CompTIA Network+
A vendor-neutral networking credential covering core concepts used to understand, configure, support, and troubleshoot modern wired and wireless networks.
Last verified: 2026-09-01
Overview
CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral networking certification that validates foundational skills for configuring, operating, securing, and troubleshooting wired, wireless, cloud-connected, and virtual networks. It emphasizes practical networking concepts and troubleshooting rather than a single vendor platform.
- Recommended experience
- Candidates benefit from foundational IT support knowledge and hands-on experience with TCP/IP, addressing, switching, routing, wireless networking, network services, security, and troubleshooting. CompTIA commonly positions Network+ after foundational IT support skills.
- Estimated study time
- 70–120 hours
- Target job roles
- Network Support SpecialistJunior Network AdministratorNetwork TechnicianNOC TechnicianSystems AdministratorIT Support Specialist
Exam Details
CompTIA Network+
- Exam code
- N10-009
- Number of exams
- 1
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Question count
- Up to 90 questions
- Delivery method
- Pearson VUE testing center or online proctored exam
- Price
- Verify current regional pricing with CompTIA
Skills and Domains
Networking Concepts
23%Network models, protocols, addressing, cabling, topologies, cloud concepts, and core networking technologies.
Network Implementation
20%Routing, switching, wireless, network services, devices, and physical implementation considerations.
Network Operations
19%Documentation, monitoring, availability, disaster recovery, organizational processes, and ongoing network operations.
Network Security
14%Network security concepts, access controls, hardening, common attacks, remote access, and physical security.
Network Troubleshooting
24%Troubleshooting methodology, cabling, connectivity, services, performance, and common network problems.
Study Resources
CompTIA Exam Objectives
Official resourceOfficial Guide · Free
Official CompTIA exam-objectives resource for downloading the current Network+ objectives.
View resourceCompTIA Network+ Certification
Official resourceDocumentation · Free
Official CompTIA Network+ certification overview and current exam information.
View resourceCompTIA Continuing Education Renewal Options
Official resourceDocumentation · Free
Official CompTIA renewal options and Continuing Education guidance.
View resourceRenewal
- Validity period
- 3 years
- Renewal method
- Renew through CompTIA Continuing Education by earning the required CEUs, completing an eligible renewal option, or earning an approved higher-level certification.
- Notes
- Network+ requires 30 CEUs during the three-year renewal cycle when using the CEU route. Verify current fees and eligible activities with CompTIA.
Related Certifications
Recommended Before
Verify with official provider.
Recommended After
Verify with official provider.
Alternatives
Verify with official provider.
Specializations
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