CompTIA Security+ is a widely demanded certification in the information technology sector. In terms of certifications, the CompTIA Security+ and Network+ tests are among the finest you can obtain whether you are seeking employment as a security professional or if you want to advance your career in the Cloud Networking field.
Compared to Network+, Security+ is a significantly more challenging course. Because, in passing the Security+ certification exam, you must be familiar with all of the content from the Net+ exam, as well as a great deal more in terms of working with both networks and security.
This certification, offered by CompTIA, has been in existence for more than a year now. The test is quite similar to the Network+ exam; however, it does have several portions not included in the Network+ exam. This article will discuss the two examinations, the domains covered, the difficulty, and whether or not Network+ can be used to prepare for the Security+ examination.
Is CompTIA Security+ more difficult to pass than CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA is focused on developing certification tests that will be recognized across the world. Its Network+ certification test has been available on the market for a considerable amount of time. Since it first appeared on the market nearly three years ago, the Security+ certification test has gained widespread acceptance.
While the company’s Network+ certification test was first presented in 1993, the company’s Security+ certification exam debuted in 2005. A large number of IT professionals are interested in taking the Security+ certification test. Network+ covers the basics of security; this test goes into further depth on more sophisticated subjects.
Obtaining CompTIA Security+ certification is an international IT credential that verifies the technical expertise required to detect and mitigate security risks and respond to and recover from a security incident.
The Security+ certification begins with this test, which is the first in the series. The CompTIA Network+ certification is intended to verify a candidate’s grasp of networking technology. The N10-006 test is the most recent edition of this exam.
The CompTIA Network+ certification program begins with this test, which is the first in the series. The majority of the information is the same, although there are a few minor changes.
What is Network+?
Computer networking certification CompTIA Network+ is a computer network certification that demonstrates knowledge of computer networking principles practically and theoretically.
CompTIA’s Network+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that is available to anybody. Cisco, Dell, Canon, Apple, Verizon, and HP are just a few of the firms that have put their confidence in the CompTIA Network+ certification. Network+ addresses both wireless and wired networks, emphasizing the links between the main system and endpoint devices.
The Network+ certification qualifies you for network engineering and network management positions, which are in high demand and expected to grow shortly.
Exam Format: The Network+ test consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes 90 minutes to complete. You may likely be faced with multiple-choice questions, drag and drop exercises, and performance-based quizzes.
The CompTIA Network+ certification assesses these abilities:
A few of the essential skills assessed and validated by the CompTIA Network+ certification include the formulation and construction of functional networks and the setup, management, and upkeep of network devices.
The CompTIA Network+ certification’s other skills assessed and affirmed by the CompTIA Network+ certification include identifying and resolving network vulnerabilities, creating and visualizing new networks for dynamic situations, and many more.
Learning these skills will provide you with the knowledge and abilities to comprehend the networking dynamics of various businesses. Labs and hands-on experience are required as part of the certification process, in addition to academic principles.
CompTIA Network+ Certification Prerequisites:
Since CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification, there are no pre-requisites for obtaining it. Even though you do not have a degree or prior expertise in computer networking, one can still enroll in the certification program.
CompTIA, on the other hand, advises that you have the CompTIA A+ certification or comparable expertise, as well as at least nine months of experience in information technology or a network infrastructure setting. The fact that you have this background will make understanding the ideas much easier.
What should you do to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ Certification Examination?
Various preparation methods are available for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam; here are some easy tips to pass CompTIA Network+ Certification.
- Self Studying
The first alternative is to use self-study materials. Books, study guides, and videos are some of the materials available. They have been created by the course objectives for the Network+ test and will assist you in covering the whole curriculum.
Using books to study for the Network+ certification exam will ensure a thorough understanding of the subject content. The CompTIA Network+ certification curricula are covered in detail in the preparation materials, so you won’t have to worry about missing anything crucial from the test objectives.
- Books
Books are an excellent choice if you like to learn via written text and pictures rather than oral instructions.
Books are written in serial sequence, and themes build upon one another chapter by chapter as the story proceeds. To prepare for the test, you should read books about networking principles. It will help you establish a firm understanding of networking ideas, which will help you grasp more complicated networking situations in the future.
There are a variety of publications available to help you prepare for the Network+ certification exam. The CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Test Guide, which includes all exam objectives and includes practice questions, is one of the most effective study tools available.
Preparing for the Network+ test with a book takes a significant amount of time. Unless you have a lot of free time and don’t mind reading a lot of material, books are not the ideal solution for you.
- Training through videos
Understanding and remembering complicated topics is made easier with video-based training sessions. If you are short on time and need to study for the Network+ test, videos are the most effective options. Videos make it possible to learn about networking topics in a more visual and participatory manner.
