About CompTIA Network+Learn More

The CompTIA Network+ is a technical certification that deals with wired and wireless networks. Sponsored by the Computing Technology Industry Association, both entry- and mid-level IT professionals can take the test to certify their skills in the field. Certification recipients have proven their ability to support and configure TCP/IP clients. Topics covered include network design, hardware setup, cabling, configuration, installation support, and troubleshooting. The Network+ exam contains traditional, situational, and identification questions. This test is open to anyone, but it best suits those who have had at least nine months of on-the-job experience. The certification is currently valid for three years before you have to re-take it. Applicants who took the exam before 2011 keep the certification for life.

The CompTIA Network+ certification proves the skills required for applicants looking for a career in IT infrastructure. It specifically covers configuring, managing, and troubleshooting networks. It is a respected certification for quite a few job titles. A network support specialist analyzes and troubleshoots problems with computer networks and keeps them secure, and many of these jobs will require the certification. Another career option for a Network+ applicant is that of a network administrator. Network administrators support the internal network of an enterprise, installing, maintaining, and repairing issues within a corporate network. Network engineers can also benefit from this certification. They design and build communications networks, including local area networks, wide area networks, and intranets.

The CompTIA Network+ certification is an industry-standard to prove the skills of information technology professionals. The exam specifically tests applicants on their knowledge of computer networks. It covers the topic broadly, is vendor-agnostic, and is geared toward entry-level and mid-level technicians. There aren't direct alternatives to this certification, although there are more advanced network certifications that cover specific technologies. The CCIE or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification is designed for applicants with eight years of experience and covers Cisco technologies. The CCNP or Cisco Certified Network Professional certification covers Cisco networking in particular. The WCNA or Wireshark Certified Network Analyst certification is a networking certification that covers network communications and security with a focus on packet and protocol sniffing.