SY0-801 Launches Tuesday: 5 Things to Know Before You Book

Bit4Bit DFIR, practical notes for people who actually sit these exams.

CompTIA's new Security+ exam, SY0-801, launches Tuesday, November 17. If you are anywhere near booking, here are the five things that actually matter.

1. The 701 is not dead yet

SY0-701 stays bookable until June 11, 2027. If you are already deep into 701 prep, you do not have to switch. Finish what you started. If you are starting from zero, there is no reason to study for an exam that is already on its way out. Take the 801.

2. The domain weights moved

The final objectives reshuffle the weightings: 16 / 24 / 19 / 27 / 14 across the five domains. Domain 4 is now the heaviest at 27 percent. If your study plan still follows the 701 weights, it is pointed at the wrong exam.

3. Domain 2 got a new name and a new job

Domain 2 is now "Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Attacks." The rename is the least interesting part. The content changed with it, and it is where a lot of the new material lives.

4. AI security risks are on the exam now

The 801 adds AI security risks as an objective. This is the single clearest signal of what CompTIA thinks the next few years look like. If your study material never mentions AI risk, it is 701 material.

5. Try before you buy

I built a free sampler from the final objectives: 25 practice questions plus a one-page what's-new cheat sheet. It is the fastest way to feel the difference between the two exams before you commit to one. Free download here: https://bit4bitdfir.gumroad.com/l/inlhbv

The full 39-page SY0-801 study guide is on the same store, with 20 percent off during launch week (November 17 to 24) using code LAUNCH801.

Good luck on Tuesday, whichever exam you sit.

Sources: CompTIA SY0-801 final exam objectives, published October 20, 2026.