CompTIA Network+ is an intermediate-level certification, which means it requires a certain level of technical knowledge and skills to pass. It’s designed for professionals who have some experience in networking and want to deepen their understanding of the field. The test includes various subjects like networking ideas, structure, protocols and services, safeguarding networks, and solving network issues, all in a distinctive way.
While the difficulty level of the exam may vary for each individual, it’s generally considered to be challenging. However, with the right preparation and study approach, passing the exam is achievable. In the CompTIA Network+ test, you’ll need to answer 90 questions in 90 minutes. To pass, you should aim for a score of at least 720 out of a possible range of 100 to 900.
In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the exam content, discuss some common study methods and resources, and share tips for maximizing your chances of success. We’ll also address some frequently asked questions about the exam, such as what prerequisites are required, how much time you should allocate for studying, and what the exam experience is like. Whether you’re just starting your networking career or are looking to enhance your existing skills, the CompTIA Network+ certification can be a valuable asset. So, let’s get started and find out whether the CompTIA Network+ is hard, and what you can do to conquer it.
Glossary of CompTIA Network+ Terminology
Here is a glossary of common terms used in CompTIA Network+:
- Network: A bunch of linked gadgets that can talk to each other.
- Topology: How a network is set up, either physically or logically.
- Protocol: A set of rules for how info moves on a network.
- Router: A device that sends data between different computer networks.
- Switch: A tool that connects devices in a network and sends data between them.
- Firewall: A security guard that checks and controls data coming in and going out of a network, based on rules.
- DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): A helper that automatically gives devices IP addresses on a network.
- DNS (Domain Name System): A translator that changes website names into number addresses.
- IP (Internet Protocol): A messenger that carries data across a network.
- MAC (Media Access Control): A special name for a network card’s address.
- VLAN (Virtual LAN): A pretend group of devices on a network, even if they’re far apart.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): A network that covers a huge area, like a country.
- LAN (Local Area Network): A network that’s small and close, like one building.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): A network that covers a big city or urban area.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A secret path into a private network through a public one.
- NAT (Network Address Translation): A translator that turns inside addresses into outside ones.
- OSI (Open Systems Interconnection): A guide for sending data over a network.
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): A helper that makes sure data gets sent right on a network.
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol): A method for sending messages on a network.
- ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol): A helper for sending error messages and network news.
What makes Network+ difficult to learn?
Is CompTIA Network+ difficult? What makes it difficult? What are the hurdles and How can I overcome them? You might be experiencing all these questions in your head. To be honest, battling between these questions is completely natural. Therefore, to clear your headspace, let’s give a look at some of the reasons which make Network+ difficult.
To begin with, learning Network+ becomes quite difficult when you are learning it on your own.
This event requires your time and energy. Taking part in it demands your time and energy. Moreover, it becomes tougher if you’re not familiar with IT beforehand. So, ensure you have good guidance when getting ready for the Network+ exam.
After that, there is a huge amount of Network+ study material (Blogs, books, online courses) present in the market space for beginners. While some of them are good, the others are not. Therefore, it’s your duty to choose the right ones for you with relevant information.
Lastly, the candidates focus more on depth than the breadth of the subject matter which often leads to failure. It is important to note here that Network+ does not test whether you are an expert in a particular aspect of networking, instead, it tests your fundamentals of networking across a wide variety of topics. Therefore, it is important to focus on covering all the topics first rather than getting into the details of each.
Recommended Experience
Aspiring candidates should have CompTIA + Certification and at least 9 to 12 months of networking experience.
Knowledge and Skills Requirement
The basic knowledge of an IT professional should have:
- Create and set up working networks
- Arrange, oversee, and care for important network tools
- Recognize the good and bad sides of current network setups
- Put in place network safety, rules, and methods
- Fix issues with networks
- Creating virtual networks
CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Course Outline
The CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) exam objectives covers the following topics:
Domain 1: Networking Concepts
- Describing the purposes and uses of ports and protocols.
- Also, explaining devices, protocols, applications and services at their proper OSI layers.
- Defining the notions and characteristics of routing and switching.
- And, configuring the appropriate IP addressing components.
- As well, comparing and contrasting the features of network topologies, types and technologies.
- Implementing relevant wireless technologies and configurations.
- Then, abstracting cloud concepts and their determinations.
- In addition, explaining the purposes of network services.
Domain 2: Infrastructure
- Firstly, deploying the proper cabling solution.
- Secondly, determine the appropriate placement of networking devices on a network and configure them.
- Also, describing the constancies and use cases for advanced networking devices.
- And, explaining the purposes of virtualization and network storage technologies.
- Moreover, comparing and contrasting WAN technologies.
Prepare for the exam using the CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Study Guide!
Domain 3: Network Operations
- Deploying a suitable cabling solution.
- Also, determine the appropriate placement of networking devices on a network and install them.
- Explaining the ideas and use cases for advanced networking devices.
- Describing the purposes of virtualization and network storage technologies.
- Comparing and reversing WAN technologies.
