CCNA vs Network+
Compare Cisco CCNA and CompTIA Network+ certifications. Vendor-specific vs vendor-neutral networking certification.
Cisco CCNA
Cisco
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Cisco CCNA | CompTIA Network+ |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Cisco | CompTIA |
| Difficulty Level | Associate | Foundational |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $330 USD | $358 USD |
| Exam Format | 100-120 questions, labs | Multiple choice, performance-based |
| Prerequisites | None (1+ year networking recommended) | A+ or 9-12 months experience |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Network engineers in Cisco environments | Vendor-neutral network technicians |
| Salary Range | $65,000 - $95,000 | $55,000 - $75,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Cisco CCNA Focus Areas
- IP Connectivity
- Network Access
- IP Services
- Security
- Automation
CompTIA Network+ Focus Areas
- Networking Concepts
- Infrastructure
- Operations
- Security
- Troubleshooting
Our Recommendation
CCNA is harder and pays more but Cisco-focused; Network+ is easier and vendor-neutral.
Choose Cisco CCNA
Choose CCNA if you work with Cisco equipment or want higher earning potential.
Choose CompTIA Network+
Choose Network+ for vendor-neutral skills or as a stepping stone to CCNA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cisco CCNA or CompTIA Network+?
CCNA is harder and pays more but Cisco-focused; Network+ is easier and vendor-neutral.
What are the salary differences between Cisco CCNA?
Cisco CCNA typically offers salaries around $65,000 - $95,000, while CompTIA Network+ offers $55,000 - $75,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose CCNA if you work with Cisco equipment or want higher earning potential. Choose Network+ for vendor-neutral skills or as a stepping stone to CCNA.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
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