Students currently place great value on obtaining an Information Technology (IT) certification. As a result, choosing the best sort of certification is getting increasingly difficult. CompTIA A+ and CCNA are two highly regarded IT certifications; however, the CCNA versus CompTIA A+ argument has raged for some time.CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral networking certification, whereas CCNA is dedicated to Cisco. According to CompTIA, almost 96% of IT managers favor IT-certified staff above others.
In this guide, IT Exams will provide a comprehensive overview of the two certifications: CompTIA A+ vs CCNA, including the differences between the CompTIA A+ vs CCNA in terms of exam details and difficulty, career opportunities, study materials, and resources. Ultimately, you can decide which one is better for you.
What Are CompTIA A+ And CCNA Certifications?
Earning certifications is an excellent method to land high-paying employment or develop in your IT profession. CCNA and CompTIA A+ are two important certifications. It is critical to understand the distinctions between the two in order to make an informed decision. Let’s start by taking a deeper look at each of these credentials.
CompTIA A+ and CCNA are two widely recognized IT certifications that confirm the abilities and expertise of information technology professionals.
CompTIA A+
CompTIA A+ is a worldwide recognized certification based on extensive knowledge of computers and hardware, as well as a fundamental grasp of servers and networking. It trains you to develop and manage wired and wireless devices, preparing you for rewarding professions. The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), which provides vendor-neutral IT certifications, pioneered it. CompTIA certifications seek to contribute to the advancement of security, cloud, networking, and other technologies.
CompTIA Network+ is another useful CompTIA certification. It teaches you how to interact with different networks and increases your awareness of emerging technologies such as virtualization. To obtain this certification, you must pass two tests: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102).
CompTIA A+ is a crucial certification that may lead to entry-level IT jobs and help you develop in your career. Jobs that may be pursued with a CompTIA A+ certification include:
- Service Desk Analyst
- Technical Support Specialist
- System Support Specialist
- Network Engineer Associate
- Cyber Security Manager
- Data Maintenance Technician
- Help Desk Technician
CCNA
The Cisco Certified Network Associate is abbreviated as CCNA. Cisco offers the CCNA certification and expertise to assess and repair various networks, set up routers and switches, and so on. Clearing the CCNA test is the first step toward earning a CCNA certification. The test has no requirements, although applicants should have at least one year of expertise with Cisco products and a fundamental understanding of Internet Protocol (IP) addressing and networks.
Because CISCO certificates are in great demand in the IT business, CCNA might be your first step toward a career in networking. It may offer prospects for entry-level and higher-level roles in the networking industry. The following are some of the positions that may be obtained with a CCNA certification:
- Technical Support Engineer
- System Engineer
- Network Administrator
- IT Manager
- Network Security Specialist
CompTIA A+ Vs CCNA: Exam Details
Exam Format
The CompTIA A+ certification examinations are divided into two parts: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). Candidates have 90 minutes to complete each test, which consists of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions. The tests include a wide variety of IT issues, such as hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting.
CompTIA likes to handle things a little differently, and their examinations are graded on a scale of 900. To pass the CompTIA A+ test, you must have a minimum score of 675 out of 900. This implies you’ll need a 75% pass rate to pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Core 1 test. To pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Core 2 test, you must obtain a score of 700 out of 900. This implies that you must have a passing percentage of 78% to pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Core 2 test.
The CCNA certification test (now the CCNA 200-301 exam) consists of 120 multiple-choice questions with a time limit of 120 minutes to complete. The test covers a wide range of Cisco networking technology subjects, including network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability. A passing score of 720 out of 900 is required.
Exam Content
By passing their respective exams, you can obtain the CCNA and CompTIA A+ certifications. Although both courses are on information technology, their knowledge will be examined on distinct themes. Let’s take a look at some of the information subjects you’ll need to know before taking the examinations.
|
Topics for the CompTIA A+ exam |
Topics for the CCNA exam |
| Basic security skills | Fundamentals of networking concepts |
| Knowledge of set-up Operating Systems (OSs) | IP services |
| Basic concepts of networking | IP connectivity |
| Configuration of hardware of PC, mobile, and IoT devices | Automation |
| Fundamental knowledge of IT infrastructure |
Programmability |
To obtain a CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams: 220-1101 and 220-1102. While the 220-1101 test focuses on hardware, the 220-1102 exam focuses on security, software troubleshooting, and other areas.
