Which CompTIA certification should you take first?
If you're new to IT with no experience: start with CompTIA A+. It's the industry-standard entry point, covers the hardware and OS fundamentals every other cert builds on, and is recognized by virtually every IT employer as proof of baseline competency.
If you already have help desk or networking experience: you can go straight to Network+. A+ is not a prerequisite for any CompTIA cert — it's a recommendation, not a requirement.
If your goal is cybersecurity specifically: the standard path is A+ → Network+ → Security+. Security+ is the most recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification and is DoD 8570 approved — required for many government and defense contractor roles.
What are the three main CompTIA career paths?
CertFlash: CompTIA Study Cards is a free iOS app for focused flashcard study with built-in spaced repetition. The A+ deck is free, and a one-time $5.99 unlock adds Network+, Security+, CySA+, Linux+, Cloud+, and PenTest+ — covering every cert on the entry-level and analyst paths above. It's not a course or practice exam — it's a flashcard app with spaced repetition that sits on top of whatever primary resource you're using.
Study any CompTIA cert with CertFlash — free A+ deck →Once you've mapped your path, see our comparison of the best CompTIA flashcard apps to choose a study tool.
What does each CompTIA certification cover?
How do the CompTIA certifications compare?
| Certification | Level | Exams | Score to Pass | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A+ | Entry | 220-1201 + 220-1202 | 675 / 700 out of 900 | Help desk, IT support, field technician |
| Network+ | Entry-Intermediate | N10-009 | 720 / 900 | Network admin, sysadmin, IT generalist |
| Security+ | Intermediate | SY0-701 | 750 / 900 | Security analyst, SOC, gov/defense roles |
| CySA+ | Intermediate-Advanced | CS0-003 | 750 / 900 | Security analyst, threat hunter, IR analyst |
| Cloud+ | Intermediate | CV0-004 | 750 / 900 | Cloud administrator, DevOps, systems engineer |
| Server+ | Intermediate | SK0-005 | 750 / 900 | Server admin, data center technician |
| CASP+ | Expert | CAS-004 | Pass/Fail | Senior security architect, security engineer |
| PenTest+ | Intermediate | PT0-003 | 750 / 900 | Penetration tester, ethical hacker |
CompTIA is vendor-neutral and ideal for generalists starting out — certs are widely recognized and don't expire (with CE continuing education). Best for IT support, entry cybersecurity, and broad IT roles.
Cisco (CCNA/CCNP) is vendor-specific to Cisco networking gear — essential if your organization runs Cisco, highly valued in networking roles but less relevant in non-Cisco environments. CCNA is broadly regarded as harder than Network+.
(ISC)² (CISSP) is the gold standard for senior security professionals — requires 5 years of security experience, extremely comprehensive, and commands the highest salaries in cybersecurity. Not appropriate as a starting point.
For most people entering IT: start with CompTIA. Add Cisco or (ISC)² credentials later as your career specializes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need A+ before Network+?
No — A+ is not a prerequisite for Network+. CompTIA recommends it, but it's not enforced. If you already have IT experience or a strong understanding of computer hardware and operating systems, you can go straight to Network+. If you're completely new to IT, A+ is the better starting point.
How long does each cert take to prepare for?
A+: 2–4 months studying 1–2 hours per day for most beginners. Network+: 2–3 months with some networking background. Security+: 2–3 months after Network+. These are rough averages — people with relevant experience can pass significantly faster; those starting from zero may take longer.
Do CompTIA certifications expire?
Yes — CompTIA certifications are valid for 3 years. You renew through CompTIA's CE (Continuing Education) program by earning continuing education units (CEUs), passing a higher-level exam, or retaking the current exam. Higher-level cert renewals often cascade down — renewing Security+ renews Network+ and A+ as well.
Is Security+ worth it without experience?
Security+ is harder without hands-on experience, but many people pass it by studying hard. The real question is whether the cert alone will get you a job — and the honest answer is that Security+ combined with a home lab, practical skills, and even A+ is a much stronger package than Security+ alone. Use the cert as a target, not a substitute for skills.