Should you take Security+ SY0-701 now or wait for the new SY0-801 exam? Here's what you need to know before making your decision.

If you're currently studying for CompTIA Security+, you've probably heard that a new version of the exam is on the way. CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 is expected to launch in November 2026, bringing updated cybersecurity topics and exam objectives.

Naturally, that raises some questions. Should you stop studying for SY0-701? Will your exam voucher still work? Is it better to wait for the newest exam?

The good news is that you don't necessarily need to change your plans just because a new exam is coming.

Let's look at what the transition means for current Security+ candidates and how to choose the best path forward.

When Is CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 Coming Out?

CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 (V8) is expected to launch on or around November 17, 2026.

The current Security+ exam, SY0-701 (V7), will not disappear immediately when the new exam becomes available.

CompTIA currently lists the following retirement dates for SY0-701:

• June 11, 2027: English-language exam retirement

• August 13, 2027: Retirement for Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, and Thai exams

That means candidates should have several months when both exam versions are available.

This overlap gives students time to finish preparing for SY0-701 rather than feeling pressured to switch to the newest version immediately.

Exam launch dates and availability are subject to change. Always verify the latest information with CompTIA before scheduling your exam.

Should You Take Security+ SY0-701 or Wait for SY0-801?

This is probably the biggest question for anyone currently working toward Security+ certification.

Our recommendation? Choose the exam that makes the most sense for your preparation timeline.

If you've already spent weeks or months studying for SY0-701 and expect to be ready before it retires, there's generally no reason to start over.

SY0-701 is still a valid path to earning your CompTIA Security+ certification.

On the other hand, if you're just beginning your cybersecurity studies and don't expect to take the exam until later in 2027, preparing for SY0-801 may make more sense.

Here are a few situations to consider.

You're Already Studying for SY0-701

Keep going!

If you've purchased SY0-701 study materials, completed training, or are making progress with practice exams, there's no need to abandon that work simply because SY0-801 is approaching.

Focus on your current study plan and aim to take the exam before SY0-701 retires.

You're Almost Ready to Take Your Exam

If you're consistently performing well on practice exams and feel confident with the SY0-701 objectives, don't delay your certification just to take a newer version.

Earning Security+ now allows you to move forward with your professional goals sooner.

You Haven't Started Studying Yet

If you're just getting started, consider when you realistically expect to take the exam.

If you plan to test within the next few months, SY0-701 may still be a great option.

If your preparation timeline extends well into 2027, you may want to explore SY0-801 training materials as they become available.

The important thing to remember is that both exams lead to the CompTIA Security+ certification.

What Happens to Security+ SY0-701 When SY0-801 Launches?

When CompTIA introduces a new certification exam version, it typically provides a transition period before retiring the previous version.

During this time, candidates can choose which available exam version they want to take.

Once SY0-701 officially retires, candidates will no longer be able to schedule or take that version.

However, retiring an exam does not invalidate certifications earned through it.

If you pass SY0-701 before its retirement, you will still hold a valid CompTIA Security+ certification.

Security+ certifications are generally valid for three years from the date you earn them, provided you maintain them according to CompTIA's continuing education requirements.

Will My Current Security+ Exam Voucher Work for SY0-801?

Yes! If you already have a valid CompTIA Security+ exam voucher, you can use it for the new SY0-801 exam when it becomes available.

CompTIA Security+ exam vouchers are valid for the certification, not just a specific exam version. When CompTIA retires an older exam and introduces a new version, an unexpired Security+ voucher can be used to schedule the updated exam.

For example, if you purchase a Security+ SY0-701 voucher and the exam retires before your voucher expires, you can still use that voucher to take Security+ SY0-801.

What does this mean for you?

You don't need to worry about losing the value of your Security+ exam voucher simply because CompTIA releases a new exam version.

The most important thing to remember is your voucher expiration date. Your voucher must still be valid when you schedule and take your exam.

At GetCertified4Less, we make it easy to purchase Security+ exam vouchers with confidence. Whether you're planning to take SY0-701 or SY0-801, our team is happy to answer questions about voucher expiration dates and exam transitions.

Should You Buy Security+ Training Now or Wait?

Your decision should depend on which exam version you're planning to take.

If you're preparing for SY0-701, choose study materials specifically designed around the SY0-701 exam objectives.

If you plan to take SY0-801, look for training that explicitly identifies SY0-801 compatibility.

Although both exams cover foundational cybersecurity knowledge, their objectives and topic emphasis are not identical.

