Security+ → AWS Security → CISSP: ROI Breakdown of Three Classic Security Certifications
Security+ ($439) takes 2–3 months, no published pass rate, +$10K–$20K salary premium. AWS Security Specialty ($300) takes 2–3 months, 45–55% pass rate, highest ROI at 40–67x. CISSP ($749) takes 3–6 months, 50–60% pass rate, +$25K–$35K premium but requires 5 years of experience. Five-year cost to earn and maintain (including estimated study materials): Security+ about $619, AWS Security $200–$350 (no annual fee), CISSP about $1,524.