Choose A+ first if you are learning broad computer support from the beginning. Choose Network+ first if you already have that foundation and want to focus on networking. You can learn networking concepts without buying both exams; let your target jobs and current skills determine which credential is worth paying for.
A+ vs Network+ at a glance
| Decision | CompTIA A+ | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Main direction | Device, operating-system and user support | Network connectivity, operations and troubleshooting |
| Current exams | Core 1 220-1201 and Core 2 220-1202; both required | N10-009 |
| Exam time | 90 minutes per exam | 90 minutes |
| Displayed U.S. voucher price | $274 per exam; $548 for both | $399 for one exam |
| Provider-recommended experience | 12 months of hands-on IT support experience | A+ and 9–12 months in junior network administration or network support |
Exam details and current displayed prices were checked on CompTIA A+ Core 1 and CompTIA Network+. Experience recommendations help you judge readiness; they are not a promise that a new learner can pass after a fixed number of weeks.
When A+ is the better first choice
A+ is a useful direction when a computer problem still feels like a collection of disconnected guesses. Before specializing, learn to distinguish hardware, operating-system, application and network symptoms. Support work also requires asking clear questions and explaining a solution to someone who is not technical.
- Your target postings mention A+ for help desk or desktop support.
- You need a broad structure for learning devices, operating systems and troubleshooting.
- You can budget for two exams and time to prepare for each.
- You want to practise support scenarios alongside the objectives, rather than only memorizing answers.
Practice project: use a device or virtual machine you control. Document a user account issue, a connectivity issue and a storage or application issue. For each one, record what you observed, what you ruled out, what changed and how you verified the fix.
When Network+ is the better first choice
Network+ can be a sensible first paid exam if you already understand general support and enjoy diagnosing connections between systems. It gives your study a networking focus, but it is not a substitute for practical configuration and troubleshooting.
- You already handle routine computer support confidently.
- Your target postings emphasize networking tasks or name Network+.
- You can explain IP addressing, DNS and basic routing before beginning deeper study.
- You have time to practise interpreting a network diagram and investigating a connection failure.
Practice project: draw a small network you own or are authorized to use. Label the router, devices, addressing and DNS settings. Explain what you would check if a device could reach a local service but not a website. Keep passwords and real identifying details out of your public write-up.
Do you need to earn A+ before Network+?
Avoid buying A+ simply to complete a sequence. If you already possess the support skills, compare the Network+ objectives with your knowledge and your job sample. If basic troubleshooting is unfamiliar, build that foundation first through study and practice, then decide whether an A+ exam is useful.
For a guided course alternative, see our Google Career Certificates review. For a broader starting decision, use Best First IT Certification for Beginners.
Compare total costs, including renewal
The exam-only difference can be misleading: A+ requires two paid passes. Add preparation, labs and any retake allowance to $548 for A+ or $399 for Network+ at the displayed prices. Bundles cost more upfront and include different products, so compare their contents instead of assuming they are cheaper for your needs.
CompTIA lists CEU-upload renewal fees of $75 for A+ and $150 for Network+ over a three-year period. These are not the full cost of every renewal method; activities or alternative routes may cost extra or waive the CE fee. See CompTIA’s renewal-fee page.
Plan your preparation around readiness
- Read the current exam objectives and mark topics you can explain, topics you can perform and topics you need to learn.
- Choose one main study resource, then pair each topic with a small practical task.
- Review mistakes from fresh practice questions; explain the reason for each answer.
- Book the exam when you can handle the objectives and timed practice consistently. A study calendar is a planning tool, not a pass guarantee.
Which should you choose today?
From zero and aiming at support: start with support fundamentals and consider A+. Already comfortable with support and aiming at network work: consider Network+. Unsure of your role: use the beginner IT roadmap before buying a voucher. For a later security step, read Security+ vs Google Cybersecurity.
Provider details checked October 9, 2026. Prices shown are in USD for the U.S.; discounts, taxes, location and enrollment offers can change the amount you pay.
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