If you’re thinking about a career in IT security, you might have seen the Network+ and Security+ certifications. These certifications don’t need any prior knowledge, but getting the Network+ one first can be good. It sets a solid base for your career in networking or shows your skills in the field.
The Network+ certification gives you a deep understanding of networking and its technologies. It covers important topics like network setup, devices, management, and security1. The Security+ certification, however, focuses on IT security. It’s often needed or wanted by employers for cybersecurity jobs. It includes topics like network security, compliance, and how to manage threats1.
You can take either exam without the other one first, but the Security+ certification is very important. About 90% of job ads for security advisors on GlassDoor want the Security+ certification2. CompTIA also suggests getting the Network+ certification before Security+ because the knowledge in Network+ is key for Security+2.
Employers often look for the Network+ certification, especially in systems administration2. The Security+ certification is also well-known and respected in IT. It can lead to jobs in cybersecurity and is a step towards more advanced certifications like CISSP or CEH1.
Whether to get the Network+ certification before the Security+ one depends on your goals and situation. If networking is your focus or you want a strong base in the field, start with Network+. But if you aim for a cybersecurity career and want key IT security skills, start with Security+1.
Key Takeaways:
The Network+ and Security+ certifications don’t need any prior knowledge, but getting Network+ first can be good for some careers.
Network+ gives a solid base in networking, while Security+ focuses on IT security.
Most job ads for security advisors prefer the Security+ certification.
Network+ is highly valued in systems administration, and Security+ is respected in IT.
Choosing which certification to get first depends on your goals, background, and career plans.
The Network+ certification is a big deal in the IT world. It gives IT pros the key skills they need for networking, setting up networks, and keeping them safe. It’s a key step for those wanting to move up in their networking careers.
Getting the Network+ certification means you know how to work with networking gear, follow protocols, and keep networks running smoothly. You’ll learn about setting up devices, keeping networks secure, fixing problems, and understanding how networks are structured. With this certification, you’re ready to handle all the tasks needed to keep a network running well.
Stats from QuickStart show that 99% of learners loved the CompTIA Network+ N10-007 course. This proves it’s a top choice for IT pros3. Employers really value this certification, seeing it as proof of a pro’s skills and knowledge.
According to MyComputerCareer, some folks like to get Network+ certified before going for A+ certification4. It makes sense, as you’re building your skills from the ground up, ready for more complex IT challenges.
The computer and IT sector in the U.S. is expected to grow by about 11% from 2019 to 2029, adding around half a million new jobs5. This means more jobs for IT pros with special skills, like networking. The Network+ certification is in high demand, making you a strong candidate for these roles.
Network+ Exam Information
Details
Number of Questions
Maximum of 90 questions
Question Types
Multiple-choice questions, performance-based questions, and drag-and-drop questions
Passing Score
720 out of 900
Languages
Available in English, German, Japanese, Spanish, and Portuguese
Prerequisites
CompTIA recommends 9 to 12 months of networking experience and CompTIA A+ credentials
Retake Policy
Immediate retakes allowed between the first and second attempts, followed by a mandatory fourteen-day waiting period between subsequent attempts. Each retake requires payment of the full exam price.
Getting the Network+ certification boosts your skills in networking and opens doors for new career paths. You can aim for jobs like Computer Technician, IS Consultant, Network Analyst, or System Engineer, among others.
Even without a degree in computer science, CompTIA certifications like Network+ are highly valued by employers. They see these certifications as proof of your skills and knowledge in the IT field.
“Obtaining the Network+ certification equips IT professionals with essential knowledge and skills in networking concepts, network infrastructure, and network security.” – QuickStart3
The IT industry is growing fast, and there’s a big need for IT pros with networking skills. Getting the Network+ certification can really change your career path. It gives you a solid base in networking and can lead to more advanced certifications and career growth.
Exploring Security+ Certification
The Security+ certification is key for IT professionals wanting to grow in IT security and network security. It covers important security topics and skills. This makes it a great choice for those wanting to prove their cybersecurity skills.
