Your #1 Network+ Study Guide: Exam, Career, And Salary Insights

CompTIA (short for the Computing Technology Industry Association) is a leading nonprofit organization that develops IT certifications and training standards widely respected across the industry. It plays a key role in setting benchmarks for technical proficiency, arming professionals with the right skills to support and secure today’s technology-driven environments.

When an organization hires someone with a CompTIA credential, whether they can do the job is no longer in question. The certification already confirms it. 

As a nonprofit, CompTIA focuses on strengthening the entire IT workforce. Its certifications — including A+, Network+, and Security+ — form a clear pathway from entry-level support to advanced cybersecurity and infrastructure management.

By maintaining these global standards, CompTIA helps both professionals and employers ensure consistent, reliable technical expertise in the modern workforce.

CompTIA Network+ certifies that you can implement and support reliable business networks in real-world environments. It goes beyond theory, instilling practical, hands-on skills to maintain the connections and systems that keep your organization running.

If you’re already supporting users or managing infrastructure, Network+ helps you move from reactive support to proactive network management. It bridges the gap between foundational IT knowledge and specialized certifications like Security+ or Cloud+.

In short, if uptime and connectivity are critical to your business, Network+ offers the technical depth to keep systems stable, secure, and scalable.

Every organization depends on reliable connectivity. When networks go down, operations stop and customers notice. Network+ gives you the skills to prevent that. It strengthens your knowledge across key areas — from IP addressing and routing to securing wireless and hybrid environments.

Employers recognize that this certification demonstrates the ability to diagnose issues fast and restore service without guesswork, confirming that you can keep systems online and aligned with business needs.

Because it’s vendor-neutral, your Network+ training applies no matter what mix of routers, firewalls, or cloud tools your organization uses. That makes it one of the most flexible and valuable entry-level credentials in IT today.

N10-009, the latest Network+ exam, reflects how modern IT teams actually operate. Expect questions on virtualization, software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN), automation, and zero-trust networking — the very technologies organizations now rely on to secure hybrid and distributed environments.

Building on the retired N10-008 version, the current exam places greater emphasis on network scalability and cloud readiness. If you’re preparing now, focus on how networks integrate across physical, virtual, and cloud platforms.

N10-009 keeps your certification aligned with today’s best practices rather than outdated hardware setups. Passing it signals that you’re ready to manage modern, connected, data-driven infrastructure with confidence.

If you already understand basic IT systems and want to strengthen your technical credibility, Network+ is the ideal next step. You can particularly benefit from earning this credential if you intend to move from support roles into more technical positions, especially those involving the configuration, maintenance, or security of business networks.

Network+ can also accelerate your career growth in cybersecurity. Promotions, higher pay, and bigger responsibilities are likely to open up. If you’re just getting your footing in the IT world, Network+ builds the credibility and confidence you need to land your first real networking role and start building momentum early.

Let’s take a look at which IT careers typically pursue the Network+ exam.

Other related roles include:

Network+ is not limited to one job function. It supports a wide range of IT professionals seeking technical growth. Whether you’re in user support, infrastructure management, or cybersecurity, this certification means you’re able to maintain stable and secure networks, positioning you for more advanced career opportunities.

Modern IT environments evolve faster than ever, shaped by cloud transformation, artificial intelligence-driven automation, and the growing interconnection of enterprise systems. As your organization adopts hybrid and cloud models, its network becomes both its biggest asset and vulnerability.

At the same time, cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated, exploiting network misconfigurations, unpatched devices, and weak segmentation. Earning a Network+ certificate signals that you can design and secure networks that withstand these threats while supporting daily operations seamlessly.

With Network+, you’ll also get a better grasp of how modern solutions like software-defined networking (SDN), zero-trust architectures, and AI-based monitoring tools enable organizations to adapt to rapid technological change. 

Ultimately, this credential reassures employers that their network infrastructure is dependable, scalable, and resilient in your hands.

Over the years, CompTIA Network+ has evolved through different versions to address the ever-changing needs of the cybersecurity and IT industries. First introduced in 1999, the certification was designed to verify foundational networking skills for IT professionals entering infrastructure, support, and networking roles. 

The early versions, such as N10-001 and N10-002, focused primarily on traditional local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) concepts, hardware, and cabling standards. As technology advanced, CompTIA continued to retire older versions and release updated exams to reflect major shifts in how networks are built, secured, and managed. 

