CompTIA A+ and Network+ Compared: Skills, Jobs, and Career Impact
Information technology is one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic industries in the world. It offers a wide range of career paths, from system administration to cybersecurity and cloud computing. But for beginners, the sheer variety of roles and the amount of knowledge required can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What should you learn first? How do you know if you’re even on the right path?
Fortunately, there are clear, structured ways to begin your IT journey—one of the most effective being IT certification. Certifications help validate your skills and knowledge to potential employers, giving you credibility and a structured learning path. Among the many available, the CompTIA A+ certification is often recommended as the best place to start.
Why CompTIA A+?
The CompTIA A+ certification is a foundational credential that covers a wide range of IT topics. It is considered the first step in an IT professional’s career path. This certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it’s not tied to any specific brand or technology, and it’s globally recognized. Whether you want to work in technical support, system administration, or another area, A+ gives you a baseline of essential skills.
The value of CompTIA A+ lies in its breadth. It introduces you to many core areas of IT, including computer hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. It’s designed not just to test what you know but to ensure you can apply your knowledge in real-world situations.
Who Should Consider CompTIA A+?
This certification is ideal for anyone new to the IT industry. Whether you’re a recent graduate, changing careers, or simply interested in tech, A+ is a great place to begin. While there are no formal prerequisites, it’s recommended that you have about 9 to 12 months of hands-on experience or equivalent training before taking the exams.
You don’t need to be a coding expert or have a degree in computer science. Many successful A+ candidates come from non-technical backgrounds. What you do need is a willingness to learn and a genuine interest in how technology works.
What Does CompTIA A+ Cover?
To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two separate exams:
- Core 1 (220-1101)
This exam focuses on:
- Mobile devices
- Networking
- Hardware
- Virtualization and cloud computing
- Hardware and network troubleshooting
- Mobile devices
- Core 2 (220-1102)
This exam focuses on:
- Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS)
- Security
- Software troubleshooting
- Operational procedures
- Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS)
Together, these exams provide a comprehensive view of what IT professionals need to know to support and manage technology in today’s environments.
Exam Format and Difficulty
Each exam has up to 90 questions and lasts 90 minutes. The questions come in multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based formats. The latter simulates real-world scenarios, asking you to perform tasks or solve problems you might encounter on the job.
To pass:
- Core 1 requires a score of 675 out of 900
- Core 2 requires a score of 700 out of 900
While the A+ exams are entry-level, they are not easy. They cover a wide range of information and require both conceptual understanding and practical ability. Candidates should be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of study time, especially if they’re new to the IT field.
How Much Does the Certification Cost?
The cost can vary depending on your location and whether you purchase a simple exam voucher or a full training bundle. As of 2025, here’s a general breakdown:
- Single exam voucher: ~ USD 253 per exam
- Basic bundle (voucher + retake + study guide): ~$369
- Premium bundle (includes online training, labs, exam retakes): ~$529–$849
These bundles are offered directly through CompTIA and other authorized partners. Though the cost may seem high, many consider it an investment in a future-proof career. Some employers or training programs also reimburse certification expenses.
How to Prepare for CompTIA A+
Preparation is key to passing the A+ exams. Since the certification covers such a broad range of topics, you’ll need a structured study approach. Fortunately, there are many resources available:
- Official CompTIA materials – These include study guides, eLearning platforms, and virtual labs.
- Online courses – Sites like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable training.
- YouTube – Many free tutorials are available for visual learners.
- Practice tests – Taking multiple practice exams helps you identify weak areas and get used to the exam format.
- Study groups – Engaging with online forums or local study groups provides support and additional insights.
The most effective preparation involves combining reading, watching tutorials, practicing hands-on tasks, and testing yourself regularly. It’s also smart to download the CompTIA A+ exam objectives from the official website. These objectives list everything you need to know for each exam and serve as a checklist during your study.
What Skills Will You Gain?
