Certifications hold immense value in today’s competitive job market. Both CompTIA Network+ and Security+ can offer a lot of benefits for aspiring professionals, but which should you choose?
If you are ready to supercharge your IT career, let us help you compare CompTIA Network+ and Security+ side by side. Please scroll down to learn and find which certificate to propel you to new heights of success!
What is CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ certification validates the skills and knowledge needed to work with computer networks. You can learn how to install, operate, configure, and handle basic network infrastructure.
This certification covers multiple topics, including data confidentiality, network security, and network configurations. Hence, it’s a good starting point for those interested in a networking career.
Besides, having a Network+ certification demonstrates your familiarity with networking systems. Job seekers in the IT field won’t want to miss it.
What is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to build and maintain a network. It teaches you to design, create, and maintain a secure infrastructure.
The CompTIA Security+ curriculum includes topics such as identifying and responding to security breaches. It’s ideal for those interested in a cybersecurity career.
After earning this certification, you can grasp the core network cybersecurity tasks for intermediate-level cybersecurity jobs.
Key Differences
Both certifications offer valuable knowledge and skills. Hence, you need to consider the specific areas you want to specialize in and choose accordingly.
In this friendly comparison, we’ll highlight the similarities and differences between them. In the end, you can make your choice.
Requirements
CompTIA Network+ is the entry-level certification. However, learners must have about many months of working in a system support role or computer help desk. You should also be familiar with Windows and Linux.
On the other hand, the CompTIA Security+ certification doesn’t have any specific prerequisites to sit for the exam. Yet, it’s necessary to have experience in IT administration.
Cost
The Network+ certification costs $329, while the Security+ certification costs $339. You can be eligible for discounts through your colleges.
However, it’s important to consider additional costs that may arise based on your specific requirements. For example, buying additional training courses and materials may increase the overall cost, reaching up to $500.
Exam
To take the Network+ examination, you must comprehend these concepts and skills:
- Connectors and cabling
- Command-line utilities
- Wireless networking
- Network protocols
- Networking attacks
- Switching and routing
On the other hand, the Security+ exam includes the following concepts:
- Network security
- Social engineering
- Command-line interfaces
- Malware
- Secure network protocols
- Cryptography
- Common vulnerabilities
Responsibilities
CompTIA Network+ certification holders focus on establishing, maintaining, and troubleshooting networked computing devices. They often:
- Design and develop functional networks.
- Configure and support network hardware.
- Ensure network security.
- Monitor network activities and optimize their performance.
CompTIA Security+ holders also have various tasks. The certification can help you:
- Develop and implement security practices.
- Configure security features.
- Protect systems and data.
- Conduct risk assessments.
- Monitor and analyze security logs.
- Offer security consultation.
Difficulty
The Network+ exam covers many topics and may include complicated networking challenges. It also includes simulations where candidates need to set up a functional network.
On the other hand, the Security+ exam is more complicated. Aside from networking fundamentals, you have to stay updated on security issues.
Hence, if you have a background in cybersecurity, you may earn an advantage in comprehending these concepts.
Salary Potential
CompTIA Security+ holders generally earn more than ones with the Network+ certification. The salary range for Security+ positions is often from $60,000 to $90,000.
CompTIA Network+ certifications also give you various job opportunities with good salaries. You can earn from $50,000 to $66,000 after gaining this certificate.
Comparison Table
We have discussed CompTIA Network+ and Security+ as important factors. Before jumping to a conclusion, let’s summarize the differences between them.
| CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA Security+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | Experience as a system support role or computer help desk | Experience in IT administration |
| Cost | $329 | $339 |
| Exam | – Connectors and cabling – Command-line utilities – Wireless networking – Network protocols – Networking attacks – Switching and routing | – Network security – Social engineering – Command-line interfaces – Malware – Secure network protocols – Cryptography – Common vulnerabilities |
| Responsibilities | – Design and develop functional networks. – Configure and support network hardware. – Ensure network security. – Monitor network activities and optimize their performance. | – Develop and implement security practices. – Configure security features. – Protect systems and data. – Conduct risk assessments. – Monitor and analyze security logs. – Offer security consultation. |
| Difficulty | Easier | More difficult |
| Salary Potential | $50,000 to $66,000 | $60,000 to $90,000 |
Which Should You Choose?
The choice between CompTIA Network+ and Security+ depends on your career goals and interests. Each certification focuses on specific aspects, giving you different advantages. Here are some cases where you prefer one to the other.
When to choose CompTIA Network+?
Network+ provides a solid foundation in networking technologies. You will learn to install, configure, troubleshoot, and operate network infrastructure.
So, if you aspire to work with switches, routers, and network devices, Network+ is the right choice. You may also love this path if you are interested in network administration.
When to choose CompTIA Security+?
Security+ focuses on threat management, risk management, and network security. You can also learn how to protect the system against cyber threats.
If you are passionate about securing data and safeguarding systems, Security+ is the appropriate certification.
In general, this certification is well-suited for those who want to work in roles like IT administrator, cybersecurity professional, or security consultant.
Conclusion
The choice between CompTIA Network+ and Security+ may seem daunting. Yet, both offer unique pathways to success.
For those interested in IT infrastructure and network administration, CompTIA Network+ is the best choice. If your passion lies in information security, network security, or cyber security, then go for CompTIA Security+.
Each certificate you choose will open doors to exciting opportunities. So, make your mark and choose the most suitable certification for the desired career path!