How I Overcame Failing the Security+ Exam and What I Learned Along the Way

Getting certified is a milestone in any IT professional’s career. It stands as a symbol of your expertise, your dedication, and your commitment to advancing in your field. After earning my first certification years ago, I decided to pursue another one, thinking it was a logical next step in my journey. My goal was to gain the Security+ certification, a well-respected entry into the world of cybersecurity. However, I soon found out that reality had a different plan for me. I walked out of my first Security+ exam experience with a failing score, a blow to my confidence, but also an invaluable learning opportunity.

Choosing the Security+ Certification

Choosing the right certification to pursue is crucial, and for me, Security+ made perfect sense. It is a globally recognized certification in the field of cybersecurity and is seen as a standard entry point for professionals in the field. Given my background with over 15 years of experience in IT, specifically in hardware and troubleshooting, I felt ready to tackle the Security+ exam. The CompTIA A+ certification had already given me foundational knowledge, but Security+ seemed like the logical next step to solidify my understanding of security concepts.

I was already somewhat familiar with how Cloud Certification exams work, having experienced exams with time pressure, a variety of topics, and scenario-based questions. Security+ was no different; it followed a similar structure. It had a mix of multiple-choice questions, performance-based questions, and scenario-based queries that required me to apply what I had learned. I thought I was ready for this challenge. After all, I had prepared extensively.

My Study Strategy

I approached my studies with full dedication. I invested in online training resources, such as video tutorials and practice exams. Each video I watched, I took detailed notes—diagramming concepts, making tables, and creating flowcharts. It wasn’t just about watching videos; I committed to active learning. I wanted to understand the material at a deep level, not just memorize terms.

To track my progress, I used practice test platforms to simulate the actual exam experience. But the first practice test I took was a huge shock. I scored a disappointing 58%. My confidence took a hit, and I felt discouraged. However, instead of giving up, I saw this as a challenge. I kept at it, retaking practice exams and adjusting my study techniques until I was consistently scoring in the 90s on these practice exams.

The process was grueling, and the struggle was real. But I knew that this experience was vital for my growth. I avoided shortcuts like exam dumps because I wanted to truly understand the material. I wanted to earn the certification, not just get the score. Every wrong answer on my practice exams became a learning opportunity, and I worked relentlessly to improve.

The Day of the Exam

The day of the exam finally arrived, and I walked into the exam center feeling a mix of nerves and readiness. I had studied extensively, completed multiple practice exams, and knew the material like the back of my hand. Or so I thought.

The exam started with performance-based questions, and that’s when the first unexpected challenge hit. While these questions weren’t difficult, they were time-consuming. I found myself spending too much time on them, which left me feeling rushed as I moved to the multiple-choice section. This became a turning point. I began reading questions too quickly, second-guessing myself, and choosing answers without fully analyzing the wording. I knew better, but the pressure of time got to me. It was a rookie mistake, one that I knew I should have avoided.

Falling Short – But Not by Much

As the exam concluded, I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach. The results came up on the screen: I had scored 715, falling just short of the passing mark of 750. I missed it by a handful of questions. It was a heartbreaking moment, but it wasn’t the end of the journey. I realized that I had learned something very important: failure, while painful, can provide invaluable insight into where I needed to improve.

I took the printout that detailed my results, and it quickly highlighted areas where I had underperformed. Cryptography and troubleshooting commands were two areas I struggled with. I was frustrated but also motivated to get better. The failure wasn’t a reflection of my inability to succeed—it was simply an indication of areas that needed more attention and refinement.

What I Learned from Failing

The first thing I did after receiving my results was to be honest with my manager. I explained the situation, and while I could sense his sympathy, he was understanding. However, I knew I had to do better. That night, I went back to my notes and immediately started planning my comeback. I scheduled the exam again for the near future, determined not to let this setback define me.

One key lesson I took from this experience was that studying smart is just as important as studying hard. I needed to fully grasp the tricky concepts, particularly those that were frequently tested. Public-private key encryption and troubleshooting commands were two areas that demanded more of my attention. I also realized that managing my time better during the exam would be crucial. I had allowed performance-based questions to throw me off, and I had let them affect my performance in the multiple-choice section.

