CompTIA PenTest+ Showdown: PT0-002 vs PT0-003 – What’s New and What’s Changed

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In an era where digital security threats are escalating in both complexity and frequency, organizations across every sector are investing heavily in proactive cybersecurity measures. Among the most vital roles in this defensive landscape are penetration testers, the professionals responsible for probing systems to uncover vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. The CompTIA PenTest+ certification stands out as one of the premier credentials for validating a candidate’s ability to identify, exploit, report, and manage security vulnerabilities across various environments. As the exam evolves, so must the professionals who pursue it.

This article begins a four-part series exploring the full spectrum of the CompTIA PenTest+ certification, starting with a deep dive into the retirement of PT0-002 and the introduction of the updated PT0-003. This first installment will outline why this certification matters, who it’s for, and what has changed in the transition to the latest version of the exam.

The Role of Penetration Testing in Modern Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity has become a cornerstone of operational success for businesses, governments, and individuals alike. While traditional security measures focus on defense, penetration testing provides an offensive approach to digital security. It involves systematically testing an organization’s networks, applications, and devices to simulate how attackers might gain unauthorized access.

The purpose of penetration testing goes beyond identifying vulnerabilities. It assesses the potential impact of real-world attacks, validates the effectiveness of existing security controls, and provides strategic recommendations to strengthen defenses. This hands-on discipline demands deep technical expertise, an understanding of threat actor behaviors, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies.

This is where certifications like CompTIA PenTest+ become essential. They provide formal recognition of the skills needed to carry out these assessments effectively and ethically. Employers seek certified professionals who can demonstrate not only technical knowledge but also the judgment and precision required to conduct penetration tests without harming systems or violating regulations.

What Is CompTIA PenTest+?

The CompTIA PenTest+ certification is an intermediate-level credential designed for cybersecurity professionals involved in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. Unlike entry-level certifications that focus on broad theoretical knowledge, PenTest+ emphasizes practical, hands-on skills. Candidates are tested on their ability to assess security postures, identify and exploit vulnerabilities, and report findings in a manner that supports remediation and compliance.

PenTest+ covers a full penetration testing cycle. From planning and scoping to reconnaissance, vulnerability discovery, exploitation, post-exploitation activities, and detailed reporting, the certification demands proficiency in every phase of the process. The certification also ensures familiarity with tools like Nmap, Burp Suite, Wireshark, and Metasploit, and evaluates the tester’s ability to operate across different environments, such as cloud, on-premises, and hybrid infrastructures.

More importantly, it validates the understanding of modern threats, such as those targeting APIs, IoT systems, and cloud-based platforms. This level of coverage makes the PenTest+ certification highly relevant to today’s job market and evolving cybersecurity threats.

The Retirement of PT0-002 and the Rise of PT0-003

Until recently, the PT0-002 version of the exam served as the official assessment for earning the PenTest+ credential. It was widely recognized for establishing foundational penetration testing skills and became a trusted benchmark for both employers and professionals entering the field. However, the rapid advancement of technology and the growing complexity of cyber threats necessitated a thorough revision of the exam objectives.

PT0-002 is officially retiring in June 2025, making way for PT0-003, the latest version designed to reflect the skills required in today’s cybersecurity landscape. The new version is not merely an incremental update—it’s a comprehensive overhaul that introduces modern attack vectors, advanced techniques, and an increased focus on practical skills. This shift ensures that certified professionals are prepared for the challenges they will face on the job.

The PT0-003 exam places a greater emphasis on emerging technologies such as cloud infrastructure, artificial intelligence-driven attacks, and mobile platforms. It also incorporates enhanced objectives for scripting, automation, lateral movement, and post-exploitation, which are increasingly relevant in sophisticated security engagements.

