CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) is the leading vendor-neutral networking certification. It validates the ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks across any platform. Widely recognized for help desk and junior network roles, and a common prerequisite for security certifications.
Overview
Level
Associate
Vendor
CompTIA
Audience
IT support staff moving into networking, help desk technicians seeking a formal networking credential, and career changers who want a vendor-neutral foundation before specializing in Cisco, security, or cloud.
Why get Network+
Network+ is the most recognized vendor-neutral networking certification available. Unlike CCNA, which is Cisco-specific, Network+ knowledge applies across vendors—Cisco, Juniper, HP, Palo Alto, and cloud networking alike. It covers a broad foundation: network topologies, TCP/IP, routing and switching concepts, wireless, security, and troubleshooting methodology. For IT support professionals, it demonstrates competence beyond basic helpdesk skills. For career changers, it provides structured knowledge that accelerates understanding of any IT environment. It is also a natural prerequisite for CompTIA Security+ and other security certifications, as many of the concepts tested in security exams assume solid networking knowledge.
Salary expectations
Typical salary range
$55,000 – $80,000
Network+ holders in junior network technician and IT support roles typically earn $55K–$70K. With experience and additional certs (CCNA, Security+), salaries commonly reach $75K–$95K. The cert is frequently a stepping stone rather than a destination—the salary jump comes when it is paired with experience or higher certs.
When to get Network+
Get Network+ if you want a vendor-neutral networking credential that applies broadly across IT roles. It is often the right move before Security+ or before committing to a vendor-specific track like Cisco. If you already know you want Cisco networking specifically, CCNA may be the better direct path. Network+ and CCNA are not the same certification—Network+ is broader and shallower; CCNA is narrower and deeper. Many professionals hold both.
Exam details
Exam Quick Reference
- Exam Code
- N10-009
- Vendor
- CompTIA
- Level
- Associate
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Format
- Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions. Maximum 90 questions.
- Questions
- Up to 90 questions (CompTIA does not publish exact count)
Renewal: Network+ is valid for 3 years. Renew by earning 30 CEUs through CompTIA's Continuing Education program, or by passing a higher-level CompTIA exam before expiration.
Skills covered
Networking Concepts
- OSI and TCP/IP models in depth
- IP addressing and subnetting (IPv4 and IPv6)
- Common ports and protocols (DNS, DHCP, HTTP/S, FTP, SSH)
- Network topologies (star, mesh, bus, ring)
- Routing concepts and protocols (static routes, RIP, OSPF concepts)
Network Infrastructure
- Switching and VLANs
- Wireless standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax)
- WAN technologies and connectivity (MPLS, fiber, broadband)
- Network hardware: routers, switches, firewalls, access points
- Virtual networking and cloud network concepts
Network Operations
- Network monitoring tools and methodologies
- Log management and network documentation
- Change management and configuration management basics
- Backup, recovery, and high availability concepts
- Remote access technologies (VPN, RDP, SSH)
Network Security
- Common network attacks (DDoS, man-in-the-middle, spoofing)
- Firewalls, IDS/IPS, and DMZ configurations
- Network access control and port security
- Wireless security protocols (WPA2/WPA3)
- Physical security and network hardening
Network Troubleshooting
- Structured troubleshooting methodology
- Cabling and physical layer issues
- Wireless connectivity troubleshooting
- Network diagnostic tools (ping, traceroute, nslookup, netstat)
- Common routing and switching problems
Step-by-step study path
Follow this sequence. Hands-on lab time is not optional for Network+—performance-based questions require it.
- 1
Review the official exam objectives
Download the N10-009 exam objectives from CompTIA's website. The current version was updated to reflect modern networking realities including cloud and automation concepts. Map your existing knowledge against the objectives to identify where you need the most work.
- 2
Study networking fundamentals first
If IP addressing and the OSI model are not already solid, start there. Subnetting in particular needs to be reliable under exam pressure. Use free subnet calculators to check your work, but learn to do it manually—the exam includes questions where understanding the process matters.
- 3
Work through a full course
Professor Messer's free Network+ course covers every objective and is the go-to resource for most candidates. Mike Meyers' Udemy course is a strong paid alternative known for clear explanations and real-world context. Complete your chosen course before taking practice exams.
