CompTIA Network+ vs Security+

Deciding between CompTIA Network+ and Security+ can be tough for aspiring IT professionals. Both certifications can boost your career, but choosing the right one to start with depends on your career goals. 

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of which CompTIA exam should I take first and be ready to make the best choice for your professional development. 

To support your preparation, Prepsaret offers comprehensive study materials for both Security+ and Network+, ensuring you’re fully equipped for success. Let’s dive in!

What is CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+?

Before deciding which certification to pursue first, it’s important to understand what each one covers and how they differ from each other.

CompTIA Network+

The CompTIA Network+ certification focuses on networking concepts, infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting. It validates the essential skills needed to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks.

Key topics covered in Network+ include:

• Network architecture
• Network operations
• Network security
• Troubleshooting
• Industry standards and practices

This certification is ideal for IT professionals looking to establish themselves in network administration roles or those who need a solid networking foundation for other IT specialties.

CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ certification concentrates on cybersecurity fundamentals and best practices. It validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue a career in information security.

Key topics covered in Security+ include:

• Threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities
• Identity and access management
• Risk management
• Architecture and design
• Cryptography and PKI
• Technologies and tools

This certification suits professionals who want to specialize in security or add security expertise to their existing IT skills.

The difference between CompTIA Network+ and Security+ primarily lies in their focus areas. While Network+ provides broad networking knowledge with some security elements, Security+ dives deep into cybersecurity concepts, assuming you already have some networking knowledge.

When considering CompTIA Network+ vs Security, remember that Network+ offers a wider foundation in networking technologies, while Security+ specifically prepares you for security-focused roles. 

This Network+ and Security+ comparison shows they’re complementary certifications rather than competing ones, which is why many professionals eventually get both.

Do You Need Network+ Before Security+?

The short answer is no—CompTIA doesn’t list Network+ as a prerequisite for Security+. However, there are several factors to consider when deciding your certification path.

When Network+ First Makes Sense

Taking Network+ before Security+ often makes sense if:

• You’re new to IT with limited networking experience
• You want to build a strong foundation in networking concepts
• You’re planning a career where networking knowledge is crucial
• You prefer to learn topics in a logical progression (networks before securing them)

Since many security concepts build upon networking fundamentals, having a solid understanding of networks can make learning security concepts easier. That’s why many experts recommend getting Network+ first, especially for beginners.

When Security+ First Makes Sense

Starting with Security+ might be better if:

• You already have practical networking experience
• Your immediate career goal is security-focused
• You’re facing time constraints and need a security credential quickly
• Your employer specifically requires Security+ certification

The question is: Is Network+ required for Security+ certification? is definitively answered by CompTIA: no, it’s not officially required. However, without strong networking knowledge, you may struggle with certain Security+ concepts.

Many professionals wonder, should I get Network+ before Security+? The answer depends on your background and goals. If you’re completely new to IT, starting with Network+ provides a logical learning progression. If you already understand networking basics, you might skip directly to Security+.

Considering is Network+ worth it before Security+, the value comes from building a stronger foundation. Security professionals with solid networking knowledge tend to be more effective at their jobs, as they better understand the infrastructure they’re protecting.

Check out: How to start studying for CompTIA Network+

The Difficulty Level of CompTIA Network+ vs Security+

When planning your certification journey, understanding the relative difficulty of each exam helps set realistic expectations and preparation timelines.

Network+ Difficulty

The Network+ exam challenges candidates with:

• A broad range of networking topics
• Practical application questions
• Performance-based scenarios
• Detailed configuration knowledge

Many find Network+ demanding because of its technical depth and breadth across networking technologies. The exam requires understanding not just concepts but also how to apply them in real-world scenarios.

Security+ Difficulty

The Security+ exam presents challenges through:

• Abstract security concepts
• Risk assessment scenarios
• Detailed threat knowledge
• Security implementation questions

When comparing Network+ vs Security+ difficulty, most professionals consider Security+ slightly more difficult—but with an important caveat. The difficulty largely depends on your background and experience.

