CompTIA CySA+ CS0-003 exam guide: format, domains, cost, and a free practice quiz covering security operations, vulnerability management, incident response, and reporting.
CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003) is an intermediate, defense-focused cybersecurity certification. It validates the skills to detect, analyze, and respond to threats using security operations and analytics.
It sits above Security+ and targets blue-team roles: SOC analysts, threat hunters, and incident responders.
▶ Start the free CySA+ (CS0-003) practice quiz| Certification | CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003) |
|---|---|
| Exam code | CySA+ (CS0-003) |
| Level | Associate |
| Format | Multiple choice & performance-based questions |
| Questions | Up to 85 questions |
| Duration | 165 minutes |
| Passing score | 750 / 900 |
| Cost (USD) | ~$404 |
| Validity | 3 years (renewable via CE) |
| Prerequisites | None (Security+ and 4 years experience recommended) |
Exam details change over time — always confirm the current specifics on the official exam page before you book.
The official exam is organized into these domains. Our practice bank mirrors them so you can drill each area:
| Domain | Exam weight | Practice questions |
|---|---|---|
| Security Operations | ~33% | 4 |
| Vulnerability Management | ~30% | 4 |
| Incident Response & Management | ~20% | 3 |
| Reporting & Communication | ~17% | 3 |
Focus on security operations (SIEM, SOAR, MITRE ATT&CK, log analysis), vulnerability management (CVSS, scanning, prioritization), incident response, and reporting.
Practice analyzing indicators and prioritizing by risk — the exam is analysis-heavy with performance-based items.
The free quiz below covers all four domains with explanations.
Our free CySA+ (CS0-003) practice quiz has 14 scenario-based questions covering every exam domain. Each question includes the correct answer, a plain-English explanation of why it is right (and why the alternatives are wrong), and a reference to the relevant topic — so you learn as you go, not just test yourself.
▶ Practice CySA+ (CS0-003) now — 14 questions, freeYes — it's more analytical and assumes Security+-level knowledge plus some experience.
Yes, it centers on detection, analysis, and response rather than offensive security.
Up to 85 questions in 165 minutes; 750/900 to pass.
Not required, but strongly recommended as background.