CompTIA · Professional Certification · Foundational
CompTIA Network+
Crydd Score 82
Demand Stable
Career Value Strong
Recognition Strong
Network+ at a glance
- Provider
- CompTIA
- Credential type
- Professional Certification
- Exam required
- Yes
- Category
- Networking
- Level
- Foundational
- Cost
- $369
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Time to earn
- 1–3 months
- Validity
- 3 years (renewable via continuing education)
- Format
- Up to 90 questions, 90 minutes
- Prerequisites
- None required; A+ and 9–12 months of experience recommended
What is Network+?
A vendor-neutral networking certification covering network architecture, operations, security, and troubleshooting — the concepts that underpin every infrastructure and security role.
Skills it covers
- Network architecture
- IP addressing
- Troubleshooting
- Network security basics
Is Network+ worth it? The Crydd Verdict
CS 82Choose it if
You want networking fundamentals without committing to Cisco's ecosystem, or you're building the classic A+ → Network+ → Security+ progression.
Consider alternatives if
You're targeting network engineering roles specifically — CCNA is harder but carries noticeably more weight with network-focused employers.
Why we say so
A solid, respected fundamentals credential whose main competition is CCNA's stronger brand in dedicated networking careers.
Market demand
Networking fundamentals stay in steady demand as a prerequisite skill set for security, cloud, and infrastructure paths.
Where Network+ takes you
- Network Engineer
- Systems Administrator
- Cybersecurity Analyst
Career roadmaps show where this certification fits in each path. See the roadmaps.
Related certifications
Curated connections from the catalog — each labelled with how it relates to Network+, so you know why it’s here.