Why the Exam Update Was Necessary

The decision to retire PT0-002 and release PT0-003 was not made lightly. CompTIA follows a regular three-year update cycle for its certifications, during which it reevaluates exam content in light of industry trends, job role changes, and feedback from cybersecurity professionals. In the case of PenTest+, several key developments warranted an update:

  1. Proliferation of Cloud Services: As more organizations migrate to cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, penetration testers need to understand how to assess security in these environments. PT0-003 includes cloud-specific techniques and tools to address this shift.
  2. Expansion of the Attack Surface: New technologies like IoT, APIs, mobile apps, and virtual environments have broadened the attack surface. PT0-003 reflects this reality by including these targets in its objectives.
  3. Rise of Automation and Scripting: Today’s penetration testers rely heavily on automation to efficiently test complex systems. PT0-003 introduces scripting knowledge using languages like Python and Bash, even though extensive coding experience isn’t required.
  4. Focus on Post-Exploitation and Lateral Movement: Attackers often move laterally through networks after gaining initial access. PT0-003 incorporates these techniques to mirror real-world attack paths and emphasizes the importance of cleanup and maintaining system integrity.

These updates make the PT0-003 exam more than just a certification—it’s a measure of a candidate’s ability to operate in cutting-edge security environments and respond effectively to modern cyber threats.

Key Skills Validated by PT0-003

While both PT0-002 and PT0-003 examine core penetration testing skills, the latest version expands its focus significantly. It covers:

  • Advanced reconnaissance and enumeration strategies
  • Vulnerability discovery and prioritization
  • Exploitation of systems, applications, and networks
  • Attacks targeting cloud infrastructure and hybrid environments
  • Automation of penetration testing tasks
  • Persistence techniques and data exfiltration
  • Post-engagement reporting with remediation advice

Candidates are also expected to operate within legal and ethical boundaries, aligning their actions with organizational goals and compliance frameworks. This holistic approach ensures that professionals not only identify vulnerabilities but also support long-term security improvements.

Who Should Pursue CompTIA PenTest+?

CompTIA PenTest+ is designed for cybersecurity professionals with experience in networking, security administration, and vulnerability assessment. While there are no strict prerequisites, candidates are typically expected to know equivalent to CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications, along with three to four years of hands-on security experience.

It is particularly well-suited for the following job roles:

  • Penetration Tester
  • Vulnerability Analyst
  • Security Consultant
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Threat Hunter
  • Security Engineer

For professionals transitioning into offensive security or expanding their current capabilities, PenTest+ offers a structured pathway to mastering the essential skills needed in these roles. It also serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced certifications like OSCP or CEH.

The Value of Staying Current

With the retirement of PT0-002, candidates currently preparing for the exam should expedite their studies or shift their focus to PT0-003. Employers will increasingly seek candidates certified under the latest version, and training providers have already begun aligning their resources accordingly.

Staying current with certification versions not only improves employability but also ensures that your knowledge aligns with real-world expectations. Cybersecurity is a dynamic field where yesterday’s tools and techniques may no longer be effective. PT0-003 guarantees that certified professionals are equipped to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s innovations.

This series will provide a detailed comparison of PT0-002 and PT0-003, examining how the exam domains have shifted, what new content has been introduced, and what that means for candidates preparing for certification. From enhanced toolsets to performance-based question types, the upcoming section will break down the practical implications of these changes.

This journey through the CompTIA PenTest+ certification is more than an exam prep—it’s an exploration of how penetration testing is evolving in response to the growing threats in our digital world. Whether you’re just entering the field or looking to validate your experience, PT0-003 represents the gold standard in hands-on cybersecurity expertise.

CompTIA PenTest+ PT0-002 vs. PT0-003: What’s New and Why It Matters

In this series, we introduced the CompTIA PenTest+ certification and explained why the PT0-002 exam is being phased out in favor of PT0-003. Now, let’s focus on what has changed. The updates in PT0-003 reflect a more modern, hands-on, and real-world approach to penetration testing.

Why Did CompTIA Update the Exam?

Cybersecurity threats are always evolving, and so are the environments we test—cloud platforms, APIs, containers, mobile apps, and more. PT0-003 is CompTIA’s response to that shift. Compared to PT0-002, the new version covers updated attack surfaces, modern tools, scripting, and deeper exploitation strategies. The goal is to make sure penetration testers are better prepared for today’s hybrid, cloud-based infrastructures and complex threat scenarios.

