Certifications validate a professional’s knowledge and skills. As a result, they enhance career prospects by establishing credibility that individuals are equipped to handle evolving cyber threats. Earning the following certifications can significantly boost a professional’s ability to contribute to an organization’s cybersecurity posture:
- SSCP (Systems Security Certified Practitioner) — Offered by ISC2 (International Information System Security Certification Consortium), the SSCP certification focuses on the operational aspects of cybersecurity. It covers areas such as access controls, security operations and administration, risk identification, incident response, and network and communications security. This certification is ideal for individuals who manage and implement security policies on a day-to-day basis.
- CompTIA Security+ — Issued by the Computing Technology Industry Association, CompTIA Security + is an entry-level certification that covers foundational security concepts, threat management, cryptography, identity management and risk assessment, among other topics. It is particularly beneficial for newcomers to cybersecurity.
This article provides a deep dive into each of these certifications and offers a side-by-side comparison to help you determine which one is better for you.
Understanding the SSCP Certification
The SSCP certification is designed for IT professionals who work in operational roles in cybersecurity. It validates practical skills in implementing, monitoring and administering security policies and procedures.
The SSCP certification is valuable for professionals in roles like:
- Security Analyst
- Systems Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Security Engineer
- Security Consultant
ISC2 and Its Role
ISC2 is a globally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing cybersecurity. Established to elevate the standards of security professionals worldwide, its role includes:
- Certification programs — ISC2 offers renowned certifications such as CISSP and SSCP, which serve as industry benchmarks for validating cybersecurity expertise.
- Setting standards — The organization develops and promotes best practices and frameworks that guide the cybersecurity industry, ensuring professionals are equipped to handle evolving threats.
- Professional development — Beyond certifications, ISC2 provides ongoing education, resources and a global community network to help security professionals stay current in their field.
- Thought leadership — By engaging in research, policy discussions and industry collaborations, ISC2 plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of cybersecurity practices and strategies.
Benefits of the SSCP Certification
The SSCP certification offers a range of benefits for cybersecurity professionals, particularly those involved in day-to-day security operations. Some key advantages are:
- Validation of skills — SSCP certification confirms your proficiency in practical, operational aspects of cybersecurity, including access controls, risk identification and incident response.
- Industry recognition — As a globally recognized certification from ISC2, SSCP enhances your credibility and is often valued by employers across industries.
- Career advancement — It can open up new job opportunities and is a stepping stone toward higher-level certifications, such as the CISSP.
- Professional confidence — Earning SSCP certification equips you to manage and mitigate real-world threats effectively.
- Networking opportunities — Being part of the ISC2 community gives you access to a global network of professionals, resources and continued education, which can help in career growth.
- Commitment to continuous learning — SSCP holders are required to earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits to keep their skills current.
Technical Skills and Knowledge
The SSCP exam is based on the following seven domains of the ISC2 SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK):
| Domain | Sub-Topics |
| Access Controls | Understanding identity and access management (IAM) best practicesManaging user authentication and access control policiesImplementing role-based access control (RBAC), discretionary access control (DAC) and mandatory access control (MAC)Using multifactor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO)Managing privileged accounts and least privilege accessImplementing biometric, token-based and password-based authentication |
| Security Operations and Administration | Understanding security policies, standards and proceduresImplementing security controls in Windows, Linux and cloud environmentsManaging risk assessment and complianceConfiguring and maintaining security tools like firewalls, SIEM and endpoint protectionImplementing business continuity and disaster recovery |
| Risk Identification, Monitoring and Analysis | Identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in IT environmentsConducting risk assessments and threat modelingConfiguring and monitoring security information and event management (SIEM) tools Deploying and using intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS)Monitoring system logs and network traffic for anomaliesPerforming penetration testing |
| Incident Response and Recovery | Developing incident response plans and disaster recovery strategiesDetecting and responding to cybersecurity incidents and breachesUsing forensic analysis techniques to investigate security eventsImplementing malware analysis and mitigation strategiesRestoring systems after an attack to ensure business continuity |
| Cryptography | Understanding symmetric vs. asymmetric encryptionImplementing Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), digital signatures and certificatesUsing secure cryptographic protocols (SSL/TLS, IPSec, PGP, etc.)Implementing encryption techniques for email, storage and network securityManaging key generation, storage and distribution |
| Network and Communications Security | Understanding network security protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, ARP, VPNs, etc.)Configuring and managing firewalls, IDS/IPS and network segmentationSecuring wireless networks (WPA3, 802.1X, MAC filtering)Implementing transport layer security (TLS, HTTPS, SSH)Securing remote access, VPNs and cloud-based communication |
| Systems and Application Security | Understanding secure system architecture and hardening techniquesSecuring operating systems, databases and cloud environmentsImplementing secure coding best practices (OWASP Top 10)Managing software vulnerabilities and patching systemsUnderstanding virtualization and container security |
Career Advancement and Job Roles
The SSCP certification is recognized globally and can help professionals advance their career advancement, land higher level positions and enhance their resumes.
