CompTIA Network+
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →CompTIA Network+ vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$358 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 720/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
- 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 entering IT security and need a globally recognised, vendor-neutral credential
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- You prefer credentials that work across vendors, not tied to one platform
Both are at the beginner level in cybersecurity. CompTIA Security+ carries the higher salary impact (+$8,000/yr vs +$6,000/yr), making it the stronger long-term investment. Choose CompTIA Network+ if you prefer credentials from CompTIA or need a faster, lower-cost path.
Best CompTIA Network+ courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Is CompTIA Network+ harder than CompTIA Security+?
Both CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Network+ has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. CompTIA Security+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA Security+.
Can I get both CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ 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 Network+ or CompTIA Security+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Network+ offers a +$6,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Security+ offers +$8,000/yr. CompTIA Security+ has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.