Rethinking My Strategy – Smarter Studying After Failure

After my first attempt, I had a choice: I could either let this failure defeat me or use it as a stepping stone to refine my study habits. I chose the latter. I realized that passing the exam wasn’t just about memorizing facts and terms; it was about mastering the application of that knowledge. This was a lesson that went beyond just the Security+ exam—it applied to every certification exam I would take in the future.

My study strategy evolved after this failure. I went back to the exam objectives, making sure I could explain every bullet point without referring to my notes. I also went back to my study materials, reviewing them with a new perspective. This time, I wasn’t just watching the videos—I was actively engaging with them, pausing frequently to make sure I understood each concept. I wasn’t just repeating the material; I was absorbing it.

The Post-Exam Reality Check

The failure was difficult to swallow, but it gave me a much-needed reality check. I wasn’t far off from passing, and this helped me stay motivated. The post-exam printout was crucial because it showed me where I had underperformed, which allowed me to target my studies more effectively.

But knowledge gaps weren’t the only issue. My exam strategy also needed an overhaul. I had allowed the performance-based questions to throw me off balance, which had impacted my confidence for the rest of the exam. This was a mistake I couldn’t afford to make again.

I took a step back, reflected on my approach, and began rebuilding my study strategy from the ground up. The process wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.

Rethinking My Study Approach After Failure

Getting Back to the Basics

The first thing I did after my first failed attempt was to review the CompTIA exam objectives thoroughly. Every single bullet point mattered. If I couldn’t explain a concept clearly and confidently without looking at my notes, I knew I needed to spend more time on it. This approach forced me to be honest with myself about what I truly understood and what I still needed to master.

I had to go back to the basics of each topic. It wasn’t enough to know the surface-level definition of terms like encryption and access control. I needed to understand how these concepts applied to real-world scenarios and how they fit together in the broader cybersecurity landscape.

For example, when I revisited cryptography, I didn’t just skim through definitions of public-private key pairs. I took the time to understand how SSL/TLS works to encrypt data over the web, how VPNs leverage encryption, and how digital signatures are used to verify data integrity. This deeper dive made the concepts click in a way that shallow memorization never could.

Active Learning and Hands-On Practice

The next step in my strategy was to adopt more active learning techniques. This wasn’t about just reading or watching videos anymore—it was about engaging with the material in a hands-on way. I started to test myself in different scenarios, almost like running a practice drill. I opened up command-line tools and practiced network troubleshooting commands such as ping, nslookup, and ipconfig until they became second nature.

I knew that these were foundational skills for cybersecurity professionals, and I needed to be able to perform them quickly and confidently during the exam. The theory was one thing, but the practical application was something I needed to internalize fully.

I also made sure to actively revisit the videos that I had already watched. This time, I didn’t just rewatch them passively—I paused frequently to write down additional notes, to create flashcards, and to create diagrams that connected concepts. For example, understanding how cryptographic protocols work in a real-world context required me to draw out data flows, showing how encryption is applied in different scenarios. This method helped reinforce my understanding and made the concepts far more memorable.

Reanalyzing Practice Exams

My approach to practice exams also changed. Initially, I used them just to track how well I could perform under time pressure. After failing the first attempt, I realized that practice tests were an opportunity not only to test my knowledge but also to learn from my mistakes. I wasn’t just interested in getting a high score; I wanted to understand every question, especially the ones I answered incorrectly.

I would take a practice exam, review every wrong answer, and research why I got it wrong. If a question was about public-key infrastructure (PKI) and I had misunderstood it, I would go back to the videos, research that concept more thoroughly, and create flashcards that summarize the key points.

This habit became incredibly useful when I finally sat for the exam again. Each time I completed a practice test, I would look at the results and identify trends in my weaknesses. If I repeatedly struggled with network security protocols, I knew I needed to devote extra time to those topics.

In addition to using practice exams to identify gaps in my knowledge, I also learned to simulate the test environment more rigorously. I began to take practice exams under strict conditions—timing myself, avoiding interruptions, and simulating the real exam environment as closely as possible. This helped me build the mental endurance needed for the actual test and also helped me become more comfortable with the timing pressure.

