Introduction
CompTIA is a non-profit organization that provides several certifications in several domains of information technology like cybersecurity, foundational IT, cloud computing, infrastructure, penetration testing, etc. Individuals always get confused about which certification they should get first. We made it easy for you by categorizing the certification based on the experience you have in the IT field. If you’re confused about where to begin, give a read to this article. The article will help you to decide which certification you can get on your prior experience, interest, and specific skill sets.
Why Should I get CompTIA Certifications?
Anything that helps you to lead forward in the modern IT world or digitization is worth doing it. IT certifications may help you reach your career objectives, whether you want to shift into IT from another industry or improve your career and boost your potential income as an experienced IT expert. Information Technology is a way to go in 2023 and the coming years.
Corporations are investing more money in technology, according to the Dice Tech Salary Report 2022, and some of the world’s top firms, such as Amazon, Twitter, JPMorgan Chase, and Capital One, are aggressively pursuing IT personnel with specific skills and knowledge.
Also, according to CompTIA’s HR Perceptions of IT Training and Certification study, 91 percent of employers consider IT certifications to be a reliable indicator of a good candidate during the hiring process. They do so because they understand that certifications set a standard for the knowledge, competency, and expertise they expect from their IT staff.
Moreover, during the whole pandemic when everything shut down and other companies were cutting budgets and shifting themselves towards digitization, IT professionals were still in demand, and the need for them was requisite. According to the 2022 Dice Tech Salary Report, the average tech salary climbed by 6.9% from 2021 to 2022, with average tech earnings exceeding six figures for the first time in the report’s 17-year history. Earning of the IT professionals depend upon the type of certifications you get. The average range falls between $72,208 to $103,601 per year- depending upon the field and job title.
Read this for Brief details of the CompTIA stackable certification
We have categorized certification into two categories depending upon the experience level you have in it.
Which CompTIA Certification Should you consider first?
1. Foundational Certifications- No Prior Experience
The foundational Certifications are for those who have no prior experience and want to break through their career in the IT field and you have just a basic knowledge of software or hardware. If you’re just starting your IT career, you can do the following certifications.
I. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)
The CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam emphasizes the essential IT skills and knowledge required to perform tasks that advanced end-users and entry-level IT professionals performed. It includes,
- Using features and functions of common operating systems and establishing network connectivity
- Identifying common software applications and their purpose
- Using security and web browsing best practices
If you want to enter the IT field, ITF+ certification will help you make a foundation in IT.
Examination Details:
- The certification cost is $134- may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement: Usually 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 75 questions, and you will have 60 minutes to complete it. There are two types of questions: mixed multiple-choice questions and multiple-response questions.
- Passing Criteria: To pass the certification exam, candidates must obtain a minimum passing score of 650 on a scale of 900.
Exam Domains:
- IT concepts and terminology
- Infrastructures
- Applications & Software
- Software development
- Database fundamentals
- Security
Recommended Prep Material: FC0-U61 exam dump
II. CompTIA A+
CompTIA A+ is an entry-level IT certification that provides basic knowledge about networking, computer systems, and hardware. It also gives beginners the ground to break in the IT field and the foundation knowledge to start their career in IT. More than 2 million individuals hold this CompTIA A+ certification.
Examination Details
- The applicants should have passed the CompTIA A+ core series two exams. Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1101). To obtain CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two examinations from the same series: 220-1101/220-1102.
- Certification cost: $246 per exam
- Date of Retirement: Usually 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 90 questions, and you will have 90 minutes to complete it. There are Single, Multiple choice questions, and drag-and-drop performance-based questions.
- Passing Criteria: 220-1101: 675 on a scale range of 100-900
220-1102: 700 on a scale range of 100-900
Exam Domains:
The domain for the exam (220-1101) or Core 1 includes:
- Mobile devices & Networking
- Hardware
- Virtualization & Cloud computing
- Hardware
- Troubleshooting
The domain for the exam (220-1101) or core 2 includes:
- Operating systems
- Security
- Software troubleshooting
- Operational procedures
Recommended Prep Material: 220-1101 & 220-1102 exam dump
Job roles you will get after certification
- Help Desk Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
III. CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ emphasizes the technical skills required to establish, maintain, and troubleshoot critical networks. The certificate enables you to learn skills on which business depends. CompTIA Network+ prepares candidates to support networks on any platform. CompTIA Network+ is the only certification that addresses the specific skills required by network professionals. So, if you want the company to recognize you, just give this a go.
Examination Details
- The certification cost is $358- may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement: Usually 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 90 questions, and you will have 90 minutes to complete it. The exam questions will be multiple-choice and performance-based.
- Passing Criteria: To pass the certification exam, candidates must obtain a minimum passing score of 720 on a scale of 900.
Exam Domains:
- Networking Fundamentals
- Network Implementations
- Network Operations
- Network Security
- Network Troubleshooting
Recommended Prep Material: N10-008 exam dump
Job roles after certification
- Network Engineer
- Network Support Specialist
- Network Administrator
- Systems Administrator
- Systems Analyst
IV. CompTIA Security+
The certifications establish the fundamental knowledge required for any cybersecurity role and serve as a stepping stone to intermediate-level cybersecurity positions. Security+ includes best practices in hands-on troubleshooting and ensuring that candidates have basic practical security problem-solving skills. Candidates or beginners who find their passion in cybersecurity should do this certification.
Examination Details:
- The certification cost is $392- which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement: Usually 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 90 questions, and you will have 90 minutes to complete it. The exam questions will be multiple-choice and performance-based.
- Passing Criteria: To pass the certification exam, candidates must obtain a minimum passing score of 750 on a scale of (100- 900).
Exam Domains:
- Attacks, threats, and Vulnerabilities
- Design and Architect
- Implementation
- Operations and Incident Response
- Governance, Risk & Compliance
Recommend Prep Material: SY0-601 exam dump
Job roles after certification
- Security Administrator
- Cybersecurity specialist
2. Advanced Level Certification- Experienced IT Professional
I. CompTIA Cloud+
CompTIA Cloud+ is a worldwide certification that certifies the abilities required to create and operate secure cloud environments that support business processes and data availability. CompTIA Cloud+ demonstrates that you have the expertise required for data center positions.
Examination Details
- The certification cost is $394- which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement/ Validity Period: 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 90 MCQs and Performance-based questions and you will have 90 minutes to complete it
- Passing Criteria: 750 on a scale range of (100-900)
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ and Server+ certifications, as well as 2-3 years of expertise in systems administration or networking, are required.
Exam Domains:
- Cloud Architecture & Design
- Cloud Security
- Cloud Deployment
- Operations & Support
- Troubleshooting
Recommended Exam Material: CV0-003 exam dump
Job Responsibilities after certification
- Cloud Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Sr. Network Administrator
- Sr. Network Engineer
- Cloud Specialist
- Cloud Project Manager
II. CompTIA Linux+
CompTIA Linux+ certification verifies the abilities required by administrators to protect the company, power the cloud, and keep systems functioning. The new Linux+ certification assures that IT professionals, software developers, cybersecurity engineers, and penetration testers have the knowledge and abilities required to maintain today’s technological systems.
Examination Details
- The certification cost is $358- which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement/ Validity Period: 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 90 MCQs and Performance-based questions and you will have 90 minutes to complete it
- Passing Criteria: 720 on a scale range of (100-900)
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and 12 months of Linux admin experience are required.
Exam Domains:
- System Management
- Security
- Automation, Scripting & Containers
- Troubleshooting
Recommended Exam Material: XK0-004 exam dump
Job responsibilities after certifications
- Junior Cloud Engineer
- Junior DevOps Support Engineer
- Technical Support Specialist
- Systems Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Web Administrator/ Developer
- Cybersecurity Engineer
- Linux Engineer
III. CompTIA Server+
CompTIA Server+ is a global certification that certifies IT professionals’ hands-on expertise in installing, managing, and troubleshooting servers in data centers, on-premises, and hybrid settings. CompTIA Server+ certifies professionals’ ability to operate in data centers or cloud settings.
Examination Details
- The certification cost is $358– which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement/ Validity Period: 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 100 MCQs and Performance-based questions and you will have 90 minutes to complete it
- Passing Criteria: 750 on a scale range of (100-900)
- Recommended Experience: Individuals with 18 to 24 months of IT experience who hold an A+ certification
Exam Domains:
- Server Hardware Installation & Management
- Server & Disaster Recovery
- Server Administration
- Troubleshooting
Recommended Exam Material: SK0-005 exam dump
Job Opportunities after certification
- Data Center Technician
- Server Administrator
- Network Administrator
- Field Service Engineer or Technician
- Systems Administrator
- Data Center Engineer
- IT Technician
IV. CompTIA CySA+
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) is a credential for the IT workforce that uses behavioral analytics on networks and devices to avoid, identify, and counter cybersecurity threats through continuous security monitoring. The new version (CS0-003) is coming in the spring of 2023 but the beta exam is available.
Examination Details:
- The certification cost is $392- which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement/ Validity Period: TBD- 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 85 MCQs and Performance-based questions and you will have 165 minutes to complete it
- Passing Criteria: 750 on a scale range of (100-900)
- Recommended Experience: Network+, Security+, or equivalent knowledge is required. A minimum of four years of hands-on experience in information security or a similar field is required.
Exam Domains:
- Software and Systems Security
- Incident Response
- Security Operations and Monitoring
- Compliance and Assessment
- Threat and Vulnerability Management
Recommended Exam Material: CS0-002 exam dump
Job responsibilities after certification
- Security analyst
- Tier II SOC analyst
- Security monitoring
- Threat intelligence analyst
- Security engineer
- Application security analyst
- Incident response or handler
- Compliance analyst
- Threat hunter
V. CompTIA PenTest+
For cybersecurity experts responsible for vulnerability management and penetration testing, there is CompTIA PenTest+. The CompTIA PenTest+ exam validates your proficiency in penetration testing to stop cyberattacks. CompTIA PenTest+’s covering of offensive cybersecurity skills complements that of CompTIA CySA+’s covering of defensive cybersecurity abilities.
Examination Details:
- The certification cost is $392- which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement/ Validity Period: 3 years after launch
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 85 MCQs and Performance-based questions and you will have 165 minutes to complete it
- Passing Criteria: 750 on a scale range of (100-900)
- Recommended Experience:
- Network+, Security+, or equivalent expertise.
- A minimum of 3–4 years of relevant experience, including information security. PenTest+ has a technical, hands-on focus and is meant to follow CompTIA Security+ or related expertise, while there is no requirement.
Exam Domains:
- Software and Systems Security
- Incident Response
- Security Operations and Monitoring
- Compliance and Assessment
- Threat and Vulnerability Management
Recommended Exam Material: PTO-002 exam dump
Task you will do after certification
- Network & Security Specialist
- Penetration Tester
- Security Consultant
- Cloud Penetration Tester
- Web App Penetration Tester
VI. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
CompTIA CASP+ is an advanced-level cybersecurity certification that focuses on technical skills in security architecture and senior security engineering. The main objective of CASP+ this certification is for overseeing and improving an organization’s cybersecurity promptness in the cloud, on-site, and hybrid settings.
Examination Details:
- The certification cost is $494- which may vary in your country
- Date of Retirement/ Validity Period: 3 years and candidates must earn 60 CPEs.
- Test Format & Duration: The exam consists of 90 MCQs and Performance-based questions and you will have 165 minutes to complete it
- Passing Criteria: No specified criteria. Only pass/fail status
- Recommended Experience:
Exam Domains:
- Security Architecture
- Security Operations
- Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Cryptography & Security engineering
Recommended Exam Material: CAS-004 exam dump
Job task after certification
- Senior Security Engineer
- Lead Technical Analyst
- Application Security Engineer
- SOC Manager
Conclusion
Information Technology is the leading career path in today’s world. Individuals are earning certifications in IT for advanced skills and better job opportunities. But individuals find it difficult where to begin and which certifications they should get. Your level of IT experience and education, as well as the area you intend to specialize in, will determine which CompTIA credential you should obtain first. In short, this article guides you on which certification is best suited for you.
FAQ'S
The Network+, Server+, A+, Security+, and CySA+ examinations are the CompTIA exams that are the simplest to pass.
Security+ is still an entry-level certificate so is A+. Even though its holders typically make more money than those with A+. A+ certification is not required to take Security+, however, it is advised so that you are familiar with the fundamentals of computers and security.
Absolutely YES! The certification is a career ladder in the IT field. According to the Dice report, CompTIA A+ is one of the highest-paying IT certifications in the US, with A+ holders earning $78,629.
CompTIA Security+ is suitable for beginning cybersecurity professionals because there are no official prerequisites. However, this does not preclude earning other CompTIA certifications before pursuing CompTIA Security+.
According to the Certification Magazine 2022 Salary Survey, the average salary of a Security+ certified professional in the United States is $115,170, with a global salary of 106,910
The annual pay for a qualified CompTIA Network+ professional in the US is $62,000. In contrast, according to Payscale, the typical freelancing CompTIA Network+ compensation is $21 per hour.
One of the three core qualifications for entering the IT business, particularly cybersecurity, is CompTIA A+. Candidates for the CompTIA A+ certification can analyze and resolve a wide range of problems, from operating systems and networking to security.
No exam is a hard game when you decide to ace it. It is solely based on the mind. CompTIA A+ is not difficult to pass, and it is known as the easiest IT certification. It might be difficult for first-time certification exam takers, but it is more accessible for those with a basic understanding of IT. It covers fundamental topics. Moreover, Certspilot makes preparation easy with its exam materials.
Candidates for CompTIA Network+ are qualified to work with any tool or product, regardless of the manufacturer, which gives them unlimited potential in the field of computer networking. On the other hand, CCNA only instructs applicants in using Cisco’s tools and goods.
CompTIA A+ certification is for EVERYONE. If you’re a beginner this certification will help you a step forward in the IT field. It will also help you in your career boost.
First of all, you have an understanding of certifications domains and topics. After this, you can have accurate exam material. Certspilot provides you with comprehensive exam dumps which make you surpass in the exam. In the end, practicing a lot is the best preparation and passing strategy. Certspilot also provides practice tests that make you fully prepared.