Getting a good IT job can be tough, but the right certification can make a big difference. The CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) certification is one of the best choices for anyone looking to start or grow a career in networking. Whether you’re new to IT or already have some experience, this certification helps prove your skills in managing and troubleshooting networks.
But is it worth it in 2025? What’s new in the N10-009 exam? How can you pass it? In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about certification exams so you can decide if this certification is right for you.
What’s New in the N10-009 Exam? A Closer Look at the 2025 Update
If you’ve been following CompTIA’s cert updates, you probably know they release a new Network+ exam every three years. With N10-009, they’ve made some noticeable changes compared to the previous N10-008 version. This isn’t just a simple refresh—there are new topics, updated domains, and a stronger focus on the latest networking trends.
So, what exactly has changed? Let’s go over the biggest updates and what they mean for anyone preparing for the exam.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Networking fundamentals, Network security, Cloud computing, Automation, Troubleshooting, Emerging technologies |
| Key Skills Gained | Troubleshooting, Configuring network devices, Cloud and virtual networks, Securing networks, Automating network tasks |
| Preparation Time | 2-3 months (10-15 hours/week for beginners) |
| Exam Format | 90 questions (multiple-choice and performance-based), 90-minute duration |
| Passing Score | 720 out of 900 |
| Cost | $370 (exam fee) |
| Validity | 3 years (Renewable via Continuing Education Units or by passing a higher-level cert) |
| Who Should Take This Exam? | Entry-level IT professionals, career changers, and those seeking to prove basic networking and IT knowledge |
| Recommended Experience | No prior networking experience required, but some basic IT knowledge is helpful |
| Exam Registration | Register via CompTIA’s website or Pearson VUE |
How N10-009 is Different from N10-008
CompTIA likes to tweak their exams to keep up with industry shifts. The N10-008 exam was heavily focused on traditional networking and security concepts, but with N10-009, there’s more emphasis on modern technologies like cloud networking, automation, and security integration. Here’s what’s different:
- More Cloud Networking Concepts – While N10-008 covered basic cloud principles, N10-009 digs deeper into cloud-based networking, hybrid environments, and virtual networking. Companies are moving their infrastructure to cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, so knowing how networking works in those environments is now essential.
- Stronger Focus on Network Security – Security threats keep evolving, and CompTIA has expanded security topics in N10-009. Expect more questions on Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), secure network configurations, and advanced encryption standards. Basic firewall and VPN knowledge isn’t enough anymore. You need to understand how security ties into overall network management.
- More Hands-On Troubleshooting Scenarios – Unlike N10-008, which was a bit more theory-heavy, N10-009 leans into practical troubleshooting. There’s a bigger focus on identifying network issues using real-world problem-solving techniques. If you’re studying, make sure you practice configuring, diagnosing, and resolving networking problems.
- Network Automation & AI Concepts – Automation is changing how networks are managed. The new exam introduces network automation tools, AI-driven monitoring, and scripting basics. If you’ve never worked with network automation before, this might be one of the trickier areas.
- Updated Protocols & Technologies – Some older technologies have been phased out, while newer networking protocols have been added. You’ll see more emphasis on:
- Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E (faster wireless standards)
- IPv6 adoption (finally becoming more relevant)
- SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network)
- 5G and Edge Networking
- Network Performance Optimization – With more networks becoming virtualized and cloud-based, N10-009 includes updated content on network performance monitoring, QoS (Quality of Service), and latency optimization.
For a structured step-by-step approach, you can also check out this detailed guide on how to pass the N10-009 exam with the right strategy and tips.
New Technologies and Networking Trends Covered
The N10-009 exam reflects what’s actually happening in the IT industry right now. If you work in networking or network services, these are the topics that are becoming essential to understand:
1. Cloud & Virtual Networking
- Multi-cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Hybrid cloud environments
- Virtualized network functions (VNFs)
- Network overlays and tunneling
2. Advanced Security Practices
- Zero Trust security models
- Secure network segmentation
- Ransomware prevention techniques
- Secure access service edge (SASE)
3. Network Automation & AI-Driven Management
- Network automation tools (Ansible, Terraform, Python scripting)
- AI-powered network monitoring
- Intent-based networking (IBN)
4. Wireless Networking & IoT Integration
- Wi-Fi 6E and emerging wireless standards
- Mesh networking advancements
- IoT device security in networks
5. SD-WAN and 5G Networking
- Software-defined networking for WANs
- Private 5G networks and enterprise use cases
- Optimizing networks for remote workforces
Key Skills and Exam Objectives You will Need to Master
The N10-009 exam still follows a domain-based structure, but some areas have been expanded while others have been trimmed down or updated. These are the major domains in the new exam:
1. Networking Fundamentals (25-30%)
- OSI & TCP/IP models
- Network types (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN, etc.)
