Many IT careers start in support: help desk, desktop support, field engineering or a service desk at an IT services company. CompTIA A+ and Network+ are vendor-neutral certifications designed for exactly these roles. They teach the fundamentals that later make cloud, security and networking far easier to learn.
Versions checked on CompTIA’s website in October 2026. CompTIA sets prices by region; check its store for current Indian prices.
CompTIA A+
A+ is earned by passing two exams. The current version, V15, uses Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202).
- Core 1 covers mobile devices, networking basics, hardware, virtualisation and cloud computing, and hardware and network troubleshooting.
- Core 2 covers operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures such as documentation, change management and safety.
A+ suits freshers, career switchers and anyone applying for help desk or desktop support roles. If you have built and repaired PCs or supported users at work, you will recognise much of it.
CompTIA Network+
Network+ (current exam N10-009) covers networking concepts, network implementation, operations, security and troubleshooting. Compared with Cisco’s CCNA, it is vendor-neutral and less focused on device configuration, which makes it a gentler introduction.
Do you need both?
- Help desk or desktop support: A+ is the most relevant.
- Moving towards networking: Network+, then possibly CCNA.
- Moving towards security: Network+ then Security+ is a common path.
- Already working in IT for a few years: you may be able to skip A+ and go straight to Network+ or Security+.
Performance-based questions
Both certifications include performance-based questions, short simulations where you might configure settings, troubleshoot a scenario, or match items. Practice in a real environment helps: set up a small home network, install different operating systems in virtual machines, and troubleshoot problems deliberately.
Keeping the certifications
Both are valid for three years. You can renew through CompTIA’s continuing education programme, for example by earning continuing education units or passing a higher-level CompTIA certification.
Beyond the certificate
In support roles, communication matters as much as technical skill. Employers look for people who can explain problems clearly to non-technical users, document their work, and stay calm under pressure. Mention examples of these in your resume and interviews alongside your certifications.
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