CompTIA Security+ vs CompTIA Network+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
CompTIA
CompTIA Security+
SY0-701
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Network+
N10-009
Foundational networking certification covering infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | CompTIA Security+ | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $404 USD | ✓$358 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$8,000/yr | +$6,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | CompTIA | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
CompTIA Security+ — Prerequisites
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
CompTIA Network+ — Prerequisites
CompTIA A+ or 9-12 months networking experience recommended
Get CompTIA Security+ if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
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
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
udemy
CompTIA Security+ Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Best CompTIA Network+ courses
udemy
CompTIA Network+ Complete Course
by Top-rated instructor
One-time purchase, lifetime access
View on Udemy →Frequently asked questions
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+.