The CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) certification is the industry-standard validation of networking knowledge and skills. Launched in June 2024, the N10-009 exam validates your ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks across cloud, hybrid, and on-premise environments—skills essential for network administrators earning $60,000-$110,000 annually.
Exam Quick Facts
What is CompTIA Network+?
The CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) certification validates foundational networking skills including network design, implementation, operations, security, and troubleshooting. The N10-009 exam emphasizes modern networking technologies including cloud networking, software-defined networking (SDN), wireless (Wi-Fi 6/6E), and network automation.
Target Audience: Aspiring network administrators, network technicians, help desk technicians transitioning to networking, systems administrators, and IT professionals building networking foundations.
Industry Recognition
Network+ certified professionals earn 20% more than non-certified peers according to Skillsoft's 2025 IT Skills and Salary Report. The certification is DoD 8140 approved for government roles and recognized globally as the baseline for networking knowledge. Demand for AI-related networking skills grew 184% from 2024 to 2025.
Preparing for N10-009? Practice with 455+ exam questions
Why Get Certified?
Career Impact:
- Entry-Level Network Technician (0-2 years): $45,000-$65,000
- Network Administrator (2-5 years): $60,000-$85,000
- Senior Network Engineer (5-8 years): $85,000-$115,000
- Network Architect (8+ years): $110,000-$150,000
- Specialized roles (Cloud Networking, Network Automation): $100,000-$140,000
Skills Validation:
- Design and implement functional network infrastructures
- Configure and manage network devices (routers, switches, wireless APs)
- Troubleshoot network connectivity and performance issues
- Implement network security controls and best practices
- Manage cloud and virtual networking environments
- Use network tools and protocols for diagnostics
DoD 8140 Compliance:
- Approved under DoD Directive 8140.03-M (as of February 2025)
- Required for many federal government and defense contractor IT roles
Salary ROI Calculator
* Calculations based on industry averages. Actual salary increases vary by location, experience, and employer.
Exam Domains Breakdown
The N10-009 exam covers five domains emphasizing practical networking skills for modern hybrid environments.
Exam Strategy
Networking Concepts is 25% of the exam—spend significant time mastering subnetting, routing protocols, and wireless standards. Network Troubleshooting (21%) is the second-largest domain—practice systematic troubleshooting and command-line tools extensively. Together, Implementation (19%) and Security (19%) make up 38% of the exam—focus on configuration and security best practices.
Study Path (8-10 Weeks)
Networking Fundamentals
Weeks 1-2- •Study OSI and TCP/IP models thoroughly
- •Master IP addressing, subnetting, and CIDR notation (practice 50+ subnetting problems)
- •Learn network protocols and port numbers (DNS 53, DHCP 67/68, HTTP 80, HTTPS 443)
- •Study network topologies and types (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
- •Complete Professor Messer Network+ videos (Domain 1)
- •Take Practice Exam 1 (untimed) to establish baseline
Routing, Switching & Wireless
Weeks 3-4- •Study routing concepts and protocols (static, RIP, OSPF, EIGRP, BGP)
- •Learn switching concepts (VLANs, trunking, STP, port security)
- •Master wireless standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax) and Wi-Fi 6/6E
- •Study VLAN configuration and inter-VLAN routing
- •Hands-on: Configure VLANs on a Cisco switch or Packet Tracer
- •Take Practice Exam 2 (untimed), aim for 65%+
Network Implementation & WAN
Weeks 4-5- •Study WAN technologies (MPLS, Metro Ethernet, SD-WAN, leased lines)
- •Learn VPN types and configuration (site-to-site, remote access, IPSec, SSL)
- •Master network services (DHCP, DNS, NAT, PAT)
- •Study cloud networking (VPC, subnets, security groups)
- •Hands-on: Configure DHCP and DNS on a server or router
- •Take Practice Exam 3 (timed), target 70%+
Network Security
Weeks 6-7- •Study firewall types and configuration (stateful, stateless, UTM, NGFW)
- •Learn network access control (802.1X, NAC, RADIUS, TACACS+)
- •Master wireless security (WPA2, WPA3, Enterprise authentication)
- •Study security threats (DDoS, MitM, spoofing, rogue AP)
- •Hands-on: Configure firewall rules and wireless security
- •Take Practice Exams 4-5 (timed), aim for 73%+
Network Operations & Troubleshooting
Weeks 8-9- •Study network documentation and change management
- •Master troubleshooting methodology (identify, test, verify, document)
- •Practice command-line tools (ping, traceroute, nslookup, netstat, arp)
- •Learn cable testing tools and wireless troubleshooting
- •Hands-on: Use Wireshark to capture and analyze network traffic
- •Take Practice Exam 6 (timed), target 75%+
Final Review & Exam Readiness
Week 10- •Retake Practice Exams 4-7 until consistently scoring 78%+
- •Focus on Networking Concepts (25%) and Troubleshooting (21%)
- •Memorize common ports, protocols, and cable specifications
- •Speed practice subnetting (30 problems in 30 minutes)
- •Review weak domains identified in practice analytics
- •Schedule exam only after 3 consecutive 78%+ scores
Common Mistake
Many candidates struggle with subnetting under exam time pressure. The N10-009 exam includes multiple subnetting questions in both multiple-choice and performance-based formats. You MUST be able to calculate subnets quickly without a calculator. Practice 100+ subnetting problems until you can solve them in under 60 seconds each. This skill is non-negotiable for passing.
Prerequisites and Recommended Experience
Recommended Experience:
- CompTIA A+ or equivalent IT fundamentals knowledge
- 9-12 months of hands-on networking experience
- OR intensive study with hands-on lab practice
No Hard Prerequisites:
- CompTIA does not enforce prerequisites
- Entry-level certification designed for networking beginners
Technical Skills (Helpful):
- Basic computer and OS knowledge
- Understanding of IP addresses and internet connectivity
- Familiarity with command-line interfaces
- Logical thinking and problem-solving skills
Hands-On Skills to Develop:
- Configuring routers and switches (Cisco, GNS3, or Packet Tracer)
- Using command-line network tools (ping, traceroute, ipconfig)
- Analyzing network traffic with Wireshark
- Troubleshooting connectivity issues
- Configuring wireless access points
Perfect for Career Switchers
Network+ is achievable for motivated career changers with basic IT knowledge. If you can dedicate 8-10 weeks to focused study with hands-on practice, you can pass without prior networking experience. Many successful network administrators started with Network+ and built their careers from there. The key is mastering subnetting and practicing with simulation tools.
Exam Preparation Checklist
Your Network+ Preparation Roadmap
0/15 completedMaster These Concepts with Practice
Our N10-009 practice bundle includes:
- 7 full practice exams (455+ questions)
- Detailed explanations for every answer
- Domain-by-domain performance tracking
30-day money-back guarantee
Comparison with Other Networking Certifications
Network+ vs Other Networking Certifications
| Feature | Network+ N10-009 | CCNA | Security+ SY0-701 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level | Entry-Intermediate | Intermediate | Entry-Intermediate |
| Focus | General networking | Cisco networking | Security fundamentals |
| Prerequisites | None (A+ recommended) | None | None (Network+ recommended) |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Intermediate-Advanced | Intermediate |
| Career Impact | $60K-$110K | $70K-$120K | $55K-$145K |
| Largest Domains | Networking Concepts (25%) | IP Connectivity (25%) | Security Operations (30%) |
| Vendor | Vendor-neutral | Cisco-specific | Vendor-neutral |
| Best For | General network admins | Cisco-focused careers | Security career path |
| DoD 8140 | Approved | Not specifically approved | IAT Level II |
| Renewal | 3 years (CE or retake) | 3 years (retake or CE) | 3 years (CE or retake) |
Recommendation: Network+ provides the strongest foundation for vendor-neutral networking knowledge. If you plan to work exclusively with Cisco equipment, pursue CCNA after Network+ for deeper Cisco-specific skills. If you are interested in security, combine Network+ with Security+ for maximum entry-level opportunities.
Registration and Exam Policies
Registration Steps:
- Visit Pearson VUE CompTIA
- Create Pearson VUE account
- Purchase exam voucher ($358 for N10-009)
- Schedule exam date and time (testing center or online proctored)
- Prepare exam environment (clean workspace, government-issued ID)
Retake Policy:
- First failed attempt: 14-day waiting period before retake
- Second failed attempt: 14-day waiting period (applies to all subsequent attempts)
- Cost: Full $358 exam fee for each retake (no discounts)
- Unlimited attempts: No limit on number of retake attempts
Rescheduling:
- Free rescheduling up to 24 hours before exam
- Within 24 hours: May forfeit exam fee
- No-show: Forfeits exam attempt and fee
Continuing Education:
- Certification valid for 3 years
- Renew with 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or retake current exam
- Earning higher certifications (Security+, CASP+, CCNA) counts toward renewal
Bundle and Save
CompTIA often offers bundle packages that include both the exam voucher and a retake voucher at a discounted price ($517 for exam + retake vs. $716 for two separate attempts). This provides insurance if you don't pass on the first attempt. Check CompTIA's official store for current bundle offers.