Overview of Exam Domains: Then and Now

PT0-003 still has five domains, just like PT0-002. However, the knowledge required in each one has been enhanced and modernized.

1. Planning and Scoping

The weight of this section hasn’t changed, but the expectations have. PT0-003 goes beyond just defining scope. It dives into legal and compliance concerns more thoroughly, particularly when third-party systems or international targets are involved. There’s also a stronger focus on understanding rules of engagement, test limitations, and identifying the potential risks involved in executing tests that might affect production systems.

2. Information Gathering and Vulnerability Identification

This section now places greater importance on cloud environments and passive information gathering using OSINT. Enumeration strategies now include identifying cloud assets, discovering exposed developer tools or credentials on public platforms like GitHub, and targeting APIs. The exam also expects familiarity with automated scanners and scripts for vulnerability detection.

3. Attacks and Exploits

This domain continues to be the most technical and demanding. The new version of the exam expects a stronger grasp of post-exploitation techniques, such as establishing persistence, moving laterally through a network, and privilege escalation. There’s a noticeable expansion into cloud-specific attacks, container security, mobile apps, and IoT devices. Ethical hackers are expected to simulate real-world attacks using frameworks and tools like Metasploit, Responder, and Empire.

4. Reporting and Communication

PT0-003 emphasizes not just finding vulnerabilities, but also communicating them in a meaningful way. That means tailoring reports to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, prioritizing issues based on business impact, and aligning findings with frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK or CVSS. Testers are expected to offer actionable recommendations that support remediation efforts and risk management strategies.

5. Tools and Code Analysis

This area has seen some of the most significant changes. PT0-003 requires a basic understanding of scripting using languages like Python, Bash, or PowerShell. Candidates should be able to read and analyze code snippets for security flaws, even if they’re not full-fledged developers. There’s also a bigger focus on customizing or automating tools for scanning and exploitation tasks.

What’s New in PT0-003 That Wasn’t in PT0-002?

PT0-003 introduces several key topics that reflect current attack vectors and enterprise needs. These include:

  • Cloud penetration testing techniques such as assessing IAM misconfigurations and storage access controls.
  • Adversary simulation and threat emulation strategies based on real-world threat actor behaviors.
  • DevSecOps integration, where pen testers are expected to identify security flaws earlier in the software development lifecycle.
  • Container-based vulnerabilities and Docker misconfigurations.
  • API fuzzing and testing techniques for injection, authentication, and logic flaws.
  • Exploit chaining, where multiple vulnerabilities are combined to achieve a more powerful attack.
  • Broader approaches to social engineering, moving beyond phishing to physical security testing and validation.

Performance-Based Questions (PBQs): What to Expect

Like the previous version, PT0-003 includes performance-based questions that simulate real-world pen testing environments. But now, these questions are more hands-on, requiring deeper tool familiarity, customized scripts, or simulated attack flows. You may need to identify misconfigurations, exploit a vulnerability, or interpret output from a network scan.

These PBQs test your ability to think like an attacker and adapt tools to specific situations. They can include Linux or Windows terminals, web interfaces, or network diagrams that require analysis or action.

Key Differences in Focus Between PT0-002 and PT0-003

If you’re wondering how the exams differ in practice, here’s a simplified comparison in plain terms:

  • Cloud testing is heavily emphasized in PT0-003, while PT0-002 barely touched on it.
  • Post-exploitation is explored in more depth in PT0-003, including persistence, data exfiltration, and lateral movement.
  • Scripting and automation skills are expected in PT0-003, but were largely optional in PT0-002.
  • Tool usage is more advanced and practical in PT0-003, with an emphasis on chaining tools and customizing scripts.
  • Target environments are broader, including mobile apps, containers, APIs, and IoT devices.
  • Reporting is more business-focused, prioritizing impact-based recommendations instead of just listing vulnerabilities.

Preparing for the Right Version

The shift from PT0-002 to PT0-003 marks a major step forward in aligning certification content with real-world penetration testing practices. If you’re still studying for PT0-002, you’ll need to take the exam before it retires in June 2025. But if you’re just starting, it makes more sense to begin preparing for PT0-003 now.

