CompTIA Network+
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →AWS Cloud Practitioner
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →CompTIA Network+ vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Network+ | AWS Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $358 USD | ✓$100 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 720/1000 | 700/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
AWS Cloud Practitioner
None required
- 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
- You're new to cloud and want a foundational credential from AWS
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on AWS and you need the recognised entry-level credential
CompTIA Network+ and AWS Cloud Practitioner lead to entirely different careers — cybersecurity vs cloud computing. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with CompTIA Network+ — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best CompTIA Network+ courses
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Is CompTIA Network+ harder than AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both CompTIA Network+ and AWS Cloud Practitioner are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CompTIA Network+ or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
CompTIA Network+ has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while AWS Cloud Practitioner has +$8,000/yr. AWS Cloud Practitioner has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Network+ or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Cloud Practitioner.
Can I get both CompTIA Network+ and AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Network+ and AWS Cloud Practitioner complement each other, covering cybersecurity and cloud computing respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — CompTIA Network+ or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Network+ offers a +$6,000/yr average salary uplift; AWS Cloud Practitioner offers +$8,000/yr. AWS Cloud Practitioner has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.