Why Earn Your CompTIA Network+ Certification?
Information technology careers are on the rise and expected to experience strong growth in the coming years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts some sectors may see an impressive 22% increase from 2020-2030, illustrating a surge for IT professionals into tomorrow’s workforce.
It’s no secret that networking is essential for IT professionals, but why should you take the extra step to get CompTIA Network+ certified?
Not only can achieving this certification set you ahead of other job seekers, but it will also give you the tools needed to excel in more specialized administrative tech roles—in the form of knowledge and credentials.
To obtain your CompTIA Network+ Certification, you must pass the CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam.
What is the CompTIA Network+ Exam?
The CompTIA Network+ Exam is a 90-minute vendor-neutral certification exam that tests the skills of professionals seeking expertise in networking infrastructure. It demonstrates an individual’s ability to expertly implement, manage and maintain network solutions to protect networks from potential threats through industry-standard techniques.
The certification is globally recognized and covers a wide range of topics related to:
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Deploying wired and wireless devices
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Maintain network documentation
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Navigate network services, data centers, clouds, and virtual networking concepts
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Manage and troubleshoot performance and activity issues
CompTIA Network+ Exam Prerequisites
While there are no formal prerequisites for the exam, CompTIA has issued guidelines for recommended experience. They suggest the ideal candidate:
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Has acquired 9 to 12 months of working experience in a junior network administrator or network support technician job role
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Already possesses their CompTIA A+ certification (covers hardware and software basics, plus security protocols for operation0.
Regardless of whether you’ve already obtained this certification, before pursuing your Network+ certification, you should have a foundational understanding of the following concepts before pursuing Network+:
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Basic network functions like Ethernet and TCP/IP protocols
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Familiarity managing users, groups, and shared resources on simple SOHO networks
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Knowledge about access control measures such as authentication security policy encryption along with firewalls
CompTIA Network+ Exam Cost
The CompTIA Network+ certification exam requires you to purchase an exam voucher for $338 at the online CompTIA Store.
You have 12 months to take your exam before the voucher expires, so time your purchase with care.
MedCerts students don’t have to pay this voucher fee, as their tuition already covers it.
If you fail the exam, it’s not the end of the world—but it will require you to purchase a new voucher when you choose to retake the test. To save money and increase your chances of passing the exam on the first try, candidates must take a Network+ exam preparation course.
CompTIA Network+ Exam Overview
Candidates taking the exam can expect a maximum of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions. Performance Based Questions (PBQs) are presented as simulations that mimic real-world settings and tasks (if unsure how best to tackle such problems, you can move on to your next question and return to it).
A score of 720 on their 100 – 900 point scale must be achieved for candidates to pass the exam. The test is available online or at Pearson VUE centers, with an allotted time frame of 90 minutes to complete it.
What’s on the CompTIA Network+ Exam?
There are five core domains of knowledge on the exam, each with distinctive knowledge objectives.
Domain #1 – Networking Fundamentals (24%)
Networking Fundamentals covers the core concepts of computer networking, including network services, physical connections, topologies, and architecture. It also requires understanding cloud connectivity and configuring networks for secure performance.
Some example knowledge objectives include:
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Compare and contrast the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model layers and encapsulation concepts.
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Explain the characteristics of network topologies and network types.
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Summarize the types of cables and connectors and explain which is the appropriate type for a solution.
Domain #2 – Network Implementations (19%)
Network Implementation requires an understanding of routing technologies and networking devices, as well as deploying ethernet solutions and configuring wireless technologies. This domain is essential for IT professionals seeking insight into installing and managing computer networks in an organization.
Some example knowledge objectives include:
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Compare and contrast various devices, their features, and their appropriate placement on the network.
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Compare and contrast routing technologies and bandwidth management concepts.
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Given a scenario, configure and deploy standard Ethernet switching features.
Domain #3 – Network Operations (16%)
Network Operations focuses on your ability to monitor and optimize networks to ensure continuity. In addition, it highlights the operational side of network troubleshooting, such as diagnosing and resolving performance issues, understanding the different levels of network architecture, and ensuring that the overall health of a network remains intact.