- IPv4 vs IPv6 addressing
- DNS, DHCP, NAT, and essential protocols
2. Network Security (20-25%)
- Secure network design
- Firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs
- Security policies & compliance
- Zero Trust security models
3. Cloud & Virtualization (15-20%)
- Cloud networking fundamentals
- Virtual network interfaces & SDN
- Cloud security principles
- Hybrid and multi-cloud networking
4. Network Performance & Troubleshooting (20-25%)
- Network diagnostics & performance tools for physical installations
- Latency, packet loss, jitter troubleshooting
- SNMP, syslog, and monitoring tools
- Common network issues & fixes for disaster recovery
5. Automation & Emerging Technologies (10-15%)
- Network automation basics (Python, Ansible)
- AI-driven network management & IP addressing
- SD-WAN and software-defined networking
- Wireless trends (Wi-Fi 6, 5G, IoT)
Who Should Consider Taking the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) Exam?
The CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam is a solid certification for anyone interested in networking, but it’s not for everyone. Some people absolutely need it, while others might be better off with a different cert. If you’re trying to figure out whether this is the right move for your career, here’s a breakdown of who benefits the most from earning Network+.
1. Entry-Level IT Professionals Looking for Networking Roles
If you’re new to IT and want to work with networks, routers, servers, or IT infrastructure, Network+ is one of the best starting points. Here’s why:
- It gives you a structured way to learn networking fundamentals – Instead of watching random YouTube videos or reading outdated PDFs, Network+ provides a clear learning path that covers the essential concepts every network tech needs to know.
- Employers recognize it – Many entry-level job listings in IT require or prefer Network+ because it proves you have basic networking knowledge—even if you don’t have work experience yet.
- It opens doors to higher-level certs – If you plan to get CCNA, Security+, or cloud networking certs, Network+ helps build the foundation so you don’t struggle with more advanced topics later.
- You don’t need experience to take the exam – Some IT certs (like CCNA or CISSP) assume you already know a lot before you take the test. Network+ is designed for people with zero or very little experience, making it a great first step.
Typical Jobs That Require or Prefer Network+ at Entry-Level
- IT Support Specialist
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- System Administrator (entry-level)
If your goal is to get into IT networking but you don’t have much experience yet, Network+ is a great way to get started.
2. Career Changers Stepping into IT Networking
Maybe you’ve been working in a completely different field and now want to switch to IT. If that’s the case, jumping straight into a high-level cert like CCNA or AWS might be overwhelming. Network+ is a good transition cert because:
- It doesn’t assume you already know networking – Unlike Cisco’s CCNA, which dives straight into configurations and command-line work, Network+ focuses on explaining concepts first, making it easier for beginners to understand.
- It helps you get a foot in the door – If you’re switching from retail, hospitality, teaching, finance, or any other non-tech job, this cert gives you something to put on your resume while you start applying for IT roles.
- You don’t need a college degree – Many people think you need a degree in computer science to break into IT. That’s not true. Certifications like Network+ can help you land entry-level jobs without spending years in school.
If You’re Changing Careers, Network+ Helps If:
- You want to move into IT support, networking, or system admin roles
- You have no formal IT background but are willing to learn
- You want to prove to employers that you have networking knowledge without needing a degree
- You need an entry-level certification before working toward more advanced certs
If you’re serious about switching to IT, getting Network+ along with hands-on practice in home labs can boost your chances of landing your first tech job.
3. Experienced IT Technicians Aiming to Validate Their Skills
Some people already have networking experience but never got around to getting a few other networking certifications. If that sounds like you, N10-009 could be worth considering—but it depends on your situation.
Good Reasons to Get Network+ If You Already Have IT Experience
- Your employer requires it for a promotion or raise – Some companies require Network+ (especially government or DoD-related jobs) for compliance reasons. If you’re working in IT and your company wants you to get certified, it’s an easy way to boost your credentials.
- You need to validate your skills for job applications – If you’ve been doing IT work without a cert, having Network+ on your resume can give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs.
- You’re planning to move into a specialized IT role – If you want to move from help desk to networking, security, or cloud roles, Network+ is a good stepping stone before getting deeper into those fields.
- You’re self-taught and need formal recognition – If you already know networking but never got a degree or cert, passing Network+ can prove your skills officially to employers.
You Probably Don’t Need Network+ If:
- You already have CCNA or another networking cert (CCNA covers everything in Network+ and more)
- You’re planning to work in cloud networking (AWS or Azure certs are better for that)
- You’re focused on cybersecurity only (Security+ or CEH would be more useful)
- You already have strong networking experience and just need a higher-level cert
If you’re curious about where this certification can take you, explore the latest N10-009 job roles and salary insights for 2025 to see the real-world opportunities and pay scales.
How Hard is the N10-009 Exam? Let’s Be Honest
If you’ve heard people say Network+ is easy, they probably already had experience in IT before taking it. If you’re new to networking, expect a challenge. N10-009 isn’t impossible, but it does require effort. It’s not just memorizing terms, it’s about understanding how networks function, diagnosing performance issues, and applying concepts in real-world scenarios.
