CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →CompTIA Network+
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+ vs CompTIA Network+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | CompTIA Security+ | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | ✓$358 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$8,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Passing score | 750/1000 | 720/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
- 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
- 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
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 Security+ courses
Best CompTIA Network+ courses
Is CompTIA Security+ harder than CompTIA Network+?
Both CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Security+ has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while CompTIA Network+ has +$6,000/yr. CompTIA Security+ has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — CompTIA Security+ or CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA Network+.
Can I get both CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ 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 Security+ or CompTIA Network+?
Both are worth it in 2026. CompTIA Security+ offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Network+ offers +$6,000/yr. CompTIA Security+ has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.