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