Last updated: October 15, 2026. Launch and retirement dates are taken from CompTIA's Security+ V7 and V8 pages and may change.
With Security+ SY0-801 (V8) arriving soon and SY0-701 on its way out, the practical question is which exam to sit. The good news: the certification is called "CompTIA Security+" either way, and the format is the same. The decision comes down mostly to when you can be ready.
This article is part of our complete guide to Security+ SY0-801.
The dates that matter
- SY0-801 launch: on or around November 17, 2026 (English)
- SY0-701 retirement: June 11, 2027 for English, August 13, 2027 for the Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai versions
That leaves roughly seven months when both versions are available in English.
Choose by your test date
| When you can realistically test | Your option |
|---|---|
| Before the V8 launch | SY0-701 is the only Security+ exam available |
| Between the V8 launch and June 11, 2027 | Either version, so pick the one you are better prepared for |
| After June 11, 2027 (English) | SY0-801 only |
When SY0-701 makes sense
- You are already well into your studies and can test within the next few months.
- You want the more established pool of courses, practice questions and instructor material that has built up around V7.
- You need the credential soon, for a job application or a compliance deadline.
When SY0-801 makes sense
- You are only starting now and will not be ready before the V7 retirement.
- You want your certification to reflect the newest objectives, including the AI-related topics.
- Your study plan naturally lands after the V8 launch.
Things to remember either way
- Validity is the same. Security+ is valid for three years from the date you pass, whichever version you take. A V7 certification does not expire early because V8 exists.
- Do not plan around launch week. "On or around" dates can shift, and early V8 study materials are written from the published objectives. Give yourself buffer.
- Retakes must fit the window. If you fail SY0-701 close to its retirement date, the retake needs to happen before it retires.
- Check your voucher before you buy. Published information on whether a voucher bought now can be used for SY0-801 is not consistent across sources, and CompTIA-run instructor discussions indicate a V7 voucher is valid only for V7. Confirm with CompTIA or your seller, and make sure you test before the voucher expires and before the exam retires.
A simple way to decide
- Pick a realistic test date based on how many hours per week you can study.
- Compare that date with the two dates above.
- If both versions fit, choose the one whose objectives you are more comfortable with. Our SY0-701 vs SY0-801 comparison shows exactly what differs.
Get the right materials
Whichever version you choose, make sure your study materials match it. For V8, see our CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 (V8) collection, and use our SY0-801 study plan to organize your weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wait for SY0-801?
Only if you cannot be ready before the V7 retirement or you specifically want V8's content. If you can test sooner, SY0-701 is a valid and equivalent path.
Is a Security+ earned on SY0-701 less valuable?
No. The certificate says CompTIA Security+ and is valid for three years from your test date.
Can I take SY0-701 after SY0-801 launches?
In English, yes, until June 11, 2027.
What if I fail close to the retirement date?
A retake of SY0-701 must also happen before it retires, so leave room in your schedule.
Written by an instructor who holds Security+, CySA+, PenTest+ and SecurityX. CertInstructor is an Authorized CompTIA Partner.
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