CompTIA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of the worldwide IT workforce. They provide certifications in areas such as computer hardware, software, networking, cybersecurity, and others. The CompTIA A+ certification is one of the most popular IT credentials in the world, with the organization claiming that over 1 million IT workers possess an A+ certificate!
The CompTIA Network+ certification is intended for those who are interested in computer networking and want to learn about network configuration and administration, installation of small business networks, wired and wireless network maintenance, and other topics. A Network+ certification holder is qualified for a variety of positions, including network support professional, help desk technician, system engineer, and others.
In this article, IT Exams will discuss everything you need to know about the 5 best CompTIA Network+ jobs in 2023.
What is CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting wired and wireless computer networks. It is an entry-level certification that covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting.
Why is CompTIA Network+ Certification Important?
Many businesses today utilize IT certification to differentiate between candidates and screening criteria; credentials can confirm subject matter knowledge and expertise, as well as candidates’ willingness to stay current in their field of choice and how enthusiastic they are about working in this industry.
The Network+ certification is one of CompTIA’s core options, focusing on certifying the technical abilities required to safely configure, maintain, and troubleshoot the critical networks on which organizations rely today. It is a popular choice for beginning their IT career when combined with CompTIA A+.
CompTIA Network+ is not only an excellent alternative for job hopefuls; it is also a valuable option for career growth for those who are already employed and want to expand their knowledge of networking theory and technology but needs to start with the fundamentals.
5 Best CompTIA Network+ Jobs
CompTIA Network+ certification can open doors to a variety of job opportunities in the networking field. Here are the top 5 CompTIA Network+ jobs that you can pursue if having the certification.
- Network Support Specialist
- Network Administrator
- Network Engineer
- Help Desk Technician
- Systems Engineer
1. Network Support Specialist
Network support technicians troubleshoot, analyze, and assess computer network issues. They also assist in the maintenance of the organization’s networks and in keeping the network safe and secure. Furthermore, network support specialists are in charge of a variety of tasks, such as:
- They begin by backing up the network data and configuring security settings to ensure that only authorized individuals have access.
- They assess and report security violations using diagnostic testing tools, as well as troubleshoot the network to find connectivity difficulties. Furthermore, IT support personnel maintain track of network support actions. The experts can also set up routers or other networking equipment for a wide area network (WAN) or a local area network (LAN).
- They offer end-user support and evaluate network performance data.
Eligibility requirement
A bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree in a technical discipline is necessary for this position.
Furthermore, network support specialist jobs necessitate system certifications such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Server+. In addition, these credentials may aid in validating the necessary competencies for the role.
Median annual wage: $62,670
2. Network administrator
A network administrator manages the company’s internal servers. The following methods are used to fulfill the tasks:
- Install and maintain the hardware systems and network.
- Troubleshooting and repairing connectivity issues.
- The network must be monitored to ensure its speed and availability.
- Backup systems for networks must be monitored.
Eligibility requirement
- The vast majority of network administrators have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in an area like networking, computer science, or systems engineering. However, a degree is not required for entry-level networking roles. Higher-level positions, on the other hand, necessitate both a degree and credentials.
- Obtaining CompTIA Network+ certification will help you advance your career as a network administrator.
Median annual wage: $79,700
3. Network Engineer
Network architects and engineers plan and construct communication networks such as wide area networks, local area networks, and intranets. Furthermore, a network engineer is responsible of completing tasks including:
- The responsibilities include network design, deployment, management, and troubleshooting.
- Analyzing network traffic and forecasting growth to identify future needs.
- describing how to meet the organization’s needs while knowing the ideas of cybersecurity.
- Keeping up with the latest technologies in order to choose the best solutions for the firm.
Eligibility requirement
- Many network engineers have both a master’s degree and a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related subject.
- A candidate must have appropriate experience in IT systems or network administration with CompTIA certification.