- Practice Tests
Completing 90 questions in 90 minutes is not an easy feat. You should take practice exams for Network+ certification before sitting for the actual exam, no matter how well prepared you to think you may be.
Going through practice exams will help you understand how to tackle complicated network questions in a short amount of time, which will be beneficial in the real world.
When you are presented with a problem and asked to come up with the best possible solution, it is quite simple to become stuck and waste a significant amount of time on a single issue. Practice tests can provide you with an indication of your overall speed. You will also learn how to approach topics from the appropriate point of view.
What is Security+?
CompTIA offers an entry-level cybersecurity certificate, Security+, that is recognized worldwide. It’s common for IT professionals to get their first certification in information security when they first start. You may get more job offers as a more competitive applicant by demonstrating to future employers that you possess the fundamental abilities necessary for a cybersecurity position.
CompTIA Security+ Certification Prerequisites:
If you want to take the CompTIA Security+ exam, there are no requirements. However, CompTIA advises that you have at least 2 years of working experience in IT administration with a security focus before taking the test. It is also advantageous to have earned the other core certifications, which deal with the more fundamental abilities required for a job in information technology.
The advantages of obtaining a CompTIA Security+ certification:
Those working in information security who are new to the industry or have never attended a security certification test may consider pursuing this certification. It’s also beneficial if you’re considering making the transition from a similar industry to cybersecurity.
As the first security certification, you must obtain, it is highly recommended since it covers the fundamental abilities required for any career in cyber security and can prepare you to go into an intermediate-level cybersecurity role after completing it.
Achieving the CompTIA Security+ certification can assist you in obtaining positions that are in high demand and pay well, like security engineer, systems administrator, security expert, network manager, security analyst, and junior IT auditor, among other positions. Although certification is not generally required for certain professions, it can give a competitive edge in the job market is obtained.
How to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ certification examination?
There are a variety of approaches to preparing for the Security+ test. The way you choose to prepare will be influenced by your prior experience, current knowledge, and learning style, among other considerations. Here are a few alternatives to consider.
- Exam preparation classes and courses
Several businesses provide test preparation classes tailored especially to the Security+ exam format (including CompTIA). In addition to providing structure to your study, enrolling in a course may guarantee that you cover all of the necessary topics. Make certain that the course you choose covers the most recent exam edition when you’re investigating options.
- Take a few practice exams.
It might be beneficial to take a practice exam to discover which areas you may need to review more while also getting a sense of what it will be like to take the actual test. This may also have the additional advantage of reducing anxiety on exam day. CompTIA provides a free practice test for the Security+ certification; however, you may discover many alternative options by conducting a fast online search.
It may be beneficial for those preparing on their own to take a practice test early in their preparation to see where they stand, and then again a couple of weeks before the exam date to discover what they still need to learn.
- Books.
If you want to create your program to study for the test, there is no shortage of materials available to assist you—everything from books and online articles to blogs and podcasts will be able to help you succeed.
The CompTIA Security+ Certification All-in-One Test Guide, which includes all exam objectives and includes practice questions, is one of the most effective study tools available.
Is it necessary to have extensive networking expertise to pass the Security+ exam?
Yes, a significant amount of networking expertise is required for the Security+ test. Although some of the networking questions are straightforward, such as answering questions about network terminology, others will require you to draw on your security and network expertise.
Utilizing your networking knowledge in security situations is the most crucial skill while taking the security+ examination.
Is CompTIA Security+ a good choice for newcomers?
The CompTIA Security+ certification is a beginner-level cybersecurity certification that is targeted at beginning cybersecurity professionals. Even though it is not necessary, CompTIA advises that you have at least two years of experience in information technology with a security emphasis before taking the test.
Is it possible to take the Security+ without taking the Network+?
There are no requirements for taking the Security+ test, which is correct. Studying for the Security+ test is sufficient to have all the networking knowledge necessary to pass the exam. If you have a solid background in networking, this is an excellent choice for you to consider.
What is the difficulty level of CompTIA Security+?
For individuals who are not sufficiently prepared, the Security+ test will cover a wide variety of material, which will make it difficult to pass the exam. Take as much time as you need to prepare to increase your chances of passing the exam on your first try.
Examine the exam objectives and make certain that you understand them all before you begin. Items you’re unclear about should be highlighted, and resources to help you learn more should be found.
You may obtain valuable information by joining a few online CompTIA or IT certification groups. You’ll be able to get advice from people who have already passed the test as well as lessons learned from others who have had to repeat it.
Final Words
Both of these tests will give you useful information that you may apply to your future job in cyber security. Everyone has a distinct starting point, and their requirements should be taken into consideration.
The bottom line is that you must analyze your educational history and current expertise to choose which combination of examinations is most appropriate for you. The essential thing is to be completely honest with yourself about where you are in terms of expertise.
