Are you ready to boost your IT career with a networking certification that is recognized and respected by employers around the world? If so, you are probably searching for the best online courses for CompTIA Network+, and you have come to the right place.
Choosing a course that is fully updated with the latest exam objectives is essential if you want to pass the certification with confidence.
One course worth considering is the CompTIA Network+ program offered by Prepsaret. This self-paced course provides complete coverage of all the key topics tested on the exam. The materials are regularly refreshed to match the current exam version, so you are always learning what matters most.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to find the right Network+ course and take the next step toward your certification success.
Overview of CompTIA Network+ Certification
The CompTIA Network+ certification provides a vendor-neutral credential that validates the knowledge and skills needed to design, implement, and maintain network infrastructure. This certification focuses on both theoretical concepts and practical application, covering everything from network architecture to security and troubleshooting.
A comprehensive CompTIA Network+ study guide typically includes topics such as:
- Network architecture (topologies, media types, etc.)
- Network operations (monitoring, optimization, etc.)
- Network security concepts and implementations
- Troubleshooting methodologies and tools
- Industry standards, practices, and network theory
Many IT professionals start with CompTIA A+ certification before progressing to Network+, as A+ provides a foundation in general IT knowledge that complements the specialized networking skills covered in Network+.
Together, these certifications demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of both hardware and network components.
The Network+ certification is recognized globally by employers including Apple, Dell, HP, and numerous government agencies.
Related article: Is CompTIA Network+ worth it for beginners?
Cost of CompTIA Network+ Certification
When researching the best online courses for CompTIA Network+, budget considerations often play a significant role in decision-making. The CompTIA Network+ exam cost breaks down as follows:
- Exam voucher: Approximately $348 (standard price)
- Retake voucher: Additional cost if needed
- Study materials: Varies widely depending on provider
- Practice exams: Often bundled with courses or available separately
Many candidates find that investing in quality training resources upfront reduces the likelihood of needing to retake the exam, making it more economical in the long run.
Prepsaret offers competitive pricing on their comprehensive Network+ prep materials, providing excellent value compared to more expensive bootcamp options.
Some organizations offer reduced pricing through the CompTIA Academic Marketplace for students, educators, and academic institutions. Military members and veterans may also qualify for discounts through various programs.
Find out more best study resources for CompTIA Network+ for budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on quality.
Best Online Courses for CompTIA Network+: What to Look For
When evaluating a CompTIA Network+ course, several factors separate the truly helpful programs from those that might leave you underprepared.
The most effective courses share these characteristics:
- Comprehensive coverage of all exam objectives
- Regular updates to match the current exam version
- Experienced instructors with real-world networking expertise
- Interactive elements like quizzes and hands-on labs
- Practice tests that simulate the actual exam experience
For those working with limited funds, exploring CompTIA Network+ training free options can be a good starting point.
Prepsaret offers free practice questions that give you a taste of their comprehensive program while helping you assess your current knowledge level.
The CompTIA Network+ courses with hands-on lab simulations are particularly valuable for practical skill development. These virtual environments allow you to configure network devices, troubleshoot issues, and implement security measures without requiring expensive physical equipment.
When comparing CompTIA Network+ certification programs, look for those that include:
- Video lessons covering all exam objectives
- Downloadable study guides and cheat sheets
- Practice questions with detailed explanations
- Performance-based question preparation
- Instructor support for answering questions
- Study plans with recommended pacing
Why Prepsaret and Official CompTIA are the Best Choices for Network+ Prep
- Official CompTIA resources provide authoritative and up-to-date content directly from the certification body, ensuring comprehensive coverage and reliability for your preparation.
- Prepsaret is regularly updated to align with the latest exam objectives and offers a comprehensive, affordable prep program. It features realistic practice questions and flexible study plans.
Prepsaret stands out among Network+ preparation resources for several compelling reasons:
- Updated regularly: Content is continuously refreshed to align with the latest exam objectives and industry developments
- Comprehensive study notes: Covers all topics that appear on the exam with clear explanations and practical examples
- Affordability: Offers excellent value compared to more expensive bootcamp-style programs
- Realistic practice questions: Their question bank reflects the style, difficulty, and format of real exam questions
- Flexible study plans: Choose between 1-month and 2-month self-paced options to match your schedule and learning style
The structured approach of Prepsaret’s materials helps eliminate the guesswork of certification preparation, ensuring you don’t waste time on irrelevant content.
Both options provide thorough and structured approaches, ensuring you’ll be well-prepared for the CompTIA Network+ exam.
Related post: How to Pass CompTIA Network+ on the First Try
Top-Rated Online Training for CompTIA Network+ Certification
When searching for the best online courses for CompTIA Network+, several platforms consistently receive positive reviews from IT professionals.
Professor Messer Network+ and Prepsaret are among the most reputable instructors and platforms for self-paced courses, with Professor Messer offering free YouTube content and Prepsaret providing structured self-study programs.