- 4
Build hands-on skills with a home lab or simulator
Network+ includes performance-based questions that require practical knowledge. Cisco Packet Tracer (free) or GNS3 let you practice configuring switches, setting up VLANs, and tracing connectivity issues. Even 30 minutes of hands-on time per study session significantly improves retention.
- 5
Take full-length practice exams
Professor Messer's practice exams and Jason Dion's Udemy practice tests are the most accurate available. Take your first practice exam after completing your course, identify weak domains, review those topics, then take additional exams until you are scoring 80%+ consistently.
- 6
Schedule and sit the exam
Book through Pearson VUE. Performance-based questions appear first—budget extra time for them and do not get stuck. If a PBQ is unclear, flag it and return after completing the multiple choice section. The exam is 90 minutes; time management matters.
Free resources
The most widely used free Network+ resource. Clear, objective-aligned, and updated for N10-009. A reliable study backbone for most candidates.
Download the official objectives PDF. This is the authoritative guide to what is and is not on the exam.
Free network simulation tool from Cisco. Requires a free Networking Academy account. Excellent for practicing subnetting, VLANs, and routing concepts.
Read recent exam pass posts for insight into what current candidates faced on test day.
Paid resources
The resources below are the most recommended by passing Network+ candidates. Udemy prices reflect typical sale pricing.
| Provider | Type | Price | Best for | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Udemy – Mike Meyers Network+ Course | Video Course | ~$15–$20 (on sale) | Candidates who want engaging instruction with real-world context woven throughout | |
| Professor Messer – N10-009 Practice Exams | Practice Exams | ~$30 | Candidates who want practice tests from the same source as their free study course | |
| Mike Meyers – CompTIA Network+ All-in-One Exam Guide (McGraw-Hill) | Book | ~$40–$55 | Candidates who prefer reading, or want a comprehensive written reference alongside video content |
Udemy – Mike Meyers Network+ Course
Video Course · ~$15–$20 (on sale)
Candidates who want engaging instruction with real-world context woven throughout
Mike Meyers is one of the most experienced CompTIA instructors. His courses are detailed and practical, not just exam-focused.
Professor Messer – N10-009 Practice Exams
Practice Exams · ~$30
Candidates who want practice tests from the same source as their free study course
Professor Messer's practice exams are closely aligned with the real exam style. Buy after completing the free course.
Mike Meyers – CompTIA Network+ All-in-One Exam Guide (McGraw-Hill)
Book · ~$40–$55
Candidates who prefer reading, or want a comprehensive written reference alongside video content
The All-in-One series is the most complete single-volume Network+ reference available. Detailed without being inaccessible.
* Some links above may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure →
Vouchers & exam cost
Frequently asked questions
Is Network+ harder than A+?
Yes, generally. Network+ goes deeper into networking concepts, requires more subnetting knowledge, and includes performance-based questions that require practical skill. A+ is broader across IT support topics but less depth per topic. Most candidates find Network+ the step up in rigor.
Should I get Network+ or CCNA?
Depends on your goal. If you want to work specifically in enterprise networking with Cisco equipment, CCNA is the stronger credential and goes deeper. If you want vendor-neutral knowledge or a stepping stone to security certifications, Network+ is the right choice. Many professionals hold both.
How long does it take to study for Network+?
Most candidates spend 6 to 10 weeks studying part-time. Candidates with existing networking or IT experience may be ready in 4 to 6 weeks. Those new to IT should plan for 8 to 12 weeks and invest time in hands-on practice, not just video watching.
What jobs does Network+ qualify me for?
Network Technician, IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Analyst (with networking focus), Junior Network Administrator, and NOC Technician roles frequently list Network+ as a requirement or strong preference. It also satisfies a baseline for many government IT roles.
Is Network+ enough to get a job in networking?
It helps significantly, but pairing it with hands-on experience—even a home lab—improves your odds considerably. The cert gets you through resume filters; the interview requires demonstrated competence. Network+ plus Cisco Packet Tracer lab work is a strong entry-level combination.
What is the passing score for Network+?
The passing score for N10-009 is 720 on a scale of 100 to 900. CompTIA uses scaled scoring.
Ready to study?
Start with Professor Messer's free course, lab in Packet Tracer, and use Professor Messer's or Jason Dion's practice exams before booking the real exam.