CompTIA A+ vs CompTIA Network+

Updated: 2025-04-10 Methodology

CompTIA A+ vs Network+: two foundational IT certifications that launch tech careers. A+ focuses on hardware, troubleshooting, and end-user support, while Network+ covers networking infrastructure and protocols. Understanding the difference helps you pick the right starting point.

$75K
CompTIA A+
$82K
CompTIA Network+

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature CompTIA A+CompTIA Network+
Provider CompTIACompTIA
Level EntryEntry
Exam Cost $358$358
Avg Salary $75,000$82,000
Pass Rate 80%78%
Study Hours 120h100h
Difficulty 4/105/10
Job Listings 45.0K32.0K

Our Verdict

A+ is the better starting point if you want a help desk, desktop support, or field technician role — it has more job listings (45K vs 32K) and a slightly higher pass rate (80%). Network+ is the stronger choice if you already have basic IT skills and want to move into network administration, cloud support, or cybersecurity. Both cost the same at $358, but Network+ leads to a higher average salary ($82K vs $75K). Many IT professionals earn A+ first, then add Network+ within a year.

Choose CompTIA A+ if you...

  • Prefer a more accessible exam (80% pass rate)
  • Want broader job market demand (45.0K listings)
  • Prefer a less challenging exam path (4/10 difficulty)
  • Focus on CompTIA ecosystem and entry-level roles

Choose CompTIA Network+ if you...

  • Want higher earning potential ($82K vs $75K avg)
  • Have limited study time (~100h vs ~120h)
  • Focus on CompTIA ecosystem and entry-level roles

Deep Dive Into Each Certification

CompTIA A+

CompTIA · Entry · $75K avg

CompTIA Network+

CompTIA · Entry · $82K avg

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I get A+ or Network+ first?
Most career paths benefit from getting A+ first. It covers foundational hardware, OS, and troubleshooting skills that make Network+ material easier to absorb. However, if you already work in IT support and understand basic computing concepts, skipping straight to Network+ is a viable shortcut.
Is CompTIA Network+ harder than A+?
Yes, Network+ is moderately harder. It has a lower pass rate (78% vs 80%) and a higher difficulty rating. Network+ requires understanding subnetting, routing protocols, and network security concepts that go beyond what A+ covers. That said, it requires fewer study hours (100 vs 120) because the scope is more focused.

Related Career Paths

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Data Sources

  • Salary data — Aggregated from job postings and salary surveys (US median)
  • Job listings — Active postings across major job boards
  • Pass rates — Community-reported estimates