CompTIA CySA+ vs CompTIA Network+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
CompTIA
CompTIA CySA+
CS0-003
Mid-level analyst certification focused on threat detection, security operations, and incident response.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Network+
N10-009
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CompTIA CySA+ | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | ✓$358 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$12,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
CompTIA CySA+ — Prerequisites
Security+ or equivalent experience, 3-4 years IT security experience
CompTIA Network+ — Prerequisites
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
Get CompTIA CySA+ if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$12,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
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 CompTIA CySA+ courses
udemy
CompTIA CySA+ 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 CompTIA CySA+ harder than CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA CySA+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — CompTIA CySA+ or CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA CySA+ has an average salary uplift of +$12,000/yr, while CompTIA Network+ has +$6,000/yr. CompTIA CySA+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA CySA+ or CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA CySA+.