So you're ready to break into IT but stuck on the classic question: CompTIA A+ vs Network+ - which certification should you get first? I've heard this question probably a thousand times, and honestly? The answer isn't as straightforward as most certification guides make it seem.
Here's what most people don't tell you: both certifications can launch your IT career. The "right" choice depends entirely on your current situation, your career goals, and frankly, what kind of work actually excites you. Some folks swear by starting with A+. Others jumped straight to Network+ and did just fine. Let me break down the real differences so you can make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison: CompTIA A+ vs Network+
Before we dive deep, here's a side-by-side snapshot of what you're dealing with. This should give you a quick sense of how CompTIA A+ vs Network+ stack up against each other.
A+ vs Network+ at a Glance
| Factor | CompTIA A+ | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Exams | 2 (Core 1: 220-1201, Core 2: 220-1202) | 1 (N10-009) |
| Focus Area | Hardware, software, troubleshooting | Networking concepts, infrastructure, security |
| Exam Cost | $246 x 2 = $492 total | $358 |
| Recommended Experience | 9-12 months hands-on | 9-12 months networking experience |
| Typical Study Time | 2-4 months | 2-3 months |
| Career Level | Entry-level | Entry to mid-level |
What is CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ is essentially the gold standard for proving you understand the fundamentals of IT support. It covers everything from taking apart a computer and putting it back together, to troubleshooting why someone's laptop won't connect to the printer. The certification validates that you can handle the day-to-day technical issues that keep IT departments busy.
What makes A+ unique is its breadth. You're not just learning one thing deeply - you're getting exposure to hardware, operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), mobile devices, cloud basics, security fundamentals, and operational procedures. It's designed to make you a well-rounded IT generalist who can tackle whatever walks through the door.
A+ Core 1 (220-1201) Covers:
- Mobile Devices: Laptop hardware, displays, mobile device management
- Networking: TCP/IP basics, wireless protocols, network hardware
- Hardware: Motherboards, RAM, storage, peripherals
- Virtualization and Cloud: Cloud models, virtual machines
- Troubleshooting: Hardware and network troubleshooting methodology
A+ Core 2 (220-1202) Covers:
- Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS
- Security: Malware, social engineering, physical security
- Software Troubleshooting: Application issues, OS problems
- Operational Procedures: Documentation, change management, disaster recovery
The two-exam format means you're investing more time and money upfront, but you're also walking away with comprehensive knowledge that applies to almost any IT environment. Many employers consider CompTIA A+ certification the baseline requirement for technical support positions.
What is CompTIA Network+ Certification?
Network+ takes a different approach. Instead of being a mile wide and an inch deep, it goes deep on one critical area: computer networks. If A+ is your introduction to IT, Network+ is your specialization into how devices communicate with each other.
The certification covers everything from basic networking concepts to complex enterprise infrastructure. You'll learn about different network types, how data travels across networks, security protocols, and how to troubleshoot when things inevitably break. It's the kind of knowledge that becomes essential as you move beyond desktop support.
Network+ (N10-009) Domains:
- Network Concepts (23%): OSI model, network types, addressing schemes
- Network Implementation (20%): Routing, switching, wireless, cloud connectivity
- Network Operations (17%): Monitoring, documentation, policies
- Network Security (18%): Threats, mitigation, hardening techniques
- Network Troubleshooting (22%): Tools, methodology, common issues
One thing I appreciate about Network+ certification is how practical it is. You're not just memorizing port numbers (though you'll do some of that). You're learning to think like a network professional - understanding why things are configured certain ways and how to diagnose problems methodically.
Key Differences Between CompTIA A+ and Network+
When comparing CompTIA A+ vs Network+, the differences go beyond just content. The two certifications serve different purposes in your career journey.
Scope vs Depth
A+ gives you broad exposure to multiple IT domains. You'll touch on hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting across various technologies. It's perfect for someone who needs to be a jack-of-all-trades in a small IT department or help desk environment.
Network+ sacrifices that breadth for depth in networking specifically. You won't learn how to replace a laptop keyboard or troubleshoot printer drivers, but you'll understand subnetting, VLANs, and network protocols at a level A+ barely touches.
Career Positioning
A+ positions you for technical support roles - help desk, desktop support, field technician. These jobs form the entry point for most IT careers. You're the first line of defense when users have problems.
Network+ positions you for infrastructure roles - network technician, junior network administrator, NOC analyst. These positions typically involve less direct user interaction and more focus on keeping systems running smoothly behind the scenes.
Prerequisites and Assumptions
A+ assumes you're starting from scratch. It explains fundamental concepts like what RAM does and how file systems work. If you've never opened a computer case, A+ will teach you.
Network+ assumes basic IT knowledge. You should already understand things like IP addresses, what a router does at a basic level, and how to use a command prompt. It builds on foundations that A+ establishes.
Key Takeaway
Think of A+ as your IT foundation and Network+ as your first specialization. Many successful IT professionals have both because they complement each other perfectly.
Which is Harder: A+ or Network+?
"Is Network+ harder than A+?" - this is probably the second most common question I get. And honestly, the answer depends entirely on your background and learning style.
Why Some Find A+ Harder:
- Two separate exams: You're essentially preparing for and passing two different tests
- Broader content scope: More topics to memorize and understand
- Hardware specifics: Lots of port types, cable types, and component details to remember
- More time and cost: Double the exam fees and scheduling logistics
Why Some Find Network+ Harder:
- More conceptually challenging: Networking protocols and subnetting require abstract thinking
- Less intuitive: You can see and touch hardware; you can't see a packet traverse a network
- Math involved: Subnetting calculations trip up many candidates
- Assumes prior knowledge: Jumps into complex topics faster
From what I've seen, people with hands-on hardware experience tend to find A+ more manageable. Those with analytical minds who enjoy logic puzzles often gravitate toward Network+. Neither is objectively "harder" - they're just different kinds of challenges.