Here’s a quick look at how Network+ has progressed over time:

This timeline mirrors the industry’s shift toward virtualization, cloud computing, wireless technologies, and automation. CompTIA consistently refines its exam objectives to reflect these changes, with each new version offering a more relevant set of skills aligned with current technologies and industry standards. 

CompTIA continually refines the Network+ certificate to adapt to how networking roles and technologies are evolving in modern IT environments. The most recent exam versions focus on the tools, systems, and practices that define today’s hybrid and cloud-driven environments. By understanding these updates, you can tailor your study plan to focus on the skills and concepts that hold the most value for employers and IT teams.

Through these updates, CompTIA ensures that Network+ remains relevant and responsive to changes in the IT landscape. Each revision strengthens the certification’s focus on practical, real-world problem-solving, aligning with the demands of today’s hybrid, virtualized, and security-driven network environments.

When you walk into an interview with Network+ on your resume, hiring managers know you can handle real-world issues, such as diagnosing why a remote office suddenly loses virtual private network (VPN) connectivity or restoring access after a misconfigured router takes a department offline. This certification proves that you can maintain critical systems under pressure, not just memorize protocols.

In an actual organization, that might mean setting up a secure guest Wi-Fi network for visiting clients, segmenting internal traffic to protect sensitive data, or documenting network changes so the next technician can follow your steps. Network+ prepares you to perform these tasks confidently across diverse environments.

Because it’s vendor-neutral, your skills aren’t limited to a single brand or platform. Whether your company uses Cisco switches, Ubiquiti access points, or Amazon Web Services cloud networks, Network+ ensures you understand the principles behind all of them. That adaptability streamlines operations for your team and prevents costly outages.

Government agencies, defense contractors, and private enterprises all recognize the credential as proof of job-ready networking competence. For many entry-level professionals, Network+ is the certification that opens doors to trusted roles in IT infrastructure and security operations — the kind of positions where keeping the network stable means keeping the business alive.

The CompTIA Network+ certificate is designed to be accessible, even if you’re early in your IT career. There are no strict prerequisites, which means you don’t need a prior certification or degree to take the exam. 

However, CompTIA recommends having the A+ certification or nine to 12 months of hands-on experience working in IT support or networking environments. This background helps you understand basic troubleshooting, device setup, and system configurations before diving deeper into networking concepts.

Becoming a certified network professional is not about memorizing definitions. You must understand how networks function in real business settings. Think of it as preparing for practical challenges, such as figuring out why a department can’t connect to the company intranet or configuring a secure wireless setup for a growing team.

The N10-009 exam includes up to 90 questions to be completed within 90 minutes. The passing score is 720 on a scale of 100 to 900. You will encounter a mix of multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions. 

The latter requires practical application, where you’ll perform actual tasks in a simulated environment rather than simply defining terms. Expect to configure network settings, identify connection failures, and choose the best solutions for real-world networking problems. 

For instance, you might be asked to restore connectivity after a router misconfiguration or to isolate a slow-performing subnet. These practical tasks assess whether you can think critically and act decisively in high-stakes moments.

To manage time effectively, consider answering all multiple-choice questions first, then move on to the performance-based ones. The testing environment mimics what you’d face in a live IT role: limited time, multiple users affected, and no margin for error.

The N10-009 exam now focuses on adapting to cloud-driven, software-defined, and security-first environments. These updates reflect what real network professionals face daily. You’ll encounter scenarios involving hybrid networks, automation of repetitive tasks, and system defense against constant threats.

If you’ve worked on modern enterprise networks, you’ll recognize many of these concepts. Let’s explore what’s new and how these updates apply directly to your role.

Today’s networks look nothing like they did a decade ago. You’re no longer dealing with isolated routers and switches. Instead, most organizations now operate a mix of physical, virtual, and cloud-based systems. The N10-009 exam acknowledges this shift by evaluating how you plan, deploy, and maintain interconnected and hybrid environments.

Key areas to study:

Example scenario in modern network environments:

Traditional networks rely heavily on manual configuration, but modern businesses demand more flexibility and scalability. The updated Network+ exam emphasizes SDN and SD-WAN because they enable centralized, programmable network management across multiple locations. You’ll learn how software controllers replace many of the manual processes found in legacy systems, allowing for faster updates and improved consistency.

Key areas to study:

Example scenario in modern network environments:

The days of manually provisioning switches and routers are coming to an end. The N10-009 exam introduces Infrastructure as Code (IaC) to highlight how automation supports scalability and reduces human error. IaC allows you to define, deploy, and manage network infrastructure through code, ensuring consistent configurations across multiple environments.

