Success comes at a price and making it big in the IT industry is no exception. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer and IT industry are expected to experience over 10% growth from 2019 to 2029.
This significant growth in the IT sector has made strengthening computer security systems, providing guidelines, and developing safe software more critical than ever. It’s no surprise that the CompTIA Network+ certification track is in demand. Earning the CompTIA Network+ certification offers individuals the chance to establish a career in IT Networks.
For those who are open to more opportunities in IT, this is an opportunity to see if you’re headed in the right direction and how the CompTIA Network+ will impact your professional life.
What is CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ is a professional certification offered by CompTIA for computer technology enthusiasts to help them understand basic concepts regarding networking technologies.
The Network+ exam covers critical security notions like handling newer hardware, virtualization techniques, key cloud computing, and various technical skills IT professionals need to manage network-related issues in a company.
Preparing and taking the CompTIA Network+ exam is an excellent way to gather credentials and scale-up in IT. The following are what anyone looking to get the CompTIA certification should know:
- It is recommended that you have a CompTIA A+ Certification plus not less than 9-12 months of networking experience.
- The length of the test is 90 minutes with a maximum of 90 question
- On a scale of 100-900, the passing score is 720
- You can take the exam in either English, German, or Japanese.
- It costs $329 excluding taxes to take CompTIA N10-007
- CompTIA Network+ is not valid for a lifetime, and you must renew it every three years.
Why Do You NeedCompTIA Network+?
Before dedicating your time, effort, and resources to earn the CompTIA Network+ certification, there are some essential things to consider.
CompTIA prefers IT professionals who intend to take the CompTIA Network+ have some degree of experience. Network+ certification is for people looking to scale up and not essentially for beginners. The CompTIA A+ is a more suitable certification for beginners.
In addition, CompTIA Network+ is designed for IT professionals to gain more experience, take up more responsibilities, and get better pay. If you are ready to use your knowledge and skills to build and maintain computer networks, you need a Network+ certification.
Job Opportunities In Network+
Passing the CompTIA Network+ test and earning the certification will give you the required experience to take on the following roles:
Network Engineer
Network Engineers are responsible for managing the basic network infrastructure of an organization. They ensure servers, network devices, and existing systems are managed and upgraded when necessary.
Some of the roles of a Network Engineer include;
- Configuration of firewalls to ensure optimal network and security efficiency
- Improving existing networks by designing better solutions
- Installation and configuration of network equipment such as DNS, DHCP, WAN accelerators, routers, switches, and proxy servers
Network Administrator
IT professionals who take up this role will be expected to handle everything related to an organization’s internal servers.
The following are a network administrators role;
- Installing, maintaining, and monitoring the network and hardware systems
- Diagnose and repair connectivity issues
- Manage backup systems for the network
- Ensure the right people have access and permission to files and maintain speed and availability of networks
Network Technician or Field Service Technician
Handles the installation of wireless networks for small organizations and homes. They also ensure network systems function properly through customer support.
Help Desk Technician
Assist customers with any technical issues with their networking software and devices. Providing solutions can be done over the phone, email, or chat.
System Engineer
Responsible for designing, implementing, and managing network servers and services for internal and external clients of a company.
Network Analyst
Maintains data integrity of a network and monitors its performances. Network analysts are also tasked with making technology recommendations for the company.
IS consultant
Offers guidance on the use of a specific technology for the companies needs. They may also advise the organization on the best software licence and how the technologies can work in sync.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I make with the Network+ certification
The average yearly CompTIA Network+ salary is between the range of $86,000 – $122,430. While the average freelance rate is $50 – 60 per hour.
What skills should a good Network Specialist have?
Network specialists should possess both hard and soft skills. Hard skills for designing, implementing and maintaining network systems, and soft skills for dealing with customers.
How hard is the CompTIA Network+?
The CompTIA Network+ is not a basic level test, so there’s some level of technicality to it. However, to pass successfully, you need to dedicate time and resources to prepare well before taking the test. There are resources available online such as the Network+ Exam Objectives as well as Network+ practice test questions.
Conclusion
CompTIA Network+ covers Network security, implementations, operations, troubleshooting, and networking fundamentals.
The significant boost in income that comes with earning the CompTIA Network+ is worth the stress you have to pass through when preparing and taking the course. This certification is also an indication of your level of professionalism and commitment to pursuing excellence.