By the time you earn your CompTIA A+ certification, you’ll have developed several key technical and professional skills:
- Assembling and disassembling PCs
- Installing operating systems and applications
- Troubleshooting hardware and software issues
- Configuring home and office networks
- Understanding cloud and virtualization basics
- Practicing cybersecurity hygiene
- Providing technical support to users
- Following professional and safety procedures
These are not just test topics—they are the exact tasks you’ll be expected to handle in an IT support role. The certification ensures you’re job-ready.
What Jobs Can You Get with CompTIA A+?
After earning an A+, many candidates land entry-level roles such as:
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Technical Support Analyst
- Field Service Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- System Support Technician
These roles typically involve supporting users, maintaining systems, troubleshooting network issues, and ensuring devices and applications run smoothly.
According to industry salary data, entry-level IT professionals with CompTIA A+ can expect starting salaries between $45,000 and USD 65,000, depending on location and employer. With time, experience, and additional certifications, your income and responsibilities can grow quickly.
Is CompTIA A+ Worth It?
Absolutely—especially if you’re new to the field. CompTIA A+ is often the first credential IT hiring managers look for on a resume. It proves you’ve put in the work to learn the fundamentals and can apply them on the job.
It also acts as a stepping stone. Once you have A+, you can move on to more specialized certifications like CompTIA Network+, Security+, or vendor-specific credentials from Cisco, Microsoft, or AWS. Each new certification builds on the last, allowing you to shape your IT career toward your interests.
How Long is CompTIA A+ Valid?
The certification is valid for three years from the date you pass your last exam. To stay current, you’ll need to renew your certification before it expires. CompTIA offers several ways to do this, including:
- Taking a recertification exam
- Completing Continuing Education (CE) activities
- Earning a higher-level certification (such as CompTIA Network+)
Renewing helps ensure that your knowledge stays relevant as technologies evolve.
Building on the Basics with CompTIA Network+
If you’ve already earned your CompTIA A+ certification or have a strong understanding of IT fundamentals, you may be wondering what comes next. The logical progression for many IT professionals is to develop a deeper understanding of networking, since virtually every IT system, device, or platform is connected to a network. Networking is the backbone of the modern information technology infrastructure.
This is where CompTIA Network+ comes in. As an intermediate-level certification, Network+ builds directly on the foundational knowledge of A+ and prepares you for more technical and specialized roles. It’s vendor-neutral, widely recognized, and often required by employers seeking professionals who can manage and troubleshoot both wired and wireless networks.
What Is CompTIA Network+?
CompTIA Network+ is a globally recognized IT certification that focuses specifically on networking concepts and skills. It validates your ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot networks in a variety of environments. Unlike vendor-specific certifications (such as Cisco’s CCNA), Network+ gives you a broad and unbiased perspective of networking technologies, making it ideal for people working in diverse IT environments.
This certification acts as a bridge between foundational IT knowledge and more specialized roles in areas such as network administration, cybersecurity, and cloud infrastructure.
Who Should Take Network+?
Network+ is ideal for:
- Entry-level IT professionals looking to deepen their knowledge of networks
- Those who have completed or passed the CompTIA A+ certification
- People pursuing roles in network support, network administration, or cybersecurity
- Career changers entering the IT field who already understand basic hardware/software concepts
You don’t need to be an expert or have years of experience, but CompTIA recommends having A+ level knowledge and at least 9 to 12 months of networking experience before attempting Network+.
What Topics Does Network+ Cover?