A basic understanding of security, networking, and IT infrastructure are among the subjects that are likely to feature on the test. It also involves knowledge of how to install operating systems, particularly Linux, Windows, Mac, Android, Chrome OS, and iOS.
The CCNA exam assesses your understanding and expertise with networking principles, CISCO products, and tools. Thus, subjects to become acquainted with in order to pass the test include networking concepts, understanding of IP services and connection, and automation and programmability.
Exam Cost
The cost of the CCNA vs A+ exams is an important issue to consider. The CompTIA A+ test is significantly less expensive than the CCNA exam. Let’s have a look at the pricing for both certifications:
The CompTIA A+ test is divided into two parts: 220-1101 and 220-1102. Each exam costs $246 and tests several parts of your knowledge.
CCNA is divided into several categories, such as Security CCNA and Wireless CCNA. The most popular is the CCNA Routing and Switching, which costs $300 exclusive of tax.
Exam Difficulty
After taking both tests and consulting with many individuals who have, it appears that the CCNA vs A+ are similarly difficult as entry-level IT exams. Both require adequate study and practice, but in separate areas and with different exam objectives. That means, in order to pass and receive any of the credentials, you must commit substantial time and effort to studying and practicing.
Because there are no simpler or more difficult tests for any of these certifications, most people will be better equipped to choose their exam based on their area of interest and career goals.
The essential point is that regardless matter which certification you select (A+ or CCNA), you must completely study, become acquainted with, and know every subject they cover.
CompTIA A+ Vs CCNA: Job Market and Salary
Job Market
Your genuine aim is one of the most important elements to consider while deciding which certifications to pursue. Although both certifications are popular, they are so for different reasons. Keep this in mind when you decide which certification is best for you.
The A+ certification is one of the most popular CompTIA certification paths, which focuses on helpdesk and computer repair and includes troubleshooting, hardware, software, printers, and basic networking. The A+ certification is intended for IT support positions such as helpdesk technician, field service technician, and desktop support administrator. CompTIA’s list of A+-related employment is completely made up of entry-level positions, with only one addressing computer networking.
On the other hand, the Cisco CCNA is stated to focus on networking technologies, security, and automation. While the CCNA only covers the associate level of these technologies, it does qualify you for higher-level occupations than A+, such as helpdesk technicians.
Salary
The average annual salary is another element to consider while picking between CCNA and CompTIA A+. A Cisco CCNA-certified worker makes an average yearly salary of $84,376 according to ZipRecruiter. When converted, that comes out to almost $41 per hour.
In terms of CompTIA A+ salary, CompTIA A+ certified workers may anticipate earning between $45,000 and $60,000. If you are lucky enough to get a job as a desktop support analyst, you can expect to make around $60,000. IT support professionals with the A+ certification may earn up to $54,500 per year. Wondering “Is CompTIA a+ worth it?“? There your answer!
CompTIA A+ Vs CCNA: Study Materials And Resources
Individuals planning to take the CompTIA A+ and CCNA certification tests can find a range of study tools and resources online.
CompTIA offers approved study resources for CompTIA A+, such as textbooks, online courses, and CompTIA A+ practice test. There are also several third-party study resources accessible, including books, video courses, and online study groups. IT Exams and Professor Messer’s CompTIA A+ study materials are two prominent third-party options.
Cisco provides approved study resources for CCNA, such as textbooks, online courses, and CCNA practice test. Third-party study materials, such as books, video courses, and online study groups, are also accessible. IT Exams, Boson, and CBT Nuggets are some prominent third-party resources.
In addition to study resources, there are numerous online groups and forums where people may ask questions and get help from others who are also studying for the tests. CompTIA A+ online groups include the CompTIA subreddit and the CompTIA A+ Facebook group. Popular online communities for CCNA include the Cisco subreddit and the CCNA Facebook group.
Finally, based on the individual’s learning style and amount of expertise, the most effective study tools and resources will differ. Individuals must conduct research and experiment with various study materials and resources to determine what works best for them. Furthermore, it is advised that students devote appropriate time to studying and preparation in order to improve their chances of exam achievement.