PT0-003 isn’t just harder—it’s smarter. It forces you to think critically, simulate real attacks, and provide value as both a hacker and a communicator. For anyone serious about ethical hacking, this update brings the certification much closer to the realities of modern cybersecurity work.

Preparing for CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003): Strategy, Skills, and Study Resources

The CompTIA PenTest+ PT0-003 exam is not an entry-level challenge. It demands a balanced approach that includes theoretical understanding, tool proficiency, scripting basics, cloud security awareness, and hands-on problem-solving. Success requires more than just memorizing facts; it’s about developing the mindset of a penetration tester and being able to apply knowledge in real-world situations.

This series focuses on helping you build a structured, effective study plan. We will cover the types of study materials available, the role of hands-on labs, recommended tools, daily learning routines, and tips to overcome common challenges candidates face.

Understand the PT0-003 Mindset

Before diving into books and courses, it’s important to approach the PT0-003 exam with the right mindset. This version of PenTest+ expects you to think like an attacker. It’s about understanding how an attacker identifies weaknesses, develops attack paths, escalates privileges, and communicates the findings clearly and responsibly.

You won’t just be tested on knowledge—you’ll be tested on your ability to apply that knowledge through simulations, scenarios, and analysis of real-world attack surfaces. It’s crucial to go beyond theory and start building your instincts as a penetration tester.

Step 1: Start with the Exam Objectives

Your first step should be to download and review the official PT0-003 exam objectives from CompTIA’s website. These objectives are detailed and give you a clear outline of what’s covered. Use them as a study checklist.

The exam domains cover the following areas:

  • Engagement management
  • Reconnaissance and enumeration
  • Vulnerability discovery and analysis
  • Attacks and exploits
  • Post-exploitation and lateral movement

Make sure you understand what each domain includes and how they connect in a real-world penetration test. You’ll want to align your study plan with these domains to avoid gaps in preparation.

Step 2: Build Your Learning Foundation

Whether you’re coming from a Security+ background or already working in IT, it’s crucial to ensure your foundational skills are strong. This includes familiarity with networking, operating systems, common protocols, and basic security practices.

Brush up on key topics such as:

  • TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/S, and network ports
  • Linux command-line tools and system navigation
  • Active Directory and Windows-based environments
  • The OSI and TCP/IP models
  • Understanding of firewalls, proxies, and VPNs

You’ll need these basics to understand tool outputs and navigate exploitation processes during your studies.

Step 3: Choose Your Study Resources

The PT0-003 exam has a growing ecosystem of training materials and platforms. Here’s how you can structure your study resources:

Books and Guides

Invest in a dedicated PT0-003 certification guide. Some top-rated options include:

  • “CompTIA PenTest+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide (Exam PT0-003)” by Raymond Nutting
  • “CompTIA PenTest+ Study Guide” from Sybex by Heather Linn and David Seidl

These books walk you through each domain, provide examples and questions, and include access to practice exams and flashcards. Use them as your primary source for theory and exam knowledge.

Online Courses

There are plenty of video courses tailored for PT0-003, offering visual demonstrations, tool walkthroughs, and domain-based lectures. Popular platforms that host credible courses include:

  • Cybrary
  • LinkedIn Learning
  • ITProTV (now part of ACI Learning)
  • Udemy (be cautious to select up-to-date PT0-003 content)

Look for courses that integrate hands-on exercises alongside lectures so you’re not just watching but doing.

Step 4: Practice in a Lab Environment

PenTest+ is heavily focused on performance-based questions. This means practicing tools, commands, and techniques in a lab is not optional—it’s essential.

Here’s how to set up your lab:

  • Use a virtual machine environment such as VirtualBox or VMware Workstation.
  • Create a network that includes both attacker and target machines.
  • For the attacker machine, use Kali Linux, which comes preloaded with most pen testing tools.
  • Set up intentionally vulnerable machines using platforms like Metasploitable, DVWA (Damn Vulnerable Web App), OWASP Juice Shop, or HackTheBox.

