CompTIA A+ vs Network+: Which One Should You Take First?

Choosing between CompTIA A+ and Network+ is a common dilemma for IT beginners. We break down the differences, prerequisites, and which one aligns best with your career goals.

The Cert Climb TeamEditorial team
2 min read

When breaking into the IT industry, the first major roadblock most candidates face is choosing their first certification. For the vast majority, the choice boils down to two heavyweights: CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+.

Should you start at the very beginning with A+, or skip ahead to Network+? The answer depends entirely on your current experience level and what job you are actively trying to get.

Here is a breakdown of both exams, their ROI, and which one you should take first.

CompTIA A+: The Ultimate IT Foundation

The CompTIA A+ is the undisputed king of entry-level IT certifications. It is the gold standard for landing your first Help Desk, Technical Support, or Desktop Support job.

What it covers

A+ is actually two separate exams (Core 1 and Core 2). It covers an incredibly wide but shallow pool of knowledge:

  • Hardware and components
  • Windows, macOS, and Linux troubleshooting
  • Mobile devices
  • Basic networking
  • Basic security

Who should take A+ first?

  • Absolute Beginners: If you have zero professional IT experience and need a resume builder to get your foot in the door, A+ is mandatory. Many HR filters for entry-level help desk jobs require it.
  • Career Changers: If you are transitioning from retail, hospitality, or an unrelated field, A+ proves you have the baseline technical competence to handle a corporate IT environment.

Check out our comprehensive CompTIA A+ Study Guide for a full breakdown of the exam.

CompTIA Network+: The Gateway to Infrastructure

While A+ teaches you how to fix a single computer, CompTIA Network+ teaches you how to connect hundreds of computers together. It is a significantly deeper, more focused exam.

What it covers

Network+ is a single exam that dives deep into:

  • OSI Model and TCP/IP
  • Subnetting and routing protocols
  • Network troubleshooting
  • Cabling and physical infrastructure
  • Network security and cloud concepts

Who should take Network+ first?

  • Current Help Desk Techs: If you already have 6-12 months of IT support experience, you don't need A+. Your experience proves you know the basics. Network+ is your ticket out of the help desk and into a Junior SysAdmin or Network Technician role.
  • Cybersecurity Hopefuls: You cannot secure a network if you don't know how a network works. If your ultimate goal is Security+ and a cybersecurity career, Network+ is the foundational stepping stone.

The Verdict: Which one first?

Scenario 1: You have no IT experience. Start with CompTIA A+. Do not skip it. The IT industry is highly structured, and skipping the fundamentals will leave massive gaps in your knowledge that will haunt you during technical interviews.

Scenario 2: You already work in IT (or have a strong technical degree). Skip A+ and go straight for CompTIA Network+. Spending time and money on A+ when you already know how to troubleshoot a Windows machine is a waste of resources.

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