The current exam (N10-008) covers five main domains:
- Networking Fundamentals (24%)
- Types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
- Network topologies (star, mesh, ring)
- OSI and TCP/IP models
- IP addressing (IPv4, IPv6, subnetting)
- Types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
- Network Implementations (19%)
- Wired and wireless technologies
- Cabling types (Cat5e, Cat6, fiber optics)
- Wireless standards (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax)
- Switches, routers, firewalls, access points
- Wired and wireless technologies
- Network Operations (16%)
- Network monitoring and performance tools
- Configuration management
- Network documentation
- Policies and procedures (change management, disaster recovery)
- Network monitoring and performance tools
- Network Security (19%)
- Common threats (DoS, MITM, phishing)
- Secure protocols (HTTPS, SSH, SFTP)
- Firewalls, VPNs, and authentication methods
- Access control and physical security
- Common threats (DoS, MITM, phishing)
- Network Troubleshooting (22%)
- Troubleshooting methodology
- Identifying and resolving network issues
- Using tools like ping, traceroute, ipconfig, and netstat
- Wireless connectivity problems
- Troubleshooting methodology
By mastering these areas, you’ll gain a solid understanding of how networks function and how to keep them running efficiently and securely.
What’s the Exam Format?
The CompTIA Network+ exam is a single exam consisting of:
- Maximum 90 questions
- 90 minutes to complete
- A mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions
Performance-based questions (PBQs) present scenarios that test your ability to solve problems in a simulated environment. These might include identifying misconfigured devices on a network diagram or selecting the appropriate cable type for a given situation.
To pass, you need a score of 720 out of 900.
The exam is moderately difficult, especially if you’re new to networking concepts like subnetting or protocol types. That’s why consistent study and hands-on practice are essential.
What Does Network+ Qualify You For?
Earning Network+ qualifies you for roles where a deeper understanding of network infrastructure is required. Common job titles include:
- Network Administrator
- Network Technician
- Network Support Specialist
- IT Infrastructure Technician
- Help Desk Technician (Tier II or III)
- Systems Administrator (entry-level)
These roles typically involve tasks such as configuring routers and switches, troubleshooting connectivity issues, maintaining wireless networks, and supporting remote office connections.
Depending on your experience and location, salaries for these roles often range from $55,000 to USD 80,000 per year. For those planning to move into cybersecurity or cloud roles later, Network+ provides a critical technical foundation.
How to Prepare for CompTIA Network+
Preparing for Network+ requires a more strategic and hands-on approach compared to A+, since many of the topics are conceptual and build on one another. Here are some effective study methods:
- Use the Official CompTIA Study Resources
- CompTIA CertMaster Learn – Self-paced eLearning with quizzes, videos, and performance-based questions
- CompTIA CertMaster Labs – Virtual labs that simulate real-world network tasks
- Official Network+ Study Guide – Comprehensive print or digital textbook aligned to the exam objectives
- Watch Video Tutorials
Platforms like Professor Messer (free), Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer structured courses with visuals that can help demystify topics like subnetting and DNS.
- Practice with Simulated Tools
Use tools like:
- Cisco Packet Tracer – Free simulation software for configuring networks
- Wireshark – For analyzing network traffic
- GNS3 or VirtualBox – To build your test lab using virtual machines
- Take Practice Exams
Mock tests and quizzes help reinforce knowledge and improve test-taking skills. Sites like ExamCompass, Dion Training, and MeasureUp offer quality questions that mirror the real exam.
- Join Study Groups and Forums
Engaging with others can help you stay motivated and gain new perspectives. Communities like Reddit’s r/CompTIA, Discord groups, or TechExams are great places to ask questions and share resources.
- Follow the Exam Objectives
Always download the free exam objectives from CompTIA’s website. This document is the official checklist of everything you’re expected to know. Use it to track your progress and guide your study sessions.
How Much Does Network+ Cost?
As of 2025, here are the approximate costs:
- Exam Voucher: USD 358
- Basic Bundle (voucher + retake + study guide): ~$489
- eLearning Bundle (voucher + CertMaster Learn & Labs): ~$999
You might also find discounted vouchers through authorized training providers or your school/employer.
While the price tag may seem high, this certification often pays for itself in your first few months on the job. Some employers also reimburse exam costs or provide free training.
Network+ vs. CCNA: Which Should You Choose?