Exam Overview
The Security+ exam, with the code SY0-601, has 90 questions to answer in 90 minutes. It includes different types of questions, focusing on real-world applications. You need to score 750 out of 9006 to pass.
Recommended Prerequisites and Study Material
CompTIA suggests having at least 2 years of IT experience and A+ and Networking+ certifications before the exam7. “Get Certified Get Ahead” by Darril Gibson is a good study guide, taking about 2 weeks to finish7. Try to spend some time each day reading from it7.
Additional Study Resources and Strategies
Professor Messer’s Security+ YouTube series is another useful resource, with short videos that match the exam topics7. Make sure to know your acronyms and avoid guessing on the exam7. Save the performance-based questions for last to manage your time well7.
Practicing with different questions helps reduce exam stress and prepares you better7. Good reading skills are important for understanding questions and managing your time7. Aim to learn deeply, not just pass the exam7. Keep a study plan by taking breaks and setting goals7.
Key Benefits and Career Prospects
Getting the Security+ certification shows you know your stuff in IT security and network security. It also opens doors to good cybersecurity roles. The demand for cybersecurity jobs is high, with over 660,000 openings in the US from May 2022 to April 20238.
Employers, including government and big companies, value CompTIA certifications in cybersecurity8. This certification can lead to higher salaries. In the US, you can earn an average of:
LinkedIn shows there are many job ads for Security+ certification in the US, with 795,850 listings6. This shows the many job chances for those with this certification in cybersecurity.
Considerations for Obtaining Both Certifications
When deciding whether to get the Network+ certification before the Security+ certification, think about several factors. This can help you make a smart choice.
Building a Solid Foundation
If you’re new to networking and want to work in IT security, start with the Network+ certification. It gives you a strong base in networking. This knowledge is key when studying for the Security+ exam.
Understanding networking protocols and infrastructure helps you grasp security principles better. This knowledge boosts your performance on the Security+ exam. It also prepares you for IT security roles910.
Expanding Career Opportunities
Having both certifications opens more doors in IT security. Network+ prepares you for roles like Network Administrator and Technician. Security+ lets you aim for jobs like Security Administrator and Consultant.
In a tough job market, these certifications show you know a lot about networking and security. This makes you stand out to employers9108.
Career Advancement
Getting both certifications can really help your career grow. They show you’re serious about learning and improving. The Network+ certification lays a solid networking foundation.
Then, getting the Security+ certification proves your cybersecurity skills. This puts you in line for roles with more responsibility and better pay910.
But, whether to get the Network+ certification first depends on your goals and situation. If networking isn’t your main focus, you might want to start with Security+10.
Certifications are great for career growth, but they’re not everything. Experience, ongoing learning, and a love for IT security matter a lot too9108.
Career Paths and Certification Choices
Choosing the right certifications is key to growing your career in cybersecurity. Network+ and Security+ are two top certifications to consider. Think about your career goals and the roles you want when deciding which to get first.
Starting in IT? Go for Network+ first. It gives you a broad knowledge of networking. This knowledge is crucial for cybersecurity. Plus, it opens doors in network administration and support, giving you hands-on experience towards a cybersecurity career11.
If you’re already into networking or cybersecurity, start with Security+. It prepares you for roles like security analyst or engineer. It helps you spot and fix security risks, making you a valuable asset in the field11.
Some jobs need the Security+ certification. So, check the requirements for your dream job. Security+ is best for those with IT experience, especially in security. It’s perfect for those aiming for specific cybersecurity roles11.
Both certifications are computer tests by Pearson VUE. Network+ has 90 questions, Security+ has 90 plus one simulation. These certifications are well-known and boost your career in cybersecurity11.
Getting Network+ first builds a strong networking base. It’s key for many IT security jobs. Plus, it leads to more certifications like Cisco CCNA, broadening your career options11.
But think about your career goals and your current knowledge in networking and cybersecurity. If you’re already strong in these areas, start with Security+ to deepen your cybersecurity skills and job prospects11.
