roles?
Server+ is a good entry point for data center technician and server administrator roles, particularly for on-premises infrastructure. For higher-level roles, it is typically paired with vendor certifications (VMware VCP, Microsoft MCSA/Azure, RedHat RHCSA) or followed by CompTIA Cloud+ for hybrid environments. Most data center engineers eventually specialize beyond Server+.
What is ECC RAM and why does Server+ emphasize it?
ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM detects and corrects single-bit memory errors automatically, preventing data corruption in servers. Unlike consumer RAM, ECC is required for servers because memory errors in production systems can cause crashes, data corruption, or security vulnerabilities. Server+ tests ECC vs non-ECC distinctions, registered (buffered) DIMM types, and memory channel configurations.
How difficult is the CompTIA Server+ exam?
CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) is considered intermediate in difficulty, covering server hardware, virtualization, storage, networking, and administration. Most candidates with 18–24 months of server administration experience pass with 2–3 months of study.
What are the eligibility requirements for CompTIA Server+?
There are no mandatory prerequisites. CompTIA recommends holding CompTIA A+ and having 18–24 months of IT experience with exposure to server environments. Server+ is designed for data center technicians and systems administrators.
How long should I study for CompTIA Server+?
Most candidates need 2–3 months of preparation using study guides covering server hardware, RAID configurations, virtualization, backup and recovery, and server troubleshooting. Hands-on experience with physical or virtual servers greatly aids retention.
What career value does CompTIA Server+ provide?
Server+ is a stepping stone to data center and systems administration roles. Systems administrators with this credential typically earn $50,000–$75,000. While less widely required than A+ or Network+, it signals dedicated server knowledge to employers in enterprise IT environments.
What is the CompTIA Server+ retake policy?
No waiting period for the first retake; a 14-day wait applies after a second failure and for subsequent attempts.
How long is CompTIA Server+ valid?
Server+ is valid for three years and can be renewed through 30 CEUs or by retaking the current exam version.
What continuing education is required for CompTIA Server+ renewal?
Renewal requires 30 CEUs over three years. Server administration training, virtualization courses, and data center management certifications typically count toward the CE requirement.
How does CompTIA Server+ compare to CompTIA Cloud+?
CompTIA Server+ focuses on physical and virtualized on-premises server infrastructure — hardware, storage, and data center operations. Cloud+ focuses on cloud-based infrastructure deployment, security, and management across IaaS/PaaS environments. They are complementary credentials; professionals working in hybrid environments may benefit from holding both.
C3RT is a native iOS and macOS exam preparation platform covering the CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) (Server+), a IT Certifications certification, administered by CompTIA. C3RT is not affiliated with or endorsed by CompTIA. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective organisations. For official exam registration, eligibility requirements, and content outlines, visit the CompTIA official website ↗ .