Career Advancement
- Recognition — Earning the SSCP demonstrates a solid understanding of information security concepts, best practices and security administration, making you more competitive in the job market.
- Foundation for growth — The certification can serve as a stepping stone for higher-level certifications like CISSP, helping you advance to more senior positions in cybersecurity.
- Salary potential — Certified professionals often have higher earning potential. The certification can position you for salary negotiations and better job offers.
- Networking opportunities — Becoming SSCP-certified allows you to join a community of security professionals where you can share knowledge and opportunities.
Job Roles
With an SSCP certification, you can qualify for roles that are in high demand across industries like healthcare, finance, government and technology, such as the following:
- Security Administrator — Manage and implement security controls in IT environments
- Systems Administrator — Configure and secure operating systems, applications and networks
- Network Administrator — Maintain and secure network infrastructure and communication
- Security Analyst — Perform security assessments, risk analysis and threat mitigation
- IT Support Specialist — Provide technical support with a strong security focus
- Incident Response Analyst — Detect, investigate and respond to cybersecurity incidents
- Help Desk Analyst (security-focused) — Assist with security-related IT issues and troubleshooting
- Penetration Tester (entry-level) — Conduct security testing to find vulnerabilities in systems
Digital Skill Badge and Resume Enhancement
Once certified, you receive a digital badge from ISC2 that you can showcase on your LinkedIn profile, online portfolios and other public-facing websites, and your email signature.
Highlighting the SSCP certification on your resume emphasizes your commitment to security, continuous learning and staying current with industry standards, which can increase your chances of getting job offers. To maximize the value of your SSCP certification, be sure to:
- Call out relevant competencies included in the SSCP curriculum, such as access controls, network security, risk identification and management, and security operations.
- Mention specific skills and projects related to the certification to show practical applications.
SSCP Certification Process
The certification process includes the following phases:
- Meet eligibility criteria.
- Create an account on the ISC2 website.
- Schedule the exam, choosing online or in-person testing. The exam fee is US$249.
- Prepare for the exam.
- Pass the exam.
- Complete the endorsement process.
- Maintain your certification through continuing education and fees.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the SSCP certification, you must have at least one year of paid work experience in one or more of the seven ISC2 SSCP security domains. Note that exceptions or substitutions (such as a relevant degree) might be available for certain applicants.
If you lack the required experience, you can become an Associate of ISC2 by passing the exam. You’ll then have up to two years to gain the required work experience.
