Are you interested in pursuing a career in networking, but confused about which certification to pursue between CompTIA Network+ vs CCNA? Both are globally recognized certifications that validate your networking skills and knowledge. In this article, IT Exams will compare and contrast the two certifications to help you make an informed decision about which certification to pursue.
Networking has become a critical part of today’s business environment, and organizations are looking for certified professionals to manage their network infrastructure. CompTIA Network+ vs CCNA are two of the most popular certifications in the networking industry. Both certifications are vendor-neutral, meaning they are not tied to any specific vendor’s technology. However, they differ in terms of the skills and knowledge they test.
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ is an entry-level certification that tests your basic networking knowledge and skills. It is vendor-neutral, meaning it does not focus on any particular vendor’s technology. The certification is designed for individuals who are looking to start their networking career or those who want to validate their basic networking skills.
Network+ Exam Details
The CompTIA Network+ certification exam tests your knowledge in the following areas:
- Networking concepts and terminology
- Network infrastructure and cabling
- Network protocols and ports
- Network devices and services
- Network security
The exam consists of a maximum of 90 questions and is 90 minutes long. You need to score 720 out of 900 to pass the exam. The certification is valid for three years, after which you need to renew it.
On this website, we provide hundreds of free CompTIA Net+ practice test questions to help users easily pass their coming exams!
CCNA
CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) is a mid-level certification that tests your knowledge and skills in Cisco networking technologies. It is vendor-specific, meaning it focuses on Cisco’s networking technology. The certification is designed for individuals who want to specialize in Cisco networking or work in an organization that uses Cisco networking technology.
Exam Details
The CCNA certification exam tests your knowledge in the following areas:
- Network fundamentals
- Network access
- IP connectivity
- IP services
- Security fundamentals
- Automation and programmability
The exam consists of a maximum of 120 questions and is 90 minutes long. You need to score 825 out of 1000 to pass the exam. The certification is valid for three years, after which you need to renew it.
Try some CCNA sample questions now!
Comparison Between CompTIA Network+ vs CCNA
Vendor-Neutral vs Vendor-Specific
One of the most significant differences between the CompTIA Network+ and CCNA certifications is that the former is vendor-neutral, while the latter is vendor-specific. CompTIA Network+ covers fundamental networking concepts and technologies from multiple vendors, while CCNA focuses specifically on Cisco networking technologies. This means that CompTIA Network+ is broader in scope, while CCNA is more specialized.
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for the CompTIA Network+ certification, although it is recommended that candidates have at least nine months of networking experience. For the CCNA certification, candidates are recommended to have at least one year of networking experience and knowledge of basic IP addressing.
Exam Topics
The CompTIA Network+ exam covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, troubleshooting, and industry standards and practices. The CCNA exam covers topics such as network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.
Difficulty
In terms of difficulty, Network+ will cover vendor-neutral deployment and maintenance techniques, as well as some security and cloud-related issues. CCNA, on the other hand, will address the latter issues and focus the implementation on Cisco equipment, leading to additional topics addressing Cisco’s proprietary technology, such as the Cisco DNA Centre.
CCNA is generally considered more challenging than CompTIA Network+. This is partly due to the fact that CCNA is more specialized, so candidates need to have a deeper understanding of Cisco networking technologies. The CCNA exam is also longer and more complex than the CompTIA Network+ exam, with more simulation-based questions and a greater emphasis on hands-on skills.
Furthermore, in order to pass the CCNA’s automation and programmability parts, you must comprehend fundamental programming ideas and be able to apply them in the context of networking. You will also need to understand what an API (Application Programming Interface) is and how it is used in networking.
Validity and Renewal
Both certifications are valid for three years, after which candidates must renew them by completing continuing education units or retaking the exam. The cost of renewal also varies depending on the certification.
Network+ can be renewed in a single activity or 30 CEUs (Continuous Education Units) can be earned through numerous activities.
For a single activity, you have the following options:
- CompTIA Certmaster CE (Continuous Education) coursework
- Achieve higher CompTIA certifications
- Obtain additional non-CompTIA certifications
- Pass the most recent Network+ exam
For multiple activities:
- Training and advanced education
- Activities in the IT industry that are relevant
- Earning work experience in a related profession by creating and posting relevant material
The CCNA is likewise valid for three years and requires you to recertify within those three years via a single or multiple activities.
You have the choice of performing a single activity.
- Take the CCNA exam again
- Pass a higher-level Cisco test
Alternatively, you can renew by participating in various activities and earning 30 CE points.
- Through the Cisco CE platform, you will be presented with a list of activities that provide varied quantities of credits, including instructor-led and online activities
Cost
The cost of the certifications varies depending on the exam fees, study materials, and training courses. Generally, the CCNA certification is more expensive than the CompTIA Network+ certification. However, the cost of the certifications is a small investment compared to the potential career advancement opportunities they can provide.
Recognition In The Job Market
The demand for networking professionals with CompTIA Network+ and CCNA certifications varies depending on the job market and geographical location. In some areas, the CompTIA Network+ certification may be more valuable, while in others, the CCNA certification may be preferred. It’s important to research the job market in your area to determine which certification is more in demand.
Job Roles
With a CCNA or Network+ certification, you can take on a variety of fascinating careers in the IT industry. IT employees frequently begin in entry-level networking positions and progress to more sophisticated roles as they earn experience and possibly further certifications.
