When starting your career in the information security field, you must often ask the question: Do I Need Network+ Before Security+? One of the primary goals of IT security professionals is to protect networks and systems from malicious acts that threaten the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. To achieve this, gaining the CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ certifications can give you valuable insight and essential skills to safeguard against cyber threats. Network+ and Security+ are two of the most widely-recognized certifications for IT security, enabling cybersecurity professionals to learn the fundamentals of network security and secure network infrastructure.
1. What’s the Difference Between Network+ and Security+?
As IT security solutions become more important and widespread, understanding the differences between various IT security certifications is increasingly important. Network+ and Security+ are two certifications that serve different but related IT security roles.
Network+ is aimed primarily at preparing technicians for success in the field of networking. It covers fundamentals such as networking hardware, configuration and troubleshooting, while Security+ focuses more heavily on security solutions. With its emphasis on threat mitigation, Security+ covers topics such as cryptography and implementing a secure network.
- Network+ is designed to prepare technicians for success in the field of networking, and covers topics such as networking hardware, configuration, and troubleshooting.
- Security+ is designed to give individuals an in-depth understanding of the threat mitigation, and covers topics such as cryptography and implementing a secure network.
2. Do You Need Network+ Before Security+?
No, You Do Not Need Network+ Before Security+
Often, people are not sure if they should take the Network+ certification exam before the Security+ exam. The answer is that it isn’t mandatory. Although having a hands-on understanding of network infrastructure can be beneficial, you are not required to have taken the Network+ certification prior to attempting the Security+ certification.
However, if you do have experience in the networking field, it can be extremely helpful when taking the Security+ exam. Network+ certification-level knowledge of networking topics, such as TCP/IP, networking devices, subsets of operating systems, ports and protocols, can help with many of the Security+ questions. Furthermore, understanding how the different network topologies work is important if you choose to add on the Network+ certification.
Enumerating the advantages of Network+ certication in combination with the Security+ certifications:
- Understanding of network infrastructure
- Hands-on experience with networking topics
- Knowledge of TCP/IP, networking devices, operating systems, ports and protocols
- Solidified understanding of network topologies and installation
3. Preparing for the Security+ Exam
Understanding the Exam Conditions: It is important to understand the conditions in which you’ll be taking the Security+ exam. What kind of computer or device will you be using? Will you be provided with paper or will you type your answers? Knowing the details of the exam setup will help you walk into the exam knowing what to expect.
Exam Strategies: Cramming the day of the exam is not the best way to prepare. Instead, break up the study materials in chunks and study over the span of a few weeks or more. Be sure to master each concept before moving on to the next. Create flash cards, use practice tests, and talk with other professionals to solidify your understanding. Additionally, make sure to structure yourself a plan for breaks, meals, and other needs during the day - you’ll be more focused and energetic if you give yourself time for rest.
4. The Benefits of Earning Your Security+ Certification
Global Recognition
Earning your Security+ certification has the potential to open up countless opportunities. By becoming certified in the Security+ program, employers around the world will recognize you as possessing the ideal credentials for competent work in the cybersecurity field. With this globally-recognized qualification, you will have job security, increased wages, and the potential to secure lucrative job opportunities in the industry.
A Solid Foundation in Cybersecurity
A Security+ certification is the perfect stepping stone to help you get your foot in the door of the rapidly growing cybersecurity industry. This certification qualifies you to become a security skillset master. All of the preparedness and system safety information you require will be thrown at you thick and fast, packing you with an array of information to help you perform your duties as a competent cybersecurity professional. Benefit from:
- Knowledge on enforced security policies
- Analyze, prevent and respond to attempted security breaches
- Carry out configuration of software and hardware
- Secure network traffic
- Install and deploy the latest software technologies
Q&A
Q: Why do I need Network+ before Security+?
A: You usually need to have Network+ certification before you can get Security+ certification because it gives you a better understanding of network security. It is important to understand how networks work so you can know how to secure them and prevent unauthorized access. Network+ provides an important foundation of knowledge that can help you become successful at Security+. In conclusion, the decision of whether to pursue Network+ and/or Security+ certification depends on your goals. To eliminate the need for having to remember multiple usernames and passwords for different accounts, create a FREE LogMeOnce account with Auto-login and SSO and let LogMeOnce handle your authentication needs. So whether you decide to pursue the Network+ or the Security+ course or both, LogMeOnce can help take the hassle out of Network+ Security+ certification, protecting password security in one convenient location. Get started now by visiting LogMeOnce.com to create your FREE account and take advantage of Network+ Security+ certification.