- 1.CompTIA Network+ is the most widely recognized vendor-neutral networking certification for IT professionals
- 2.Exam N10-008 costs $370 with 90 questions in 90 minutes, requiring 720/900 to pass
- 3.Certification holders earn an average of $8,500 more than non-certified network professionals
- 4.Valid for 3 years; renewal requires continuing education units (CEUs) or retaking the exam
$370
Exam Cost
90
Questions
90 min
Time Limit
+$8.5K
Salary Boost
What is CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ (N10-008) is the industry-standard certification for networking fundamentals. Unlike vendor-specific certifications (Cisco CCNA, Juniper), Network+ covers networking concepts across all technologies and vendors, making it the preferred entry-level networking credential for IT professionals.
The certification validates skills in network troubleshooting, configuration, and management—core competencies for cybersecurity analysts, network administrators, and IT support specialists. Many employers require Network+ for entry-level networking roles.
- Vendor-neutral approach: Covers networking principles applicable to all equipment brands
- DoD 8570 approved: Required for many government and contractor IT positions
- Foundation for specialization: Prerequisite knowledge for advanced Cisco, Juniper certifications
- Practical focus: Emphasizes real-world troubleshooting and configuration skills
Source: CompTIA
Exam Details and Format
The Network+ N10-008 exam tests networking knowledge across five domains. Understanding the exam format and question types is crucial for preparation strategy.
| Domain | Percentage | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 Networking Fundamentals | 24% | OSI model, protocols, topologies, cabling |
| 2.0 Network Implementations | 19% | Routing, switching, wireless, virtualization |
| 3.0 Network Operations | 16% | Documentation, monitoring, remote access |
| 4.0 Network Security | 19% | Threats, mitigation, access control, firewalls |
| 5.0 Network Troubleshooting | 22% | Methodology, tools, common issues |
| Exam Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | N10-008 |
| Number of Questions | 90 questions maximum |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes |
| Question Types | Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, simulations |
| Passing Score | 720 out of 900 (80%) |
| Exam Cost | $370 |
| Languages | English, Japanese, Portuguese |
| Testing Format | Computer-based, in-person or online proctored |
Study Resources and Materials
Effective Network+ preparation combines multiple resources. The exam emphasizes practical knowledge, so hands-on labs are essential alongside theoretical study materials.
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CompTIA's official study guide and practice exams provide the most accurate exam preparation.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Network Administrator
- • IT Support Specialist
Video-based training courses with structured learning paths and lab exercises.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Network Technician
- • Help Desk Analyst
Hands-on virtual labs for practicing network configuration and troubleshooting.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Network Engineer
- • System Administrator
Free study groups, forums, and supplementary materials from the IT community.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • All networking roles
Recommended Study Approach
Week 1-2: Networking Fundamentals
Study OSI model, TCP/IP, subnetting, and basic protocols. Use Professor Messer videos and practice subnetting extensively.
Week 3-4: Network Implementations
Learn routing, switching, VLANs, and wireless technologies. Set up virtual labs in Packet Tracer or GNS3.
Week 5-6: Operations and Security
Focus on network documentation, monitoring tools, security concepts, and common threats.
Week 7-8: Troubleshooting and Review
Master the troubleshooting methodology, practice simulations, and take multiple practice exams.
Career Impact and Salary Data
CompTIA Network+ serves as a foundation credential that opens doors to networking career paths. While not the highest-paying certification, it provides essential credibility for entry-level positions.
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks, ensuring optimal performance and security.
Network Support Specialist
SOC 15-1231Provide technical support for network issues, troubleshoot connectivity problems.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational networks from security threats and vulnerabilities.
IT Support Specialist
SOC 15-1232Provide technical assistance and support for computer systems and networks.
| Entry Level (0-2 years) | $52,000 | $45,000 | +$7,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $68,000 | $58,000 | +$10,000 |
| Senior Level (6+ years) | $84,000 | $74,000 | +$10,000 |
Prerequisites and Experience Requirements
While CompTIA Network+ has no formal prerequisites, success requires foundational IT knowledge. Most candidates benefit from basic computer skills and some exposure to networking concepts.
- Recommended: 9-12 months of networking experience or CompTIA A+ certification
- Computer basics: Understanding of operating systems, file systems, and basic troubleshooting
- Math skills: Comfortable with binary, hexadecimal, and subnetting calculations
- No degree required: Many professionals use Network+ to enter IT without formal education
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Source: CompTIA
Network+ vs Other Networking Certifications
Understanding how Network+ compares to other networking certifications helps determine the right path for your career goals and current experience level.
| Certification | Level | Cost | Vendor | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Network+ | Entry | $370 | Vendor-neutral | Foundation knowledge |
| Cisco CCNA | Intermediate | $300 | Cisco | Cisco-focused careers |
| CompTIA Security+ | Entry | $370 | Vendor-neutral | Security specialization |
| Juniper JNCIA | Entry | $200 | Juniper | Juniper environments |
Choose Network+ if...
- You have limited networking experience (under 1 year)
- You want vendor-neutral foundational knowledge
- You're considering multiple networking career paths
- You need DoD 8570 compliance for government work
- You have 1+ years of networking experience
- Your workplace is primarily Cisco equipment
- You want to specialize in routing and switching
- You can invest 3-6 months in more advanced study
- You're more interested in cybersecurity than networking
- You want to become a [cybersecurity analyst](/careers/cybersecurity-analyst-salary/)
- You need DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification
- You already understand basic networking
Study Timeline and Tips
Most candidates need 2-3 months of part-time study (10-15 hours per week) to pass Network+. Timeline varies significantly based on prior experience and study intensity.
| Background | Study Time | Timeline | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete beginner | 120-150 hours | 3-4 months | All domains equally, heavy lab practice |
| A+ certified | 80-100 hours | 2-3 months | Networking protocols, troubleshooting |
| 1+ year experience | 60-80 hours | 1.5-2 months | Exam-specific topics, practice tests |
| IT degree holder | 40-60 hours | 1-1.5 months | Practical application, simulations |
- Subnetting mastery: Practice until you can subnet in your head—it appears in multiple domains
- Hands-on labs: Set up virtual networks using Packet Tracer or GNS3 for practical experience
- Troubleshooting methodology: Memorize the 7-step process—it's heavily tested
- Practice exams: Take multiple practice tests to identify knowledge gaps and improve timing
Renewal Requirements
CompTIA Network+ certification expires after 3 years. You can maintain your certification through continuing education units (CEUs) or by retaking the current exam.
- CEU requirements: 50 CEUs over 3 years to maintain certification
- CEU sources: Training courses, industry events, volunteer work, authoring content
- Higher-level certs: Earning advanced certifications like CCNA automatically renews Network+
- Retake option: Take the current Network+ exam instead of earning CEUs
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CompTIA Network+ FAQ
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.