Many new IT professionals compare CompTIA Network+ to Cisco’s CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate). Both certifications cover networking, but they serve slightly different purposes:
If you’re just starting, Network+ is a better first step. Once you’re comfortable with general networking concepts, you can specialize further with CCNA or other advanced certifications.
Is CompTIA Network+ Worth It?
Yes, especially if your goal is to work in networking, cybersecurity, or cloud environments. Employers view Network+ as a reliable indicator of your technical skills and knowledge. It also fills in many of the gaps left after A+, giving you more confidence to work on real-world IT problems.
It’s worth noting that Network+ is often required for government or DoD-related jobs, as it’s approved under DoD 8570. If you’re interested in cybersecurity roles with federal contractors or defense agencies, this certification is a strategic investment.
Validity and Renewal
Like most CompTIA certifications, Network+ is valid for three years. You can renew it by:
- Completing Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
- Passing a higher-level CompTIA exam (e.g., Security+)
- Taking the latest version of the Network+ exam
Renewing keeps your certification current and shows employers that your skills stay relevant as technology changes.
Stepping Into Cybersecurity with CompTIA Security+
Cybersecurity is one of the most critical and in-demand areas within the information technology field. As businesses, governments, and individuals continue to rely on digital systems, the risks of cyber threats, data breaches, and online fraud have grown dramatically. Organizations need professionals who can secure systems, detect vulnerabilities, and protect data—and they’re willing to pay for that expertise.
If you’re interested in joining this rapidly growing field, one of the best ways to get started is by earning the CompTIA Security+ certification. It’s an industry-standard credential that lays the groundwork for a career in cybersecurity and is often a prerequisite for higher-level security roles and certifications.
What Is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized IT certification that validates your knowledge of core security functions and best practices. It focuses on both technical and theoretical security skills, covering topics like network security, risk management, cryptography, identity and access management, and incident response.
Unlike more advanced certifications that require hands-on experience or deep specialization, Security+ is designed for those with foundational IT knowledge who want to enter the security field. It’s vendor-neutral, which means it’s applicable across all types of systems and platforms, not just those from Microsoft, Cisco, or other specific providers.
Who Should Take Security+?
Security+ is ideal for:
- IT professionals with A+ and Network+ certifications
- Those looking to pivot into cybersecurity from general IT support roles
- Students or career changers interested in a future-proof field
- Anyone aiming for compliance-related jobs (e.g., in government or defense)
CompTIA recommends having CompTIA Network+ and two years of IT experience with a security focus, but it’s not mandatory. Many people successfully earn Security+ with less experience, especially if they’ve studied A+ and Network+ or have worked in IT help desk roles.
Why Security+ Matters in the IT World
There are several reasons why CompTIA Security+ is considered a must-have entry-level certification for cybersecurity:
- Baseline Requirement – It’s often required for roles in government and defense sectors, especially under DoD 8570/8140 compliance.
- Global Recognition – Employers around the world trust Security+ to verify a candidate’s basic security skills.
- Strong Earning Potential – Entry-level security jobs typically offer higher salaries than general IT support roles.
- Career Mobility – It opens doors to specialized paths like ethical hacking, SOC analysis, penetration testing, and security engineering.
As cybersecurity threats become more complex and frequent, having Security+ on your resume helps prove that you’re serious about defending against them.
What Topics Does Security+ Cover?
The latest version of the Security+ exam (SY0-701, launched in 2024) includes the following core domains:
- General Security Concepts (12%)
- CIA Triad (confidentiality, integrity, availability)
- Threat actors, attack types, and security controls
- Cybersecurity frameworks and security governance
- CIA Triad (confidentiality, integrity, availability)
- Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations (22%)
- Malware, phishing, and social engineering
- Common vulnerabilities (e.g., buffer overflow, XSS, SQL injection)
- Security assessments and penetration testing
- Malware, phishing, and social engineering
- Security Architecture (18%)
- Secure network design and segmentation
- Cloud and virtualization security
- Application security and secure coding principles
- Secure network design and segmentation
- Security Operations (28%)
- Incident response processes
- Forensics and evidence collection
- Monitoring tools and log analysis
- Endpoint protection and patch management
- Incident response processes
- Security Program Management and Oversight (20%)
- Risk management, policies, and compliance
- Training and awareness programs
- Business continuity and disaster recovery
- Vendor risk and third-party management
- Risk management, policies, and compliance
These topics provide a strong foundation for identifying, mitigating, and responding to cybersecurity threats in a variety of real-world environments.
