CompTIA Network+
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →PMI-ACP
PMI's agile certification covering Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and SAFe — ideal for PMs transitioning to agile delivery.
Full guide →CompTIA Network+ vs PMI-ACP
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Network+ | PMI-ACP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$358 USD | $495 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$15,000/yr |
| Passing score | 720/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 180 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | PMI |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
PMI-ACP
2,000 hours general project experience + 1,500 hours agile experience + 21 hours agile education
- 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 have PM experience and want to formalise agile or multi-methodology skills
- You want a potential +$15,000/yr salary uplift
- You manage delivery across Scrum, Kanban, Lean, or SAFe environments
CompTIA Network+ and PMI-ACP lead to entirely different careers — cybersecurity vs project management. 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 PMI-ACP courses
Is CompTIA Network+ harder than PMI-ACP?
PMI-ACP is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — CompTIA Network+ or PMI-ACP?
CompTIA Network+ has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while PMI-ACP has +$15,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Network+ or PMI-ACP?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMI-ACP.
Can I get both CompTIA Network+ and PMI-ACP?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Network+ and PMI-ACP complement each other, covering cybersecurity and project management 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 PMI-ACP?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Network+ offers a +$6,000/yr average salary uplift; PMI-ACP offers +$15,000/yr. PMI-ACP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.