CompTIA Certifications overview and pricing details in 2023
Are you wondering how to get CompTIA certified and what the benefits of CompTIA certification are? Look no further! CompTIA, a leading provider of IT certifications, offers a wide range of certifications that can propel your IT career to new heights. Let’s explore the best CompTIA certifications for you and how to prepare for them.
When it comes to getting CompTIA certified, the first step is to understand what CompTIA certification entails. CompTIA certifications are industry-recognized credentials that validate your expertise in specific areas of IT. Whether you’re interested in security, networking, server administration, or advanced security practices, CompTIA has certifications tailored to your needs.
Around the world, CompTIA certifications hold immense value. CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Server+, and CompTIA CASP+ are highly sought-after certifications in the IT job market. These certifications provide a solid foundation and specialized knowledge to thrive in various IT roles.
CompTIA certifications summary
Now, let’s discuss the benefits of obtaining a CompTIA certification. First and foremost, CompTIA certifications are globally recognized, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Employers value the credibility and practical skills that come with CompTIA certifications, making you a desirable candidate for IT jobs.
To pursue a CompTIA certification, proper preparation is essential. So, how can you best prepare for your CompTIA certification exam? CompTIA offers self-study courses and training materials that allow you to learn at your own pace. Additionally, you can find reputable training providers that offer CompTIA certification training to guide you through the exam preparation process.
When you’re ready to take the CompTIA certification exam, it’s crucial to know where to go. Pearson VUE is the authorized exam administrator, and you can find information on exam registration and locations on the official CompTIA website. Be sure to plan ahead and choose a convenient exam center.
In conclusion, getting a CompTIA certification opens doors to a rewarding IT career. With certifications like CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Server+, and CompTIA CASP+, you can demonstrate your expertise in various IT domains. Take advantage of the available training resources and prepare diligently to pass your CompTIA certification exam. Your investment in CompTIA certification will pay off in terms of career growth and lucrative opportunities in the dynamic field of IT.
CompTIA certifications are grouped by skill set. Currently, CompTIA certifications fall into four areas:
- Core CompTIA certs: ITF+, A+, Network+, and Security+
- Infrastructure CompTIA certs: Cloud+, Linux+, and Server+
- Cybersecurity CompTIA certs: CySA+, PenTest+, and CASP+
- Additional Professional certifications: CTT+, Cloud Essentials, and Project+
Overview of the CompTIA certifications
CompTIA IT Fundamentals
The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification serves as an ideal starting point for individuals seeking to grasp the fundamentals of IT or pursue a career in the field. It provides a comprehensive understanding of computing essentials, IT infrastructure, software development, and database utilization.
The ITF+ exam evaluates candidates’ knowledge across several domains. The first domain, computing fundamentals, delves into the foundational aspects of computing, encompassing hardware, software, operating systems, and networks. The second domain, IT infrastructure, explores the various components that comprise IT infrastructure, such as servers, storage devices, and networking devices. Moving on, the software development domain focuses on the essentials of software development, encompassing programming languages, the software development life cycle, and software testing. Lastly, the database use domain familiarizes individuals with the basics of database utilization, covering topics like database design, administration, and querying.
To obtain the ITF+ certification, candidates must pass a 90-minute exam consisting of 85 multiple-choice questions. To succeed, one needs to achieve a score of at least 700 out of 900.
CompTIA A+
The CompTIA A+ certification is a highly respected and vendor-neutral credential for supporting PCs, smartphones, and tablets. It covers hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting. The certification consists of two parts: Core 1 (hardware and software) and Core 2 (networking and troubleshooting), with a passing score of 220 for each part. It serves as an excellent starting point for an IT career.
The CompTIA A+ certification is valued in the IT industry, validating skills in PC and mobile device support. It demonstrates expertise in hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting. By successfully passing the two-part exam, individuals with CompTIA A+ can pursue opportunities as PC technicians, help desk support, or system administrators. It signifies professional growth and opens doors to diverse IT roles.
