According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer and IT industry is expected to grow by approximately 11% between 2019 and 2029. This industry is expected to create half a million additional jobs, which is faster than other industries. According to current data, computer network architects are the second highest-paid IT occupation. They are not directly involved with computer network configurations.
These numbers are not surprising considering the high demand for the CompTIA Network+.
CompTIA certification can be a valuable tool to enhance your resume. This certification demonstrates your ability to maintain, troubleshoot and install basic network infrastructure. This exam could open up many career options for students, government employees, and the telecommunications industry.
About CompTIA Network+
CompTIA, a non-profit organization, creates vendor-neutral certification programs. The Computing Technology Industry Association is their name. CompTIA is the leading organization in IT certifications for many tech fields including cybersecurity, cloud computing, management and more.
What is CompTIA Network+?
Network+ is a entry to-mid-level certification exam that covers network installation, configuration and management. CompTIA Network+ certification proves that the person who has earned it has fundamental skills in networking concepts. This includes topologies, OSI models, TCP/IP addressing, and LAN (local area networks). It is part of the CompTIA core certs group. This means that it can be taken to build a solid foundation in computer and network principles.
Basic Examination Details
Network+ can only accept 90 questions. There are three types of questions you will need to answer: performance-based questions, multiple-choice and drag-and-drop questions.
You have 90 minutes to answer all questions. A passing score of 720 is required on a scale of 100 to 900. If the minimum amount of credits are earned, a certificate will be issued.
This CompTIA certificate can be obtained in English, German Japanese, Spanish and Portuguese.
Before you can take the Network+ exam, you don’t have to have any previous work experience or hands-on experience. CompTIA recommends that you have at least nine to twelve months of experience in networking and CompTIA A+ credentials. This is not something you should worry about, especially if your knowledge of computer networking is already extensive.
However, if your goal is to learn computer technology as a beginner, you should start with the A+.
Acquired Skills
Preparing for Network+ will give you valuable technical skills. These skills are based on:
- Network infrastructure. Implementing network services. Identifying and providing basic network infrastructures.
- Network operations-Monitoring and diagnosing technical problems every day; implementing new policies and best practices to maintain network networks and ensuring business continuity.
- Network security basics -Protecting networks from external threats and attacks; identifying and eliminating potential network vulnerabilities.
- Networking concepts Defining and architectureing networks, media, and protocols; having a solid knowledge of networking technologies.
- Network Troubleshooting –Solving network problems by analyzing equipment, wiring, configurations, and more.
Network+ is unique in that you will not be focusing your attention on one vendor. This exam is vendor-neutral and will allow you to work with any technology. This exam is not limited to Microsoft or CISCO. This opens many doors to a successful and thriving career.
Job Opportunities
What job opportunities are there with CompTIA Network+.
This exam allows you to apply for any one of these positions and get hired.
- Computer Technician
Computer technicians are responsible to manage all hardware, software, systems, and networks in a building. Computer technicians are often required to fix or replace damaged equipment and install new technology. They are responsible for troubleshooting problems with computers, printers, networks, and other technology. They might also assist customers with their computer problems.
- IS Consultant
IS consultants work with organizations to provide advice and help them choose the right type of technology for their needs. These consultants are often involved with projects that require extensive research on companies’ networks. They also provide input on the amount of bandwidth needed to support different operations. Consultants might recommend software licenses that a company should purchase to maintain its systems.
- Network Analyst
An analyst of network does some practical work, as well as consulting. Their primary task is to monitor and analyze networks. This often involves fault diagnosis. They may also be responsible for designing network architectures to expand the business or identifying security risks. They may also work with vendors to resolve software problems.
- System Engineer
The system engineer oversees the company’s computers servers. This could include installing security updates and configuring other settings. They monitor and maintain the integrity of a network by following best practices to prevent hacking attacks or other malware attacks. They are typically employed in large companies to manage and implement networks.
- Help Desk Technician
A help desk technician is an entry-level position that helps customers with their problems. They may be asked to help with hardware maintenance or to train new employees how to use technology. To interact with customers every day, help desk technicians must have great communication skills.
- Network Field Technician (Field Service Technician).
Unsurprisingly, a network technician goes into the field. They may also be required to support customers and install wireless networks at customer sites. This job requires a good understanding of networking equipment, both from an installation perspective and how it functions in the larger business environment.
The company’s network infrastructure is managed by a network administrator. A network administrator may have broad responsibilities, such as managing the entire IT infrastructure of an organization. Or they might be more focused and responsible for maintaining a specific part. Network administration involves knowledge of all aspects related to networking, including hardware and software. This includes monitoring network traffic, configuring settings for remote devices such as routers and switches and installing new equipment.
A college degree
Common question is whether you require a college degree in order to get a job as an IT professional if you have an CompTIA credential such as the Network+.
Although a degree in computer-related fields is helpful, it is not necessary to be an IT professional today. It is obvious that the IT industry is extremely fast-paced. New skills are constantly emerging and some require only experience.
