If you are looking to start a career in the IT industry, you may be wondering which certification exam you should take first. Two popular options are the A+ and Network+ certifications. However, you might also be wondering if one is easier to pass than the other. This article will provide an overview of both certifications, compare their difficulty levels, job opportunities, and salaries, and help you determine which exam is right for you.

Intro to A+ and Network+ Certifications: Exam Overview

The A+ and Network+ are both entry-level certification exams offered by CompTIA. A+ focuses on computer hardware and software while Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification that covers networking technology. Each certification consists of two exams that you need to pass to obtain the certification.

Obtaining an A+ or Network+ certification can greatly enhance your career prospects in the IT industry. These certifications are recognized globally and are highly valued by employers. The A+ certification is ideal for individuals who want to work in technical support or help desk roles, while the Network+ certification is suitable for those who want to work in network administration or network engineering roles. Both certifications require a solid understanding of computer hardware, software, and networking concepts, and passing the exams demonstrates your proficiency in these areas.

What is the A+ Certification?

The A+ certification was first introduced in 1993 and has since become a standard requirement for IT support technicians. The A+ certification focuses on computer hardware and software, including installation, configuration, and troubleshooting. The two exams that you need to pass to earn the A+ certification are the Core 1 (220-1001) and the Core 2 (220-1002) exams. The Core 1 exam covers topics such as mobile devices, networking, hardware, and virtualization. The Core 2 exam covers installation and configuration of operating systems, security, cloud computing, and operational procedures.

Having an A+ certification can greatly increase your chances of getting hired in the IT industry. It is recognized globally and is often a requirement for entry-level IT positions. In addition, the A+ certification is a great foundation for other IT certifications, such as Network+ and Security+. It is also a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in computer hardware and software to potential employers.

What is the Network+ Certification?

The Network+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that covers networking technology. The certification covers topics such as network design, configuration, and troubleshooting. The two exams that you need to pass to earn the Network+ certification are the N10-007 and N10-008 exams. The exams focus on topics such as network infrastructure, network operations, security, and network troubleshooting.

Obtaining the Network+ certification can lead to various career opportunities in the IT industry. This certification is recognized globally and is highly valued by employers. It can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your earning potential. Additionally, the knowledge and skills gained while preparing for the certification exams can be applied to real-world scenarios, making you a valuable asset to any organization.

Exam Difficulty: A+ vs Network+

When it comes to difficulty level, both exams are considered to be entry-level certifications. However, the difficulty level of each exam may vary depending on your knowledge and experience. The A+ certification is more focused on computer hardware and software, which could be more challenging if you are not familiar with these topics. On the other hand, the Network+ certification is more focused on networking technology. If you have experience in networking, you may find the Network+ exam easier than the A+ exam.

It is important to note that the A+ certification covers a wider range of topics than the Network+ certification. This means that you will need to have a broader knowledge base to pass the A+ exam. In contrast, the Network+ exam is more focused on specific networking technologies, which may make it easier to study for if you have a narrower focus.

Another factor that can affect the difficulty level of these exams is the format of the questions. The A+ exam consists of multiple-choice questions, while the Network+ exam includes both multiple-choice and performance-based questions. Performance-based questions require you to demonstrate your knowledge by completing a task or solving a problem. Some people may find these types of questions more challenging than multiple-choice questions.

Which Certification Has More Job Opportunities: A+ or Network+?

Both the A+ and Network+ certifications are recognized by employers in the IT industry. However, the job opportunities may vary depending on the job market and the type of job you are looking for. The A+ certification is more focused on computer hardware and software, and it is generally a requirement for IT support technicians. The Network+ certification, on the other hand, is more focused on networking technology, and it is generally a requirement for network administrators and network engineers.

It is important to note that both certifications can lead to a variety of job opportunities within the IT industry. For example, individuals with an A+ certification may also be qualified for roles such as help desk support or technical support specialist. Similarly, individuals with a Network+ certification may also be qualified for roles such as network security specialist or network analyst.

Furthermore, both certifications can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to advance their careers in the IT industry. Obtaining additional certifications, such as the Security+ or CCNA, can also increase job opportunities and earning potential.

Pros and Cons of Earning an A+ Certification

One of the pros of earning an A+ certification is that it is a standard requirement for IT support technicians. The certification covers computer hardware and software, which are skills that are in high demand in the IT industry. Additionally, the A+ certification is recognized by many employers in the industry. However, one of the cons of earning an A+ certification is that it may not be as useful if you are looking to specialize in a field other than IT support.