For those concerned about budget, affordable CompTIA Network+ online classes with certification options include Prepsaret, which offers one of the most cost-effective yet comprehensive self-paced preparation courses available.
Their flexible 1-month and 2-month study plans let you choose the timeline that works best for your schedule and learning style.
Where to Find Accredited Network+ Certification Training
When looking for accredited Network+ certification training, consider these top platforms:
- Prepsaret: Excellent self-paced program with comprehensive study notes and practice exams
- LinkedIn Learning: Professional-quality videos with a business-oriented approach
- ITProTV: Engaging, TV-style format that makes learning more entertaining
- CompTIA CertMaster: Official training directly from the certification provider
Each platform has its strengths, with some focusing on video content while others emphasize practice questions or interactive labs.
Many successful candidates use a combination of resources to get the most well-rounded preparation.
Check out CompTIA Network+ exam prerequisites to ensure you’re ready to begin your certification journey.
Best Self-Paced CompTIA Network+ Courses for Beginners
For those new to networking, the best self-paced CompTIA Network+ courses for beginners provide clear explanations of fundamental concepts before building to more advanced topics. These courses avoid overwhelming newcomers with technical jargon while still covering all necessary exam content.
A good Network+ self-paced course offers:
- Foundational modules that assume no prior networking knowledge
- Visual aids to explain complex networking concepts
- Glossaries of technical terms and acronyms
- Step-by-step demonstrations of network configurations
- Regular knowledge checks to ensure understanding
Top Self-Paced Network+ Courses:
- Prepsaret CompTIA Network+ Prep Course
- CompTIA CertMaster Learn for Network+ (Official CompTIA)
- CBT Nuggets Network+ (N10-009) Training
- University of Houston Self-Paced Network+ Course
- TrainWithJobWorks Self-Paced Course
While paid courses typically offer more comprehensive preparation, Network+ training online free resources can supplement your learning or serve as a starting point.
YouTube channels like Professor Messer provide valuable content at no cost, while Prepsaret offers free practice questions to help assess your readiness.
The ideal beginner-friendly course strikes a balance between accessibility and thoroughness. It should explain concepts in plain language without oversimplifying the technical details you’ll need to master for the exam and your future career.
Best Online Bootcamps for CompTIA Network+ Exam
For those who prefer an intensive, structured approach, the best online bootcamps for CompTIA Network+ exam preparation offer accelerated learning experiences.
These programs typically compress months of study into weeks of focused training, with daily live sessions and homework assignments.
CompTIA Network+ certification training through boot camps often includes:
- Live instructor-led sessions with real-time Q&A
- Cohort-based learning with peer interaction
- Rigid schedules that maintain accountability
- Higher price points reflecting the intensive format
- Often include the exam voucher in the package
Who Benefits Most from Bootcamps:
- Career changers seeking rapid skill acquisition
- Learners with company-sponsored training budgets
- Individuals who thrive in structured, time-bound environments
- Candidates preparing for imminent job interviews requiring certification
The University of Houston offers a live, online Network+ Bootcamp that includes expert instruction, exam vouchers, hands-on labs, and unlimited practice exams.
Self-paced alternatives like Prepsaret offer many of the same benefits without the rigid scheduling requirements, making them more appropriate for working professionals or those with unpredictable schedules.
CompTIA Network+ Courses With Hands-on Lab Simulations
Practical experience is crucial for networking professionals, which is why CompTIA Network+ courses with hands-on lab simulations are particularly valuable.
These virtual environments allow you to practice configuring routers, switches, and other network devices without purchasing expensive hardware.
The best Network+ course with labs offers simulations that:
- Accurately replicate real-world networking scenarios
- Provide guided exercises with clear objectives
- Allow for experimentation and troubleshooting
- Include performance-based questions similar to the actual exam
- Offer feedback on your configuration choices
These lab environments help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing you not just for the exam but for real workplace challenges.
The hands-on experience gained through these labs is invaluable when troubleshooting network issues or implementing security measures in professional settings.
Some platforms offer browser-based simulations that require no software installation, while others provide downloadable virtual environments that more closely mimic actual network equipment. Either approach can be effective, depending on your learning style and technical requirements.
Check out CompTIA Network+ practice test questions and answers for examples of the performance-based items you’ll encounter on the actual exam.
CompTIA Security+ and How It Relates to Network+
Many IT professionals choose to pursue CompTIA Security+ after completing Network+, as the two certifications complement each other naturally. While Network+ focuses on implementing and maintaining network infrastructure, Security+ concentrates on securing those networks against threats and vulnerabilities.
The foundation of networking knowledge established through Network+ makes many Security+ concepts more accessible, creating a logical progression in your certification journey.
Common topics that overlap between these certifications include:
- Network security devices and tools
- Secure network design principles
- Common network vulnerabilities
- Security protocols and encryption
- Authentication and access control
Similarly, the relationship between CompTIA A+ and Network+ forms a natural progression from hardware and operating system knowledge to specialized networking skills.
Many IT professionals follow the A+ → Network+ → Security+ path to build a comprehensive knowledge base that’s highly valued in the job market.
