CompTIA A+ vs Network+: Which IT Cert to Get First?
CompTIA A+ vs Network+ — compare entry-level IT certifications. Which one to pursue first based on your career goals and experience.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | CompTIA A+ (220-1101/1102) | CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Code | N/A | N10-009 |
| Vendor | N/A | N/A |
| Questions | N/A | N/A |
| Duration | N/A | N/A |
| Passing Score | N/A | N/A |
| Exam Cost | N/A | N/A |
| Avg Prep Time | N/A | N/A |
| Pass Rate (CertlyAI) | N/A | N/A |
| Avg Salary | N/A | N/A |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose CompTIA A+ (220-1101/1102) if:
- •You work primarily with this technologies
- •Your employer uses or plans to adopt this platform
- •You want to specialize in this ecosystem
Choose CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) if:
- •You work primarily with this technologies
- •Your employer uses or plans to adopt this platform
- •You want to specialize in this ecosystem
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is harder, CompTIA A+ (220-1101/1102) or CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)?▾
Difficulty depends on your background. CompTIA A+ (220-1101/1102) focuses on its ecosystem, while CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) covers its platform. Both require dedicated study — typically 30-30 days of preparation.
Can I get both CompTIA A+ (220-1101/1102) and CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)?▾
Absolutely. Many professionals hold multiple cloud or industry certifications. Having both demonstrates broader expertise and can increase your marketability. Start with the one most relevant to your current role, then pursue the other.
Which certification pays more?▾
Salary varies by region, experience, and role. On CertlyAI, CompTIA A+ (220-1101/1102) holders report an average salary of N/A while CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) holders report N/A. Your actual compensation depends on many factors beyond certification.
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