Focusing on Time Management and Test Strategy

One of the most crucial lessons I learned from my first attempt was the importance of time management. In my first exam, I let the performance-based questions take too much of my time, which affected my ability to focus on the multiple-choice section. I also let my anxiety and nerves affect my pacing. As a result, I ended up rushing through questions and second-guessing myself.

To avoid repeating this mistake, I decided to take a different approach during the second attempt. I made a plan for managing my time more effectively. I decided that I would skip the performance-based questions initially, flag them for review, and then return to them later if I had time. This strategy allowed me to focus on the multiple-choice section first, where I could quickly answer the questions I knew confidently and get momentum going.

This time management strategy worked wonders. It gave me the confidence to tackle questions at my own pace, without feeling pressured by the clock. The key was to be strategic—don’t get bogged down by one section of the exam. Instead, focus on making steady progress throughout the test.

Study Smart, Not Just Hard

In my initial preparation, I was studying like I was preparing for a college final. I thought the more time I spent on study materials, the better I would do. But after failing the exam, I realized that studying hard wasn’t enough. I needed to study smarter.

Instead of going over the material in a haphazard way, I created a structured study schedule. I broke down my study time into manageable chunks, focusing on specific topics each day. I also added variety to my study routine, balancing videos, flashcards, practice exams, and hands-on labs to keep myself engaged and avoid burnout.

The key to this smarter studying approach was active learning—engaging with the material through exercises, practice, and application. Repetition was important, but repetition with understanding was what truly made the difference in my success.

Avoiding Cloud Dumps

In the IT world, it’s tempting to take shortcuts. Cloud dumps, which are unauthorized collections of exam questions and answers, are widely available. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking they’ll help you pass the exam. But I had always been committed to earning my certifications through legitimate means, and I refused to resort to dumps.

I didn’t want to simply pass the exam; I wanted to learn the material so I could apply it in real-world scenarios. Using dumps would’ve robbed me of the ability to truly understand the concepts I was studying. Additionally, relying on dumps could lead to serious ethical issues and could jeopardize my career in the long run.

Instead, I focused on studying legitimate materials and using reputable resources. I made sure to use platforms and study groups that focused on teaching the material, not just memorizing questions. This allowed me to truly master the concepts and be prepared for the exam’s application-based questions.

Smarter Resources, Fewer Distractions

When I first started studying, I tried to use too many resources at once—videos, articles, practice exams, and community discussions. While this approach seemed comprehensive, it ended up being overwhelming. I was jumping from one resource to the next without really absorbing the material.

After my first attempt, I decided to simplify my resources. I stuck to three main sources: a reputable online video course, my notes, and practice exams. I stopped wasting time with unnecessary distractions and focused on high-quality, relevant materials. This allowed me to dive deeper into each concept and understand the material at a level that I hadn’t before.

Moving Forward with Confidence

By the time I was preparing for my second exam attempt, I had a much clearer, more focused study strategy. I wasn’t just studying to pass the exam; I was studying to truly understand the material. This mindset shift made all the difference when I walked into the exam center again. I was confident, calm, and ready to apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Mastering the Second Attempt – How I Conquered the Security+ Exam

A New Mindset for the Second Attempt

The second time around, everything felt different—not because the exam was easier, but because I was different. The mindset shift I had undergone after my first failure was powerful. I wasn’t walking into the exam center just hoping to pass. I was walking in with a clear strategy, an understanding of the material, and the confidence that comes from truly mastering the concepts.

The key difference was how I approached the test. This time, I wasn’t treating it like a quiz, where I was memorizing facts and terms. Instead, I was thinking like a problem solver—like someone who could apply the knowledge I had gained in a real-world scenario. This approach completely changed how I interacted with the exam questions and ultimately made all the difference.

Exam Strategy: Prioritizing Time and Confidence

One of the major improvements I made was in how I approached the exam itself. During my first attempt, I spent too much time on the performance-based questions, which were designed to test my practical knowledge. While these questions weren’t difficult, they were time-consuming. They ate into the precious minutes I needed to manage the rest of the exam.