Comparison of CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+:
| Feature | CompTIA A+ | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA Security+ |
| Focus Area | Core IT support and hardware/software basics | Networking hardware, protocols, and operations | Cybersecurity fundamentals and threat management |
| Target Audience | Beginners new to IT, help desk, technical support roles | IT professionals with basic computer knowledge seeking networking roles | IT pros with networking knowledge aiming for cybersecurity roles |
| Typical Job Roles | Help desk technician, desktop support analyst, field service technician | Network administrator, network support specialist, system engineer | Security administrator, junior IT auditor, penetration tester |
| Exam Requirements | Two exams (Core 1 and Core 2) | One exam (no formal prerequisite, but A+ recommended) | One exam (Network+ recommended but not required) |
| Recommended Experience | No prior experience required | Basic computer knowledge; 9-12 months networking experience recommended | 2+ years IT administration with security focus recommended |
| Key Topics Covered | Hardware, software troubleshooting, operating systems, basic networking, security fundamentals | Network architecture, operations, security, troubleshooting | Threats and vulnerabilities, risk management, cryptography, identity management |
| Certification Validity | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| Exam Duration | Two 90-minute exams | One 90-minute exam | One 90-minute exam |
| Cost (approximate) | Varies, typically around $232 per exam | Around $348 per exam | Around $370 per exam |
| Role in Career Path | Foundation for IT support and hardware roles | Builds networking skills, stepping stone to advanced networking certs | Builds cybersecurity expertise, foundation for advanced security roles |
| Vendor Neutral? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
If you’re ready to start your certification journey, you can begin preparing now:
Choosing the Right CompTIA Network+ Course for You
With so many options available, selecting the best online courses for CompTIA Network+ comes down to your individual learning style, budget, and timeline. A quality CompTIA Network+ study guide should align with your personal learning preferences while thoroughly covering all exam objectives.
When evaluating a Network+ online course, consider these personal factors:
- Learning style: Do you prefer video lectures, reading text, or hands-on exercises?
- Schedule: Can you commit to fixed class times, or do you need completely flexible learning?
- Prior knowledge: Are you a complete beginner, or do you already have some networking experience?
- Budget: What’s your price range for certification preparation?
- Timeline: How soon do you need to take the exam?
The most effective CompTIA Network+ certification training programs offer multiple learning modalities to accommodate different preferences.
Prepsaret’s approach combines comprehensive study notes with realistic practice questions, making it suitable for a wide range of learners.
Remember that most successful candidates use multiple resources rather than relying on a single course or platform.
You might combine Prepsaret’s structured study notes with free video content from Professor Messer and hands-on labs from another provider to create a comprehensive preparation strategy.
Continue Reading: CompTIA Network+ salary expectations
FAQs
Can I Learn Network+ On My Own?
Yes, self-study is possible using official guides, online video courses like Professor Messer’s, and Prepsaret practice exams. Combining multiple learning methods—reading, watching videos, and hands-on labs—helps build knowledge effectively without formal classes.
How Much Does CompTIA Network+ Training Cost?
Exam vouchers typically cost around $348. Training costs vary widely: self-paced courses range from free resources to several hundred dollars, while bootcamps and instructor-led courses can be more expensive. Practice materials and labs may add to the total cost.
Is CompTIA Network+ Easy To Pass?
Network+ is moderately challenging, especially for beginners. Success requires dedicated study, understanding networking concepts, and practicing hands-on tasks. Many candidates pass after focused preparation and multiple practice tests.
How Long Should You Study For CompTIA Network+?
Study time varies but typically ranges from 6 to 12 weeks with consistent daily effort. Intensive learners may prepare in 2–4 weeks, while others take longer depending on prior experience and study methods.
Can I Get A Job With Just A CompTIA Security+?
Yes, Security+ is widely recognized for entry-level cybersecurity roles. It can qualify you for jobs like security analyst, junior penetration tester, or IT auditor, especially when combined with practical experience or other certifications.
How Much Can I Make With A Network+ Certification?
Network+ certified professionals earn an average salary around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, job role, and location. It helps open doors to networking and IT support positions with competitive pay.
What Jobs Can I Get With Network+?
Common roles include network administrator, network technician, system support specialist, and help desk technician. Network+ validates skills needed for managing, troubleshooting, and securing network infrastructure.
What Is The Success Rate For CompTIA Network+?
The success rate for CompTIA Network+ varies depending on individual preparation and study methods. On average, about 70% of those who use comprehensive study resources and practice exams pass the certification.
Conclusion
Finding the best online courses for CompTIA Network+ certification doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on updated content, comprehensive exam coverage, and a learning style that suits you.
Prepsaret stands out by offering a balanced approach with detailed study materials and realistic practice questions—all at an affordable price. Their regularly updated content ensures you’re studying what matters most for the current exam.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced IT professional, Prepsaret’s flexible study plans and targeted preparation will boost your confidence. Start your Network+ journey today and join the ranks of successful professionals with Prepsaret!