What’s the Exam Like?
The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) exam format includes:
- Maximum 90 questions
- 90 minutes to complete
- A mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs)
- Passing score: 750 out of 900
Performance-based questions simulate scenarios like configuring a firewall or analyzing a suspicious log file. These are designed to test your practical problem-solving abilities, not just memorized facts.
Security+ is more challenging than A+ and Network+, largely due to the abstract nature of cybersecurity concepts. But with focused study, it’s very achievable—even for beginners with a solid grasp of networking.
How to Prepare for CompTIA Security+
To pass the Security+ exam, you’ll need more than just theoretical reading. You’ll need to understand how security works in practice and be able to apply that knowledge. Here’s how to build an effective study plan:
- Study the Official Objectives
Download the free exam objectives from the CompTIA website. Use this document as a checklist to make sure you understand each topic covered on the exam.
- Choose a Trusted Study Guide
Consider using:
- CompTIA Security+ Official Study Guide
- Mike Meyers’ Security+ Guide
- Darril Gibson’s “Get Certified Get Ahead” (highly recommended for SY0-601, still relevant for SY0-701)
- Enroll in Online Training
Popular platforms offering high-quality Security+ training include:
- Professor Messer (free video series)
- Jason Dion on Udemy
- CompTIA CertMaster Learn and Labs
- LinkedIn Learning (great for beginners with short modules)
- Do Practice Exams
These help reinforce learning and prepare you for the test environment. Look for practice exams that include PBQs or scenario-based questions.
- Engage in Hands-On Labs
Cybersecurity is best learned by doing. Try:
- TryHackMe – Beginner-friendly cybersecurity labs
- Hack The Box (HTB) – Intermediate/advanced penetration testing.
- VirtualBox or VMware – Build your secure lab environment
- Wireshark – Analyze network traffic to spot anomalies
- Join a Community
Forums like Reddit’s r/CompTIA, TechExams, and Discord study groups offer support, tips, and encouragement during your study journey.
How Much Does Security+ Cost?
As of 2025, here’s what you can expect:
- Exam voucher only: ~ USD 404
- Basic bundle (voucher + retake + study guide): ~$599
- Premium bundle (voucher + labs + eLearning + retake): ~$999+
Some training providers or employers may offer discounts, voucher bundles, or reimbursements. Always check if you’re eligible for student, military, or workforce funding.
What Jobs Can You Get with Security+?
Security+ is often a minimum requirement for many cybersecurity and IT security positions, including:
- Security Analyst
- SOC Analyst (Tier I/II)
- Information Security Specialist
- Cybersecurity Technician
- IT Auditor
- Network Security Administrator
Entry-level roles typically start between $65,000 and USD 85,000 annually, with potential for rapid growth as you gain hands-on experience and pursue additional certifications.
Security+ also qualifies you for DoD 8570 roles, which means you can work for U.S. federal agencies or contractors that require baseline security certifications.
Where Can You Go After Security+?
Security+ sets the stage for more specialized or advanced security certifications, including:
- CompTIA CySA+ – Focuses on behavioral analytics and threat detection
- CompTIA PenTest+ – Offensive security, ethical hacking, and vulnerability assessment
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Penetration testing and hacking tools
- Cisco CCNA Security
- (ISC)² SSCP or CISSP – Governance and high-level security design
Each of these builds on the Security+ foundation, allowing you to specialize in areas like red teaming, threat hunting, policy compliance, or cloud security.
Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It?
Absolutely. Here’s why:
- Career Launchpad – It opens doors to cybersecurity roles that pay more and offer greater advancement.
- Credential Respect – Employers recognize and trust Security+ worldwide.
- Skill Validation – You’ll gain practical knowledge you can use on the job right away.
- Job Security – Cybersecurity roles continue to grow, with a significant talent shortage globally.
- Compliance Advantage – Meets government requirements and adds credibility to your resume.
Whether you’re transitioning from general IT or entering tech for the first time, Security+ can put you on a clear and competitive path.
Validity and Renewal
Like most CompTIA certifications, Security+ is valid for three years. You can renew it by:
- Earning CEUs through courses, webinars, or training
- Completing CertMaster CE
- Earning a higher-level certification, like CySA+ or CISSP
Renewing keeps your certification current, which is essential in a constantly evolving field like cybersecurity.
Mapping Your Career Path in Information Technology
You’ve completed foundational certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+. You’ve built a solid technical base and are beginning to understand where your interests might lie within the vast world of information technology (IT). Now comes the critical question:
Where do you go from here?
IT is not a single track—it’s a collection of specialized disciplines, each with its tools, certifications, and career outcomes. Whether you want to become a cloud engineer, ethical hacker, systems administrator, or cybersecurity analyst, your next steps should align with your long-term goals.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to map your IT career path, choose the right certifications, and build a strategic plan for success.
Know Your Career Options in IT
The first step is to understand the major career domains in IT. After foundational certifications, your next move should align with a specific area that matches your skills and interests. Here are some of the most popular and high-growth career tracks in the IT industry:
- Systems and Network Administration
Focus: Managing servers, networks, operating systems, and user access.
Common job titles:
- Systems Administrator
- Network Administrator
- IT Support Engineer
- Infrastructure Technician
Key skills:
- Windows/Linux administration
- Active Directory
- DNS, DHCP, TCP/IP
- Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V)
Certifications to consider:
- CompTIA Linux+
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- Cisco CCNA
- VMware VCP
- Cybersecurity
Focus: Protecting systems, data, and networks from threats.
Common job titles:
- Security Analyst
- SOC Analyst
- Information Security Specialist
- Penetration Tester
Key skills:
- Threat detection
- Security controls
- Incident response
- Risk management
Certifications to consider:
- CompTIA CySA+ (defensive security)
- CompTIA PenTest+ (offensive security)
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- (ISC)² SSCP or CISSP (advanced governance)
- Cloud Computing
Focus: Designing and maintaining scalable infrastructure in cloud environments.
Common job titles:
- Cloud Engineer
- Cloud Administrator
- Cloud Security Specialist
- DevOps Engineer
Key skills:
- AWS, Azure, Google Cloud platforms
- Cloud security
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
- CI/CD pipelines
Certifications to consider:
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals / Administrator
- Google Associate Cloud Engineer
- CompTIA Cloud+
- IT Support & Help Desk
Focus: Solving user problems, maintaining hardware/software, and providing technical assistance.
Common job titles:
- IT Support Specialist
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Analyst
Key skills:
- Troubleshooting hardware/software issues
- Customer service
- Ticketing systems
- Basic networking
Certifications to consider:
- CompTIA A+ (foundation)
- HDI Support Center Analyst
- Microsoft Modern Desktop Administrator
- Data & Analytics
Focus: Working with data for business intelligence, reporting, and machine learning.
Common job titles:
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Data Engineer
Key skills:
- SQL, Python
- Excel, Power BI, Tableau
- Data visualization
- Data governance
Certifications to consider:
- Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst
- Google Data Analytics Certificate
- AWS Data Analytics Specialty
- Software Development
Focus: Writing and maintaining code for applications, websites, and systems.