If you want a deeper breakdown of the exam’s difficulty, structure, and practical strategies to improve your pass rate, you should know how hard the CompTIA Network+ exam really is and best tips to ace it so you have an excellent complement to your study plan.
The Best Way to Approach the Exam Preparation
- Master Subnetting First
Don’t just watch videos, practice subnetting daily until you can calculate subnet masks and CIDR notation in seconds. - Use a Home Lab or Simulation Tools
If you can set up a home lab with virtual machines and networking tools, you’ll absorb concepts faster. Packet Tracer and GNS3 are great alternatives if you can’t build a physical lab. - Don’t Cram, Break It Into Sections
The exam covers networking, troubleshooting, cloud, and security. Focus on one section at a time instead of jumping randomly between topics. - Take Practice Exams Regularly
Use practice tests to identify weak areas. Don’t just memorize answers, understand why an answer is correct. Sites like Cert Empire provide high-quality practice tests that are aligned with CompTIA’s latest objectives, making your study sessions more effective and focused. You can even try a free N10-009 exam question to quickly gauge your readiness before taking a full mock exam.
How Much Time Do You Need to Prepare for N10-009?
Study Duration Based on Experience Level
- Beginner (No IT background): 2-3 months of studying, 1-2 hours per day
- Some IT Experience: 4-6 weeks, focusing on weak areas
- Networking Experience: 2-3 weeks, mainly practice exams
Creating an Effective Study Schedule
- Week 1-2: Networking basics, OSI model, protocols
- Week 3-4: Subnetting, network security, troubleshooting
- Week 5-6: Cloud, automation, performance-based questions
- Final Week: Full-length practice exams and revision
Avoiding Common Mistakes in Exam Preparation
- Skipping hands-on practice – Networking concepts make more sense when you apply them.
- Ignoring subnetting – If you can’t subnet quickly, you’ll struggle on the exam.
- Waiting too long to take practice exams – You need to train your brain for the actual test format.
N10-009 Certification Cost Breakdown: Is It Expensive?
Exam Fees and Additional Costs
- CompTIA N10-009 Exam Fee: Around $370 USD
- Retake Fee: Full price unless you buy a bundle with a retake voucher
Training Expenses: Self-Study vs Instructor-Led Training
- Self-Study: Around $50-$200 for books, courses, and practice exams
- Boot Camps/Instructor-Led Training: Can range from $1,000-$3,000, depending on the provider
Budgeting for Retakes and Renewal Fees
- Network+ is valid for three years – You need to renew via CEUs (Continuing Education Units) or retaking the exam.
- CEUs cost around $150 over three years, or you can just take a higher-level cert like Security+ or CySA+ to renew it automatically.
How to Register for the N10-009 Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing Your Exam Mode: Online vs In-Person Testing
- Online Exam: Convenient but strict rules (webcam monitoring, no distractions, no talking)
- In-Person Exam: Less stressful for some test-takers, but requires travel to a testing center
Creating an Account and Scheduling Your Test
- Go to the CompTIA website and create a Pearson VUE account.
- Choose your exam format (online or in-person).
- Pay the exam fee and schedule your test date.
What to Expect on Exam Day
- 90 minutes to complete 90 questions
- Multiple-choice and performance-based questions
- Some questions require troubleshooting or simulating real-world scenarios
- You’ll get your score immediately after finishing the test
Final Thoughts: Is N10-009 Worth the Effort?
Network+ isn’t easy, but it’s one of the best foundational certs about network implementations, network appliances, network topologies, and wireless devices for IT networking. If you prepare smart, practice regularly, and focus on weak areas, you can pass without stress. For realistic exam practice, Cert Empire’s N10-009 exam dumps offer updated questions that mirror the actual exam format and help boost confidence before test day. If you’re looking for your first IT job or want to prove your basic networking concepts and skills, N10-009 is absolutely worth the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the N10-009 exam open book?
No, the N10-009 exam is not open book. You cannot use notes, books, or any external resources during the test. If taking the exam online, strict proctoring rules apply, including no background noise or interruptions.
Can you take the N10-009 without prior networking experience?
Yes, but it will be challenging. CompTIA recommends 9-12 months of networking experience, but many beginners take it by studying properly. If you’re new to networking, focus on hands-on practice and labs to understand concepts better.
What’s the passing score for the N10-009 exam?
The passing score is 720 out of 900. Since the test includes a mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions, scoring can vary. Some questions are worth more than others, so focus on both conceptual and practical knowledge.
How many questions are on the N10-009 test?
The exam consists of 90 questions. These include multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions where you must troubleshoot network devices or configure network settings. You get 90 minutes to complete the test.
Can you get a job with just the CompTIA Network+ certification?
Yes, but it depends on the job market and your overall skills. Network+ can help you land entry-level roles like help desk, IT support, network operations, or junior network admin, but hands-on experience and other skills (like troubleshooting and customer support) also matter.
Last Updated on by Team CE