CompTIA Network+
Many individuals in the IT field begin their journey by acquiring the A+ certification. Although the A+ credential is highly recommended, those with sufficient experience and confidence may choose to skip it and proceed directly to the CompTIA Network+ certification. The Network+ certification adheres to the esteemed ISO 17024 standard and, similar to the A+ certification, holds recognition from the U.S. Department of Defense. To obtain this certification, one must pass a single examination.
The Network+ certification guarantees that an IT professional possesses the necessary knowledge and abilities to:
- Design and establish functional networks
- Configure, manage and maintain crucial network devices
- Utilize devices like switches and routers to divide network traffic and construct resilient networks
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is a cybersecurity certification that verifies essential skills needed for core security functions and a career in IT security. It is suitable for both newcomers to the field and those seeking to showcase their abilities to potential employers.
The exam covers various topics, such as:
- Security fundamentals: This covers the basics of security, including threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities.
- Risk management: Involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to an organization’s security.
- Identity and access management: Focuses on managing user identities and system/data access.
- Security operations: Deals with monitoring, detecting, and responding to security incidents.
- Network security: Addresses network security measures like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption.
- Application security: Concentrates on securing applications through coding practices, secure coding, and data validation.
- Information security governance: Encompasses managing information security within an organization.
The exam duration is 90 minutes, comprising 90 multiple-choice questions. To pass, a score of 750 out of 900 is required.
CompTIA Linux+
The CompTIA Linux+ certification is a well-regarded industry certification that validates expertise in essential Linux system administration tasks. It covers various areas such as installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Linux systems.
To achieve the CompTIA Linux+ certification, you need to pass a single exam. The exam lasts for 120 minutes and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. The passing score is 700 out of 900.
Who should consider getting the CompTIA Linux+ certification?
- IT professionals aiming to showcase their Linux skills and knowledge.
- System administrators seeking to efficiently manage Linux systems.
- Developers who are interested in creating applications for Linux.
- Students looking to acquire Linux system administration skills.
CompTIA Cloud+
CompTIA Cloud+ is a certification specifically designed for cloud engineers and IT professionals seeking to showcase their expertise in deploying and managing cloud-based infrastructure services. This certification caters to individuals aiming to advance their careers in the rapidly expanding field of cloud computing. The exam lasts 90 minutes and consists of 85 multiple-choice questions, with a passing score of 700 out of 900.
The exam covers essential topics, including:
- Cloud computing concepts: Focuses on the fundamentals of cloud computing, encompassing various models, service providers, and deployment methods.
- Cloud infrastructure: Addresses the components of cloud infrastructure, such as servers, storage devices, and networking devices.
- Cloud operations: Explores the operational aspects of cloud computing, encompassing provisioning, monitoring, and security measures.
- Cloud application development: Examines the development of cloud-based applications, including cloud-native applications and serverless computing.
CompTIA Server+
The CompTIA Server+ certification is a widely recognized global certification that validates the practical skills of IT professionals involved in the installation, management, and troubleshooting of servers. This certification applies to various environments, including data centers, on-premise setups, and hybrid configurations.
Unlike other certifications that focus on a specific platform, CompTIA Server+ stands out as the only certification that ensures administrators possess the necessary skills to excel in any environment. The certification exam covers crucial hardware and software technologies related to on-premise and hybrid server environments. This includes topics like high availability, cloud computing, and scripting. Moreover, the updated exam now incorporates performance-based questions that test candidates’ ability to securely deploy, administer, and troubleshoot servers by demonstrating multi-step knowledge.
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
The CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification validates the expertise and skills necessary to detect and analyze malicious activity, comprehend threat intelligence and management, respond to vulnerabilities and attacks, carry out incident response, and effectively communicate related information. Excitingly, a new version of the CySA+ exam (CS0-003) is set to be released in June 2023.
To qualify for the certification, candidates must have a background in Network+, Security+, or an equivalent level of knowledge. Additionally, a minimum of four years of hands-on experience as an incident response analyst, security operations center (SOC) analyst, or similar role is required.
CompTIA PenTest+
CompTIA PenTest+ (Exam Code PT0-002) is specifically designed for cybersecurity professionals who specialize in penetration testing and vulnerability management. It assesses their knowledge and skills in planning and scoping penetration testing engagements, conducting vulnerability scans, understanding legal and compliance requirements, analyzing results, and producing comprehensive written reports with remediation techniques.
