Quick Answer

CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ are three widely recognized vendor-neutral IT certifications that help learners build foundational knowledge in information technology, networking, and cybersecurity. CompTIA A+ focuses on computer hardware, operating systems, troubleshooting, and technical support. Network+ introduces networking concepts and infrastructure, while Security+ covers cybersecurity principles, risk management, and security operations.

Many learners choose to pursue these certifications in the order of A+ → Network+ → Security+ because each builds on concepts introduced in the previous certification. However, the best sequence depends on your education, experience, and career goals.

CompTIA A+ vs Network+ vs Security+ at a Glance

What Is the Difference Between CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+?

The biggest difference between CompTIA A+, Network+ and Security+ is the subject matter each certification covers.

• CompTIA A+ focuses on computer hardware, operating systems, devices and troubleshooting.
• CompTIA Network+ focuses on network design, configuration and connectivity.
• CompTIA Security+ focuses on cybersecurity principles, threat detection and security controls.

Together, these certifications create a foundational IT certification pathway that can help prepare candidates for technical support, networking and cybersecurity careers.

What Is CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ is widely considered the best entry-level IT certification for beginners. It validates foundational knowledge needed to support users, troubleshoot devices and manage operating systems.

Topics include:

• PC hardware and peripherals
• Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS and Android
• Basic networking concepts
• Software troubleshooting
• Security fundamentals
• Customer support and operational procedures

Candidates must pass two exams:

• Core 1 (220-1101)
• Core 2 (220-1102)

Who Should Get CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ is ideal for:

• Career changers entering IT
• Recent high school or college graduates
• Individuals without professional IT experience
• Aspiring help desk and technical support professionals

Common job titles include:

• Network Support Specialist 
• Junior Network Administrator 
• NOC Technician 
• Systems Administrator 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer support specialists is projected to remain an important part of the technology workforce, with demand driven by organizations' continued reliance on computer systems and technical support services.

What Is CompTIA Network+?

CompTIA Network+ validates the networking skills needed to install, manage and troubleshoot modern networks.

Topics include:

• TCP/IP networking
• Network architecture
• Routing and switching
• Wireless networking
• Cloud networking
• Network troubleshooting
• Basic network security

The current certification requires passing one exam, N10-009.

Who Should Get CompTIA Network+?

Network+ is best for professionals who:

• Already understand basic IT concepts
• Want to specialize in networking
• Plan to become network or systems administrators
• Support network infrastructure in their current role

Common job titles include:

• Network Administrator
• Network Support Specialist
• NOC Technician
• Systems Administrator

What Is CompTIA Security+?

CompTIA Security+ is one of the most recognized entry-level cybersecurity certifications in the world.

It covers:

• Threats, attacks and vulnerabilities
• Identity and access management
• Risk management
• Security architecture
• Incident response
• Cryptography
• Security operations

Candidates earn the certification by passing the SY0-701 exam.

Who Should Get CompTIA Security+?

Security+ is designed for professionals who want to work in cybersecurity and information security.

Common job titles include:

• Security Analyst 
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst 
• Information Security Specialist 
• Security Administrator 

Security+ is also approved under U.S. Department of Defense Directive 8140 requirements, making it valuable for government and defense contractor positions.

Which CompTIA Certification Should You Get First?

For most beginners, the recommended certification path is:

1. Start with CompTIA A+

A+ provides the foundation needed to understand computers, operating systems and troubleshooting.

2. Earn CompTIA Network+

Once you understand how devices work, Network+ teaches how those devices communicate across networks.

3. Finish with CompTIA Security+

Security+ builds on both technical and networking knowledge to teach cybersecurity concepts and security operations.

This progression helps students learn IT concepts in a logical order while building credentials employers recognize.

Can You Skip A+ and Go Straight to Security+?

Yes. CompTIA certifications do not have formal prerequisites.

However, many beginners find Security+ challenging without first understanding basic networking and operating system concepts. Candidates with previous IT experience may be able to start with Network+ or Security+, but newcomers often benefit from following the traditional certification roadmap.

Are CompTIA Certifications Worth It?

CompTIA certifications remain among the most requested vendor-neutral IT certifications by employers because they validate practical, transferable technical skills.

Benefits include:

• Industry-recognized credentials
• Qualification for entry-level IT jobs
• Strong cybersecurity career pathways
• Alignment with government workforce requirements
• Stackable career progression from IT support to cybersecurity

For many professionals, A+, Network+ and Security+ provide a structured path from beginner-level IT knowledge to specialized technical careers.

Learn Information Technology and Cybersecurity at Campus

Campus's Associate of Science in Information Technology provides students with a foundation in computer systems, networking, cybersecurity, cloud technologies, and technical problem-solving.

Students who choose the Cybersecurity concentration complete coursework aligned with concepts covered by industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and CySA+, while developing practical skills that support continued learning and professional growth.

Certification examinations are developed and administered by independent third-party organizations. Completion of a Campus program does not automatically result in certification, and students may be subject to separate examination requirements and fees.

Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CompTIA A+ harder than Network+?

Many learners consider Network+ more technically challenging because it introduces networking concepts and infrastructure that build upon foundational IT knowledge. Individual experiences may vary depending on prior education and experience.

Is Security+ harder than Network+?

Many candidates find Security+ more challenging because it combines networking concepts with cybersecurity principles, risk management, security operations, and threat analysis.

How long does it take to earn A+, Network+, and Security+?

The amount of time required varies based on an individual's background, study schedule, prior experience, and learning goals. Some learners prepare for each certification over several months, while others progress more quickly.

Which CompTIA certification has the highest earning potential?

Salary depends on many factors, including education, work experience, job responsibilities, geographic location, employer, and additional certifications.

Cybersecurity roles associated with Security+ may offer competitive salaries, but earning the certification alone does not guarantee a particular position or level of compensation.

Do CompTIA certifications expire?

Yes.

CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ are generally valid for three years. Certification holders may renew eligible certifications through CompTIA's Continuing Education (CE) program or by meeting other renewal requirements established by CompTIA.

Certification & Career Disclaimer

Certification examinations are developed and administered by independent third-party organizations. Campus does not control certification requirements, examination content, examination fees, scheduling, scoring, or credential awards. Completion of a Campus program does not guarantee certification, employment, salary, promotion, or career advancement. Career outcomes vary based on factors including education, experience, geographic location, employer requirements, labor market conditions, and individual performance.