Exam Comparison
CompTIA A+ vs Network+
Comparing the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009). Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the CompTIA & Cisco Exam Prep: A+, Network+, CCNA & More app.
The Bottom Line
A+ is the on-ramp for people new to IT; Network+ is the next rung and the better target if you already have help-desk experience. Complete beginners should start with A+, experienced desktop techs can skip straight to Network+.
CompTIA A+ vs Network+: At a Glance
| Detail | CompTIA A+ | Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) | CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) |
| Governing Body | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Number of Questions | 90 | 90 |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 675/900 | 720/900 |
| Exam Fee | $246 USD | $358 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | CompTIA & Cisco Exam Prep: A+, Network+, CCNA & More Soon | CompTIA & Cisco Exam Prep: A+, Network+, CCNA & More Soon |
Content Areas Compared
CompTIA A+ Domains
- Mobile Devices(15%)
- Networking(20%)
- Hardware(25%)
- Virtualization and Cloud Computing(11%)
- Hardware and Network Troubleshooting(29%)
Network+ Domains
- Networking Concepts(23%)
- Network Implementation(20%)
- Network Operations(19%)
- Network Security(14%)
- Network Troubleshooting(24%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CompTIA A+ and Network+?
A+ is CompTIA’s IT-fundamentals certification (two exams: Core 1 and Core 2) covering hardware, operating systems, mobile devices, basic networking, security hygiene, and troubleshooting, the job description of help-desk and desktop support. Network+ goes deep on one layer of that: network architecture, IP addressing and subnetting, routing and switching concepts, wireless, and network troubleshooting. A+ is a breadth credential for landing a first IT job; Network+ is the specialization that moves you toward network and infrastructure roles.
Can I take both the CompTIA A+ and the Network+?
The classic CompTIA trio is A+ → Network+ → Security+, and doing all three is a coherent first-two-years plan for an IT career. But if budget or time forces a choice, Security+ beats Network+ in job-market value, many people do A+ then jump to Security+ and let Network+ go.
Which should I take first, CompTIA A+ or Network+?
No formal prerequisite exists, so decide by experience. Zero IT background: A+ first, Network+ assumes comfort with the basics A+ teaches. Already working support or comfortable building networks at home: skip A+ and take Network+ (or even go A+ → Security+ and pick up networking knowledge en route, a common path since Security+ carries more hiring weight than Network+).
Does C3RT cover both the CompTIA A+ and the Network+?
C3RT is building apps for both the CompTIA A+ and the Network+. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) (CompTIA A+) is administered by CompTIA. The CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) (Network+) is administered by CompTIA. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.