The world of networking is more dynamic and mission-critical than ever before. As businesses expand their digital infrastructure and cloud-first strategies, the demand for skilled network professionals continues to soar. One of the most recognized entry-level certifications that opens the gateway to a successful IT career is the CompTIA Network+ certification, especially the updated N10-009 exam in 2025. But here comes the question that many aspiring IT professionals ask if the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam really that difficult?
The answer depends on your preparation, background, and how well you understand real-world networking fundamentals. While Network+ is categorized as an entry-level certification, don’t let the term ‘entry-level’ fool you. The N10-009 exam has evolved significantly to reflect the growing complexity of modern networking, including topics like cloud networking, virtualization, zero trust security models, wireless protocols, and more. It’s no longer just about understanding IP addressing or cables—it’s about applying networking knowledge to real-world environments.
In this blog, we will break down the difficulty level of the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam, explore what’s new in the 2025 update, and share tips and resources to help you prepare strategically. Whether you’re a student, a self-taught tech enthusiast, or transitioning into IT, this guide will help you determine if the Network+ is a challenge you’re ready to conquer—or one you can make easier with the right roadmap.
About CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) Exam
CompTIA Network+ is an intermediate-level certification, which means it requires a certain level of technical knowledge and skills to pass. It’s designed for professionals who have some experience in networking and want to deepen their understanding of the field. The test includes various subjects like networking ideas, structure, protocols, and services, safeguarding networks, and solving network issues, all in a distinctive way.
While the difficulty level of the exam may vary for each individual, it’s generally considered to be challenging. However, with the right preparation and study approach, passing the exam is achievable. In the CompTIA Network+ test, you’ll need to answer 90 questions in 90 minutes. To pass, you should aim for a score of at least 720 out of a possible range of 100 to 900.
In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the exam content, discuss some common study methods and resources, and share tips for maximizing your chances of success. We’ll also address some frequently asked questions about the exam, such as what prerequisites are required, how much time you should allocate for studying, and what the exam experience is like. Whether you’re just starting your networking career or are looking to enhance your existing skills, the CompTIA Network+ certification can be a valuable asset. So, let’s get started and find out whether the CompTIA Network+ is hard, and what you can do to conquer it.
What Makes the Exam Difficult?
Despite being an entry-level certification, the CompTIA Network+ exam presents some real challenges:
- Depth of Knowledge Required Across Multiple Topics: The exam covers a wide range of networking topics—protocols, devices, tools, troubleshooting, security, wireless technologies, and virtualization. You’ll need a solid grasp of both foundational and current networking practices.
- Scenario-Based Questions and Performance-Based Simulations: You won’t just face straightforward multiple-choice questions. Many items are scenario-based or interactive, requiring you to configure network setups, troubleshoot issues, or match protocols to their proper uses. These questions test how well you can apply your knowledge in real-world situations.
- Memorization Plus Application: Success requires both memorization (e.g., port numbers, OSI layers) and the ability to apply that knowledge to dynamic situations. Balancing the two can be difficult without ample practice.
- Time Pressure and Question Phrasing: Many candidates find the exam’s timing tight, especially when dealing with performance-based questions. Additionally, CompTIA is known for tricky question phrasing that tests your understanding of subtle differences between terms or actions.
What makes the Exam Manageable?
While the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam is thorough, it’s not insurmountable. In fact, several factors make it a very achievable certification if approached strategically:
- No Mandatory Prerequisites: You don’t need to hold any prior certifications to take Network+, nor is there a requirement for specific years of IT experience. Although basic familiarity with computers and networks is helpful, the exam is accessible to motivated beginners.
- Plenty of Self-Study Resources Available: There is an abundance of study materials tailored to all learning styles—books, video tutorials, online labs, practice exams, flashcards, and forums. Many free and paid resources are available from reputable providers, including CompTIA itself.
- Practical, Job-Related Knowledge: The Network+ exam tests real-world tasks like configuring switches, identifying network issues, and understanding TCP/IP protocols. If you’ve worked in IT support or have hands-on lab experience, much of the content will align with your day-to-day responsibilities.
- Predictable Structure and CompTIA’s Well-Defined Exam Objectives: CompTIA clearly outlines what will be tested through its official exam objectives. This structure allows candidates to prepare methodically, knowing which topics to focus on and how heavily they’re weighted on the exam.
Glossary of CompTIA Network+ Terminology
Here is a glossary of common terms used in CompTIA Network+:
- Network: A bunch of linked gadgets that can talk to each other.