For someone with networking experience but little security knowledge, Security+ will feel more challenging. Conversely, someone with security background might find Network+ more difficult due to its technical networking details.

Candidates often ask about taking the Security+ exam without Network+ experience. While possible, it requires additional study time to fill knowledge gaps in networking concepts that Security+ builds upon.

 Without networking foundations, certain Security+ topics like network security, secure network architecture, and wireless security might be harder to grasp.

Related article: Is CompTIA Network+ worth it for beginners?

How to Prepare for CompTIA Network+ and Security+

Proper preparation is the key to passing either certification exam. Let’s explore effective strategies for studying and preparing for both Network+ and Security+.

Study Resources

For effective how to prepare for CompTIA Network+ and Security+, consider using:

• Official CompTIA study guides
• Prepsaret online training courses (Highly recommended)
• Practice exams and question banks
• Hands-on labs and simulations
• Study groups and forums

Combining different learning methods helps reinforce concepts and addresses different learning styles. Visual learners might benefit more from video courses, while hands-on learners should focus on labs and practical exercises.

Study Timeline

A typical preparation timeline might look like:

• 6-12 weeks for Network+ (with no prior networking experience)
• 4-8 weeks for Security+ (with some IT background)

These timeframes can vary significantly based on:

• Your prior knowledge and experience
• Hours available for study per week
• Learning pace and style
• Study resources used

Cost Considerations

When budgeting for certification, factor in:

• Exam voucher (the actual CompTIA Network+ exam cost is $369, while Security+ costs $392)
• Study materials (books, courses, practice tests)
• Training classes (if applicable)
• Retake vouchers (just in case)

Many employers offer reimbursement for certification costs, so check if your company has an education or professional development budget.

For budget-conscious candidates, consider:

• Second-hand study books
• Free online resources and YouTube tutorials
• Prepsaret CompTIA Network+ and Security+ prep materials
• Community college courses that include exam vouchers

Check Out: 

• CompTIA Network+ Prep Program
• CompTIA Security+ Prep Program

Career Opportunities After CompTIA Network+ and Security+

Both certifications can open doors to exciting IT careers, but they tend to lead to different paths and specializations.

Network+ Career Paths

With Network+ certification, you might pursue roles such as:

• Network technician
• Network administrator
• IT support specialist
• Help desk technician
• System administrator

The average salary for Network+ certified professionals ranges from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on location and experience level.

Security+ Career Paths

Security+ certification can lead to positions like:

• Security specialist
• Security administrator
• Security consultant
• Junior penetration tester
• SOC analyst

Security+ certified professionals typically earn between $60,000 and $85,000, with higher salaries in specialized roles or high-demand markets.

Check Out: CompTIA Security+ Jobs 

Many IT professionals follow a CompTIA certification path that includes both Network+ and Security+ as stepping stones to advanced certifications. This foundation prepares you well for specialized certifications like:

• CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)
• CompTIA PenTest+
• Cisco’s CCNA certification
• ISC2’s SSCP or CISSP

The complementary nature of networking and security knowledge makes professionals with both certifications particularly valuable in the job market, as they understand both how networks function and how to secure them properly.

Related post: CompTIA Network+ vs. CCNA

Network+ or Security+ First: Which Should You Take?

Now for the central question: Network+ or Security+ first? Let’s break down the decision-making process based on different scenarios and goals.

For Complete Beginners

If you’re new to IT with minimal technical experience:

• Start with Network+ to build a solid foundation
• Learning security concepts will be easier with networking knowledge
• The logical progression mirrors how networks are built and then secured

Should I get Network+ before Security+? For beginners, yes—this approach typically leads to better understanding and retention of both networking and security concepts.

