The CompTIA PenTest+ certification (exam code PT0-002) is designed for cybersecurity professionals involved in penetration testing and vulnerability management. It focuses on ensuring candidates have the most up-to-date penetration testing and vulnerability assessment skills necessary for identifying and addressing network resiliency against attacks. Here are the key details:

• Number of Questions: Maximum of 85, comprising both performance-based and multiple-choice questions.

• Length of Test: 165 minutes.

• Passing Score: 750 (on a scale of 100-900).

• Recommended Experience: While there are no mandatory prerequisites, it is recommended that candidates have CompTIA Network+, Security+ or equivalent knowledge, and a minimum of 3-4 years of hands-on information security or related experience.

• Languages Available: English, Japanese, Portuguese, and Thai.

   

   

The certification covers a comprehensive range of skills across five domains: Planning and Scoping, Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning, Attacks and Exploits, Reporting and Communication, and Tools and Code Analysis. It is unique in that it includes both knowledge-based and performance-based questions, covering hands-on vulnerability assessment, scanning, analysis, planning, scoping, and management of weaknesses. The exam is relevant for roles such as Cloud Penetration Tester, Network Security Operations, Penetration Tester, Web App Penetration Tester, Cloud Security Specialist, Network Security Specialist, Vulnerability Analyst, Security Consultant, and Threat Intelligence Analyst.

Preparation for the PenTest+ certification involves understanding system vulnerabilities, the ability to conduct penetration tests to uncover cyber threats, the capacity to discover areas of risk, and the proficiency in using data analysis tools to compile detailed reports with remediation suggestions. It emphasizes an ethical hacking mindset and the understanding of legal and compliance requirements​ .