IT professionals in every organization need to have strong networking skills to keep systems connected and running properly. The new CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) prepares tech professionals to do just that.
The updated CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) is a vendor-neutral networking certification that prepares those entering or advancing in IT careers with a strong foundation to work on networks on any platform.
CompTIA Network+ validates the technical skills IT professionals need to securely establish, maintain, and troubleshoot the essential networks on which small businesses, corporations, and governments rely. Over 500,000 IT pros worldwide have chosen CompTIA Network+ to ignite their IT careers since its inception. The brand-new CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) launched on June 20, 2024.Job roles candidates are prepared for with CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification is globally recognized for its comprehensive approach to IT networking, an aspect of tech that closely relates to other facets of IT such as cloud computing, virtualization, software development, cybersecurity, and more.
Employers and organizations know this and have benefited firsthand from Network+ certified employees. Primary job roles that directly utilize the skills candidates will learn from the new CompTIA Network+ exam include:
- Junior network administrator
- Systems administrator
- NOC Technician
Secondary job roles that may benefit from the skills you learn on the CompTIA Network+ exam include:
- Datacenter Support Technician
- Telecommunications Technician
- IT Support Manager
Tier II Support Technician
CompTIA Network+ 008 vs. 009: What are the updates?
CompTIA routinely updates certification exams to ensure that the content accurately reflects updates in technology and industry standards. Specifically, CompTIA Network+ undergoes content updates every three years.
The new CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) certification has been updated to reflect skills relevant to job roles tasked with ensuring the seamless and secure flow of data and communication in today's complex network environments.
The updated certification continues to validate the skills required to implement enterprise-level wired and wireless network solutions; identify and troubleshoot network performance issues; and harden networks against threats to mitigate security vulnerabilities.
CompTIA Network+ is the only certification that covers the specific skills that network engineers need. Other certifications can be very broad and don’t necessarily cover the hands-on skills and precise knowledge professionals need in today’s networking environments. It’s this attention to detail that makes the CompTIA Network+ one of the most respected networking certifications available.
Let's look at some key updates and how the new exam will compare to the old version.
| CompTIA Network+ 008 Exam Domains | CompTIA Network+ 009 Exam Domains |
| Networking Fundamentals (24%) Network Implementations (19%) Network Operations (16%) Network Security (19%) Network Troubleshooting (22%) | Networking Concepts (23%) Network Implementations (20%) Network Operations (19%) Network Security (14%) Network Troubleshooting (24%) |
Here are some of the additions to the newest version of CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) as they relate to today’s changing tech landscape:
- Network+ N10-009 provides more extensive coverage of modern network environments and an extended discussion of factors related to physical installations.
- Software Defined Networking (SDN) is adequate for an internal network based in a single location, but because organizations are increasingly relying on geographically distributed locations, Network+ N10-009 now also discusses SD-WAN.
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC) — a transformative approach that leverages code for efficient, error-free provisioning and support of computing infrastructure is introduced.
- Scalability issues drive many organizations. The exam covers VxLAN (Virtual extensible Local Area Network) to address issues in large-scale network deployments.
- In the world of networking, the seamless flow of data and communication is paramount. Network+ now delves into Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) and Main Distribution Frame (MDF)
- Security is paramount to every organization. Network+ prepares candidates by incorporating zero-trust architecture, a robust cybersecurity strategy that eradicates assumed trust and persistently authenticates digital interactions. This architecture also incorporates SASE/SSE for superior network fortification.
How CompTIA Network+ evolves with the industry
Technology is ever-changing, and CompTIA certifications are routinely updated for that reason. CompTIA Network+ is accredited by ANSI and meets multiple U.S. DoD directive requirements. This ensures that the subject matter is kept up-to-date and meets real world needs, including some of the most important skills required of IT pros.
Such skills include:
- Understanding IP addressing, mapping networks, and ensuring connectivity and network availability.
- Strong grasp on wireless standards and technologies that are continually evolving.
- Implementing strategies to secure and harden networks against malicious attacks and presenting corporate networks with a first line of defense.
- Extensive troubleshooting of common networking issues occurring both within devices and accross their intricate connections.
- Troubleshooting end-user issues for a variety of common networking problems.
How to train for CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ boasts a full suite of CompTIA training products from which aspiring networking professionals can choose. Whether you prefer to study alone or thrive in a classroom-style environment, there is an option for you.
Explore our training products and find the right fit as you prepare for your Network+ certification.
Introducing CertMaster Perform
CertMaster Perform is the newest addition to CompTIA's online learning portfolio. CertMaster Perform combines instructional content, videos, skills assessments, and both simulated and live labs for a comprehensive learning experience. It includes 140 videos for relevant instruction, simulated labs for basic tasks, live labs for advanced tasks in virtual environments, and a Network Modeler tool for network design. This product covers 100% of exam objectives and includes over 160 lab activities, with 140 simulations and 13 Network Modeler labs.
eLearning with CertMaster Learn
CertMaster Learn offers structured learning with instructional content, videos, skills assessments, and simulated labs. It features 140 videos for relevant instruction, simulated labs for hands-on practice, and a Network Modeler tool for network design. This product covers 100% of exam objectives, includes 140 simulated labs with 13 Network Modeler labs, and offers over 3,500 assessment questions.
Interactive labs with CertMaster Labs
Acquire the necessary hands-on skills for your certification exam with CertMaster Labs. CertMaster Labs provides hands-on practice in a remote, browser-based environment aligned with CompTIA Network+ exam objectives. It includes simulated labs for basic tasks, Network Modeler labs for network design, live labs for advanced tasks with virtual machines and networks, and applied live labs with goal-oriented scenarios in virtual environments. This product includes over 160 lab activities, with 140 simulations, 13 Network Modeler labs, and 22 live labs. You will develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and reinforce the practical aspects of certification exam objectives.
Exam prep with CertMaster Practice
CertMaster Practice is an adaptive online companion tool that assesses your knowledge and exam readiness. CertMaster Practice confirms strong areas and fills knowledge gaps in weak areas, helping you feel more prepared and confident when you go into your certification exam.
Instructor-led training
Whether you’re looking for in-classroom or live online training, CompTIA’s vast network of authorized training partners offers best-in-class instructor-led training for both individuals and teams.
Bundle and save
Save on your certification when you shop Network+ training bundles. Our bundles allow you to mix and match the right training materials for your learning style, preparing you to pass with confidence.
Ready to get started? Download the exam objectives for CompTIA Network+ 009 to begin studying.