For Those with Some IT Experience

If you already work in IT but want to formalize your knowledge:

• Assess your current networking knowledge honestly
• If you’re comfortable with subnetting, routing, switching, and network protocols, you might start with Security+
• If networking concepts seem fuzzy, strengthen that foundation with Network+ first

For Career Changers with Non-IT Backgrounds

If you’re transitioning from a non-technical field:

• Begin with Network+ to learn fundamental IT and networking concepts
• Use this certification to gain entry-level IT positions
• Add Security+ after gaining some practical experience

For Security-Focused Career Goals

If your primary goal is to work in cybersecurity:

• You’ll still benefit from taking Network+ first in most cases
• However, if you have verifiable networking knowledge, starting with Security+ is viable
• Remember that is Network+ required for Security+ certification? No, but the knowledge certainly helps

The right path depends on your individual circumstances, but for most people, starting with Network+ provides the most solid foundation for long-term IT career success.

Check out: CompTIA Network+ exam prerequisites

Best Order To Take CompTIA Certifications

The best order to take CompTIA certifications generally recommended is:

• CompTIA A+ – Ideal for beginners, covering foundational IT skills.
• CompTIA Network+ – Builds on A+ with networking concepts and practical skills.
• CompTIA Security+ – Focuses on cybersecurity, best taken after Network+ or with networking knowledge.

This sequence, often called the “trifecta,” provides a solid foundation before specializing. However, you can adjust the order based on your experience and career goals. 

For example, if you have networking experience, you might start with Security+. CompTIA allows flexibility, but starting with A+ is widely advised for newcomers.

Additional Considerations: Costs, Time, and Investment

Beyond the technical aspects, practical considerations like cost, time investment, and certification maintenance should factor into your decision.

Cost Comparison

When comparing certification costs:

• The CompTIA Network+ exam cost is $369 (USD)
• The Security+ exam costs $392 (USD)
• Study materials for each typically range from $50-$300 depending on resources chosen
• Training courses can range from free to several thousand dollars

When evaluating Network+ vs Security from a financial perspective, the difference in exam cost is minimal, but the potential return on investment might differ based on your career goals.

Time Investment

Consider the time required for each certification:

• Network+ typically requires 80-120 hours of study for someone new to networking
• Security+ generally needs 60-90 hours of study (less if you already know networking)
• Certification renewal is required every three years for both

Certification Synergy

Both certifications work well together:

• Concepts learned in Network+ reinforce topics in Security+
• Having both certifications demonstrates broader IT knowledge
• The combined certifications can increase your marketability

Renewal Process

Both certifications are valid for three years and can be renewed by:

• Earning continuing education units (CEUs)
• Passing the newer version of the exam
• Earning a higher-level CompTIA certification

Final Thoughts: Which Certification is Right for You?

After exploring all aspects of these certifications, let’s summarize what we’ve learned to help you make your decision about CompTIA Network+ vs Security+: Which should you take first?

For Most People: Network+ Then Security+

This path makes sense because:

• It follows the natural progression of how networks are built and secured
• Network+ provides foundational knowledge that Security+ builds upon
• Understanding threats is easier when you first understand the systems being threatened

When Security+ First Makes Sense

This approach might work better if:

• You already have strong networking knowledge from experience or education
• You’re facing an immediate job requirement for security credentials
• Your career is already established in IT and you’re pivoting to security

When considering which CompTIA exam should I take first, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best path depends on your:

• Current knowledge and experience
• Career goals and interests
• Time and budget constraints
• Learning style and preferences

Whichever certification you choose to pursue first, remember that both are valuable credentials that can significantly enhance your IT career prospects. Many successful IT professionals eventually earn both certifications, recognizing the complementary nature of networking and security knowledge.

Continue Reading: How CompTIA Network+ Boosts Your IT Career

FAQs

Making Your Decision

After reviewing the differences, requirements, and benefits of both certifications, you’re now ready to decide whether to start with Network+ or Security+. Consider your current knowledge, career goals, and learning style. 

If you’re new to IT, Network+ is a solid starting point. However, if you have networking experience or already work in IT, Security+ may be the better next step. Remember, certification is just the beginning of your journey—it’s about building valuable skills. 

Whatever path you choose, commit to thorough preparation and continuous learning. 

Start exploring Prepsaret’s study resources today to ensure your success!