Practicing in a lab allows you to:

  • Conduct port scans using Nmap and Masscan
  • Perform enumeration using tools like Netcat, Enum4linux, and Dirbuster.
  • Run exploits using Metasploit and manual techniques.
  • Analyze vulnerabilities using Burp Suite and Nik.
  • Capture and analyze traffic with Wireshark.
  • Write simple Bash or Python scripts to automate parts of an engagement

If setting up a home lab feels overwhelming, consider paid platforms like TryHackMe or Offensive Security’s Proving Grounds for guided and hosted labs.

Step 5: Develop Scripting and Tool Familiarity

PT0-003 expects a beginner’s level understanding of scripting. You should be able to:

  • Read and understand simple Bash, PowerShell, or Python scripts
  • Modify scripts to suit an engagement.
  • Automate repetitive tasks such as scanning, enumeration, or report formatting.

You don’t need to write complex programs, but you should be comfortable tweaking existing scripts or writing basic automation loops.

Make time to explore key tools used in penetration testing. These include:

  • Nmap: for port scanning and service enumeration
  • Burp Suite: for web app testing
  • Metasploit: for exploit development and post-exploitation
  • Hydra and Medusa: for brute-force attacks
  • Responder and Impacket: for lateral movement and SMB attacks
  • SQLmap: for SQL injection testing
  • John the Ripper or Hashcat: for password cracking

Understanding what these tools do, when to use them, and how to interpret their output will put you miles ahead on exam day.

Step 6: Use Practice Exams and Review Questions

As you near the final stage of preparation, shift your focus to exam-style questions. These help you build the endurance for a 165-minute test and highlight areas you still need to work on.

Look for:

  • Full-length PT0-003 practice exams
  • Domain-specific quizzes
  • Scenario-based questions that mirror performance-based formats

Practice exams give you confidence under pressure and expose weak areas. Be sure to review both correct and incorrect answers to understand the reasoning behind each outcome.

Step 7: Make a Study Plan That Works

Plan your study around the number of weeks or months you have until your target exam date. A sample schedule could look like this:

  • Weeks 1–2: Study engagement management and reconnaissance
  • Weeks 3–4: Dive into vulnerability discovery and scanning tools
  • Weeks 5–6: Learn attack techniques and tool usage
  • Weeks 7–8: Practice post-exploitation, scripting, and reporting
  • Weeks 9–10: Take practice exams, review weak areas, repeat lab exercises

Try to dedicate at least 90 minutes daily, or more on weekends. Mix theory, videos, and labs each week so you don’t burn out or neglect any area.

Tips for Success on Exam Day

The PT0-003 exam is a blend of knowledge checks and simulations. You may be asked to choose the best tool for a scenario or interpret the results of a scan. You might also see drag-and-drop style questions that require matching steps in an attack chain.

Here are tips to help you succeed:

  • Don’t rush. You have 165 minutes, and some questions are worth spending extra time on.
  • Flag difficult questions and return later—don’t get stuck.
  • Read each question twice to make sure you understand what’s being asked.
  • Use the process of elimination to narrow down multiple-choice options.
  • For simulations, follow a logical attack sequence. Don’t guess—think like a real pen tester.
  • Manage stress by practicing under exam conditions ahead of time.

Your Path to PenTest+ Success

The CompTIA PenTest+ PT0-003 exam is challenging, but with the right preparation, it’s attainable. The most successful candidates are those who embrace both theory and practice, balancing reading with doing, and lectures with labs.

Your study journey should reflect how a real penetration test operates—from planning and reconnaissance to exploitation and post-reporting. That’s what makes PT0-003 such a valuable certification—it teaches you to think like a hacker and operate like a professional.

We’ll explore how earning the PenTest+ certification impacts your career, including the job roles it aligns with, the salary prospects it unlocks, and how to position yourself in the cybersecurity field.

CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003) and Your Career: Roles, Salaries, and How to Get Hired

Earning your CompTIA PenTest+ certification is more than an academic achievement—it’s a practical, respected credential that can open doors to exciting and lucrative roles in cybersecurity. Whether you’re aiming to become a full-time penetration tester or want to add offensive security capabilities to your existing IT or cybersecurity skill set, the PenTest+ PT0-003 is a strategic stepping stone.

