CompTIA A+ vs Network+ vs Security+: which do you need?
Updated · 5 min read · By the Elevate admissions team
Most people take them in order. A+ (exams 220-1201 and 220-1202) covers IT support basics. Network+ (N10-009) covers how networks work. Security+ (SY0-701) covers core cybersecurity. A+ helps you land help desk work, Network+ moves you toward network support, and Security+ is the common baseline for security roles.
CompTIA A+
A+ is the entry point for IT support. It covers hardware, mobile devices, operating systems, troubleshooting, basic networking and security, and operational procedures. It takes two exams. The current version is the 220-1201 and 220-1202 series, released in 2025.
Typical roles: help desk technician, IT support specialist, desktop support technician.
CompTIA Network+
Network+ (N10-009) covers networking concepts, implementation, operations, security and troubleshooting: IP addressing, routing and switching, wireless, and network tools. It's the bridge from fixing individual computers to supporting the network they run on.
Typical roles: network support technician, junior network administrator, NOC technician.
CompTIA Security+
Security+ (SY0-701) covers threats and vulnerabilities, security architecture, operations, incident response, and governance and risk. Employers widely use it as a baseline security credential, including for many U.S. Department of Defense roles.
Typical roles: security specialist, junior SOC analyst, systems administrator with security duties.
Which order?
- 1A+ first, if you're new to IT. It's what most help desk job postings ask for.
- 2Network+ next, because security is much easier once you understand how traffic moves.
- 3Security+ last, to qualify for security-focused roles.
If you already work in IT support, you can often skip straight to Network+ or Security+.
Preparing for all three
Elevate's 24-week Cyber Summit program is 100% online with live instruction. It prepares students for A+, Network+ and Security+, with networking labs, Windows and Linux administration, and career coaching. Elevate lists Year 1 earnings for IT support roles of $57,000–$89,000, based on Cyberseek, U.S. BLS and iSecJobs data.
The Elevate program
Frequently asked questions
Should I get A+ or Security+ first?
If you're new to IT, start with A+. Security+ assumes networking and systems knowledge that A+ and Network+ build.
What are the current CompTIA exam codes?
A+ is 220-1201 and 220-1202, Network+ is N10-009, and Security+ is SY0-701. Check CompTIA's site before booking, as exams are refreshed every few years.
Can I get an IT job with just CompTIA A+?
Yes. A+ is the certification most often requested for entry-level help desk and IT support roles.