Looking to kickstart your IT career but not sure which certification to go for? In this article, IT Exams will delve into the differences between CompTIA A+ vs Network+ certifications, helping you choose the best option for your career goals. Read on to make an informed decision.
CompTIA A+ vs Network+ Certifications Overview
CompTIA is an organization that offers vendor-independent IT certifications. It enables individuals and professionals to advance in the field of information technology. CompTIA has granted over 2 million certifications to date. It has created training and certification programs for computer support, networking, security, open-source development, cloud computing, and mobility. CompTIA certification guarantees that you are prepared to face new difficulties in the IT sector.
CompTIA A+ is a credential that may be used for technical assistance, IT operational jobs, security, and other things. It includes operating systems, cloud computing, security, hardware, software, and other components. You can use this credential to work in tech assistance, systems support, technology analysis, and other fields.
CompTIA Network+ is an IT certification that assures you have the necessary networking abilities to pursue a career in IT infrastructure. This certification allows you to work with and support diverse networks independent of the platform. Before specializing in a vendor solution, you must first earn this certification.
CompTIA Network+ prepares you to troubleshoot, configure, and administer wired and wireless networks for businesses all over the world. It assists you in developing a professional and practical understanding of cutting-edge technologies such as cloud computing and virtualization. After earning the certification, you can work as a network administrator, network technician, or similar position.
CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ are both distinct in their own right, but what distinguishes them? Let’s compare CompTIA A+ vs Network+ in the next section.
CompTIA A+ vs Network+ Exam Requirements
Both of these certifications need knowledge of technology that will assist you in becoming CompTIA certified. Both A+ and Network+ are key certifications that provide you with a grasp of IT architecture and network switches. However, these CompTIA A+ vs Network+ credentials demand you to understand their distinctions and pass certain examinations to demonstrate your competence. After passing these examinations for abilities necessary and requirements, you will be able to obtain certification in the relevant domains.
CompTIA A+ certification necessitates a thorough grasp of operating systems (OS), software, hardware, and troubleshooting. Software and network troubleshooting are both troubleshooting jobs. Furthermore, your understanding of security elements such as firewalls might help you get certified. Taking CompTIA A+ practice test questions can help you identify areas where you need to focus your study efforts and get a feel for the format and types of questions you can expect on the real exams.
The certification has two necessary tests that you must pass in order to be qualified. The first exam, 220-1101, covers networking technologies, cloud computing, mobile devices, and virtualization. The second CompTIA A+ test is 220-1102, which covers operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, and MacOS. Its curriculum also covers operational and software methods, as well as security elements.
The CompTIA Network+ certification demands a thorough understanding of networking principles. This comprises network operations in general, network implementation, and network-based security. Knowing how to diagnose network issues is a valuable skill that will help you immensely with this certification. The N10-008 test is all that is required for the Network+ certification. This exam covers the configuration, management, and troubleshooting of network infrastructure. It also necessitates an understanding of network hardening strategies and the development of network connections via wireless and wired devices.
This test will be substantially aided if you have an understanding of network documentation, network activity monitoring, and performance identification. You should also have a thorough awareness of the cloud and other virtual ideas, as well as a fundamental comprehension of network services and data centers.
CompTIA A+ vs Network+ Content Covered and Format
The CompTIA A+ exam tests your knowledge of several IT topics, including hardware, software, networking, operating systems, and security. These two exams have a total of 90 multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions.
Each exam will last around 90 minutes. Candidates receive their exam results shortly after completing the exam. Students get access to a comprehensive score report that details their success in each exam topic. This report may be used to identify areas for improvement and to create a more focused research strategy for future efforts. Candidates must pass both the 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams to pass the CompTIA A+ Test. You are graded on a scale of 100 to 900 points, which is unusual. The CompTIA A+ 1101 examination has a passing score of 675, whereas the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam has a passing score of 700.
The Network+ certification, on the other hand, concentrates solely on network-related issues such as wired and wireless network installation, setup, and troubleshooting. It also discusses network security, cloud computing, and virtualization. This certification is appropriate for people who want to work in network administration since it gives a thorough grasp of the underlying technologies and ideas utilized in current networks.
The exam is made up of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions that are conducted in a controlled testing environment. The exam, which requires a minimum passing score of 720 on a scale of 100-900, is a true testimonial to a person’s practical knowledge of networking.
CompTIA A+ vs Network+ Job Opportunities And Salaries
Both CompTIA certifications, A+ and Network+, open up new job opportunities. In this part, you will learn about the work prospects available to you after earning your CompTIA certification.
There is a list of occupations for which CompTIA A+ is highly valued by employers. You can pursue the following roles:
- Service Desk Analyst
- Data Support Technician
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Administrator
- Technical Support Specialist
- End User Computing Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Associate Network Engineer
- System Support Specialist
There is a list of jobs for CompTIA Network+ employers who value this certification greatly. Some common roles you can aim for after getting certified are as follows:
- Junior Network Engineer
- Junior Network Administrator
- Data Centre Support Technician
- Network Engineer
- System Administrator
- NOC Technician
- Telecommunications Technician
- Cable Technician
According to ZipRecruiter, the average CompTIA A+ certification pay in the United States is $47,218 per year for IT professionals working in the fields listed above. CompTIA A+ salaries range from $26,000 to $75,500 per year. This moderate range of $49,500 implies that CompTIA A+ earnings are generally stable across the country.
We chose the average of the four most prevalent CompTIA Network+ salaries, which were $62,000, $65,000, $74,000, and $88,720. According to Payscale, the average Network+ income in 2023 will be $72,430. This number indicates the average pay for Network+ certification holders across all job titles.
To put this average Network+ certification holder income into context, consider that a Networking professional who does not possess the Network+ certification will earn an average salary of roughly $45,200. Many people would consider this considerable increase in income to be life-changing.
