CISSP vs CompTIA Network+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
(ISC)²
CISSP
CISSP
Gold-standard senior security certification covering 8 domains including risk management, architecture, and cryptography.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Network+
N10-009
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CISSP | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $749 USD | ✓$358 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$22,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 240 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | (ISC)² | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Beginner |
CISSP — Prerequisites
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
CompTIA Network+ — Prerequisites
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
Get CISSP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$22,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from (ISC)²
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 CISSP courses
udemy
CISSP Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Best CompTIA Network+ courses
udemy
CompTIA Network+ Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Frequently asked questions
Is CISSP harder than CompTIA Network+?
CISSP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — CISSP or CompTIA Network+?
CISSP has an average salary uplift of +$22,000/yr, while CompTIA Network+ has +$6,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CISSP or CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISSP.