CompTIA Network+ Certification
Updated in | May 11, 2011 |
Network+
is a certification that is used to measure skill as a network
technician: understanding of network hardware, installation, and
troubleshooting. Network+ was first launched in 1999, and exam updates
followed in 2002, 2005, and 2009. Topics include network hardware,
connections, software, the OSI Reference model, and different protocols
used in local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).
CompTIA recommends the A+ certification and nine months networking
experience before sitting for the exam, but is not required. Network+
prepares one for continuing to Microsoft certifications and Cisco
certifications. A combination A+/Network+, A+/Server+, or (just)
Security+ certification can fulfill the elective exam requirement of
the Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification.
The exam addresses the latest skills needed by technicians, such as basic principles on how to secure a network.
The exam covers network technologies, media and topologies, devices, management, tools and security. Although not a prerequisite, it is recommended that CompTIA Network+ candidates have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration or academic training, along with a CompTIA A+ certification.
Candidate job roles include network administrator, network technician, network installer, help desk technician and IT cable installer. Companies such as Dell, HP, Ricoh, Sharp and Xerox recommend or require CompTIA Network+ for their networking technicians. The U.S. Department of Defense also recognizes CompTIA Network+.
The exam addresses the latest skills needed by technicians, such as basic principles on how to secure a network.
The exam covers network technologies, media and topologies, devices, management, tools and security. Although not a prerequisite, it is recommended that CompTIA Network+ candidates have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration or academic training, along with a CompTIA A+ certification.
Candidate job roles include network administrator, network technician, network installer, help desk technician and IT cable installer. Companies such as Dell, HP, Ricoh, Sharp and Xerox recommend or require CompTIA Network+ for their networking technicians. The U.S. Department of Defense also recognizes CompTIA Network+.