For my second attempt, I made a strategic decision: I would flag the performance-based questions and move on to the multiple-choice section first. This allowed me to build momentum and answer the questions I knew with confidence, without getting bogged down by a few tricky scenarios at the beginning.

Once I had gone through the multiple-choice questions, I had a clearer mind and more time to revisit the performance-based questions. I had confidence that I could handle them now, without the pressure of the clock ticking down.

This decision had a profound impact on my performance. It gave me the time I needed to fully analyze every question and allowed me to answer with more clarity and precision. Instead of rushing, I was able to pace myself, ensuring I didn’t miss anything important.

Confidence in Answering Multiple-Choice Questions

The multiple-choice section was where I knew I had to be particularly careful. In my first attempt, I rushed through this section, second-guessing myself and selecting answers without fully reading and understanding the question. This was a mistake I was determined not to repeat.

This time, I made sure to read each question thoroughly and take my time to understand exactly what it was asking. I didn’t just focus on memorizing terms or facts—I focused on the logic behind the question. For instance, when presented with a scenario, I didn’t just recall definitions. I thought critically about which answer would be the most appropriate based on the context of the question.

I also made sure to eliminate incorrect answers. In many cases, this gave me a much better chance of selecting the correct answer, even if I was uncertain about a particular concept. This process helped reduce the stress of the multiple-choice section and allowed me to confidently answer questions that I initially felt unsure about.

Tackling the Performance-Based Questions

After working through the multiple-choice section, I turned my attention back to the performance-based questions. These questions require you to apply your knowledge to practical scenarios, and they often test your understanding of real-world situations.

In my first attempt, these questions had thrown me off because I had started with them and struggled to manage my time. But this time, I was calm and focused, and I knew what to expect. The performance-based questions weren’t as difficult as they had seemed before, but their complexity could cause you to second-guess yourself if you weren’t careful.

Instead of diving straight into the questions and feeling rushed, I read each one slowly and analyzed it step-by-step. By approaching each scenario methodically, I was able to identify the best solution or response. The key was staying calm and taking my time—something I hadn’t done during my first attempt.

This approach worked wonders. I found that I could answer these questions with ease because I had already built a solid understanding of the concepts. Instead of getting bogged down in confusion, I treated each performance-based question as a challenge I was ready to conquer.

Simulating Real Exam Conditions

Another important change I made was to simulate the actual exam conditions as closely as possible during my practice sessions. I had already learned from my first attempt that the timing of the exam was crucial, and that a lack of mental endurance could be a significant disadvantage. So, for my second round of practice exams, I took a more disciplined approach.

I treated each practice test like a real exam. No distractions, no pausing the test to look up answers, and no checking the clock constantly. This forced me to stay focused for the entire duration of the exam.

The results were remarkable. By simulating the pressure of the real exam, I built the mental stamina needed to stay calm and composed throughout the test. I found that I was better able to manage my time and my stress levels, which made a huge difference in my performance.

Focusing on Understanding, Not Just Memorizing

One of the most significant changes I made between my first and second attempts was my approach to studying. Initially, I focused too much on memorization—learning definitions, facts, and terms without really understanding how they connected or how they applied to real-world situations.

For my second attempt, I shifted my focus to understanding. I worked on connecting the dots between different concepts and seeing how they fit into the broader picture of cybersecurity. This change in perspective helped me move beyond just memorizing concepts and truly internalize the material.

For example, instead of simply memorizing the definition of encryption, I studied how encryption protocols like SSL/TLS were applied in real-world scenarios, such as securing online communications or VPN connections. This not only helped me understand the material better, but it also gave me the confidence to answer scenario-based questions with more accuracy.

I spent time reinforcing these connections, making sure that I could apply my knowledge in the context of real-world situations. This approach paid off during the exam, where many questions tested not just my knowledge, but my ability to apply it in practical scenarios.

The Results: A Victory Earned

After the exam ended, I felt a sense of pride—not just because I had passed, but because I had earned it. When the results came up on the screen, it showed that I had achieved a score of 782, well above the passing mark of 750. This was a victory that I had worked hard for, and it felt incredibly rewarding.