Common job titles:
- Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Application Engineer
Key skills:
- Programming (Python, Java, JavaScript, C#)
- Git/GitHub
- Web development (HTML/CSS, React)
- Agile/Scrum methodologies
Certifications to consider:
- Microsoft Azure Developer Associate
- Oracle Java Certification
- AWS Developer Associate
Align Certifications with Your Goals
Once you have a target career area, the next step is selecting certifications that align with that path. You don’t need to collect certifications endlessly. Instead, choose them intentionally to:
- Fill in knowledge gaps
- Validate your skills to employers.
- Meet job requirements
Let’s break down a few strategic certification pathways based on common career directions.
How to Choose Between Certifications
Not sure which direction to go? Here are some practical tips:
- Follow Job Postings
Search for jobs in your area or desired role on sites like LinkedIn or Indeed. Note which certifications are most commonly requested. Build your learning path around those.
- Consider Your Interests
Do you enjoy solving puzzles and analyzing risks? Cybersecurity might be your niche. Love automation and cloud tools? Go for a cloud or DevOps path. Are you detail-oriented and like keeping systems running? Network or system administration might be a fit.
- Evaluate Your Time and Resources
Some certifications, like CISSP or OSCP, require months of prep and real-world experience. Start with achievable milestones (e.g., Security+ or AWS Cloud Practitioner) before tackling more advanced credentials.
- Talk to People in the Industry
Join online communities (Reddit’s r/CompTIA, LinkedIn groups, Discord servers) to get firsthand advice. Mentorship or informational interviews can also help clarify your direction.
Building Experience Alongside Certifications
While certifications help validate your skills, hands-on experience is equally important. Here’s how to gain experience while studying:
- Home Lab – Set up virtual machines, practice networking, and test security tools.
- Internships or Volunteer Work – Local businesses, schools, or nonprofits may welcome free tech help.
- Freelance Projects – Try platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to solve real problems for clients.
- Capture the Flag (CTF) Games – For cybersecurity learners, CTFs like TryHackMe or PicoCTF sharpen your skills.
You’ll not only reinforce what you learn from certifications but also build a portfolio that impresses hiring managers.
Building a Long-Term IT Career Plan
Now that you know your target, create a structured career plan. Here’s a sample five-year roadmap for someone pursuing cybersecurity:
Year 1
- Earn CompTIA A+ and Network+
- Get an IT support or help desk role.
- Begin studying Security+
Year 2
- Earn Security+ certification
- Gain experience with security tickets, tools, and policies
- Explore SOC Analyst or Jr. Security Analyst roles
Year 3
- Earn CySA+ or start learning ethical hacking (PenTest+ or CEH)
- Specialize in threat detection or vulnerability scanning.
- Join local or virtual cybersecurity groups.
Year 4
- Transition into mid-level role (SOC Tier II, Security Engineer)
- Take a leadership course or certification (CISM, CISSP if qualified)
- Start mentoring juniors or presenting at meetups
Year 5
- Apply for senior roles or consulting positions
- Build a side specialization (cloud security, governance, red teaming)
- Stay current through CEUs and professional development
Your timeline may differ, but the key is consistency: learn, apply, and level up over time.
Tools to Stay on Track
Consider using these resources to manage your journey:
- Certification Roadmaps – CompTIA, Microsoft, AWS, and Cisco offer visual learning paths
- Study planners – Use tools like Notion, Trello, or Excel to track progress.
- Goal-setting – Break certifications into modules or weeks of study
- LinkedIn – Showcase each new skill and connect with industry professionals
Final Thoughts
Earning certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ is more than just passing exams. It’s the beginning of a journey—one that can lead to a stable, high-paying, and constantly evolving career.
IT is unique in that it welcomes people from all backgrounds. Whether you’re starting fresh, switching careers, or building on an existing technical foundation, there’s a path for you.
Take the time to explore your interests, align your certifications with your career goals, and build real-world experience as you go. By doing so, you’re not just becoming “certified”—you’re becoming a true IT professional.