Exam Details
| Feature | SSCP Exam |
| Number of Questions | 125 |
| Question Type | Single-answer multiple-choice questions (MCQs) |
| Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Mode | Computer-based test (CBT), in-person or online proctored |
| Passing Score | 700 out of 1000 (70%) |
| Validity | 3 years |
Preparation Tips
| Create a study plan. | Plan for 6–8 weeks of study, depending on your level of experience.Allocate 1–2 hours per day for learning and practice.Focus on one domain per week. |
| Focus on highly weighted domains. | Allocate your study efforts based on the weights of the domains in scoring the exam: 17% — Systems and Application Security16% — Security Operations and Administration 16% — Network and Communications Security 15% — Access Controls 14% — Risk Identification, Monitoring and Analysis 13% — Incident Response and Recovery9% — Cryptography |
| Take practice tests. | Simulate real exam conditions using mock tests.Analyze incorrect answers to identify your weak areas.Aim to score at least 80% consistently before taking the real exam. |
| Join study groups & online forums. | Engage with SSCP candidates in forums such as ISC2 communities, LinkedIn security certification groups and Reddit. |
| Gain hands-on experience. | Gain practical skills in network security, cryptography and incident response by using the resources detailed below. |
| Focus on time management. | The exam has 125 questions and lasts 3 hours, which gives you just 1.4 minutes per question. Use practice tests to build speed and accuracy. |
Study Resources
SSCP Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements
The SSCP certification is valid for three years. To maintain your certification, you must earn CPE credits and pay an annual fee.
Earning Continuing Professional Education Credits
You need to earn 60 CPE credits over the three-year certification cycle, divided as follows:
- 30 Group A CPE credits — Directly related to SSCP domains
- 30 Group A or B CPE credits — Either in SSCP domains (Group A) or general professional development (Group B)
You can earn CPE credits in the following ways:
- Attend cybersecurity training, webinars or conferences.
- Take courses, read books or research security topics.
- Write security-related articles, blogs or whitepapers.
- Teach or present on security topics.
- Participate in ISC2 volunteer activities.
CPE credits must be logged in the ISC2 portal.
Pay the Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF)
To maintain your SSCP certification, you must pay a $125 fee each year of the certification cycle. If you hold multiple ISC2 certifications, you need to pay just a single $125 AMF to maintain all of them.
Adhere to the ISC2 Code of Ethics
Compliance with the ISC2 Code of Ethics is mandatory. Any ethical violations may result in suspension or revocation of certification.
Understanding CompTIA Security+ Certification
Introduced in 2002, Security+ was designed to provide a standardized certification for entry-level cybersecurity professionals. Over time, it has evolved to align with current security trends, technologies and best practices.
Security+ is ideal for individuals looking to start or advance their cybersecurity careers, including:
- Aspiring cybersecurity professionals entering the field
- IT professionals (help desk, network or system administrators) transitioning into security roles
- Government and military personnel pursuing cybersecurity positions, as Security+ meets DoD 8570 compliance
It serves as a foundational certification that can lead to more advanced credentials such as CISSP, CEH or GSEC.
CompTIA and Its Role
The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is a globally recognized non-profit organization that focuses on advancing the IT industry. Established in 1982, CompTIA plays a crucial role in certification, education, advocacy and workforce development in the tech sector.
IT Certification and Training
CompTIA offers many vendor-neutral IT certifications, including:
- CompTIA A+ — Entry-level IT support and troubleshooting
- CompTIA Network+ — Networking concepts and infrastructure
- CompTIA Security+ — Foundational cybersecurity knowledge
- CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) — Threat detection and response
- CompTIA PenTest+ — Penetration testing and ethical hacking
- CompTIA CASP+ (Advanced Security Practitioner) — Advanced security and risk management
Workforce Development and Training Programs
CompTIA works with businesses, government agencies and educational institutions to create IT training and career development programs. It helps address the growing demand for skilled professionals in cybersecurity, networking, cloud computing and IT infrastructure.
IT Industry Research and Advocacy
CompTIA conducts extensive market research and publishes reports on emerging IT trends, cybersecurity threats and workforce development. Additionally, it advocates for technology policies that support innovation, digital transformation and cybersecurity resilience.
Support for Government and Military IT Needs
CompTIA certifications — particularly Security+, CySA+ and CASP+ — meet DoD 8570/8140 compliance requirements. This makes them essential for government and military personnel working in cybersecurity and IT roles.
Benefits of the CompTIA Security+ Certification
As one of the most recognized entry-level cybersecurity certifications, CompTIA Security+ offers numerous advantages for IT professionals looking to start or advance their careers in cybersecurity.
Globally Recognized and Industry-Standard Certification
- Security+ is recognized by government agencies, corporations and cybersecurity firms worldwide.
