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Quick answer: What order should I take CompTIA exams?
- 1. A+ — IT support basics (two exams).
- 2. Network+ — networking fundamentals.
- 3. Security+ — baseline cybersecurity.
- Then — CySA+, PenTest+ or SecurityX.
- Skip if — you already have IT experience.
Key takeaways
- The standard order is A+ → Network+ → Security+, often called the "trifecta".
- A+ has two exams (Core 1 and Core 2); Network+ and Security+ have one each.
- List prices rose in 2026: A+ $274 per exam, Network+ $399, Security+ about $439.
- CompTIA certifications are vendor-neutral and valid for 3 years with continuing education.
- Security+ is the one most often named in entry-level security job ads.
CompTIA certification order
| Step | Certification | Exams | U.S. list price (2026) | Typical roles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A+ | Core 1 + Core 2 | $274 per exam | Help desk, IT support |
| 2 | Network+ | 1 | $399 | Network support |
| 3 | Security+ | 1 | ≈$439 | Security analyst, SOC |
| 4 | CySA+ / PenTest+ | 1 | Paid exam | Analyst, pen tester |
A+ vs Network+: which first?
Start with A+ if you're new to IT: it covers hardware, operating systems and troubleshooting. Start with Network+ if you already work in IT support. Some people go straight to Security+ with a few years of IT experience.
Why Security+ matters
Security+ is the most widely requested entry-level security certification and is approved for many U.S. Department of Defense roles. It's the natural destination of the path for anyone aiming at cybersecurity. See our cybersecurity certifications roadmap.
CompTIA certification path for cybersecurity
Security+ → CySA+ (defensive analyst) or PenTest+ (offensive) → SecurityX (formerly CASP+) for senior practitioners.
How to save on CompTIA exams
- Buy vouchers from authorized resellers (discounts are common).
- Students qualify for academic pricing.
- Bundles with a retake reduce risk.
- Prove readiness with free practice and Science of Apps skill tests before booking.
Renewal
CompTIA certifications are valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education (CE) units or a higher certification.
CompTIA A+ in detail
A+ has two exams. Core 1 covers hardware, mobile devices, networking and troubleshooting; Core 2 covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures. It's the classic credential for help-desk and desktop support roles.
Prove it free: the tests that match this guide
Practise every exam in the CompTIA order free (independent of CompTIA). (Disclosure: Science of Apps publishes these tests.)
- CompTIA A+ Practice TestStep 1 in the CompTIA order: A+ for help desk and IT support roles.Start free test →
- CompTIA Network+ Practice TestStep 2: Network+ builds the networking base Security+ assumes.Start free test →
- CompTIA Security+ Practice TestStep 3: Security+, the most requested entry security credential.Start free test →
- CompTIA CySA+ Practice TestAfter Security+: CySA+ is the next step for security analysts.Start free test →
CompTIA Network+ in detail
Network+ covers networking concepts, infrastructure, operations, security and troubleshooting. It's useful for network support roles and gives the foundation that Security+ assumes.
CompTIA Security+ in detail
Security+ covers threats and vulnerabilities, security architecture, operations, incident response and governance. It includes performance-based questions that test practical tasks, which is why employers trust it.
CompTIA A+ vs Google IT Support Certificate
The Google IT Support Certificate is a structured learning program; CompTIA A+ is the industry exam employers name in job ads. Many people use Google's program to learn and A+ to certify.
How long to prepare
- A+: 2–3 months for beginners (both exams).
- Network+: 6–10 weeks.
- Security+: 6–10 weeks with Network+ knowledge.
Use free video courses, a home lab or virtual labs, and timed practice exams. Free Science of Apps security and IT skill tests are a quick way to find weak spots before you buy a voucher.
Frequently asked questions
What order should I take CompTIA certifications?
A+ → Network+ → Security+ for beginners. Experienced IT staff can skip to Network+ or Security+.
Should I take CompTIA A+ or Network+ first?
A+ first if you're new to IT; Network+ first if you already work in IT support.
How much does CompTIA Security+ cost?
The U.S. list price is about $439 in 2026; authorized resellers and students often pay less.
How long are CompTIA certifications valid?
Three years, renewable through continuing education or by earning a higher certification.
Should I take CompTIA A+ or the Google IT Support Certificate?
The Google IT Support Certificate is a structured learning program; CompTIA A+ is the industry exam employers name in job ads. Many people use Google's program to learn and A+ to certify.
Sources
- CompTIA certifications
- CompTIA IT certification roadmap
- CompTIA Network+ cost (CompTIA blog)
- Science of Apps: free online certifications
- Checked November 11, 2026. Figures that change — fees, salaries, prices — are reviewed every six months; if something is out of date, tell us.
Where to go from here
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- Career guides by Science of Apps for 2027Top 10 IT certifications for 2027, from your first help-desk job to senior cloud and security rolesThe top 10 IT certifications for 2027 on one career ladder: CompTIA A+, Google IT Support, Network+, CCNA, Security+, ITIL 4, AZ-104, AWS SAA and AI.
- Career guides by Science of Apps for 2027The cybersecurity certification roadmap for 2027: from first IT job to CISSPA cybersecurity certification roadmap for 2027: Google Cybersecurity or ISC2 CC, A+ and Network+, Security+, then CEH or CCNA, then CISSP, CISM or CISA.
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