Key areas to study:

Example scenario in modern network environments:

As networks grow, traditional VLANs can become bottlenecks. The updated Network+ exam now includes Virtual Extensible LAN (VxLAN) to help you handle large-scale, distributed environments. VxLAN increases the number of available network segments, making it easier to support multi-tenant data centers and hybrid architectures.

Key areas to study:

Example scenario in modern network environments:

Network performance isn’t just about configurations; it starts with physical design. The latest Network+ exam revisits management of both intermediate distribution frame (IDF) and main distribution frame (MDF) to ensure you understand structured cabling and hardware layout. These concepts are vital for maintaining performance, reliability, and ease of maintenance in large facilities.

Key areas to study:

Example scenario in modern network environments:

Security is no longer optional as it’s the backbone of every network decision. The N10-009 exam strengthens its security objectives with zero-trust architecture and secure access service edge (SASE/SSE) concepts. These models ensure that no user or device is trusted by default, and every access request is verified continuously.

Key areas to study:

Example scenario in modern network environments:

When registering for the CompTIA Network+ exam through Pearson VUE, you can choose between in-person testing at an authorized Pearson VUE center or online testing through a secure, remote proctoring system. 

The exam fee is approximately $390 as of 2025, though this may vary depending on your region and currency. Before booking, you’ll need to create a CompTIA account and select your preferred testing format, date, and location. CompTIA also offers exam vouchers and bundle packages that include study materials and optional retake vouchers for added value.

Both the in-person and online testing exam formats follow CompTIA’s strict identity verification and security protocols to ensure fairness. When selecting your testing option, consider factors such as convenience, environment, and access to reliable technology to guarantee a smoother experience.

Preparing for the Network+ exam requires both structured learning and hands-on practice. Official training tools are also available directly from CompTIA, all designed to help you master every domain and build confidence before test day. 

These resources include CertMaster Learn, an adaptive online course; CompTIA Labs, where you can practice real-world scenarios; and practice exams that simulate the actual test environment. 

Using these tools together ensures you’re not just studying for the exam but also learning to think like a network professional capable of managing live environments.

If you’re preparing for the Network+ certificate on your own, using the right study materials makes a significant difference. A well-written book explains technical concepts clearly without overwhelming jargon and connects theory to real-world applications. 

Select resources that are updated for the N10-009 exam and authored by experienced IT instructors familiar with how CompTIA frames its questions. Below are some of the best options to guide your self-paced learning.

The most effective approach combines comprehensive guides for deep learning, official CompTIA resources for accuracy, and practice-oriented materials for exam readiness. Using these together helps you master not just the content but also the real-world application of networking principles.

Theory alone won’t prepare you for the hands-on tasks required on the exam. Set up a home lab using spare equipment, or use virtual environments like Cisco Packet Tracer, Graphical Network Simulator-3 (GNS3), or CompTIA Labs. These platforms let you configure routers, test connectivity, and troubleshoot real networking problems. 

Practical experience helps you understand how each network component behaves under different conditions — something no textbook can fully teach. By practicing regularly, you’d learn to recognize patterns, resolve issues faster, and connect theoretical knowledge with actual execution.

Effective study habits can make or break your Network+ journey. The right techniques help you retain information longer and recall it instantly during troubleshooting questions or performance-based tasks. Use these strategies to make your study sessions more efficient and results-driven.

Mnemonics simplify hard-to-remember concepts by turning them into short, memorable phrases. For example, to remember the OSI model layers, many learners use: “Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away.” This stands for Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application. 

Spaced repetition works by reviewing information at gradually increasing intervals — for example, after one day, three days, seven days, and 14 days. This method strengthens long-term memory and helps you retain key facts like port numbers (e.g., 22 for SSH). Use digital flashcard tools such as Anki or Quizlet to automate review schedules and reinforce recall over time.

Once a week, take a timed practice test to simulate the pressure of the actual 90-minute Network+ exam. Review both correct and wrong answers, because understanding why you got something right or wrong sharpens your reasoning under stress. When done consistently, this builds both your confidence in technical skills and discipline with time management.

After studying a topic like subnetting or routing, apply it in a network simulator such as Packet Tracer or GNS3. By configuring what you’ve just learned, you convert theory into practical skill. This hands-on repetition helps you recall commands and settings under pressure, as your muscle memory supports your technical recall.

Visual learners can benefit from drawing connections between topics. Create mind maps that link concepts like IP addressing, subnetting, and routing protocols to visualize how data flows across a network. This approach helps you understand relationships between technologies rather than memorizing them in isolation, which is crucial for real-world troubleshooting.

