CompTIA A+ vs Network+: What to Do First

CompTIA A+ and Network+ are two of the most recognized entry-level IT certifications in Canada. If you are deciding which one to earn first, the answer depends on the IT role you want and where you are in your career.

If you want a clear recommendation based on your goals, book a training path consultation with our team.

What Is CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification for IT support professionals. The exam tests your knowledge of hardware, operating systems, networking basics, troubleshooting, and security fundamentals. It consists of two separate exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). You need to pass both to earn the credential.

Most employers treat CompTIA A+ as the baseline qualification for help desk, desktop support, and IT technician roles. It is one of the most widely recognized credentials for people entering IT without prior experience.

What Is CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ covers networking concepts in greater depth. The exam tests your understanding of network infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting. It is a single exam and sits above A+ in the CompTIA certification stack.

Network+ suits people who want to move into roles focused on networking, such as network technician, network administrator, or junior network engineer. It is also a stepping stone toward more advanced networking certifications like Cisco CCNA.

The Difference Between the Two

A+ is broader. It covers hardware, operating systems, and basic networking from a support perspective. Network+ is narrower and deeper. It focuses entirely on networking and prepares you for roles where managing and troubleshooting network infrastructure is the primary responsibility.

A+ is more likely to be required for entry-level IT support positions. Network+ is more relevant once you know you want to specialize in networking specifically.

Which Certification Should You Earn First

For most people entering IT for the first time, A+ is the right starting point. Two reasons stand out:

• A+ covers foundational IT skills used in almost every support role, giving you a broader base to build from before you specialize.
• Many job postings for IT support roles list A+ as preferred or required, while Network+ appears more in networking-specific postings.

If you already have some IT experience and want to move specifically into networking, you do not need to start with A+. Network+ is designed for people who already understand basic IT concepts. Going straight to Network+ is a legitimate path if your background supports it.

If you are starting from zero and are not yet sure what IT role you want, A+ gives you more flexibility. It qualifies you for more entry-level positions and helps you figure out whether you want to go deeper into networking, security, or systems administration before committing to a specialization.

What Employers in Canada Look For

Both certifications are recognized across Canada. The Government of Canada Job Bank lists IT support as one of the more stable occupational categories in the country, and entry-level postings in those roles frequently mention CompTIA credentials as preferred qualifications.

Government agencies, managed service providers, healthcare organizations, and corporate IT departments all hire candidates with A+ credentials for first-level support roles. Network+ carries more weight in environments where network administration is a defined function.

Should You Earn Both

Many IT professionals earn both credentials over time. A common approach is to start with A+, get your first IT support role, and then pursue Network+ after gaining some hands-on experience. This sequence gives you real-world context for the Network+ material, which makes studying for it more efficient.

If your goal is to work in cybersecurity, earning A+ followed by Network+ before moving on to CompTIA Security+ is a well-established certification path. CompTIA designed those three certifications to build on each other in sequence.

You do not need both credentials before applying for roles. A+ alone qualifies you for a range of entry-level positions. Adding Network+ later strengthens your profile once you are in the field.

Where to Start Your Training

Both certifications are available through instructor-led training programs. Studying with an instructor gives you structured coverage of the exam objectives and the opportunity to ask questions written resources do not answer.

View available CompTIA certification training, including A+ and Network+, at Ultimate IT Courses CompTIA training. Courses run in small groups with flexible scheduling to fit around work commitments.

For full details on what each exam covers, the official objectives are published on the CompTIA A+ certification page and the CompTIA Network+ certification page. Reviewing both before enrolling gives you a clear picture of the knowledge each exam requires.

If you are unsure which certification fits your goals, book a training path consultation. Our team works with career starters across Canada and builds certification plans around the roles you are aiming for.