Read more >> CompTIA A+ Cable Types
What To Consider When Choosing A Certification?
With two main alternatives in the Information Technology business, selecting the correct certification may be a challenging endeavor. The decision between these two credentials is influenced by a number of criteria, including your professional ambitions, time and money limits, and current skill level.
- Career Objectives: If you want to work in entry-level IT assistance, CompTIA A+ could be the right certification for you. If, on the other hand, you are interested in network administration or data center management, the CCNA is the ideal choice.
- Time and Budget: It is crucial to remember that CCNA is more difficult, requires in-depth knowledge, and may take longer to prepare for and cost more than CompTIA A+.
- Skill Level: CompTIA A+ is an excellent choice for people who are just beginning their IT career since it provides a thorough grasp of the fundamentals of computer hardware, software, and operating systems. It is also well-known and can serve as a stepping stone in your IT career.
CompTIA A+ VS CCNA: Which One Is Best For Your Career Goals?
There are several IT certifications that, if obtained, may significantly enhance your career path and skill set. Despite the wide variety of courses available, the CCNA and CompTIA A+ certifications remain important. You may choose either certification based on your professional objectives, skill set, experience, time constraints, and money.
For example, the preparation time for CCNA exams is significantly longer than that for CompTIA A+ since applicants must thoroughly comprehend its themes. So, if you just have a limited amount of free time, a CompTIA A+ certification is the ideal option.
Your certification decision is also influenced by the nature of the work. Let’s take a look at the finest course options if you are seeking entry-level employment or have extensive expertise in the IT area and want to further your career:
- For entry-level positions: If you have no prior IT expertise, a CompTIA A+ certification is the best option. This is because it covers subjects that might offer a basic grasp of computer hardware and operating systems, which are important topics in IT. With a CompTIA A+ certification, you can obtain access to a variety of entry-level positions. Because it is a worldwide recognized qualification, it might boost your reputation as a candidate, increasing your chances of landing the position.
- For professional development: Experienced IT workers may search for certifications that will help them develop in their jobs or improve their current skill set. CCNA is the greatest option for such professionals. The certification gives access to high-paying professions and an in-depth grasp of Cisco products.
Read more >> CompTIA A+ Certification For Veterans
FAQs
What Is The Key Difference Between CompTIA A+ vs CCNA Certifications?
The CompTIA A+ certification is vendor-neutral and focuses on computer hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting. The certification is intended to train people for entry-level IT support positions such as technical support specialist or help desk technician. The CompTIA A+ certification is a wonderful place to start if you want to work in IT.
In contrast, CCNA certification is a vendor-specific certification that focuses on Cisco networking technology. Network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability are all covered in the certification. The CCNA certification is intended for people who desire to specialize in network engineering or network administration.
What is the Cisco equivalent of CompTIA A+?
Is CompTIA A+ worth getting?
The networking industry is growing. Cloud computing and software-defined networking are both emerging technologies. These technologies are having a considerable impact on the networking industry, which is leading to the establishment of new job characteristics. CCNA credentials are appropriate for entry-level IT jobs.
Is CCNA enough to get a job?
Can I Take Both CompTIA A+ And CCNA Certifications?
Yes, you may take both the CompTIA A+ vs CCNA exams. Many IT workers, in fact, possess numerous certifications to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in many fields.
CCNA focuses on Cisco networking technologies, whereas CompTIA A+ focuses on IT assistance and technical troubleshooting. With both certifications, you can demonstrate a wide variety of IT abilities and expertise, making you a well-rounded applicant for IT employment.
Furthermore, holding numerous qualifications in the IT business might boost your career chances and earning potential. It may also offer prospects for professional progression and specialization in specialized areas of information technology.
If you want to pursue both certificates, you should make a study plan and set aside adequate time to prepare for both tests. You may also want to consider taking training classes or studying to ensure that you are completely prepared for both tests.
Final Words
There is no obvious victor in the CompTIA A+ vs CCNA argument because both are useful qualifications that may assist further your career. We hope this blog has helped you understand the differences between the CompTIA A+ vs CCNA certifications and has aided you in making a decision.
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