But more importantly, the second attempt reinforced something important: failure isn’t the end. It’s a lesson. It’s an opportunity to learn, adapt, and improve. My first attempt had given me the perspective I needed to refine my approach, and it had ultimately set me up for success.

The Importance of Resilience

One of the biggest takeaways from this experience was the importance of resilience. The journey from failure to success wasn’t easy, but it taught me more than any textbook or video ever could. It showed me that setbacks are an inevitable part of growth, and that the key to success is how you respond to those setbacks.

If I had given up after my first attempt, I would never have experienced the sense of accomplishment I felt after passing the exam. Instead, I used my failure as fuel to improve, refine my approach, and push myself harder. This experience didn’t just teach me about cybersecurity—it taught me about persistence, resilience, and the value of continuous learning.

Building Momentum and Navigating the Path Ahead – My Next Certification Journey

First, Take a Moment to Acknowledge the Win

Before diving into the next phase of my career, I took a moment to truly acknowledge the significance of passing the Security+ exam. It wasn’t just a certification; it represented my growth, my persistence, and my ability to bounce back from failure.

In the fast-paced world of IT and cloud computing, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush to the next certification or milestone. But I realized that it’s just as important to celebrate the small victories. Passing Security+ was a huge achievement, and it deserved recognition.

I took a couple of days to celebrate my success. I updated my resume, added the badge to my LinkedIn profile, and shared the good news with my network. The positive feedback and encouragement I received from peers, mentors, and colleagues were incredibly motivating. It reinforced the importance of connecting with others in the field and allowed me to share my journey, which might help others in similar situations.

After reflecting on my journey and giving myself time to enjoy the win, I started thinking about the next steps. With my Security+ certification in hand, I was ready to take on new challenges and continue my professional growth.

What’s Next? Choosing Your Next Cloud Certification

The excitement of passing the Security+ exam quickly transformed into an eagerness to keep the momentum going. I had built strong study habits, learned how to approach exams with a strategic mindset, and gained a deeper understanding of cybersecurity concepts. But I didn’t want to stop there. I was ready for the next challenge.

So, how did I decide where to go from here? The process of choosing the next certification was an important one. Here’s how I approached it:

Interest: Aligning with Passion

One of the most important factors in choosing the next certification was my genuine interest in the subject matter. I had always been curious about cloud security, and the more I learned about it, the more I realized how integral cloud technologies are to the future of IT. This led me to explore certifications related to cloud computing, which seemed like the logical progression after earning my Security+.

With the rapid adoption of cloud technologies in businesses of all sizes, I knew that cloud security would continue to be a critical area of expertise. This passion and interest helped me decide to pursue cloud certifications, starting with AWS.

Relevance to My Current Role

Another key consideration was how the certification would apply to my current job. My company had started migrating to cloud services, particularly AWS. Learning more about AWS and its security aspects would allow me to contribute directly to the company’s cloud initiatives. The decision to pursue an AWS certification wasn’t just about personal growth; it was about aligning my learning with the current needs of my organization.

By pursuing a cloud certification that aligned with my company’s technological shift, I was ensuring that my new skills would be immediately relevant and useful in my day-to-day work. This would also help me stay ahead of the curve as cloud technologies continued to evolve.

Stackability: Building on Existing Knowledge

Security+ was foundational knowledge for cybersecurity, and it had prepared me for more advanced topics in the field. I knew that the next certification I pursued needed to build on what I had already learned and take me to the next level. I didn’t want a certification that would just sit beside my Security+ cert on my resume; I wanted something that would expand my expertise in a meaningful way.

Cloud certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Microsoft Azure Administrator fit this criterion perfectly. They were more advanced, specialized, and focused on real-world application—just like Security+. They would help me deepen my knowledge of cloud computing while continuing to build on my cybersecurity foundation.

This approach of stacking certifications is essential in a field as broad and dynamic as IT. Certifications should complement each other, building upon the skills and knowledge you’ve already acquired to make you more marketable and versatile in the job market.

