CompTIA CySA+
Mid-level analyst certification focused on threat detection, security operations, and incident response.
Full guide →CompTIA Network+
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →CompTIA CySA+ vs CompTIA Network+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA CySA+ | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | ✓$358 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$12,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Passing score | 750/1000 | 720/1000 |
| Exam duration | 165 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA CySA+
Security+ or equivalent experience, 3-4 years IT security experience
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
- You have 2–4 years in security and want to specialise your role
- You want a potential +$12,000/yr salary uplift
- You want to work in defence — SOC analysis, threat detection, or incident response
- You're entering IT security and need a globally recognised, vendor-neutral credential
- You want a potential +$6,000/yr salary uplift
- You prefer credentials that work across vendors, not tied to one platform
Both are in the cybersecurity field but target different career stages. Start with CompTIA Network+ if you're building foundational skills — it's the natural stepping stone. Go straight to CompTIA CySA+ if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$12,000/yr).
Best CompTIA CySA+ courses
Best CompTIA Network+ courses
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+.
Can I get both CompTIA CySA+ and CompTIA Network+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA CySA+ and CompTIA Network+ complement each other within cybersecurity. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CompTIA CySA+ or CompTIA Network+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA CySA+ offers a +$12,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Network+ offers +$6,000/yr. CompTIA CySA+ has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.