The exam consists of a maximum of 85 questions, which are a combination of performance-based and multiple-choice formats. Test-takers are given 165 minutes to complete the exam, and a passing score of 750 out of 900 is required.
While there are no strict prerequisites, it is recommended to have prior knowledge equivalent to Network+ or Security+ certifications. Additionally, candidates are advised to have at least 3-4 years of hands-on experience in information security or a related field. CompTIA PenTest+ is intended to be taken after CompTIA Security+ or having equivalent experience, as it focuses on technical, hands-on skills.
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
The CASP+ certification, with exam code CAS-004, was launched on October 6, 2021. It is designed to validate the technical knowledge and skills needed to architect, engineer, integrate, and implement secure solutions in complex environments. The focus is on supporting a resilient enterprise while considering governance, risk, and compliance requirements. The exam consists of a maximum of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions and has a duration of 165 minutes. Unlike other exams, CASP+ is graded on a pass/fail basis without a scaled score.
To pursue CASP+, it is recommended to have a minimum of ten years of general hands-on IT experience, including at least five years of extensive security experience. The certification is compliant with ISO 17024 standards and is approved by the US Department of Defense (DoD) to meet the requirements of directive 8140/8570.01-M. ANSI accreditation, which guarantees the quality of an accredited program, is relied upon by regulators and governments. Since January 1, 2011, over 3 million CompTIA ISO/ANSI-accredited exams have been successfully administered.
Pricing of all the CompTIA certifications
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 134 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 100,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 75 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 79 |
| EURO | EURO | 121 |
| Japan | JPY | 9,834 |
| Australia | AUD | 181 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 1,030 |
CompTIA A+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 246 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 184,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 138 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 146 |
| EURO | EURO | 221 |
| Japan | JPY | 28,897 |
| Australia | AUD | 333 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 1,893 |
CompTIA Network+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 358 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 268,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 201 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 212 |
| EURO | EURO | 323 |
| Japan | JPY | 42,076 |
| Australia | AUD | 484 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 2,756 |
CompTIA Security+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 392 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 294,000 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 219 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 233 |
| EURO | EURO | 353 |
| Japan | JPY | 46,065 |
| Australia | AUD | 529 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 3,017 |
CompTIA Cloud+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 358 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 268,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 201 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 212 |
| EURO | EURO | 323 |
| Japan | JPY | 42,076 |
| Australia | AUD | 484 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 2,756 |
CompTIA Linux+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 358 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 268,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 201 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 212 |
| EURO | EURO | 323 |
| Japan | JPY | 42,076 |
| Australia | AUD | 484 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 2,756 |
CompTIA Server+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 358 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 268,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 201 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 212 |
| EURO | EURO | 323 |
| Japan | JPY | 42,076 |
| Australia | AUD | 484 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 2,756 |
CompTIA CySA+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 392 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 294,000 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 219 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 233 |
| EURO | EURO | 353 |
| Japan | JPY | 46,065 |
| Australia | AUD | 529 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 3,017 |
CompTIA PenTest+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 392 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 294,000 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 219 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 233 |
| EURO | EURO | 353 |
| Japan | JPY | 46,065 |
| Australia | AUD | 529 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 3,017 |
CASP+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 494 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 370,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 277 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 294 |
| EURO | EURO | 445 |
| Japan | JPY | 58,035 |
| Australia | AUD | 667 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 3,802 |
CompTIA Project+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 358 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 268,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 201 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 212 |
| EURO | EURO | 323 |
| Japan | JPY | 42,076 |
| Australia | AUD | 484 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 2,756 |
CompTIA Cloud Essentials+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 134 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 100,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 75 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 79 |
| EURO | EURO | 121 |
| Japan | JPY | 9,834 |
| Australia | AUD | 181 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 1,030 |
CompTIA Data+ pricing:
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 246 |
| Nigeria | Naira | 184,500 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 138 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 146 |
| EURO | EURO | 221 |
| Japan | JPY | 28,897 |
| Australia | AUD | 333 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 1,893 |