CompTIA Network+
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →Professional Scrum Master I
Validates knowledge of the Scrum framework and ability to apply it in real-world agile environments as a Scrum Master.
Full guide →CompTIA Network+ vs Professional Scrum Master I
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Network+ | Professional Scrum Master I |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $358 USD | ✓$200 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$9,000/yr |
| Passing score | 720/1000 | 85/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 60 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | Scrum.org |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
Professional Scrum Master I
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 project management or switching careers from another field
- You want a potential +$9,000/yr salary uplift
- You work in agile teams and want to formalise Scrum Master skills
CompTIA Network+ and Professional Scrum Master I 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 Professional Scrum Master I courses
Is CompTIA Network+ harder than Professional Scrum Master I?
Both CompTIA Network+ and Professional Scrum Master I are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CompTIA Network+ or Professional Scrum Master I?
CompTIA Network+ has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while Professional Scrum Master I has +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Network+ or Professional Scrum Master I?
CompTIA Network+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward Professional Scrum Master I.
Can I get both CompTIA Network+ and Professional Scrum Master I?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Network+ and Professional Scrum Master I 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 Professional Scrum Master I?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Network+ offers a +$6,000/yr average salary uplift; Professional Scrum Master I offers +$9,000/yr. Professional Scrum Master I has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.