The Short Answer — Which Cert 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.
The Three Main Career Paths
Every CompTIA Certification Explained
CompTIA Cert Comparison — Quick Reference
| 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 centre 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 recognised 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 organisation 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 specialises.
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.