The IT field offers many certification paths, from cybersecurity to advanced infrastructure design. Understanding how Network+ compares with certifications like Security+, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and Cloud+ helps you choose the direction that best fits your skills and career goals. 

Think of Network+ as your baseline: it teaches how networks function before you specialize or move into vendor-specific technologies. Who knows? You may decide to continue your education with other top cybersecurity certifications in this list.

The point in your career when you earn Network+ can influence how quickly you advance in IT. Taking the certification at the right stage helps you build on existing knowledge and immediately apply what you learn in real-world settings. Think of this as a roadmap where each step builds your skills, confidence, and professional credibility.

Earning your Network+ certificate opens doors to IT roles that require dependable networking skills. This credential essentially announces that you can configure, troubleshoot, and secure wired and wireless networks — skills that remain in high demand across industries. It also signals to employers that you’re ready to take on responsibilities beyond basic IT support, positioning you competitively for entry-level to mid-level networking roles.

Network+ often appeals to help desk technicians, network administrators, or aspiring cybersecurity specialists. Knowing which roles commonly pursue this certification helps clarify how your new skills translate directly into workplace opportunities.

Earning your Network+ certificate can boost your earning potential and open doors to higher-paying IT roles. As of October 2025, the average annual salary for a network cybersecurity professional in the United States is approximately $133,000, equating to about $64 per hour. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the specific role you undertake.

For instance, in Kansas City, Missouri, network cybersecurity professionals earn an average of around $129,000, with top earners making roughly $168,000. In contrast, network security specialists based in Petaluma, California, earn an average annual salary of around $153,000, with top earners reaching up to $199,000.

Network+ serves as a stepping stone to more advanced IT and cybersecurity certifications under the CompTIA suite. Once you’ve mastered foundational networking concepts, you can progress into areas such as cybersecurity (through Security+), cloud infrastructure (through Cloud+), or systems administration.

The typical progression starts with IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+), which gives you basic IT literacy, followed by A+, which ensures you can manage devices, troubleshoot hardware, and perform technical support tasks within an IT environment. 

With that foundation in place, Network+ expands your skills by teaching you how to design, manage, and troubleshoot both wired and wireless networks. Moving to Security+ later builds on this knowledge, showing you how to protect networks, implement access controls, and defend against security threats. 

This structured certification path ensures you’re not just collecting certifications; you’re gaining skills that stack logically and prepare you for increasingly complex responsibilities in IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, or cloud computing.

Congratulations on earning your Network+ certificate! Beyond renewal requirements, continuing education is essential to staying relevant in the ever-changing IT industry. Networking technologies evolve rapidly, with new wireless standards, virtualization methods, and security protocols emerging every few years. 

By consistently updating your skills, you’ll stay ahead of technological changes and handle new challenges confidently in your own IT environment.

After passing Network+, aim to apply what you’ve learned in actual scenarios. This could mean setting up a home lab with virtual routers and switches, volunteering for IT support projects, or assisting with network maintenance tasks at your workplace. 

The more you configure, troubleshoot, and optimize networks in live environments, the more naturally these concepts will stick. Real-world exposure to Network+ tasks helps you understand how different technologies interact and prepares you for more advanced certifications or cybersecurity roles.

Your CompTIA Network+ certificate is valid for three years from the date you pass the exam. To maintain it, you’ll need to participate in the CompTIA CE program, which allows you to renew without retaking the full exam. 

Here are the steps to take when renewing via the CE program:

Many IT and cybersecurity professionals recommend renewing through CEUs instead of retaking the full exam, as this option is more flexible, aligns with continuous learning, and avoids the stress of re-examination.

You’ve built the foundation, and now it’s time to prove your skills with a certification that employers trust. Every day without Network+ is a missed opportunity to advance your career and demonstrate your ability to manage, troubleshoot, and secure business networks. 

The IT job market moves quickly, and professionals with validated skills consistently rise to the top. By taking action now, you position yourself ahead of peers who wait. Your expertise deserves recognition, and Network+ is the credential that opens doors to meaningful opportunities.

Destination Certification’s structured online bootcamp can give you everything you need to succeed in Network+. The program combines interactive lessons, hands-on labs, and exam-focused strategies, so you practice real-world scenarios, not just memorize concepts. We’ve designed the bootcamp to adapt to your schedule, guiding you step by step through each domain to help you build confidence, practical skills, and readiness for the test.

Invest in your future and take the next step into a flourishing cybersecurity career. Start your Network+ certification journey with Destination Certification today!