CompTIA Network+ vs CompTIA CySA+
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 →CompTIA
CompTIA CySA+
CS0-003
Mid-level analyst certification focused on threat detection, security operations, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA CySA+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$358 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$12,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 165 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Intermediate |
CompTIA Network+ — Prerequisites
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
CompTIA CySA+ — Prerequisites
Security+ or equivalent experience, 3-4 years IT security 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 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
Best CompTIA Network+ courses
udemy
CompTIA Network+ Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Best CompTIA CySA+ courses
udemy
CompTIA CySA+ Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Frequently asked questions
Is CompTIA Network+ harder than CompTIA CySA+?
CompTIA CySA+ is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA CySA+?
CompTIA Network+ has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while CompTIA CySA+ has +$12,000/yr. CompTIA CySA+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA CySA+?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA CySA+.