CompTIA A+ vs Network+ Cost Considerations
The CompTIA A+ test costs $219 for each exam, thus the total cost to obtain your A+ certification is $438 if you pass both exams on the first try. Training materials and training institutes usually provide discounts, and students who attend an approved CompTIA Academy education facility are also eligible for test voucher price savings. Similarly, CompTIA usually provides other pricing options, such as a test retake, training materials, or a training course. Potential exam takers should shop around for the best deal for their needs.
You must purchase an exam voucher in order to take the certification exam. A voucher is a one-of-a-kind ticket that you may purchase from the CompTIA Store and use to take your exam at a Pearson VUE testing location.
If you only require a voucher, the cost per exam is $338. More information on the test may be found on the CompTIA Network+ product website. On our testing pages, you may learn how to purchase a voucher. If you are ready to buy, go to the store. It is important to note that if you do not pass the exam, you will need to purchase another voucher to retake it. That is why we urge that you arrive at your exam well-prepared to reduce the possibility of failing the test and having to purchase an extra voucher.
A+ vs Network+ Which Certification Should You Choose?
Summary of key differences
- A+ is vendor-neutral, whereas Network+ is vendor-specific. provider-neutral certifications are not tied to any one IT provider. The skills and information you gain from these are transferable. No vendor has control over the certificate’s distribution or amendment. Certifications from certain vendors provide knowledge in specific technology areas or technologies.
- Security, cloud computing, troubleshooting, operating systems, and other topics are covered in A+. Network+ is concerned with networking and IT infrastructure.
- A+ covers computer hardware, software, and how to utilize them safely. Network+ covers network and device functionality as well as the fundamentals of using ACLs to safeguard them.
- A+ is an entry-level qualification, whereas Network+ is for network administrators. You must pass the 220-1001 and 220-1002 tests for A+ certification, but simply the N10-007 exam for Network+ certification.
- Before applying for the A+ certification, CompTIA advises 9 to 12 months of hands-on work in the lab or in the field. Network+, on the other hand, recommends CompTIA A+ certification plus 9 to 12 months of networking experience.
- With the CompTIA A+ certification, you may earn between $26,000 and $75,500 per year. You may earn between $62,000 and $88,720 per year with Network+.
- You will build and construct functioning networks, as well as configure, manage, and maintain important network devices, network settings, network security, and much more on the Network+ test. You will be tested on various operating systems, virtual computers, peripheral devices, small networks, technical assistance, cybersecurity controls, troubleshooting and supporting end-user access to apps and data, and so on. The A+ test covers a wide range of topics, including hardware, software, and mobile devices, as well as networking and security.
Which should you choose?
CompTIA A+ is a qualification for computer and hardware technicians that focuses on desktop and end-user computing. It covers some basic networking and server fundamentals. Network+ is largely concerned with TCP/IP networking and covers a wide range of related subjects such as subnetting, iSCSI, NFS, FiberChannel, and DNS.
The certificate you choose will be determined by the field of job you intend to pursue. If you want entry-level employment that allows you to deal with the fundamentals of a computer and its hardware, as well as diagnose and solve typical problems, you should pursue CompTIA A+ certification.
You can get an entry-level job dealing with networking and its components if you have Network+, a vendor-neutral certification. This exam tests your understanding of OSI models and networking protocols.
Furthermore, you can take both the CompTIA A+ and Network+ exams concurrently. If you have little to no IT expertise and experience, you should pursue a CompTIA A+ certification. When entering the IT profession, it is critical to have a basic understanding of computer hardware, software, and how everything works together.
You will also learn how to solve typical problems with A+. For example, if you are setting up a network and a few PCs cannot join, having A+ troubleshooting abilities will come in handy.
Some folks may still want to start with Network+. Network+ training and study materials from CompTIA are less thick than A+. Network+ focuses primarily on networking expertise, whereas A+ covers a wide range of topics. This might explain why some people find the Network+ test simpler to pass.
Read more >> CompTIA ITF+ vs A+: What Are The Similarity And Differences?
FAQs
Is Network+ harder than A+?
Learning the foundations may be better and easier if you begin the IT sector with no prior IT knowledge.
Networking+ may be more difficult since you must understand some connections and interpretations between many operating systems, such as Unix, Mac OS, Windows, and so on. For A+, you must concentrate on several areas and have more material to understand and recollect throughout the test.
Is the A+ necessary for Network+?
Should I skip A+ and do Network+?
Can I take the A+ and Network+ exams online?
Yes, CompTIA’s Pearson VUE online testing platform is available for the A+ and Network+ tests. Individuals must, however, satisfy some conditions in order to be qualified for online testing, such as having a private, quiet workspace with no other people present and consenting to the testing regulations and procedures. Before scheduling an online exam, it is critical to carefully understand the online testing standards and procedures.
Furthermore, there may be geographical or technological constraints that restrict persons from taking the exam online in their location. Individuals may be required to take the exam in person at a Pearson VUE testing location in such situations.
How long are the A+ and Network+ certifications valid?
Both the CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications are considered entry-level in the IT business. Both certificates are valid for three years from the date of certification and must be renewed to be current.
What is the hardest part of the CompTIA A+ exam?
Can I pass Network+ with no experience?
Final Words
The path to becoming an IT professional may be exceedingly difficult. Obtaining credentials that validate your expertise, on the other hand, might be quite beneficial. These qualifications may place you ahead of uncertified competitors vying for the same career post. When deciding which certification to pursue, examine the advantages and disadvantages of each, taking into consideration aspects such as exam requirements, career options, and personal interests. Hopefully, this article has cleared up any confusion between CompTIA A+ vs Network+ certificates.
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