- It is required for many US DoD cybersecurity roles.
- It is ANSI and ISO 17024 accredited, so it demonstrates compliance with international cybersecurity standards.
Vendor-Neutral and Versatile
Security+ covers fundamental cybersecurity principles that apply to any IT environment, including Windows, Linux, cloud and hybrid infrastructures. It is not limited to a specific technology or product.
High Demand for Security+ Certified Professionals
With the increasing number of cyber threats, demand for certified professionals is rising. Many employers require or prefer Security+ for cybersecurity roles.
Competitive Salary and Career Growth
Security+ certified professionals earn competitive salaries in multiple industries, including finance, healthcare, government and tech. The certification opens doors to jobs such as Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, IT Security Administrator, Cybersecurity Specialist and Systems Administrator with security focus.
Strong Cybersecurity Foundation
- The certification covers essential security concepts and includes performance-based questions to ensure candidates gain practical cybersecurity skills.
- Security+ is regularly updated to cover emerging threats, new attack techniques and evolving security best practices.
- Security+ provides a strong foundation for CISSP, CEH, CySA+ and CASP+ certifications.
Cost-Effective and Accessible
- There are no strict requirements to take the Security+ exam.
- Taking the Security+ exam costs $392, which is cheaper than CISSP, CEH and many other advanced certifications.
Core Cybersecurity Skills
The CompTIA Security+ certification equips professionals with essential cybersecurity skills needed to identify, prevent and respond to security threats. Here are the core areas covered.
The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601) exam covers a broad range of cybersecurity topics. Below is a breakdown of the key areas.
| Main Topic | Sub-Topics |
| Fundamental Security Concepts | CIA Triad (confidentiality, integrity, availability)Least privilege and Zero Trust modelsDefense in depth (layered security)Security controls: administrative, technical and physicalSecurity frameworks (ISO 27001, NIST, CIS, COBIT)Compliance and legal regulations (GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS) |
| Threats, Attacks and Vulnerabilities | Types of malware: viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, rootkits and adwareInsider threatsZero-day attacksSocial engineering attacks: Phishing, spear phishing, vishing, smishing, tailgating and impersonationApplication and network attacks: SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), cross-site request forgery (CSRF), buffer overflows, denial-of-service (DoS) and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS), man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacksWireless attacks: Evil twin, wireless sniffing, rogue access points, jamming, WEP/WPA vulnerabilitiesVulnerability management: CVE, vulnerability scanning, patching, penetration testingIndicators of compromise (IoCs): Logs, SIEM alerts, endpoint detection |
| Architecture and Design | Secure network design: Segmentation, firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, NACSecure network protocols (HTTPS, TLS, SSH, IPsec)Securing cloud-based environments (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud): Shared responsibility model, cloud access security brokers (CASBs), SaaS/IaaS/PaaS, cloud security risksVirtualization security: Hypervisor attacks, snapshots, VM escapeSecurity zones: DMZ, extranet, intranet, air-gapped networksIoT and embedded system security: Smart devices, SCADA, ICSSecurity best practices: Hardening systems, secure baseline configurations |
| Identity and Access Management | Authentication models: Multifactor authentication (MFA), single sign-on (SSO), federationAccess control models: DAC, MAC, RBAC, ABACIdentity federation: SAML, OAuth, OpenID ConnectAccount security: Privileged account management (PAM), password policies, least privilege enforcementBiometrics and smart cards: 2FA, hardware tokens and behavioral authentication |
| Cryptography and PKI | Symmetric vs. asymmetric encryption Encryption algorithms: AES, DES, 3DES, RSA, ECC, Diffie-HellmanHashing algorithms: MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, HMACDigital certificates & PKI: CA, certificate lifecycle, revocation, OCSPTLS and SSL: Secure communication protocolsCryptographic attacks: Birthday attack, downgrade attack, man-in-the-middle (MITM) |
| Risk Management and Business Continuity | Risk management process: Threat assessment, risk analysis (qualitative vs. quantitative)Incident response: Identification, containment, eradication, recovery, lessons learnedDisaster recovery & business continuity: RTO, RPO, failover, backups, redundancySecurity policies and procedures: Acceptable Use Policy (AUP), security awareness trainingForensics & legal considerations: Chain of custody, evidence handling, forensic tools |
Career Advancement and Job Roles
Earning the CompTIA Security+ certification opens doors to multiple cybersecurity roles and provides a strong foundation for career growth in IT security.
