Question 1Ports and protocols
An application queries a directory server for user and group information on TCP 389. Which protocol is it using?
A+, Network+ or Security+: which first?
CompTIA's own recommended experience sets the order: A+ certification before Network+, and Network+ before Security+. Each builds on the last.
| A+ | Two exams, Core 1 and Core 2 |
|---|---|
| Network+ | One exam, N10-009; 720 of 900 to pass |
| Security+ | One exam; 750 of 900 to pass |
| Network+ voucher (US) | $399 |
What each one covers
| Exam | Covers | CompTIA recommends first |
|---|---|---|
| A+ | Hardware, operating systems, support and troubleshooting | The starting point of the three |
| Network+ | Addressing, routing, switching, wireless, operations, network security and troubleshooting | A+ certification and 9 to 12 months in a junior network role |
| Security+ | Threats, security architecture, operations and risk | Network+ and two years in a security or systems administrator role |
When to skip ahead
- Already working in IT support: you may know most of A+ and can start at Network+. Take the free diagnostic to check.
- CompTIA lists these as recommended experience, not as prerequisites.
- Aiming at a security job: Network+ first still pays off, because Security+ assumes the networking it covers.
Try 3 questions
Question 2Security features and defense
A switch port stays blocked for everything except EAP traffic until the connected device's credentials are checked by a RADIUS server. In 802.1X terms, what role does the switch play?
Question 3Cabling and physical interfaces
A switch port is hard-coded to 100 Mbps full duplex. The connected server autonegotiates and ends up at 100 Mbps half duplex. The server reports late collisions. What is the problem?
Next step
Questions people ask
Should I take A+ or Network+ first?
CompTIA recommends A+ certification before Network+. If you already work in IT support, the free Network+ diagnostic shows whether you are ready to start there.
Should I take Network+ or Security+ first?
CompTIA recommends Network+ before Security+.
Do I have to take them in order?
CompTIA lists the earlier certification as recommended experience, not as a prerequisite.