CompTIA's Security+ certification is aimed at IT professionals who have two years on-the-job networking experience, with an emphasis on security. The Security+, exam code SY0–101, was introduced in December 2002. It is an entry-level, vendor-neutral certification which makes a great stepping stone to more advanced certifications, such as the ISC2 SSCP and CISSP, and the SANS GIAC. It also may be used in some Microsoft certification tracks.

This certification is well suited to network and security administrators independent of what industry they work in. The Security+ designation is achieved by passing one conventional format exam that covers topics such as communication security, infrastructure security, cryptography, access control, authentication, external attack and operational and organization security. The Security+ certification thus demonstrates the candidate's knowledge of information security and will help equip the candidate with the skills necessary to withstand hackers and decrease costs associated with security breaches. Like other CompTIA offerings, once a person achieves the Security+, the certification will not expire.

For more information:
http://www.comptia.com/certification/security/default.asp