This series explores how the PenTest+ certification translates into real-world job opportunities. We’ll look at common roles that value or require PenTest+, average salaries, how it compares to other certs, and how to position yourself in the competitive cybersecurity job market.

Why PenTest+ Matters in the Job Market

The cybersecurity field continues to grow rapidly. Organizations are not only building defensive teams but also seeking professionals who understand how attackers operate. Penetration testing—ethical hacking—is a proactive approach that simulates real-world attacks to find and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.

PenTest+ validates that you:

  • Understand the tools and techniques used in ethical hacking
  • Know how to conduct end-to-end penetration tests.
  • Can identify and prioritize vulnerabilities
    Cano report and communicate findings to stakeholders

With the growing need for offensive security expertise, certifications like PenTest+ provide third-party proof of your capabilities, especially for professionals without prior pen testing job experience. It acts as a bridge between foundational security roles and more advanced offensive security or red team positions.

Who Should Consider PenTest+?

PenTest+ is ideal for individuals in or aspiring to roles such as:

  • Penetration Tester (Junior or Mid-level)
  • Red Team Operator
  • Security Analyst
  • Vulnerability Assessment Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Consultant
  • SOC Analyst with Red Team Focus
  • Security Engineer (with offensive security responsibilities)
  • Threat Intelligence Analyst

It’s particularly useful for IT professionals who already have experience in network administration, system security, or security operations and are looking to move toward red teaming or offensive security.

While PenTest+ doesn’t position you as a senior red team lead, it’s a powerful step that demonstrates you’re serious about the offensive security field and are trained to work within real-world engagement protocols.

How It Compares to Other Certifications

The penetration testing certification landscape includes multiple respected credentials. Here’s how PenTest+ stacks up against others:

PenTest+ vs. CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
CEH is perhaps the most well-known entry-level ethical hacking certification, offered by EC-Council. However, PenTest+ is increasingly viewed as a more hands-on and technically practical certification. It focuses on applied knowledge and practical simulations rather than just multiple-choice exams. CEH tends to be more theoretical and often criticized for being outdated or vendor-centric.

PenTest+ vs. OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
The OSCP is a much more advanced certification. It involves a grueling 24-hour hands-on practical exam and assumes deeper knowledge of scripting, exploit development, and lateral movement. If PenTest+ is the bachelor’s level, OSCP is the master’s level. Many people use PenTest+ as a stepping stone to prepare for the OSCP.

PenTest+ vs. Security+
Security+ covers broad foundational cybersecurity knowledge, including basic security concepts, governance, and compliance. PenTest+ is more specialized and assumes you already know the basics. In many career paths, Security+ is taken first, followed by PenTest+ or CySA+ (for defense), depending on whether you’re interested in red or blue team roles.

In short, PenTest+ is often seen as:

  • More technical than CEH
  • More practical than Security+
  • More accessible than OSCP
  • A great midpoint for career growth in cybersecurity

What Jobs Can You Get With PenTest+?

Let’s explore several roles that align with the skills validated by PenTest+, along with the typical responsibilities and expectations of each.

1. Penetration Tester (Entry-Level)

This is the most obvious and direct path. In this role, you’ll simulate attacks on systems and networks to identify exploitable vulnerabilities. You’ll run recon, use exploitation frameworks, conduct social engineering, and produce detailed reports with recommendations.

Employers may look for PenTest+ as a minimum qualification, especially for junior positions. You may also assist more senior testers on red team engagements.

2. Security Consultant

Consultants are often brought in to assess the security posture of clients. This role involves pen testing, vulnerability scanning, compliance reviews, and client education. PenTest+ adds credibility if you’re seeking consulting opportunities with a security firm or MSP.

3. Red Team Operator (Junior Level)

Red teams simulate real-world threat actors and adversarial techniques. This is an advanced role, but having PenTest+ can land you a junior spot or internship, especially if you combine it with scripting and lab experience.

