About the Network+ Certification Program

The Computing and Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) developed the Network+ certification to provide a vendor-neutral introductory-level networking certification. The exam is currently in its second revision. New exam objectives that take into account developments in networking technologies such as wireless networks and Gigabit Ethernet are being introduced in this revision of the exam.

CompTIA recommends that before you take the Network+ exam, you have hardware knowledge equivalent to what you need for ComTIA A+ certification and nine months' experience administering networks; however, these recommendations are certainly not set in stone. The concepts required to pass the Network+ exam provide a solid foundation for networking technologies and are a great place to start when you're considering a career in network management. In this way, prior networking experience would certainly be an asset, but it is not a requirement to pass the exam. We recommend that if you want to take the Network+ exam, you should have interest in computer networks and a desire to learn.

You might be asking why this exam is for you, and why now? Besides the fact that the certification brings certain obvious professional benefits to you, the Network+ program gives you access to the CompTIA organization and to the benefits that access affords. In addition, the Network+ exam is well recognized in the IT community and is used as an elective for such premier certifications as Microsoft's MSCE and MCSA certifications.

CompTIA's Web site (www.comptia.com) identifies further benefits for prospective CompTIA-certified individuals:

• Recognized proof of professional achievement— This is a level of competence that is commonly accepted and valued by the industry.

• Enhanced job opportunities— Many employers give preference in hiring to applicants who have certification. They view certification as proof that a new hire knows the procedures and technologies required.

• Opportunity for advancement— Certification can be a plus when an employer awards job advancements and promotions.

• Training requirement— Certification might be required as a prerequisite to attending a vendor's training course, so employers often offer advanced training to employees who are already certified.

• Customer confidence— As the general public learns about certification, customers will require that only certified technicians be assigned to their accounts.

For any additional information or clarification about the CompTIA Network+ certification path and its history and benefits, consult the CompTIA home page, at www.comptia.com. As discussed earlier, you can also check this site to see if there have been any recent changes in the Network+ certification program.