Determining which employment is best for you will help you determine which certifications will be more useful and what other abilities you may require. Furthermore, reviewing wage and benefit information can guarantee that your employment choice is in accordance with your expectations. While CCNA and CompTIA Network+ jobs that are certified can operate in a variety of roles, the following are some common ones:
- Network and computer systems administrator
Job responsibilities: Manage day-to-day network operations
Median annual salary: $80,600
Career outlook: 3 percent projected growth from 2021-2031
- Computer support specialists
Job responsibilities: Maintain computer networks and provide technical help to users
Median annual salary: $57,910
Career outlook: 6 percent projected growth from 2021-2031
- Information security analysts
Job responsibilities: Manage and design security measures for computer networks and systems
Median annual salary: $102,600
Career outlook: 35 percent projected growth from 2021-2031
- Computer and information systems managers
Job responsibilities: Manage, organize, and direct computer and information systems
Median annual salary: $159,010
Career outlook: 16 percent projected growth from 2021-2031
- Computer systems analyst
Job responsibilities: Assess and design improvements for an organization’s computer systems
Median annual salary: $99,270
Career outlook: 9 percent projected growth from 2021-2031
Salary
According to PayScale, the average CompTIA net+ salary for a certified professional is around $63,000 per year, while the average salary for a CCNA-certified professional is around $78,000 per ye
Why Choose Network+
Many IT workers begin with Network+ because it provides a foundational certification that can be used to any vendor or product. This broadens your work options and responsibilities while also providing security if the firm moves vendors. You can obtain general information and abilities with this certificate, which you can then improve on with additional vendor-specific certificates.
Network+ also covers business skills that are in high demand by many businesses. Having training on important issues like change management, incident management, and disaster recovery will give your employer confidence that you can add useful knowledge and skills to the team in a variety of industries. This may offer you an advantage over those who require real business knowledge.
Why Choose CCNA
Because of the in-depth technical knowledge it reflects for the Cisco platform, CCNA is a popular certificate among IT professionals. If you are certain you will be working with the Cisco platform, the CCNA can be an excellent decision because it lays the groundwork for you to continue to advance in your role. Many Cisco IT professionals take the CCNA exam and then upgrade their credentials by taking more advanced Cisco qualifications.
Employers who work with Cisco look for applicants who have experience with the platform and are less likely to make mistakes than those who have never worked with Cisco. While you can transfer your Cisco-certified networking abilities to other vendors, IT professionals who want to advance in their careers in firms that use Cisco platforms generally choose CCNA.
CompTIA Network+ vs CCNA: Which Certification To Pursue?
The answer to this question depends on your career goals and aspirations. If you want to start your career in networking or validate your basic networking skills, the CompTIA Network+ certification is a good choice for you. It is vendor-neutral, so you will have a broader understanding of networking concepts and terminologies. This certification can help you get an entry-level job in networking, and you can use it as a stepping stone to advance your career further.
On the other hand, if you want to specialize in Cisco networking technologies or work in an organization that uses Cisco technologies, then the CCNA certification is a better fit for you. It is vendor-specific, meaning you will have a deeper understanding of Cisco’s networking technology. This certification can help you get a mid-level job in networking with a focus on Cisco technologies.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your career goals and aspirations. Both certifications are valuable and globally recognized in the networking industry.
FAQs
Do I need Network+ vs CCNA for cybersecurity?
We will also go through the advantages of having both certifications and how they can help you progress your career in IT security. There are no prerequisites for Security+ or Network+, so you can take any exam. The Network+ certification is not required to take the Security+ exam, and vice versa.
The CCNA is not a needed prerequisite. It is, however, a good starting point for more difficult Cisco cybersecurity certifications, such as CCNP Security or CCIE Security.
Is CCNA more difficult than Network+?
Even while the Network+ performance-based questions (PBQs) can be difficult, they are usually easier than the CCNA PBQs because the Network+ PBQs are more generic in nature. Because the CompTIA Network+ exam is vendor-neutral, CompTIA is limited in the specific commands that they can ask.
What is Network+ good for?
CompTIA Network+ certification certifies that an IT professional possesses the following knowledge and skills: Design and implement functional networks. Configure, manage, and upkeep critical network equipment. Use switches and routers to separate network traffic and build resilient networks.
Do I need Network+ for Pentesting?
Network+, Security+, or comparable knowledge is required. A minimum of 3-4 years of hands-on experience in information security or a similar field is required. While no prerequisites are required, PenTest+ is designed to complement CompTIA Security+ or related experience and has a technical, hands-on focus.
Which country is best for CCNA?
California is one of the most essential places to look for CCNA Jobs. As a result, CCNA salaries in California might be a strong motivator for an entry-level Cisco engineer. When compared to other nations, the salary ranges for CCNA jobs in the United States are relatively high.
Is CCNA enough to get a job?
The CCNA certification is one of the greatest places to start. With the CCNA certification, you can have access to a variety of work options. The answer to the issue of whether CCNA certification is adequate to acquire a job is simple: yes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CompTIA Network+ vs CCNA certifications are both valuable and globally recognized in the networking industry. The choice of certification depends on your career goals and aspirations. If you want to start your career in networking or validate your basic networking skills, then the CompTIA Network+ certification is a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you want to specialize in Cisco networking technologies or work in an organization that uses Cisco technologies, then the CCNA certification is a better fit for you.
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