96% of hiring managers (compTIA ) use IT certifications when assessing potential employees.
You could be hired immediately if your CompTIA Network+ certification or related certificate is obtained.
Difficulty level
Although Network+ is not an easy exam to pass it is still possible. Although CompTIA does not release the average passing rate for any exam, there are many credential holders who were able to obtain this certification easily.
Network+ certification is possible if you work hard and adhere to the exam objectives.
If you’re a newbie in tech, it might be a good idea to get a CompTIA A+ certification. This will allow you to learn basic skills, so you won’t be overwhelmed by difficult topics on the Network+ exam such as TCP/IP and Ethernet basics.
Even if Network+ fails on your first attempt, the good news is that you can always try again.
You don’t have to wait until the second or third attempt to pass an exam according to the CompTIA certification. You must wait at least 14 days between the first and third attempts (and any subsequent efforts to pass the same exam), before you attempt again.
Remember that you will be charged for the entire exam fee each time you take it.
Study Methods
How do you study for CompTIA Network+?
There are three ways to study for Network+.
- Self-study
- Instructor-led training
- Online learning
The choice of which one you choose depends on your lifestyle and comfort level.
Self-Study
You can find plenty of exam material online if you decide to self-study. This method is convenient because you can study when and where you want, without needing to adjust your schedule.
To reinforce the lessons you have learned, complete one chapter each week. Even if there is no class schedule, it is a good idea to create a rough plan that you can stick to. You can also connect with other exam-preparers to share thoughts, study tips, and similar information.
This method has a disadvantage: people often don’t follow through with their studies and end-up cramming days before the exam. This is a sure way to fail. You will do poorly on difficult questions that test your skills and you won’t have the time to retry them.
Self-studying could be an option if you have had success in the past.
Instructor-Led Training Programs
An instructor-led training program is where an instructor guides a group through the CompTIA+ course material.
This is different than self-studying as you are surrounded with other students who are trying to pass the exam. They also know the experience and can help you if you need it. As with classroom training, you will receive plenty of support.
For those who are looking for a supportive environment to learn and study, instructor-led training is a great option.
This is a great option if you have anxiety about test anxiety or time constrictions. The instructor will walk you through the exam preparation material and provide plenty of examples to guide you. This training course could be a great investment if you think it would help.
This study method has its downsides. It is more costly than other options and there are no training facilities.
Online Learning
Online Learning offers a great balance between instructor-led training and self-study. It is a great option for those who are willing to work hard.
Online courses have many of the same advantages as instructor-led training. However, they are often cheaper and can be accessed from anywhere (though it is important to check your internet connection before you start), and they allow students to work at their own pace.
Online training materials can be found at many places online. It may be worth doing some research. Most digital materials consist of video lectures or videos that can be viewed at any time. You can interact with other students by using one of the many chat rooms or forums online.
Expiration Date
It is extremely rare to obtain a lifetime certification in the IT industry. It is difficult to obtain a credential that will be valid for many years after the market has advanced.
When does CompTIA Network+ Certification expire?
CompTIA’s exams are retired after three years for a variety of reasons. Network+ is the same. After passing this exam, you have three years to renew it.
These are your options for certification renewal.
- CertMaster Training –Â This course will help you keep up to date with your CompTIA credentials. You don’t have to pass another exam at the end of the course, which lasts six hours.
- Recertification exams You can renew your Network+ certification by passing additional exams such as CompTIA’s higher-level certifications (Server+ and Linux+, Security+ and Cloud+). Additional certification from another certification vendor (Cisco CCNA or RedHat RHCE), Microsoft MTA/Networking and similar), or the most recent version of CompTIA Network+.
- Activities for renewal –Â Some industry-related activities can earn you points (called continuing education units (CEUs) towards renewal). You will need 30 CEUs to be eligible for Network+. This includes writing a white paper, article, blog post, mentoring in workshops, attending conferences, webinars, and completing higher education programs. Your job in IT might contribute to the renewal process.
Passing advanced certification exams from other vendors is a great way to increase your career and network knowledge. You can also renew your certifications, but you will need to do multiple activities in order to earn the required CEUs.
N10-008
Network+’s current version has an exam code N10-007. It will be retiring in 2021 or 2022. After that, the N10-008 will replace it. You will have three years to prepare for the N10-008, regardless of which one you pass.
Conclusion
CompTIA Network+ certification has many benefits that can help you in your personal and professional life. This credential is worthwhile if you want to grow in your career, get a new job, or advance in the IT industry.
This is an excellent entry-level certification that will help you get in the computer networking door. It also provides a solid foundation for your knowledge.
Network+ allows you to work as an administrator, network technician, network support specialist, network engineer and other similar positions. Although it is not difficult to pass, you will need to spend some time reviewing the exam objectives and studying the available material. You have the option to choose whether you prefer to learn on your own or with an instructor. Or, you can opt for online learning.
Network+ must be renewed at least every three years. You can choose the renewal method that you prefer.