The Shift to Cloud – Why Cloud Skills Matter More Than Ever

As I began my journey into cloud certifications, I realized how crucial cloud skills are today. Cloud computing is no longer a futuristic technology; it is the present. Every organization, from small startups to large enterprises, is either already using cloud services or migrating to them. This widespread adoption of cloud technology means that cloud professionals are in high demand, and they will be for years to come.

Moreover, cloud computing has brought about a fundamental shift in how IT professionals work. The traditional on-premise infrastructure model is being replaced by cloud infrastructure, and the demand for professionals who understand cloud architectures, security, and management has skyrocketed.

Cloud certifications, such as those for AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, have become industry standards. These certifications aren’t just buzzwords; they are a requirement for many roles in IT, especially for positions in architecture, security, and administration.

For me, this realization was a turning point. It was clear that cloud certifications weren’t just important—they were essential for anyone wanting to stay competitive and relevant in the IT industry.

Adapting My Study Strategy for Cloud Certification

Armed with my Security+ certification and the lessons I had learned from my first experience, I was ready to tackle the next challenge: a cloud certification. I knew that I had to adapt my study strategy to fit the unique demands of cloud certifications.

Building a Study Framework Early

One of the first things I did was download the exam guide for the cloud certification I had chosen. This step may seem basic, but it’s an important one. Before diving into any study materials, I made sure I understood exactly what the exam would cover. This meant reviewing the exam objectives and familiarizing myself with the topics that would be tested.

By having a clear framework in place, I was able to approach my studies with a sense of direction. I could prioritize my time and resources based on the areas I needed to focus on most. Knowing what to expect helped me avoid wasting time on material that wasn’t relevant to the exam.

Hands-On Learning

Cloud technologies are best learned through hands-on experience, not just theory. I quickly realized that watching videos or reading textbooks wouldn’t be enough to fully grasp the complexities of cloud infrastructure. I needed to get my hands dirty and practice building, configuring, and managing cloud services.

To do this, I set up a free-tier cloud account and began experimenting with cloud services like virtual private clouds (VPCs), EC2 instances, S3 buckets, and more. The hands-on experience made abstract concepts more tangible and gave me a deeper understanding of how cloud infrastructure works.

I found that the more I worked in the cloud environment, the easier it was to understand the concepts covered in the certification exam. It wasn’t just about memorizing the definitions of services; it was about knowing how to use them effectively in real-world scenarios.

Practicing with Purpose

Just like with my Security+ preparation, I used practice exams as a tool for learning, not just for tracking my progress. The key was to analyze each question I got wrong and understand why I missed it. After taking a practice test, I reviewed the explanations, revisited the study material, and made flashcards to reinforce the concepts I had trouble with.

This process helped me identify my weak spots and fine-tune my knowledge. It wasn’t about getting the perfect score—it was about learning from every mistake and continuing to improve.

The Real-World Benefits of Cloud Certifications

Once I earned my first cloud certification, I realized how valuable these certifications truly are. They not only expanded my knowledge and skills but also opened up new career opportunities. Having a cloud certification on my resume made me more competitive in the job market, and it helped me contribute more effectively to my organization’s cloud initiatives.

The real-world application of cloud knowledge is where the magic happens. As I gained more experience working with cloud technologies, I was able to apply what I had learned to solve real problems. Whether it was designing cloud infrastructure, securing cloud environments, or troubleshooting cloud-based applications, my cloud certifications empowered me to make a tangible impact.

Continuing the Journey – Looking Ahead

The journey didn’t stop after one cloud certification. With each new certification, I continued to build on my skills, deepen my knowledge, and advance my career. Whether it’s pursuing certifications in cloud security, architecture, or governance, I remain committed to continuous learning and professional growth.

The journey from failure to success with the Security+ exam has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the power of a strategic approach to learning. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that certifications are just one part of the equation. The true value lies in how you apply what you’ve learned and the real-world skills you develop along the way.

To anyone out there who’s failed an exam or feels stuck in their certification journey—don’t give up. Use your setbacks as stepping stones, keep pushing forward, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity to grow.