Recommended Tools, Hardware & Software

Every job requires tools, and the Security+ is no different.  You won’t need the tools for your exam, but you will need them for your job.

I recommend

  • Buy high quality tools that will last a long time.  Cheap tools are more expensive in the long term.  They break down and cause frustration.
  • Ask for advice, read reddit reviews, read reviews on Amazon, watch YouTube videos, until you find the tools that are best for you.  Ask me!

Recommended Tools, Supplies, & Equipment

Some of these are recommended by CompTIA and some are recommended by me!

Laptops & Smartphones

Apple Tablet/Smartphone
Android Tablet/Smartphone
Windows Tablet/Smartphone

Software

Some of the software may also be incorporated into hardware

Packet Sniffer
Protocol Analyzer
Terminal Emulation Software such as PuTTy
Linux/Windows OS
Software Firewall
Software IDS/IPS
Network Mapper
Hypervisor Software
Virtual Network Environment
Wi-Fi Analyzer
Spectrum Analyzer
Network Monitoring Tools
DHCP Service
DNS Service
Knowledgebase / Ticket Management Software such as AutoTask or Service Now

Equipment

Layer 2/3 Switch
Router
Firewall
VPN Concentrator
Wireless Access Point
Laptop that supports virtualization
Media Converter
Configuration Terminal (with Telnet and SSH)
VoIP System (including a phone)
SOHO Router/Switch
Surge Suppressor
Power Distribution Unit (PDU)
Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS)
Managed Switch
Hub
Access Point
Server
IDS/IPS
DLP Appliance

Tools

RJ-11/RJ-45 Crimper
Cable tester
Punchdown Tools with Cutting and Non-Cutting 110, 66, BIX, and Krone Blades
Cable Stripper
Coaxial Crimper
Wire Cutter
Tone Generator and Probe
Fiber Termination Kit
Optical Power Meter
Butt Set
Multimeter
Power Supply Tester
Screwdriver, Drill, or Screw Gun and Assorted Bits

Spare Parts

Optical and Copper Patch Panels
Punchdown Blocks – 66, 110, and BIX
NICs
Power Supplies
GBICs
SFPs
Patch Cables – cat5e, cat6, fiber
RJ-45 Connectors
RJ-45 Jacks
RJ-11 Connectors
Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable Spool or Box
Coaxial Cable Spool or Box
F-Connectors / BNC Connectors
Fiber Connectors
Antennas
Bluetooth Wireless Adapters
Console Cables and RS-232 to USB Serial Adapter
Rack Screws
Assorted Sheet Metal, Wood, & Drywall Screws
Velcro
Zip Ties
Grounding Cable and Lugs