4. Vulnerability Analyst

These professionals focus on identifying, analyzing, and prioritizing system vulnerabilities. While this role may not involve deep exploitation, PenTest+ is a great asset because it shows you understand how those vulnerabilities are exploited in real attacks.

5. SOC Analyst or Incident Responder (Red Team Adjacent)

While traditionally defensive, SOCs are increasingly integrating offensive security tools and tactics. Understanding how attackers think helps analysts detect and respond faster. PenTest+ shows that you can bridge both offensive and defensive perspectives.

Salary Expectations with PenTest+

While salaries vary by location, experience, and specific role, here’s a rough breakdown of average salary ranges for professionals with PenTest+:

  • Entry-Level Penetration Tester: $65,000–$85,000
  • Mid-Level Pen Tester: $85,000–$110,000
  • Security Consultant: $75,000–$100,000
  • Vulnerability Analyst: $70,000–$95,000
  • Red Team Operator (Junior): $80,000–$105,000
  • Security Engineer with Offensive Focus: $90,000–$120,000

In large metropolitan areas or with the addition of other certifications (like OSCP, CISSP, or CySA+), these figures can climb significantly. Also, contracting or freelance pen testers may command higher rates depending on demand and specialization.

Getting Your First Job After PenTest+

Earning PenTest+ is a big step, but getting your first job in pen testing requires additional strategy. Here are some steps to improve your chances of landing a role:

1. Build a Portfolio of Projects

Start by creating a GitHub or personal blog where you document:

  • Vulnerability research you’ve done
  • Custom scripts you’ve written
  • Walkthroughs of CTFs or labs you’ve solved.d
  • Reports from simulated pen tests

Hiring managers love to see proof of work, especially when hiring juniors without professional pen testing experience.

2. Practice and Showcase in CTFs

Participating in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions helps you sharpen your skills and prove you can apply them. Platforms like Hack The Box, TryHackMe, and OverTheWire let you rank up, build experience, and share your profile with employers.

3. Network with Other Cybersecurity Professionals

Join online communities like Reddit’s r/netsecstudents, Discord servers focused on security, LinkedIn groups, and local meetup chapters. Attending cybersecurity conferences (in-person or virtual) is also a great way to network and learn.

Certifications open the door, but relationships and visibility get you through them faster.

4. Start in an Adjacent Role if Needed

If you don’t land a pen tester job right away, consider adjacent roles like SOC analyst, vulnerability analyst, or IT security technician. These positions help you build experience while staying close to the offensive security field.

Your goal is to stay hands-on with tools, continue training, and eventually pivot into a dedicated red team or pen testing role.

5. Don’t Rely on the Certification Alone

While PenTest+ gives you credibility, it won’t get you hired by itself. You still need:

  • Hands-on skills
  • Effective communication and reporting abilities
  • Curiosity and problem-solving drive
  • A willingness to learn and adapt

The best penetration testers are lifelong learners who approach their work like puzzles—always looking for new ways to break and fix systems.

What’s Next After PenTest+?

If you’re serious about building a long-term career in offensive security, consider pursuing more advanced certifications and skills after PenTest+. Your next steps might include:

  • OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
  • eJPT or eCPPT (INE/Offensive Security certifications)
  • GIAC GPEN (Penetration Tester)
  • Specializations like web app pentesting, wireless, or cloud

Also, deepen your knowledge in scripting (Python, PowerShell, Bash), vulnerability development, and red team frameworks (Cobalt Strike, MITRE ATT&CK).

PenTest+ provides the fundamentals. What you build on top of it is what determines your long-term career trajectory.

Final Thoughts

The PenTest+ PT0-003 certification is more than just a resume booster—it’s a practical, respected credential that equips you with the real-world skills to start or enhance a career in offensive security. Whether you’re looking to transition from IT, level up from Security+, or pursue red teaming full-time, this certification validates that you’re ready for hands-on, ethical hacking work.

Your next move after PenTest+ is to build a portfolio, gain experience in the field or a lab, and keep growing. Cybersecurity is one of the most dynamic industries in the world, and PenTest+ is your invitation to play offense.