Some example knowledge objectives include:
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Use the appropriate statistics and sensors to ensure network availability in a scenario.
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Explain the purpose of organizational documents and policies.
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Explain high availability and disaster recovery concepts and summarize the best solution.
Domain #4 – Network Security (19%)
Network Security expects IT professionals to be knowledgeable in security concepts and network attacks to harden networks against threats. Understanding secure protocols and setting up firewalls are also required in this domain.
Some example knowledge objectives include:
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Explain common security concepts.
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Compare and contrast common types of attacks.
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Given a scenario, apply network hardening techniques.
Domain #5 – Network Troubleshooting (22%)
Network Troubleshooting focuses on troubleshooting common cable, connectivity, and software issues related to networking. It requires a thorough understanding of how networks are set up and configured to identify and solve problems effectively.
Some example knowledge objectives include:
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Explain the network troubleshooting methodology
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Given a scenario, troubleshoot common cable connectivity issues and select the appropriate tools.
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Given a scenario, use the appropriate network software tools and commands.
Network+ (N10-008) Acronym List
The official CompTIA Network+ exam objectives guide also provides a working knowledge of acronyms as part of its comprehensive exam preparation program. Review the complete list of acronyms to fully prepare for the exam. Some of these acronyms include:
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CRC Cyclic Redundancy Check
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DDoS Distributed Denial-of-Service
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FHRP First Hop Redundancy Protocol
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IBSS Independent Basic Server
How to Register For the CompTIA Network+ Exam
To register for the CompTIA Network+ Exam, follow these steps:
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Create an account: Create an account on the CompTIA website by providing your personal and contact information.
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Purchase an exam voucher: You can purchase an exam voucher on the CompTIA website or through authorized training centers. Vouchers can also be purchased as part of a certification bundle.
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Schedule the exam: Once you have purchased the voucher, log in to your account on the Pearson VUE website and schedule the exam. Select the date, time, and online option or testing center that’s most convenient for you.
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Take the exam: Log in or arrive at the testing center on time on exam day. Be sure to bring two forms of identification that include your name, photo, and signature. You will receive your results immediately upon completing the exam.
Renewing Your Certification
When it comes time to renew, an array of activities and training programs are available to help you do so. You could retake the exam every three years.
Alternatively, you can complete CertMaster CE or gain 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within three years and upload them onto your account for automatic renewal.
Preparation: Online CompTIA Network+ Certification Course
MedCerts Online CompTIA Network+ Certification Course is your gateway to a successful career in the IT field. This comprehensive, 100% online program will equip you with the networking skills needed for success on the CompTIA Network+ Exam.
With interactive video lessons from expert instructors packed with real-world insights into networking concepts and technologies as well practice tests, exam simulations, and study guides, you’ll have everything required to confidently pass the certification exam.
All you need to get started is your high school diploma or GED, plus access to the internet via an up-to-date web browser. Then, once registration and payment have been completed, prepare yourself for success as you set off toward your next certification.
CompTIA Network+ Certification FAQs
Is CompTIA Network+ hard?
It’s not considered a difficult exam. However, it’s important to thoroughly review the curriculum, take practice tests and simulations, and become familiar with the questions on the exam. With enough preparation and studying time, passing the CompTIA Network+ certification exam is doable for most experienced IT professionals.
Network+ vs. CCNA: what’s the difference?
While both Network+ and CCNA offer valuable certification for IT professionals, they vary significantly—one being vendor-neutral (Network+) and the other focused on Cisco networks specifically (CCNA).
What jobs can you get with a CompTIA Network+ Certification?
A CompTIA Network+ certification can open up various job opportunities that involve installing and managing computer networks within an organization and troubleshooting problems with the network or its associated applications. Some potential jobs include:
Don’t Wait—Take the First Step Toward a Better IT Career
Start prepping for the test today and take the first step towards climbing the ladder of success as an IT professional with the CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam! Get ahead of the competition by exploring MedCerts Online CompTIA Network+ Certification Course today.
