How to get the CompTIA Network+ certification — requirements and step-by-step instructions [2025 update]

If you work in IT, you’ve probably come across CompTIA’s Network+ certification. The exam was updated in 2024, and the new version of the test, N10-009, took effect in December 2024. Certifications like Network+ are crucial stepping stones in your career because they can open many professional doors in IT and cybersecurity when combined with a passion for network management.  

With so many professional certification programs available, knowing how to get your Network+ certification and learning the ins and outs of the certification process gives you a leg up. To learn more about the entry-level certifications that can boost your career, check out our eBook: Which entry-level certification is right for you? 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on becoming Network+ certified — from training and studying to receiving your certification.

Who should take the Network+ certification exam? It’s a great resource for junior network administrators and network support technicians with at least a year’s working experience. While it’s not required, it’s also highly recommended that candidates obtain CompTIA A+ certification before exploring how to get Network+ certification. 

What kind of career paths can this certification unlock? Network+ holders can hold cybersecurity roles that include: 

If these positions don’t interest you, look for certifications and roles that better align with your career goals. 

Step 2: Start studying the material 

Because Network+ is an entry-level certification, there are no formal eligibility requirements to take the exam — you can skip right to studying the material you need to know. You can choose a formal training course or self-study depending on your learning style, time constraints and experience level. 

Network+ training courses: This is one of the most popular ways to cover all the knowledge required to become Network+ certified. There are typically two types of training courses to choose from based on how you learn best: live boot camps or self-paced training. 

Instructors lead boot camps live online or in person and are great for topics or concepts you are less familiar with or for gaps in your expertise. Self-paced or on-demand training works well for busy schedules and convenience. 

While the instruction method differs, both types of training typically feature similar materials that teach how to get Network+ certification. This can include expert instruction, practice exercises, practice exams and an exam voucher. 

CompTIA partners with organizations like Infosec to provide training, and Infosec has a live CompTIA Network+ training boot camp and a self-paced version of the Network+ training to help you earn your certification. 

Network+ self-study: There are plenty of free materials and resources to help you study for the certification exam on your own. Reviewing the CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam N10-008 Objectives and finding a comprehensive Network+ certification study guide can give you a good idea of what areas of network management you should focus on during your prep. CompTIA even offers free practice questions to help you study for the exam. 

Step 3: Study the exam format 

Studying the domains and topics covered in the exam is essential and learning what to look out for during the test is another helpful facet of the Network+ certification process. Here’s what to expect when you take the Network+ exam version N10-009: 

If you purchase a training course or boot camp, it’s important to understand what it includes. For example, the Infosec CompTIA Network+ Boot Camp includes everything you need to prepare for and pass the exam, including the exam voucher. 

Step 4: Schedule the exam 

Create an account on CompTIA’s website and decide whether you’d like to take your exam in person or online. This choice often comes down to your personal testing style, but if you want to take it remotely, review the technical requirements to ensure you have the equipment you need to take the test online. 

If you choose to take it in person, visit the exam provider’s website, Pearson VUE, to find a testing center near you. You can select the testing center of your choice when you purchase an exam voucher (or receive one with your training course) and schedule it on the CompTIA or Pearson VUE website. 

Step 5: Take the exam 

Once you’ve studied the material and learned how to get Network+ certification, all that’s left is to take the test. Exam experts recommend letting your mind rest the night before and eating a healthy breakfast as part of your normal routine the morning of the exam. 

You need to bring two forms of approved photo ID, but Pearson VUE doesn’t allow other personal belongings in the exam room. Your photo will also be taken when you check in as a security measure for the delivery of test results. You’ll be notified of your score and whether you passed after you complete the exam and are given a quick exit survey. If you pass, you’ll receive an email from CompTIA informing you where to view your certification.

Retakes and appeals 

If you don’t pass the exam, don’t worry; you don’t have to restart the entire Network+ certification process over again. With additional study time, many candidates pass the exam on their next try. CompTIA doesn’t require a cooldown period between your first Network+ exam attempt and your second, but there will be a 14-day waiting period between attempts after that. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the exam in a year, but no discounts are offered on exam vouchers for retakes. Training organizations like Infosec offer an Exam Pass Guarantee, which allows a second attempt to pass for free. 

Unfortunately, if you feel there was a legitimate reason why your Network+ exam was graded in error, CompTIA does not offer an appeals process. 

Once you’ve passed the exam, don’t let all the hard work you put into figuring out how to get Network+ certification go to waste. Your certification is valid for three years, and completing CompTIA’s CertMaster CE program or earning 30 continuing education units (CEUs) during that time allows you to renew your certification.