Exam Day Tips
Week Before:
- Review flagged practice questions and weak domains
- Practice speed subnetting (30 problems in 30 minutes)
- Memorize ports, protocols, and cable specs
- Review troubleshooting methodology steps
- Test exam environment (computer, webcam, internet)
Day Of:
- Light meal 2-3 hours before exam
- Review quick reference notes (subnetting charts, port numbers) in last 30 minutes only
- Use restroom before starting
- Log in 15 minutes early (online) or arrive 15 minutes early (testing center)
- Have two forms of ID ready
During Exam:
- PBQ Strategy: Network+ includes 4-8 performance-based questions (drag-and-drop network diagrams, configuration scenarios). These can take 5-10 minutes each. Many test-takers skip PBQs initially and return after multiple choice.
- Read questions carefully (watch for "BEST," "MOST secure," "FIRST")
- For subnetting questions, work methodically and double-check calculations
- Time management: ~1 minute per multiple choice question
- Flag uncertain questions for review
- Review all flagged questions with remaining time
- Submit with 2-3 minutes remaining
Common PBQ Topics:
- Drag-and-drop network topology diagrams
- Configure VLAN assignments on switches
- Match protocols to port numbers or functions
- Troubleshoot network connectivity using command output
- Design network addressing schemes
Frequently Asked Questions
After You Pass
Immediate Next Steps:
- Claim Digital Badge - Check email for Credly badge notification (2-3 business days)
- Update LinkedIn - Add "CompTIA Network+ Certified" to certifications section
- Update Resume - Feature certification prominently with exam code N10-009
- Join Communities - r/CompTIA, r/networking on Reddit; CompTIA LinkedIn groups
Career Next Steps:
- Start Job Search - Filter for "Network+," "network administrator," "network technician"
- Build Home Lab - Continue practicing with routers, switches, and network tools
- Gain Experience - Entry-level network technician or administrator role
- Consider Next Certification (after 1-2 years):
- Security+ (SY0-701) - For cybersecurity career path
- CCNA - For Cisco-specific networking specialization
- Linux+ - For Linux system and network administration
- Cloud+ - For cloud infrastructure and networking
Recertification
Network+ expires after 3 years. Renew by earning 30 CEUs through training, conferences, or professional activities. Alternatively, retake the current exam. Earning higher CompTIA certifications (Security+, CASP+, Cloud+) or vendor certifications (CCNA, CCNP) can count toward renewal. Plan renewal activities in year 2 to avoid expiration.
Get Started with Preporato
Passing Network+ requires mastering five domains through realistic practice, especially subnetting and troubleshooting. Preporato offers the most comprehensive Network+ N10-009 practice exam platform:
What's Included:
- 7 Full-Length Practice Exams (630 total questions matching N10-009 format)
- Performance-Based Question Practice (PBQ simulations for drag-and-drop scenarios)
- Detailed Explanations for every answer with protocol references
- Performance Analytics to track scores by domain and identify weak areas
- 90-Minute Timed Mode with realistic exam interface
- Domain Study Guides with subnetting charts, port lists, and protocol references
Why Preporato:
- ✅ Expert-developed by Network+ certified professionals
- ✅ Reflects June 2024 N10-009 exam objectives
- ✅ 65-70% of students pass on first attempt
- ✅ $19.99 for all 7 exams (vs. $358 exam retake fee)
- ✅ Extensive subnetting practice questions
Ready to launch your networking career? Get started with Preporato's Network+ practice exams today!
Sources:
- CompTIA Network+ Official Page
- CompTIA Network+ Salary Analysis 2025
- Network+ Salary Prospects 2025
- N10-009 Certification Guide 2025
Last updated: December 18, 2025
Ready to Pass the N10-009 Exam?
Join thousands who passed with Preporato practice tests