Job Roles
Security+ certification qualifies candidates for the following entry- to mid-level cybersecurity roles:
- Security Analyst (entry-level) — Identifies and mitigates security risks
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst — Monitors and responds to security threats
- Systems Administrator — Manages security settings and access controls
- Network Administrator — Ensures network security and compliance
- IT Support Specialist (security-focused) — Provides security-related IT support
- Cybersecurity Specialist — Implements security measures and policies
- Help Desk Analyst (security tier 2/3) — Assists users with security-related issues
Career Advancement Path After Security+
Security+ serves as a stepping stone for higher-level cybersecurity careers. Here’s how you can advance.
| Path | Recommended Next Certifications |
| SOC Analyst ? Security Analyst ? Cybersecurity Engineer ? Security Manager ? CISO | CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP – Associate Level) |
| Penetration Tester ? Security Consultant ? Red Team Operator ? Security Architect | Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) |
| Cloud Security Specialist ? Risk Analyst ? Cloud Security Engineer ? Security Director | AWS Certified Security – Specialty Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) |
Security+ Certification Process
The certification process includes the following phases:
- Meet eligibility criteria.
- Register and schedule the exam.
- Prepare for the exam.
- Take the exam. Immediately after the exam, you’ll receive a pass/fail notification:
- If you pass, you’ll get an official certification badge via CompTIA’s website within a few days.
- If you fail, you can retake the exam, but CompTIA recommends additional study time.
- Maintain and renew your certification.
Eligibility Criteria
Security+ can be your first cybersecurity certification: Anyone can take the exam, regardless of educational background or work experience. However, basic IT and networking knowledge is strongly recommended.
Register and Schedule the Exam
- Purchase a Security+ exam voucher from CompTIA’s official website.
- Register for the exam via Pearson VUE (www.pearsonvue.com).
- Choose your exam date and time.
Exam Details
| Feature | Security+ Exam |
| Format | In-person at a test center or online proctored exam |
| Number of Questions | Up to 90 |
| Question Type | Multiple-choice questions (single and multiple response) & performance-based questions (PBQs) |
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Open Book | No |
| Passing Score | 750/900 (83.33%) |
| Cost | $392 |
| Validity | 3 years |
| Renewal | $150 every 3 years or through Continuing Education Units (CEUs) |
Course Content
Preparation Tips
| Understand the exam objectives. | Download the official Security+ SY0-701 exam objectives from CompTIA’s website.Focus on the five Security+ domains:General Security Concepts (12%)Threats, Vulnerabilities and Mitigations (22%)Security Architecture (18%)Security Operations (28%)Security Program Management and Oversight (20%) |
| Create a study plan. | Suggested study timeline (6–8 weeks): Weeks 1–2: Study threats, vulnerabilities and mitigations (malware, attacks, social engineering).Weeks 3–4: Focus on network security & identity access management (IAM).Week 5: Learn risk management, compliance and cryptography.Week 6: Take full-length practice exams and review weak areas.Weeks 7–8: Do hands-on labs & make final revisions before the exam. |
| Practice PBQs. | PBQs are scenario-based questions that test practical security skills. Examples include: Configuring a firewallAnalyzing security logsIdentifying vulnerabilitiesManaging access control settings Practice PBQs on platforms like CompTIA Labs, Cyber Ranges and TryHackMe. |
| Practice time management. | The exam is 90 minutes long with up to 90 questions. For success: Spend no more than 1 minute per MCQ.Save PBQs for last since they take longer to complete.Use the “Flag for Review” option to revisit difficult questions later.Aim to complete the first pass in 60-70 minutes and use the remaining time to review flagged questions. |
| Be ready on exam day. | If you are taking the test in a testing center, arrive 30 minutes early.For online exams, ensure your setup meets Pearson VUE’s requirements. Also be sure you have a quiet environment, a webcam and a stable internet connection. |
Study Resources
Security+ Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements
Security+ is valid for three years. To keep your certification active, you must do one of the following:
- Earn 50 CEUs by conducting security-related training, attending conferences and webinars, publishing articles and blogs, volunteering in cybersecurity events, and other activities.
