A+ vs Network+: Which CompTIA Certification Should You Take First?
Choose A+ if you still need broad IT support, hardware, operating-system and troubleshooting foundations. Choose Network+ when networking is the specific skill you need next.
Choose by role and ecosystem—not by brand name.
Choose A+ if you still need broad IT support, hardware, operating-system and troubleshooting foundations. Choose Network+ when networking is the specific skill you need next.
Explore IT Support courses and programs on edX
Compare flexible online it support learning options from universities and industry partners on edX. Use this as training alongside the credential path discussed in this guide.
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA A+ vs CompTIA Network+ questions
Should you take A+ before Network+?
Not mandatory. A+ first makes sense when general IT support, operating systems and troubleshooting are still weak.
Is Network+ harder than A+?
It is narrower but more networking-focused. A+ is broader and split across support-oriented domains.
Which is better for help desk jobs?
A+ is usually more directly aligned with help desk and desktop support.
Which is better for cybersecurity?
Network+-level knowledge is especially useful for security, but A+ can still help complete beginners build the broader IT base first.
Can you skip A+ and take Network+?
Yes if you already understand hardware, operating systems and basic troubleshooting.
What comes after Network+?
CCNA, cloud, cybersecurity or more advanced networking can be logical next steps.
Choose A+ if you still need broad IT support, hardware, operating-system and troubleshooting foundations. Choose Network+ when networking is the specific skill you need next.
Choose the credential that fits the platform and role you actually want to build around.