CompTIA A+ vs. Network+ (Which Is Right for You?)

Key takeaways

The CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ certifications offer entry-level options to validate your IT skills.

• CompTIA A+ requires taking two separate exams covering subjects such as operating systems, virtualization, networking, and troubleshooting for entry-level positions. 

• CompTIA Network+ is also entry-level but focuses on wireless and wired networking, preparing you for networking-intensive positions. 

• You can begin by earning the CompTIA A+ certification and choose to specialize in networking by earning the Network+ certification after gaining experience in IT. 

Learn more about these two certifications and how they compare so you can determine which one is right for you. If you're ready to start building key skills in information technology, try the Information​ ​Systems Specialization from the University of Minnesota. In just four weeks, explore how IT infrastructure supports business strategy, and what it takes to build those systems. 

What is CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ is an information technology certification that you can earn to validate your skills in several key areas. To earn a CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two separate exams, covering nine core subjects. These subjects are: 

• Operating systems 

• Mobile devices 

• Virtualization and cloud computing 

• Networking 

• Hardware

• Operational procedures 

• Security 

• Software troubleshooting 

• Device troubleshooting 

To take the CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 certification exams, you will need to purchase an exam voucher, which costs $274 per exam [1]. You can also purchase live online training courses or a prep bundle through CompTIA to help you prepare for the exams.

Who needs CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ is for those seeking an entry-level position in IT. If you are new to information technology and searching for a certification for your resume, CompTIA A+ should be at the top of your list, as you will regularly find it included in job listings as a recommended or even required certification.

Benefits of earning CompTIA A+

Developed by industry professionals and regularly updated, the CompTIA A+ certification helps you get ready for an information technology career with relevant skills and knowledge. Considering how common hybrid work is today, the most recent iteration features new additions such as cloud virtualization, how to remotely diagnose problems, and how to utilize software as a service (SaaS) applications. In addition to helping you qualify for an entry-level role, CompTIA A+ is also beneficial if you’re already working in information technology and looking to progress in your career. 

What jobs can I apply for with a CompTIA A+ certification?

A CompTIA A+ certification can present you with numerous career opportunities in IT, from help desk positions to systems administrator roles. Some companies requiring or recommending this credential include HP, Canon, Dell, Wells Fargo, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Nissan, Verizon, and many more. Here’s a list of job titles you can pursue after earning a CompTIA A+ certification and their median total pay:

• Help desk technician: $64,000

• Technical support specialist: $72,000

• Field technician: $58,000

• Service desk analyst: $59,000

• Junior systems administrator: $101,000

• Business analyst: $107,000

• IT specialist: $99,000

• IT support manager: $115,000

*All salary information represents the median total pay from Glassdoor as of May 2026. These figures include base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation.

What is CompTIA Network+?

CompTIA Network+ is an information technology certification for wireless and wired networking, helping you advance to a career supporting any IT infrastructure network. Although this is an entry-level certification, CompTIA recommends obtaining nine to 12 months of networking experience before taking the exam. Earning this certification requires you to pass just one exam, costing $399 [2]. You can also purchase live online training and a study guide to study for the CompTIA Network+ exam.

To complete the exam, you will need to successfully answer multiple-choice and performance-based questions about network documentation, deploying wireless and wired devices, network hardening techniques, troubleshooting network infrastructure, and several other networking concepts.

Read more: The CompTIA Certification Path Explained

Who needs CompTIA Network+?

CompTIA Network+ is for those looking to specialize in an IT career involving networking. While CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ are both entry-level certifications, if you plan on pursuing a networking position, you can gain more advanced knowledge of networking concepts with CompTIA Network+. This certification helps prepare you for a future working on any platform, regardless of the vendor.

Benefits of earning CompTIA Network+

By taking the CompTIA Network+ exam and earning your certification, you can showcase your skills relating to various networking topics. CompTIA Network+ is unique because it’s the only certification covering both wired and wireless networks. With this credential, you can stand out among other applicants, demonstrate commitment to a career in networking, and qualify for roles where the CompTIA Network+ certification is required.

What jobs can I apply for with CompTIA Network+?

The CompTIA Network+ certification is in high demand by employers, opening up opportunities for you to pursue many different networking job positions with a wide range of companies. Some companies hiring CompTIA Network+ certified professionals include Verizon, Apple, Rioch, Intel, and the United States Department of Defense. The following are positions you could qualify for with the CompTIA Network+ certification, along with their average annual salaries:

• Data center technician: $68,000

• Network administrator: $100,000

• IT support manager: $115,000

• Systems administrator: $114,000

• Systems engineer: $151,000

• Network analyst: $110,000

• Computer technician: $57,000

• Network support specialist: $92,000

*All salary information represents the median total pay from Glassdoor as of May 2026. These figures include base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation.

CompTIA A+ vs. Network+: How to choose

CompTIA A+ and Network+ are excellent choices for you to take the next step toward an entry-level role in information technology. CompTIA A+ covers a wide range of material relating to different areas of IT, while CompTIA Network+ is more specialized, focusing on networking concepts. If you know you want to work in IT but aren’t quite sure where yet, CompTIA A+ is a great choice since it helps you build skills for an entry-level position in many different areas. If you have some experience in networking and want to pursue it further, go with CompTIA Network+. You can also begin with the CompTIA A+ certification and earn the CompTIA Network+.

Explore our free resources for IT professionals

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• Build new skills: Linux Learning Roadmap: From Beginner to Expert

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