- Use CompTIA’s CertMaster CE to complete a self-paced renewal course.
- Take the latest version of the Security+ exam before your current certification expires.
- Complete a higher-level certification , such as CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst), CompTIA PenTest+ or CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional).
SSCP vs. CompTIA Security+: A Detailed Comparison
The ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) and CompTIA Security+ are both widely recognized cybersecurity certifications, but they cater to different audiences and career paths. Below is a comparison highlighting key differences between the two.
| Area | ISC2 SSCP | CompTIA Security+ |
| Target audience | Early-career security professionals with hands-on experienceBest for professionals already working in security roles who want to specialize in security administration | Entry-level IT and cybersecurity professionalsBest for those new to cybersecurity or transitioning from IT roles (help desk, sysadmin, network admin) |
| Meets DoD 8570/8140 Requirements? | Only for certain roles | Yes |
| Exam Code | SSCP | SY0-701 (latest) |
| Number of Questions | 125 | Up to 90 |
| Exam Duration | 180 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Question Format | Multiple-choice only | Multiple-choice & performance-based questions |
| Passing Score | 700 out of 1000 | 750 out of 900 |
| Domains Covered | Access ControlsSecurity Operations and AdministrationRisk Identification, Monitoring and AnalysisIncident Response and RecoveryCryptographyNetwork and Communications SecuritySystems and Application Security | Threats, Attacks and VulnerabilitiesTechnologies and ToolsArchitecture and DesignIdentity and Access ManagementRisk ManagementCryptography and PKI |
| Prerequisites | At least one year of cumulative work experience in one or more of the SSCP domains (a degree from an accredited college or university can be an acceptable substitute) | None |
| Exam Fee | $249 | $392 |
| Validity Period | Three years | Three years |
| Maintenance Requirements | Both of the following: Earn 60 CPE credits over the three-year certification cyclePay $125 per year | One of the following: Earn 50 CEUs Pass a higher-level certification, such as CySA+ or CISSPPay $50 per year |
| Job Opportunities | Can lead to roles like Security Engineer, System Engineer, Security Administrator, Security Consultant | Can lead to roles like SOC Analyst, Security Analyst, IT Security Specialist, Network Administrator |
| Potential Salary | $75,000–$105,000 | $70,000–$95,000 |
Which Certification Should You Choose?
Choosing between SSCP and Security+ depends on factors such as your career goals, your experience level and the specific job roles you are targeting.
| Choose SSCP If: | Choose Security+ If: |
| You have 1+ year of IT security experience or a cybersecurity degree. | You’re new to cybersecurity and want a solid foundation. |
| You want a vendor-neutral certification with a focus on security administration. | You need a widely recognized entry-level certification. |
| You’re interested in network security, system administration and security operations. | You want a certification that helps you get government jobs, such as DoD 8570-compliant jobs. |
| You want to move toward CISSP in the future (SSCP is a stepping stone). | You prefer a more affordable certification with easier renewal. |
Examples
- To advance from IT support technician to SOC analyst, the recommended certification would be Security+.
- To move from security administration to a managerial role, the recommended certification would be SSCP, which could be later supplemented with CISSP.
Conclusion
Both the SSCP and Security+ certifications can significantly enhance your cybersecurity knowledge, improve job prospects and open doors to various roles in the industry. Security+ is an excellent entry-level certification that provides a broad foundation in cybersecurity concepts. SSCP, on the other hand, is better suited for those with some experience, focusing more on security administration and operations and serving as a ladder to advanced certifications like CISSP.
Regardless of which path you choose, earning your certification will validate your skills, increase your marketability and help you build a successful career in cybersecurity.