Domain 4: Network Security
- Summarizing the determinations of physical security devices.
- Explaining authentication and access controls.
- Also, securing a basic wireless network.
- And, summarizing common networking attacks.
- Further, implementing network device hardening.
- Solving common mitigation techniques and their purposes.
Domain 5: Network Troubleshooting and Tools
- Explaining the network troubleshooting methodology.
- Using the appropriate tool.
- Troubleshooting simple wired connectivity and performance issues.
- And, troubleshooting general wireless connectivity and performance culmination.
- Further, troubleshooting the common network service problems.
How long does it take to learn Network+?
How many days does it take to complete CompTIA Network+? What is the actual time period to complete the course? So on.
Once you are equipped with every major detail of the exam, you might be looking for an answer to these questions. Well, don’t worry, we have got you covered for this too.
First things first, how long it takes depends on how early and how you begin with. It is important to note that how fast people learn can vary tremendously.
After that, if you start from scratch, which means no networking knowledge, then you should undergo a complete 6 months project, provided that you devote at least 2 hours each day.
Subsequently, if you are a seasoned professional, then you will surely have an upper hand in preparing for the exam.
Tips and Tricks for the exam
Exams are likely a common fear for everyone. Now, this might sound sad, especially for CompTIA exams, which need a lot of time and prep. Yet, tough doesn’t mean undoable. Many people succeed and earn CompTIA certificates daily. Even though nothing replaces thorough studying, the upcoming advice will definitely aid you in acing your exam.
KNOW WHAT TYPE OF LEARNER YOU ARE
To start, you must know how you learn best. This means everyone learns in their own way – some write or use cards, while others prefer quiet. Reading with excitement might help you remember, or explaining aloud to someone could be better. So, finding your best method is the top tip for acing a big study session.
SKIP STRANGE EXAM QUESTIONS
After that, you need to remind yourself again and again that this test about managing time and are graded on a pass-fail basis. So, if you find a question hard, you better skip it. By the time you revisit the question, you may see it in a whole new light or have the confidence to answer it.
BE PREPARED FOR PERFORMANCE-BASED QUESTIONS
Subsequently, it’s important to know that most PBQs will come toward the beginning of the test and, while they are a little more complex, they aren’t impossible. The best defense to these types of questions is online labs will make it much easier for the candidates.
KNOW THE MULTIPLE-CHOICE TRICKS
Lastly, Multiple-Choice Questions often create a chaotic state in your head. However, there are a few ways to even the odds. In other words, you can always eliminate answers that are obviously wrong. Moreover, you can recall the information related to the question. Doing so can be a surprisingly effective method for remembering the right answer.
Learning Resources
Now that you’ve grasped all about CompTIA Network+, it’s time to equip yourself with learning materials. Yet, the main question is, where can you find a trustworthy source? So, here’s a list of resources that will assist you in exam prep and making your CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) study notes.
Learning Resource 1: Exam Objectives
The initial and most important resource is the CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) exam goals. Yes, you got it right. Understanding the exam goals goes beyond getting ready for the test’s structure. It’s like a map that shows how well you’re progressing through the content. Plus, focusing on the goals ensures you’re all set to successfully take the exam, which is a great accomplishment. These objectives precisely outline what you should understand before entering the exam room.
Learning Resource 2: Books
Next, it’s a wise choice to read exam reference books. Books give you in-depth information that matches the exam criteria. There are some great books that have been popular for years to help you prepare for different CompTIA Network+ certifications. So, we recommend you to look for books from reliable sources. Here are a few examples of CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) books:
- Firstly, CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Study Guide
- After that, CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Exam Cram
- Moreover, CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide: Exam N10-004
- Also, CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-one Exam Guide
Learning Resource 3: Study groups or Online Community
Furthermore, discovering an online CompTIA study group is a wonderful method to stimulate your mind. Study groups provide you with many useful materials and study tips directly from the experienced individuals who are deeply involved in the process. If you encounter a challenging part, you can request assistance. Also, they are eager to share their success strategies and provide all the information you might need about the tests.
Learning Resource 4: Practice Test
Finally, but certainly not of less importance, CompTIA offers practice questions for nearly every exam, including Network+. Using CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) practice tests won’t just help you gauge your overall readiness, but you can really concentrate on the areas that are giving you trouble.
When you review your answers, try to figure out what you keep getting wrong and then redouble your study efforts in those areas. So, start preparing and get your hands on hundreds of unique practice questions here!
Expert’s Corner
To sum up, the CompTIA Network+ exam is a really worthwhile choice for you. This certification gives you a strong grasp of networking basics. Plus, studying for the Network+ exam lets you establish a sturdy base you can utilize to land a job or upgrade your current one. It’s true that the CompTIA Network+ certification test isn’t simple. Yet, by getting ready diligently with reliable resources, you can easily pass the exam and earn your certification.
Therefore, to prepare extensively, take a training course from a reputed training center now.
Enrich your profile with advanced learning skills and expert tutorials on CompTIA Network+. Prepare and become Certified CompTIA Network+ Professional Now!