Median annual wage: $100,000
4. Help desk technician
The help desk technician’s work necessitates a good technical grasp as well as the ability to communicate with others. Furthermore, it must cope with a large number of duties. Among them are:
- Computer diagnostics and problem resolution.
- End-user training and installation of new technology.
- Providing remote technical assistance via phone or internet.
- Configuring software and fixing hardware to keep the operating systems running.
Eligibility requirement
This position necessitates CompTIA certification. It is also recommended that you have IT abilities to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills for the job. CompTIA A+ certifications are frequently accepted when hiring for the profession of help desk technician.
Median annual wage: $52,160
5. Systems Engineer
A systems engineer’s role is divided into numerous elements of the business model. That is, it must collaborate with engineers, computer scientists, mathematicians, and analysts to create a system that fits the needs of the business.
However, some responsibilities of a systems engineer include the following:
- Communicate with the team to fully grasp the system’s requirements, which include design, hardware installation, and software components.
- Documenting installation, design, and other system-related information standards.
- Providing project financial guidelines, design concepts, and development support, including system troubleshooting.
- Consider upgrading for security portability, compatibility, and usability by assessing current and emerging technologies.
- Monitoring mechanisms are in place to detect and avoid potential problems. In addition, instructions for the implementation of secure systems based on system component design are provided.
Eligibility requirement
- Systems engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in a technical subject, such as computer science or computer engineering. For senior-level positions, a master’s degree may also be necessary.
- Numerous years of experience in fields such as systems engineering, information security, and system architecture integration are required in addition to their degree.
Certifications like CompTIA Network+, on the other hand, might help validate the skills required for such a position.
Median annual wage: $86,510
Other CompTIA Network+ jobs titles
- Information Security Analyst
- Network Analyst
- IT Consultant
- Network Field Technician
- Wireless Network Technician
- Computer Technician
Salaries of CompTIA Network+ Certified Professionals
When searching for the typical Network+ pay on the internet, you will see how much this value differs from source to source. We used an average of the four most prevalent Network+ averages, which were $62,000, $65,000, $74,000, and $88,720, to give you the most accurate and realistic average income. This results in an average Network+ salary of $72,430 in 2023. This figure 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 hold the Network+ certification will earn an average salary of roughly $45,200. This considerable increase in income would undoubtedly be considered.
For more details about this issue, you can read our article about Comptia Network+ Salary.
Future Scope of CompTIA Network+ Certification
CompTIA Network+ certification’s future scope looks positive. As more businesses rely on computer networks to run their operations, the need for network specialists with CompTIA Network+ certification is expected to rise. Furthermore, CompTIA Network+ certification is vendor-neutral, which means it is not tied to any single technology or vendor, making it a significant industry qualification.
How to Get CompTIA Network+ Certification?
You must pass the N10-007 test, which covers network architecture, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting, to obtain CompTIA Network+ certification. The exam is 90 minutes long and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions.
Step 1: Decide if Network+ is right for you
Determine what you believe the Network+ certification can assist you with. No other certificates, according to CompTIA, provide the hands-on skills and precise understanding required in today’s networking environments. Nonetheless, there are an increasing number of certificates available to professionals, so study is essential. Examine the objectives carefully, and then search major employment sites for positions that typically include Network+ in the credentials. This can help you determine whether you have the necessary knowledge and skills to begin studying for it, as well as whether the credential is valuable for your planned career and the income it commands.
Step 2: Set a study plan
Once you’ve decided that Network+ is the correct decision for you, you’ll need to figure out how you’ll study for the exam. There are several alternatives available.
Self-study: Students typically download the exam objectives, buy a textbook, and then summarize each chapter of their textbook as it relates to the exam goals. This method may take a little longer than instructor-led courses because it requires self-discipline and resourcefulness, especially if you fall behind on your exam schedule.
Instructor-led training and self-study: It allows them to retain classroom knowledge while reinforcing themes with further learning and practice. Others may concentrate mostly on classes, dissatisfied with their self-study practices.