Career Path and Certification Comparison
Certification
Required Experience
Job Opportunities
Network+
At least 9 months IT job related to networking tasks*
Various industries including healthcare, finance, and government
CompTIA’s Network+ and Security+ are top certifications in IT. They prove your skills and open more career doors. Getting both certifications gives you a broad IT knowledge, making you more flexible in your career. They also lead to advanced certifications in Cybersecurity and Infrastructure, letting you specialize further12.
CompTIA doesn’t say which certification to get first. You can choose based on your goals and career path. But, think about your current knowledge and experience to pick the best sequence for your career growth12.
The demand for certified IT pros in network security is rising fast, thanks to more cyber-attacks. Getting certifications like Network+ and Security+ keeps you competitive. It ensures you can protect organizations from security risks1213.
Benefits of Obtaining Network+ Before Security+ Certification
Getting the Network+ certification before Security+ can really help those wanting to make it big in cybersecurity. It gives you a deep understanding of networking and covers important topics like network setup and security1.
Starting with Network+ builds a strong networking base. This is key for tackling cybersecurity issues1. It shows you know how to manage and secure networks, making you a great fit for IT security teams. Adding IT security skills to your networking knowledge makes you stand out in the job market1.
Also, having Network+ before Security+ shows you’re serious about learning and growing in your career. This can really make your resume shine and help you move up in the cybersecurity world1.
If you’re new to networking, getting Network+ first is a smart move1. It lays a solid foundation in networking. This means you’re ready to tackle IT security challenges when you go for Security+ certification1.
Think about how much time and effort you have before choosing to get both certifications. Passing exams for Network+ and Security+ takes a lot of work. You need to be honest with yourself about what you can handle1.
Choosing between Network+ or Security+ first depends on what you want to achieve in your career. Both certifications have their own perks and open different doors in the IT world. Think about what’s best for you before making a choice1.
Considering Security+ Before Network+ Certification
Getting the Network+ certification before the Security+ one has its perks. Yet, sometimes, starting with the Security+ certification makes more sense.
If you’re already familiar with networking and cybersecurity, Security+ could be your first step2. Some IT security roles need the Security+ certification. Getting it first can help you qualify for those jobs2. Think about what you want to achieve, what interests you, and the job needs when choosing which to get first.
Individualized Decision-Making
Choosing whether to get the Network+ or Security+ certification first depends on your goals and situation. Think about what you want to achieve in your career, your current knowledge, and the job roles you’re interested in. This will help you decide which certification to start with.
If you’re new to IT and want a strong networking foundation, start with Network+. It covers a wide range of networking topics and is useful across different vendors and settings14. It prepares you for jobs like Network Administrator or Help Desk Technician14. Getting Network+ first gives you a solid base for growing your career in cybersecurity14.
But, if you’re already into networking or really want to focus on cybersecurity, go for Security+ first. This certification is all about security, including network security and cryptography10. It can lead to jobs like security analyst or consultant10. It’s also a good step towards more advanced certifications like CompTIA CySA+10.
Think about what you want from your career, your experience, and how much time you can dedicate to each certification. Consider the Network+ might not cover as many advanced topics and cybersecurity changes often, so you might need to update your certifications14. Make a choice that fits your needs and goals for a successful career in cybersecurity or networking.
The Value of CompTIA Certifications in Cybersecurity
CompTIA certifications are very important in cybersecurity. With more data breaches, there’s a big need for skilled cybersecurity pros. The Splunk report says data breaches are happening a lot, making cybersecurity a top priority. CompTIA certifications are known and respected by employers, from government to big companies. They show you have the basic skills needed in cybersecurity and help you stand out in a crowded job market.
The State of Cybersecurity 2024 report by CompTIA shows there were over 660,000 cybersecurity jobs in the US from May 2022 to April 2023. This shows how big and important the field is getting. Cybersecurity jobs are expected to grow by 35% in the next decade, which is faster than other fields15. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts over 56,000 new cybersecurity jobs by 203115.