Another pro of earning an A+ certification is that it can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. According to CompTIA, the organization that offers the A+ certification, certified professionals earn an average of 5-15% more than their non-certified counterparts. Additionally, having an A+ certification can make you stand out among other job applicants and increase your chances of getting hired. However, one of the cons of earning an A+ certification is that it requires time and effort to prepare for and pass the exam, which may not be feasible for everyone.

Pros and Cons of Earning a Network+ Certification

One of the pros of earning a Network+ certification is that it is generally a requirement for network administrators and network engineers. The certification covers networking technology, which is a skill that is in high demand in the IT industry. Additionally, the Network+ certification is recognized by many employers in the industry. However, one of the cons of earning a Network+ certification is that it may not be as useful if you are looking to specialize in a field other than networking.

Another pro of earning a Network+ certification is that it can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. According to CompTIA, the organization that offers the certification, individuals with a Network+ certification earn an average salary of $74,000 per year. This is higher than the average salary for IT professionals without the certification. However, a con of earning a Network+ certification is that it requires a significant amount of time and effort to prepare for and pass the exam. It may not be the best option for individuals who are looking for a quick and easy certification.

What Do Employers Prefer: A+ or Network+?

Employers generally prefer candidates who hold certifications that are relevant to the job position. For example, if you are applying for an IT support technician position, employers are more likely to prefer candidates who hold the A+ certification. Similarly, if you are applying for a network administrator position, employers are more likely to prefer candidates who hold the Network+ certification. However, holding both certifications can be an advantage as it demonstrates a broad knowledge of IT.

It is important to note that while certifications can be a valuable asset, they are not the only factor that employers consider when hiring. Employers also look for candidates with relevant work experience, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies.

In addition, it is important to keep in mind that certifications require ongoing maintenance and renewal. This means that candidates must stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and industry developments in order to maintain their certifications. Employers may also prefer candidates who have pursued additional certifications or training beyond the A+ and Network+.

Average Salary for Professionals with A+ vs Network+ Certifications

The average salary for professionals with A+ and Network+ certifications may vary depending on the job position and location. According to PayScale, the average salary for an IT support technician with an A+ certification is around $47,000 per year. The average salary for a network engineer with a Network+ certification is around $74,000 per year.

However, it is important to note that these salaries are not set in stone and can vary based on a number of factors such as years of experience, industry, and company size. Additionally, professionals with both certifications may have an advantage in the job market as they possess a diverse skill set that can be applied to various IT roles.

How to Prepare for the A+ Exam

To prepare for the A+ exam, it is recommended that you have a good understanding of computer hardware and software. You can use study materials such as books, practice exams, and online courses to prepare for the exam. Additionally, you can also gain hands-on experience by building and troubleshooting your own computer.

Another helpful tip for preparing for the A+ exam is to join online forums or study groups where you can discuss and ask questions about the exam with other individuals who are also preparing for it. This can provide you with additional insights and perspectives on the exam, as well as help you identify areas where you may need to focus your studying. Additionally, it can be helpful to create a study schedule and set aside dedicated time each day or week to review and practice the material.

How to Prepare for the Network+ Exam

To prepare for the Network+ exam, it is recommended that you have a good understanding of networking technology. You can use study materials such as books, practice exams, and online courses to prepare for the exam. Additionally, you can also gain hands-on experience by setting up and configuring your own network.

Another important aspect of preparing for the Network+ exam is to familiarize yourself with the exam format and structure. The exam consists of multiple-choice and performance-based questions, and you will have 90 minutes to complete it. It is important to practice time management and to read each question carefully before answering.

Furthermore, it is recommended that you join a study group or online forum to discuss and review exam topics with other candidates. This can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas where you may need additional study. Additionally, taking practice exams and reviewing your results can help you identify areas where you need to focus your study efforts.

Study Materials for A+ and Network+

There are many study materials available for the A+ and Network+ exams, including books, online courses, and practice exams. CompTIA offers official study materials that you can purchase on their website. Additionally, there are many third-party study materials available that you can use to prepare for the exams.

Choosing Between A+ and Network+: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between the A+ and Network+ certifications depends on your career goals and interests. If you are interested in IT support, the A+ certification may be right for you. If you are interested in networking technology, the Network+ certification may be right for you. Additionally, if you are not sure which certification to pursue, you can also consider earning both certifications to demonstrate a broad knowledge of IT.

Conclusion: Should You Pursue an A+ or Network+ Certification?

Ultimately, the decision to pursue an A+ or Network+ certification depends on your career goals and interests. Both certifications are recognized by employers in the IT industry, and holding both certifications can be an advantage. While the A+ certification is more focused on computer hardware and software, the Network+ certification is more focused on networking technology. Whichever certification you choose to pursue, make sure to prepare adequately for the exam and gain hands-on experience.