For example, SY0-801 includes updated coverage of areas such as AI-related security risks, modern threats, Zero Trust, and security automation.

Using training materials designed for the correct exam version helps ensure you're studying the topics you'll actually be tested on.

What About CompTIA CertMaster Training?

CompTIA offers several learning tools to support Security+ preparation, including CertMaster Learn, CertMaster Labs, CertMaster Practice, and CertMaster Perform.

As the SY0-801 launch approaches, candidates should confirm which exam version each training product supports before purchasing.

GetCertified4Less offers CompTIA training products and bundles to help candidates choose an approach that fits their learning style and certification goals.

How Do You Make Sure You're Buying the Right Security+ Training or Voucher?

Before purchasing Security+ training or an exam voucher, take a moment to check a few important details:

1. Check the exam code. Make sure you know whether you're preparing for SY0-701 or SY0-801.

2. Review the training version. Study guides, practice exams, and online courses should match your intended exam.

3. Check voucher expiration dates. Make sure you have enough time to prepare, schedule, and take your exam.

4. Consider Retake Assurance. If you want the option of a second attempt, review available retake products before purchasing.

5. Ask questions before buying. If you're unsure which product is right for you, contact the seller for clarification.

A little planning now can help prevent unnecessary expenses or confusion later.

Security+ SY0-801 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I take Security+ SY0-701 or wait for SY0-801?

If you're already studying for SY0-701 and expect to take the exam before it retires, continuing with your current preparation is usually the best option. If you're just starting and plan to test later in 2027, SY0-801 may be a better fit. Both versions lead to the same CompTIA Security+ certification.

2. I'm already studying for Security+ SY0-701. Should I keep going?

Yes. If you're making progress with SY0-701 training and can complete the exam before its retirement date, there's generally no reason to stop. Continue using study materials aligned with SY0-701 and focus on becoming exam-ready.

3. When does CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 launch?

CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 is expected to launch on or around November 17, 2026. The current SY0-701 English exam is scheduled to retire June 11, 2027, allowing a transition period when both versions are expected to be available.

4. Will my Security+ SY0-701 voucher work for SY0-801?

Yes, If your voucher has an expiration date after the retirement it will work on the new version of the exam. You will no longer be ablet to use the voucher on the retired exam. 

5. Should I buy Security+ training now or wait for SY0-801?

If you're planning to take SY0-701, you can continue using training designed for that exam. If you intend to take SY0-801, choose materials specifically aligned with the new objectives once they're available. The best choice depends on your study timeline and intended exam date.

6. What happens to SY0-701 when SY0-801 launches?

SY0-701 will remain available during the transition period until its scheduled retirement. Once it retires, candidates will need to take an available Security+ exam version. Certifications already earned through SY0-701 will remain valid according to CompTIA's normal certification renewal requirements.

7. How do I know if my Security+ training is for the correct exam?

Look for the exam code in the training product description. Materials labeled SY0-701 are designed for the current exam, while SY0-801 materials should align with the updated exam objectives. Check the version before purchasing study guides, practice tests, labs, or training bundles.

8. Will my Security+ certification expire when SY0-801 launches?

No. If you pass SY0-701, your Security+ certification does not expire simply because CompTIA releases SY0-801. Security+ certifications are generally valid for three years from the date earned, subject to CompTIA's continuing education and renewal requirements.

9. Is Security+ SY0-801 harder than SY0-701?

CompTIA has not established that SY0-801 is harder than SY0-701. The updated exam reflects changes in cybersecurity technologies and skills, including additional emphasis on modern threats and AI-related security topics. The best way to prepare is to study the official objectives for the version you plan to take.

Don't Let a New Exam Version Slow Down Your Certification Goals

New exam versions are a normal part of the IT certification industry. As cybersecurity changes, certification exams evolve to reflect the skills professionals need.

But that doesn't mean you need to start over every time a new exam is announced.

If you're already preparing for Security+ SY0-701, stay focused on your progress and plan your exam date accordingly.

If you're beginning your Security+ journey, take the time to choose the exam version and training that best fit your timeline.

GetCertified4Less is here to help you navigate the transition.

We've been helping IT professionals purchase certification exam vouchers and training since 1994. Whether you're preparing for SY0-701 now or planning ahead for SY0-801, our team can help you explore your options.

Explore CompTIA Security+ exam vouchers, Retake Assurance, and training options at GetCertified4Less.com.

Last updated: October 2026. Exam dates, objectives, and product availability are subject to change. Verify current details with CompTIA before purchasing or scheduling.