CompTIA has many certifications for IT pros wanting to get into or move up in cybersecurity. The CompTIA A+ certification is great for those new to IT and wanting a cybersecurity career. You should have 9 to 12 months of real-world experience or similar training15. This certification covers a lot, like hardware, networking, and security, giving you a solid base of knowledge.
The CompTIA Security+ certification is also a big deal. It’s for IT pros with at least two years of experience, focusing on security15. This exam tests your knowledge in areas like threats, identity management, and cryptography, giving you a broad view of cybersecurity.
CompTIA certifications open up many job doors in cybersecurity. There are over 55,000 job openings in the US for “CompTIA Security+” on LinkedIn16. This shows how much employers want people with this certification. Plus, those with the CompTIA Security+ credential make an average of $84,000 a year16.
To keep your CompTIA certifications valid, you need to renew them. For example, CompTIA Security+ needs renewing every three years. You must earn 50 CEUs and submit them to renew16. Doing certain activities, like getting the CySA+ certification, can also give you 50 CEUs and renew your Security+ certification16.
Overall, CompTIA certifications are key in the cybersecurity world. They give you the knowledge and skills you need, prove your expertise, and boost your job chances in a growing field. With the high demand for cybersecurity pros and the value of CompTIA certifications, getting these certifications can lead to great career opportunities.
Conclusion
Choosing whether to get the Network+ or Security+ certification depends on your goals and current knowledge. Each certification has its own benefits and things to consider. The choice should match what you aim to do in your cybersecurity career.
The Network+ certification is great for those wanting to be network administrators. It teaches you about networking hardware, how to set it up, and fix issues17. The Security+ certification is for cybersecurity pros. It covers how to stop threats, use cryptography, and secure networks17.
Getting both certifications can boost your career in cybersecurity. They show you know a lot about networking and IT security18. This can lead to better jobs and higher pay. For instance, Security+ certified people often make more than those with just Network+18. Jobs like Security Systems Engineer can pay around $88,93218.
Think about what you need for your career when deciding which certification to get first. Network+ is for beginners, while Security+ is more advanced and focuses on securing networks18. Having Network+ knowledge can help with Security+ later17. Make your choice based on your own goals, interests, and where you want to go in your career.
FAQ
Are there any prerequisites for the Network+ and Security+ certifications?
No, you don’t need any prior knowledge to start. You can take either exam right away.
What are the benefits of obtaining the Network+ certification before pursuing the Security+ certification?
Getting the Network+ certification shows you know about networking. It’s great for IT pros wanting to move up or show off their skills.
What does the Network+ certification cover?
The Network+ certification teaches you about network setup, different network types, devices, managing networks, and keeping them secure.
What is the purpose of the Security+ certification?
The Security+ certification is all about IT security. It’s often needed or wanted by employers for cybersecurity jobs.
What topics are covered in the Security+ certification?
Security+ covers network security, following rules, keeping operations secure, spotting threats, controlling access, managing identities, and using cryptography.
Is it necessary to obtain the Network+ certification before pursuing the Security+ certification?
No, you don’t have to get Network+ first. It depends on what you want to achieve in your career and your situation.
Should I obtain the Network+ certification before pursuing a career in IT security?
It’s up to you. If you’re new to networking and want to work in IT security, Network+ can give you a solid networking base. This will help when you study for the Security+ exam.
What are the benefits of obtaining both the Network+ and Security+ certifications?
Having both certifications makes you stand out when applying for IT security jobs. It can boost your career in the field.
Should I pursue the Security+ certification if I already have a strong background in networking?
Yes, going for Security+ first is smart if you know a lot about networking or are really into cybersecurity.
What value do CompTIA certifications hold in the field of cybersecurity?
CompTIA certifications are well-known and respected. They prove you have the basic skills and knowledge needed in cybersecurity. This can make you more attractive to employers in a tough job market.
How can I make an informed decision about which certification to pursue?
Think about what you want to achieve in your career, what you already know, and the cybersecurity jobs you’re looking at. Look into the benefits and things to consider for both Network+ and Security+ before deciding.
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