Author
Prasenjit Sarkar
Founder & CEO, HydraNode
Technology leader with more than 20 years in cloud computing and virtualization, author of six books on cloud technologies, holder of 16+ patents, and a VMware CTO Ambassador. Prasenjit founded HydraNode to give certification candidates practice material written to the published exam objectives, with an explanation for every option, instead of memorised brain dumps.
Articles by Prasenjit (71)
Is the CEH Exam Hard to Pass? A Realistic Difficulty Guide for 312-50
CEH is wide, not deep: twenty modules, each worth a few questions, so there is nowhere to hide a weak area. Format, cut score, eligibility, the module list, and a plan that fits the exam.
September 5, 2026
Is the AZ-104 Exam Hard? Format, Passing Score and What Trips People Up
AZ-104 is a breadth exam that assumes hands-on Azure time. Here is how it is scored, what each domain asks, the four traps that fail most candidates, and how long to study depending on your background.
September 5, 2026
Is the SY0-701 Security+ Exam Hard? Domains, Passing Score and How to Prepare
SY0-701 is harder than its reputation because it tests decisions, not definitions. Format, scoring, the five domains, the PBQs, and a study plan that matches the way the exam is written.
September 5, 2026
CompTIA A+ Practice Test: Free Questions for Core 1 and Core 2
A practice test is only useful if it fails you before CompTIA does. Here is what the A+ exams actually test, how to score yourself honestly, and where to sit a full-length practice exam free.
August 19, 2026
Free IT Certification Practice Tests in 2026: The Complete Guide to Passing AWS, Azure, CompTIA, Cisco, and More
Free practice tests can dramatically improve your odds of passing an IT certification exam, but only if you use them strategically. This guide explains where free exams fit into your study plan, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to prepare for CompTIA, AWS, Azure, Cisco, and other top certifications in 2026.
March 28, 2026
AWS Cloud Practitioner vs AZ-900: Which Entry-Level Cloud Cert Should You Get First in 2026?
Trying to choose between AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals? This guide compares CLF-C02 and AZ-900 on exam format, difficulty, cost, career value, and the best first move for beginners in 2026.
March 28, 2026
Is CompTIA Security+ Worth It in 2026? Honest ROI, Salary, and Job Demand Analysis
CompTIA Security+ remains one of the most recognized entry-level cybersecurity certifications in 2026, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right move for everyone. This guide breaks down the real value of Security+, including exam cost, salary impact, DoD relevance, job demand, and when the certification delivers a strong return on investment.
March 28, 2026
CompTIA A+ 1101 vs 1102: Key Differences, Difficulty, and How to Pass Both in 2026
Trying to figure out the difference between CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2? This guide breaks down the objectives, difficulty, ideal study order, and best strategy to pass both exams in 2026, plus what changed with the newer 220-1201 series.
March 28, 2026
How to Pass the CCNA in 2026: A Complete 12-Week Study Plan for the Cisco 200-301 Exam
Planning to earn your CCNA certification in 2026? This guide breaks down exactly how to prepare for the Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam with a realistic 12-week schedule, lab strategy, study resources, and practice exam advice.
March 28, 2026
Highest Paying IT Certifications: Complete Guide 2026
Looking to maximize your earning potential in tech? This comprehensive guide reveals the highest paying IT certifications in 2026, complete with salary data, exam details, and proven strategies to help you pass on your first attempt.
December 3, 2025
Identity Access Management Certifications: Complete Guide 2026
Looking to break into one of cybersecurity's fastest-growing fields? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about identity access management certifications in 2026, from choosing the right credential to passing your exam on the first attempt.
December 2, 2025
Application Security Certifications: Complete Guide 2026
Discover everything you need to know about application security certifications in 2026. From choosing the right cert to landing six-figure roles, this comprehensive guide covers exam details, study strategies, and career paths for aspiring AppSec professionals.
December 2, 2025