Both the CompTIA Network+ and the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certifications are crucial.
However, they may be compared as two separate courses given at different levels in the same field. The Network+ program is open to anybody with a basic understanding of infrastructure. To effectively gain from the Cisco courses, a significantly higher degree of prior expertise and knowledge is required.
In essence, Network+ provides a wide and generic explanation of networking methods and applications, and it is best suited for people who are just starting out in the networking sector.
The Cisco courses are designed for those who have previously reached a certain degree of networking knowledge and expertise and want to enhance and confirm their skill set by obtaining the CCNA certificate.
Let’s take a closer look at the fundamental distinctions between the CCNA and the CompTIA Network+ certifications so you can make an informed choice about which qualification to pursue.
What is CompTIA Network+ Certification?
CompTIA Network+ (Network Plus) certifies the technical abilities required to secure, construct, manage, and troubleshoot the critical networks organizations rely on.
CompTIA Network+, unlike other vendor-specific network qualifications, prepares students to maintain networks on any platform. CompTIA Network+ has been the only credential that addresses the specific abilities required by network professionals. Other certificates are too broad to address the practical learning skills and detailed knowledge required in today’s networking situations.
CompTIA Network+ offers a variety of flexible training choices, like self-paced study, live online training, bespoke training, and labs, to help IT professionals progress their careers in network management.
Network+ Certificates for Mid-Level Professionals
Network+ is a certificate for network professionals at the mid-level. This certification is intended to assess an intermediate-level network technician’s ability to assist and configure TCP/IP clients in terms of network architecture, wiring, equipment setup, configuration, deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
The Network+ test includes situational, conventional, and identification questions. The Network+ test is available to anybody. However, it is intended for people who have at least 18 months of practical experience as a network technician and the A+ certificate or similar expertise.
The Core Curriculum
CompTIA provides Network+ as part of its Core curriculum, a collection of entry-level courses aimed to provide students with a foundation in fundamental technological principles. The four main courses are included in the Core curriculum:
- IT Fundamentals
- A+
- Network+
- Security+
The course covers networking management and architecture, ideas and security, as well as tools and debugging. CompTIA provides additional credentials after completing Core level courses.
What is the CCNA?
One of Cisco’s most highly prized entry-level IT credentials is the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). The CCNA exam assesses the knowledge and abilities required of a network specialist to install, configure, and manage medium-sized networks.
Cisco’s Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is one of the company’s most sought-after IT certifications. The Cisco CCNA exam is divided into two modules that examine network basics and abilities such as LAN switching, Internet protocol technologies, WAN protocols, and setup regularities required in a big enterprise utilizing Cisco equipment.
Cisco CCNA certified workers can set up Cisco networking equipment in small, medium, and large business settings. The CCNA certification is intended for IT professionals who want to further their profession as network technicians or engineers by learning skills that can be applied to a wide range of network equipment.
What is the Cisco “Tree” for CCNA?
While there are no formal requirements for CCNA training, the CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) and CCT (Cisco Certified Technician) are the first layer of certifications for people just beginning out in networking.
The CCENT certification demonstrates that the technician can install, operate, and troubleshoot small service enterprise networks. It is intended to prepare individuals for support positions and is not required as a prerequisite for attending the CCNA course. This double CCT certification is intended to prepare a candidate to become the EMT of the Cisco world, capable of detecting, fixing, and replacing Cisco devices on-site while collaborating extensively with CTAC (Cisco Technical Assistance Center).
Levels in the CCNA
You’ll see that the CCENT training module is included in the CCNA curriculum. The CCNA networking and switching track includes two courses that cover integrating Cisco networking equipment. There is also an expedited program for these two modules. However, that is entirely up to the individual.
Ultimately, there are three methods of obtaining the certification through examination. The CCNA Security track certifies students in applying Cisco security procedures; however, prior CCNA, CCENT, or CCIE certification is necessary.
Above the preliminary level, the Pro Level, Specialist Level, and Architectural Level are some of the most sought-after qualifications in today’s technologically-driven industry.
Compare and Choose
Networks are a part of life and are essential to many aspects of our everyday lives. They keep our phones and lights linked, transport vital information, and undergird everything that we do, from purchasing a box of cereal to ensuring national security.
While CompTIA training provides a good foundation in the fundamentals of computer technology, Cisco Certification is more sought after and is particular to Cisco equipment that power the networks that power the globe. When it comes to developing a professional path and specialty, Cisco courses provide a broader route to a profession, with a training network and a powerful support group. All information is relevant, but how beneficial that knowledge is to others is debatable.
You can also look for certifications at Master I.T. for these certifications and kickstart your journey in becoming an expert in your IT profession. The future is all about the most qualified and certified individuals. Make sure you are one of those individuals.