I. Introduction

CompTIA Network+ is a certification that validates real-world skills in designing and connecting networks, implementing wired/wireless solutions, monitoring and operating networks, troubleshooting issues, and applying network security concepts.

II. Exam Breakdown

Important: Network+ is earned by passing one exam from the current version. The current version is v9. Exam series code N10-009.

  • N10-009 domains (V9)
    • Networking Concepts (23%)
    • Network Implementation (20%)
    • Network Operations (19%)
    • Network Security (14%)
    • Network Troubleshooting (24%)

III. Exam Details

  • Number of questions: Maximum of 90
  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Question styles: Multiple-choice + performance-based questions (PBQs)
  • Passing score: 720 (on a scale of 100–900)
  • Recommended experience: CompTIA A+ plus 9–12 months of hands-on experience in a junior network admin / network support role (recommended, not required)

IV. Free Study Resources

V. Hands-On Labs

  • Core networking labs (do these while you study)
    • Home lab network: router + switch + AP (or a spare router in AP mode), set DHCP ranges, reservations, and DNS settings
    • VLANs + trunking (managed switch): separate “Guest / IoT / Main” networks; verify segmentation
    • Routing basics: static routes, default routes, and NAT/PAT concepts
    • Wireshark basics: capture DHCP, DNS, ARP, TCP handshakes; learn to spot “what normal looks like”
    • VPN setup: remote access VPN conceptually + a simple implementation (even just a lab on a spare machine/router)
  • Troubleshooting labs (Network+ is heavy on this)
    • Use ipconfig/ifconfig, ping, tracert/traceroute, nslookup/dig, netstat, arp, route
    • Create failures on purpose: wrong gateway, bad DNS, duplicate IP, VLAN mismatch, weak Wi-Fi, bad cable, MTU mismatch (simulated), & Write a “ticket note” after each fix.

VI. Renewal

CompTIA Network+ is in the Continuing Education (CE) program and typically renews on a three-year cycle. CompTIA lists CE fees for Network+ as $150 total for the three-year renewal period.

VII. What to Do After Network+

  • Common next steps after Network+:
    • COMPTIA Security+ (security fundamentals + career flexibility)
    • COMPTIA CySA+ (more blue-team / defensive focus)
    • CCNA 200-301 (vendor-specific, very network-implementation focused)