PrepHow much does the CompTIA Network+ exam cost?
CompTIA partners report a US list price of US$399 per Network+ exam attempt since the mid-2026 price increase, up from US$390. CompTIA's own certification page loads prices dynamically and showed no amount when we checked, and prices vary by country. Confirm the price for your region in the CompTIA store before buying, and budget for a possible retake.
Should I get Network+ or Security+?
Take Network+ first if your networking is weak or you want a networking job, and go straight to Security+ if you already understand networks or a job requires Security+. Network+ covers how networks work and how to fix them; Security+ covers securing systems and responding to threats. Earning Security+ also renews Network+. Our Network+ vs Security+ comparison goes through the choice in detail.
Network+ vs Security+: side-by-side comparison and which to take first
What is CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification that proves you can set up, run and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. It sits between A+ and Security+ in CompTIA's core path. The current exam, N10-009, launched on June 20, 2024 and covers five domains: networking concepts (23%), network implementation (20%), network operations (19%), network security (14%) and network troubleshooting (24%).
What score do you need to pass Network+?
You need 720 on a scale of 100-900 to pass CompTIA Network+ (N10-009). The score is scaled, so it does not convert directly into a percentage of correct answers. Most points are lost on subnetting, troubleshooting scenarios and the performance-based questions. Our free Network+ practice test helps you check your level before you book.
Is CompTIA A+ easier than Network+?
Yes, most people find A+ easier topic by topic, because Network+ goes deeper into subnetting, routing, switching and network troubleshooting. A+ is two exams covering a broader range, while Network+ is one exam with a higher bar: 720 out of 900, against 675 and 700 for the A+ cores. CompTIA recommends A+ and 9-12 months of networking experience before Network+. See our Network+ study guide.
Is CompTIA Network+ still worth it in 2026?
Network+ is worth it if you are moving from help desk into network or system administration, or want a solid networking base before Security+. It is vendor-neutral, so it is recognised beyond a single equipment maker. It matters less if you already hold CCNA or work with networks daily. A higher CompTIA certification such as Security+ also renews it. Compare it with CCNA if you want a networking career.
How many questions are on Network+, and how long is the exam?
The Network+ exam (N10-009) has a maximum of 90 questions and a 90-minute time limit. Questions are multiple choice and performance-based, where you complete a task such as configuring or troubleshooting a network in a simulated environment. The exam is offered in English, German, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish.
Do I need A+ before Network+?
No, Network+ has no formal prerequisites, so you can book the exam without A+. CompTIA recommends A+ and 9-12 months of hands-on experience as a junior network administrator or network support technician, which is a sensible guide to how ready you are. To get certified you pass one exam, N10-009, bought with a voucher from CompTIA or a listed partner.
CompTIA certification path: core, infrastructure, cybersecurity and data
How long should I study for Network+?
Plan about 10 weeks at 8 to 10 hours a week if you have some IT background; that is our estimate, not a CompTIA figure. Spend the most time on troubleshooting (24%) and networking concepts (23%), and practise subnetting until you can do it quickly by hand. Our Network+ study guide has the full plan.
How long does Network+ last, and how do I renew it?
Network+ is valid for three years, according to CompTIA's continuing education fee page. To renew, earn 30 CEUs during the cycle and pay the US$150 CE fee, complete CertMaster CE, or earn a qualifying higher-level CompTIA certification such as Security+. Some approved non-CompTIA certifications and training also count toward renewal.
Should I get Network+ or CCNA?
Choose Network+ for a broad, vendor-neutral foundation or a route into security, and choose CCNA if you want a networking career, especially where Cisco equipment is used. CCNA is a two-hour associate-level exam with deeper routing, switching and device configuration. Many people take Network+ first, but it is not required. Read our CCNA vs Network+ comparison or the CCNA FAQ.
CCNA vs Network+: side-by-side comparison and decision guide
Is a new Network+ exam (N10-010) coming?
CompTIA has not announced an N10-010 exam on comptia.org as of November 7, 2026, so N10-009 is the exam to study for. CompTIA estimates N10-009 will retire in 2027, usually three years after launch, but has not given an exact date. Dates such as December 2027 that you may see come from training sites, not CompTIA. If you pass N10-009, your certification is valid for the full three years.
Can I study for Network+ for free?
Yes, you can prepare for Network+ with free material, although the exam itself is paid. Download the official N10-009 exam objectives from CompTIA and use them as a checklist, build a small lab in a free packet simulator or with virtual routers, and test yourself with our free Network+ practice test. Make sure free material covers N10-009, not an older exam version.