CompTIA Network+ Certification
What is CompTIA?
Let’s first learn about CompTIA. CompTIA stands for Computer Technology Industry Association. It is a trade association that was founded in Chicago and has over 2,000 member companies and 3,000 corporate partners. It is primarily focused on educating and certifying IT workers. However, it also engages with charity and advocacy for public policy. CompTIA-certified professionals are available in more than 120 countries, and have vendor-neutral credentials.
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ certification, the industry standard, is required to start a career in IT infrastructure. This includes areas such as configuration, troubleshooting, and management. CompTIA Network+ certification validates skills for job roles such as Junior Network Administrator and Network Field Technician.
How do you get into Cybersecurity?
CompTIA helps IT professionals achieve cybersecurity expertise from beginning to end. Earning cybersecurity certifications shows employers that you are qualified to do the job and have the skills and knowledge to protect the company from threats and attacks.
Entry-level certification in cybersecurity
The CompTIA Network+ certification is the central point. It provides the foundation knowledge necessary for any cybersecurity position, and is a stepping stone to higher-level cybersecurity positions. The certification covers five domains.
Networking Concepts
Infrastructure
Network Operations
Network Security
Networking Troubleshooting Tools and Tools
Who should be certified Network+?
CompTIA considers Network+ the next step after A+, one of its core certifications. Network+ focuses on topics such:
Design and implementation of a network
Understanding the topologies and technologies of wired and wireless network topologies
Understanding and putting into practice best practices for network operations such as business continuity and disaster recovery
This certification certifies that you have a basic understanding of organizational technologies. It is ideal for those just starting out in the network world. For those who are looking to move up, Network+ is a great option. Here are some of Network+’s most attractive jobs:
Computer Technician
Technical Support
Network Support Specialist
Network Administrator
Network Analyst
System Engineer
System Administrator
This certification can be used to enhance one’s career and can also provide a solid understanding of network for other IT roles. The Network+ certification could also be useful for other IT roles:
Security Specialist
Web and Network System Developer
Information Systems Consultant
PayScale data on Network+ certifications shows that the average salary for IT professionals with this credential was nearly $66,000. Job titles include Systems Administrator, IT Manager, Network Engineer, and IT Manager.
How does Network+ stack up against other IT certifications
Like all CompTIA certifications, Network+ is vendor-neutral. This means that you can apply the principles you’ve learned to a wide variety of IT products and solutions.
Microsoft’s MTA (Microsoft Technology Associate)/Networking Fundamentals and Cisco’s CCNA(Cisco Certified Network Associate) are two similar certifications.
CCNA is based upon the responsibilities of a job in network management, just like Network+. CCNA is only applicable to Cisco products. Network+ applies to all solutions and products. MTA is not based upon job title. It is meant to give an overview of the vendor’s networking services.
Top reason to obtain CompTIA Network+ certification
If you are looking for a place to start, Network+ is a great place.