Network+ and Security+ Certifications

The CompTIA Network+ certification is an entry-level credential that covers computer networking, systems administration, network security, and computer support. The Security+ certification is a more advanced credential for IT professionals who want to work in cybersecurity. Most jobs in cybersecurity require both the Network+ and the Security+ certifications at the minimum.

While there is some overlap in the Network+ and Security+ certifications, they are certainly not interchangeable. For example, network security is a part of both certifications, however, they were created for two different groups of IT professionals – the networking professional and the cybersecurity professional. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take one or the other, rather you should take both as they each cover skills that are useful for all IT professionals to know.

The Network+ certification requires that you have a good understanding of the following concepts and skills:

● Wired and wireless networking

● Networking protocols

● Routing and switching

● IP addressing

● Command-line utilities

● Connectors and cabling

● Networking attacks

The Security+ certification requires that you have a good understanding of the following:

● Network security

● Social engineering

● Command-line interfaces

● Malware

● Cryptography

● Common network vulnerabilities

● Secure network protocols

While you can study and take these certification exams without having work experience, CompTIA does recommend that you have six months to a year of IT experience before you take them.

More Info: comptia a+ entry level jobs