Step 3: Practice, Practice, and Practice
Practice is the most effective way to enhance your talents, and this is true for IT as well as many other disciplines. Take the time to fully investigate the practical parts of the Network+ exam as you advance through your syllabus. Multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs) are included in the exam to assess a candidate’s ability to address real-world problems using simulations and virtual environments. Notice that there are numerous online resources available to help you recreate the testing settings you may face on exam day.
In short, you can prepare for the exam by taking CompTIA Network+ training courses, studying CompTIA Network+ study materials, and taking the CompTIA Network+ practice test on this website.
Step 4: Register and take the exam
First and foremost, you must determine whether you want to take the test at a typical testing center or in the privacy of your own home or another private location. Pearson VUE, which administers the examinations, offers both alternatives.
If you prefer the structure of a testing center, you must find one in your area and arrange an appointment by picking one of the available hours and days. The online alternative is more flexible in terms of days and times, but it requires a very stable Internet connection, a webcam, and a machine that satisfies the necessary specifications.
FAQs
Do I Need a College Degree to Work in the IT Field?
A college education is not required. The reason for this is simple: the world of information technology moves too quickly. The work market may look very different by the time you graduate. New technologies emerge, and old ones become obsolete in the blink of an eye; hands-on experience and practice are just as valuable as classroom learning.
Most entry-level IT positions require only relevant and valid certifications (such as CompTIA ones), regardless of whether you have a college degree. According to CompTIA, 96% of hiring managers check for IT certifications on resumes as part of the screening or hiring criterion.
Is Employment Guaranteed?
A CompTIA certification is a fantastic way to break into the IT business. However, there are always dangers associated with every job selection, and chances may not be as plentiful or easily available as you imagined.
Employment is not guaranteed after obtaining a CompTIA certification. If a trainer or educational program promises you a job straight after you pass your exam, be cautious. It could be a ruse to get you to sign up for their training course.
Simultaneously, IT certifications are one of the most effective strategies to boost your chances of landing a job in the IT field.
What skills do I need to have to succeed in CompTIA Network+ jobs?
To prepare for CompTIA Network+ career success, you should acquire not only comprehensive knowledge but also skills needed including hard skills and soft skills:
Hard skills
Network+ certified professionals understand the fundamentals of networking, such as planning, deploying, and troubleshooting wired and wireless networks. They should also be able to recognize network architecture and media, cabling types, topologies, virtualized networks (such as SANs), cloud computing concepts such as serverless computing or Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), and other terms.
Soft skills
A competent networking professional is patient, never gives up, has good problem-solving skills and pays close attention to detail, and works well in teams with outstanding written and spoken communication skills. If you work in tech support, you must have a thorough awareness of the networking issues that the customer is experiencing and how you can assist in resolving them. You should also have a basic understanding of project management fundamentals.
Do I need to keep the CompTIA Network+ certification up-to-date?
Of course, you must keep your certification current. The CompTIA Network+ certification is valid for three years. To renew your Network+ certification, you must take CertMaster CE, a self-paced CE course, or acquire 30 CEUs (across three years). Attending a webinar, completing a training course, earning job experience, posting blog entries, and more choices are available to you.
Is CompTIA Network+ certification worth it?
CompTIA Network+ certification is worth it for individuals who want to pursue a career in networking. It validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in networking and enhances their credibility in the industry.
Conclusion
With the IT industry being one of the fastest-growing in the world, it’s no surprise that job seekers are flocking to it. Salaries and demand for qualified specialists are both high. It indicates that if you have a CompTIA Network+ certification, you will be more likely to find an IT job than someone who does not have this certification.
The CompTIA Network+ jobs, with a focus on hard skills and practical expertise, might be sought after by everyone in the sector. The Network+ core certification guarantees a steady career in entry-level IT occupations including network analyst, networking technician, help desk technician, network administrator, systems engineer, and more.
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