Azure Administrator vs CompTIA Network+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Microsoft
Azure Administrator
AZ-104
Validates skills in managing Azure identities, storage, compute, virtual networks, and monitoring in enterprise environments.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Network+
N10-009
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure Administrator | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $358 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$15,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 100 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 1 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
Azure Administrator — Prerequisites
AZ-900 recommended, 6 months Azure administration experience
CompTIA Network+ — Prerequisites
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
Get Azure Administrator if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$15,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Get CompTIA Network+ if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$6,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Best Azure Administrator courses
Best CompTIA Network+ courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Administrator harder than CompTIA Network+?
Azure Administrator is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — Azure Administrator or CompTIA Network+?
Azure Administrator has an average salary uplift of +$15,000/yr, while CompTIA Network+ has +$6,000/yr. Azure Administrator has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Administrator or CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Azure Administrator.