Industry estimates put Network+ pass rates slightly lower than A+ (around 60-65% vs 65-70%), but that's partly because more beginners attempt A+ with less preparation. The exams test different skills, so direct comparison is tricky.
Career Paths and Job Opportunities
Let's talk about what matters most - getting hired. Both certifications open doors, but to different rooms.
Jobs You Can Get with CompTIA A+:
- Help Desk Technician / Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- PC Technician
- Technical Support Representative
A+ jobs typically involve direct user interaction. You're solving problems for people - resetting passwords, fixing broken laptops, setting up new workstations, and explaining technology to non-technical users. Entry-level positions are abundant, making it easier to land that first IT job.
Jobs You Can Get with CompTIA Network+:
- Network Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- Network Operations Center (NOC) Analyst
- Systems Administrator (entry-level)
- Network Support Specialist
- IT Infrastructure Technician
Network+ jobs focus more on infrastructure. You're working with switches, routers, firewalls, and ensuring connectivity across the organization. These roles often mean less direct user contact but more responsibility for critical systems.
Important Consideration
Many Network+ job listings also mention A+ as preferred or required. While you can technically get networking jobs without A+, having both certifications makes you a stronger candidate and gives you more options.
Which Should You Get First: A+ or Network+?
Alright, let's cut to the chase. Which CompTIA certification should you get first? Here's my honest assessment based on different scenarios.
Get A+ First If:
- You're completely new to IT with no professional experience
- You're not sure what IT specialty interests you yet
- You want the most widely recognized entry certification
- Your target jobs are help desk or desktop support
- You learn better with hands-on, tangible concepts first
- You want to build confidence before tackling networking
Get Network+ First If:
- You already have IT experience and understand basic computing concepts
- You're certain you want a networking career
- You've already learned A+ content informally through work or self-study
- A job you're targeting specifically requires Network+ but not A+
- You have a strong analytical background and enjoy technical problem-solving
The Recommended Path
For most people starting their IT journey, the traditional path makes sense: A+ first, then Network+. Here's why:
A+ covers networking basics as part of its broader curriculum. When you move to Network+, those concepts will already be familiar. You'll understand what a switch does before diving into spanning tree protocols. You'll know basic IP addressing before tackling complex subnetting scenarios.
That said, "rules" in IT careers are more like guidelines. I've met successful network engineers who never got A+. I've also met help desk managers who never needed Network+. Your path is yours to determine.
Salary Comparison: A+ vs Network+ Earnings
Money isn't everything, but it's definitely something. Here's what you can realistically expect to earn with each certification.
CompTIA A+ Salary Ranges:
- Entry Level: $35,000 - $50,000
- Mid Level: $45,000 - $65,000
- Experienced: $55,000 - $75,000
CompTIA Network+ Salary Ranges:
- Entry Level: $45,000 - $60,000
- Mid Level: $55,000 - $75,000
- Experienced: $65,000 - $90,000
The $10,000-$15,000 difference at each level reflects the specialized nature of networking roles. Network+ jobs typically require more technical depth and carry more responsibility for critical infrastructure.
Important caveat: these are general ranges. Location dramatically impacts salaries. A help desk tech in San Francisco might out-earn a network admin in rural areas. Additional certifications, security clearances, and specific vendor skills (Cisco, AWS, etc.) also push numbers higher.
Combined Certification Value
Professionals with both A+ and Network+ often earn 10-20% more than those with just one certification. Employers value the combination because it shows both breadth and specialization.
Study Time and Requirements
Let's be realistic about what you're signing up for with each certification path.
CompTIA A+ Study Requirements:
- Recommended study time: 2-4 months (for both exams)
- Hours per week: 10-15 hours
- Total cost: ~$500-700 (exams + study materials)
- Best preparation: Video courses, hands-on practice with hardware, practice tests
CompTIA Network+ Study Requirements:
- Recommended study time: 2-3 months
- Hours per week: 10-15 hours
- Total cost: ~$400-550 (exam + study materials)
- Best preparation: Lab practice (packet tracer, GNS3), video courses, practice tests
One thing to note: A+ benefits from having physical hardware to work with. Building a computer, troubleshooting real problems, and getting your hands dirty helps concepts stick. Network+ can be studied more virtually - network simulators let you practice without expensive equipment.
If you're pressed for time or want professional assistance, services exist to help with exam preparation and testing. Whether you need help with your A+ certification exam or Network+ certification exam, our team can help you achieve your certification goals faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict: Making Your Decision
When it comes to CompTIA A+ vs Network+, there's no universally "right" answer. Both certifications are respected, valuable, and can launch successful IT careers. Your choice should depend on where you're starting from and where you want to go.
If you're brand new to IT and want the safest, most flexible starting point, A+ is probably your best bet. It's the most recognized entry certification and provides foundational knowledge that applies everywhere.
If you already have some IT background and are drawn specifically to networking, Network+ can fast-track you into that specialization. Just be prepared for a steeper learning curve if you're missing foundational concepts.
The best long-term strategy? Get both. Start with A+ to build your foundation, gain some work experience, then add Network+ to specialize and advance. From there, the path to Security+ and beyond becomes much clearer.
Ready to get started on your certification journey? Whether you choose A+ or Network+ first, having a plan and support makes all the difference. Our team at ComptiaHelp has helped hundreds of IT professionals achieve their certification goals. Contact us today to learn how we can help.