- Topology: How a network is set up, either physically or logically.
- Protocol: A set of rules for how info moves on a network.
- Router: A device that sends data between different computer networks.
- Switch: A tool that connects devices in a network and sends data between them.
- Firewall: A security guard that checks and controls data coming in and going out of a network, based on rules.
- DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol): A helper that automatically gives devices IP addresses on a network.
- DNS (Domain Name System): A translator that changes website names into number addresses.
- IP (Internet Protocol): A messenger that carries data across a network.
- MAC (Media Access Control): A special name for a network card’s address.
- VLAN (Virtual LAN): A pretend group of devices on a network, even if they’re far apart.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): A network that covers a huge area, like a country.
- LAN (Local Area Network): A network that’s small and close, like one building.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): A network that covers a big city or urban area.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A secret path into a private network through a public one.
- NAT (Network Address Translation): A translator that turns inside addresses into outside ones.
- OSI (Open Systems Interconnection): A guide for sending data over a network.
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): A helper that makes sure data gets sent right on a network.
- UDP (User Datagram Protocol): A method for sending messages on a network.
- ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol): A helper for sending error messages and network news.
What makes Network+ difficult to learn?
Is CompTIA Network+ difficult? What makes it difficult? What are the hurdles and How can I overcome them? You might be experiencing all these questions in your head. To be honest, battling between these questions is completely natural. Therefore, to clear your headspace, let’s give a look at some of the reasons which make Network+ difficult.
To begin with, learning Network+ becomes quite difficult when you are learning it on your own.
This event requires your time and energy. Taking part in it demands your time and energy. Moreover, it becomes tougher if you’re not familiar with IT beforehand. So, ensure you have good guidance when getting ready for the Network+ exam.
After that, there is a huge amount of Network+ study material (Blogs, books, online courses) present in the market space for beginners. While some of them are good, the others are not. Therefore, it’s your duty to choose the right ones for you with relevant information.
Lastly, the candidates focus more on depth than the breadth of the subject matter which often leads to failure. It is important to note here that Network+ does not test whether you are an expert in a particular aspect of networking, instead, it tests your fundamentals of networking across a wide variety of topics. Therefore, it is important to focus on covering all the topics first rather than getting into the details of each.
Recommended Experience
Aspiring candidates should have CompTIA + Certification and at least 9 to 12 months of networking experience.
Knowledge and Skills Requirement
The basic knowledge of an IT professional should have:
- Create and set up working networks
- Arrange, oversee, and care for important network tools
- Recognize the good and bad sides of current network setups
- Put in place network safety, rules, and methods
- Fix issues with networks
- Creating virtual networks
CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Course Outline
The CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) exam objectives covers the following topics:
Domain 1: Networking Concepts
- Describing the purposes and uses of ports and protocols.
- Also, explaining devices, protocols, applications and services at their proper OSI layers.
- Defining the notions and characteristics of routing and switching.
- And, configuring the appropriate IP addressing components.
- As well, comparing and contrasting the features of network topologies, types and technologies.
- Implementing relevant wireless technologies and configurations.
- Then, abstracting cloud concepts and their determinations.
- In addition, explaining the purposes of network services.
Domain 2: Infrastructure
- Firstly, deploying the proper cabling solution.
- Secondly, determine the appropriate placement of networking devices on a network and configure them.
- Also, describing the constancies and use cases for advanced networking devices.
- And, explaining the purposes of virtualization and network storage technologies.
- Moreover, comparing and contrasting WAN technologies.
Prepare for the exam using the CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Study Guide!
Domain 3: Network Operations
- Deploying a suitable cabling solution.
- Also, determine the appropriate placement of networking devices on a network and install them.
- Explaining the ideas and use cases for advanced networking devices.
- Describing the purposes of virtualization and network storage technologies.
- Comparing and reversing WAN technologies.
Domain 4: Network Security
- Summarizing the determinations of physical security devices.
- Explaining authentication and access controls.
- Also, securing a basic wireless network.
- And, summarizing common networking attacks.
- Further, implementing network device hardening.
- Solving common mitigation techniques and their purposes.
Domain 5: Network Troubleshooting and Tools
- Explaining the network troubleshooting methodology.
- Using the appropriate tool.
- Troubleshooting simple wired connectivity and performance issues.
- And, troubleshooting general wireless connectivity and performance culmination.
- Further, troubleshooting the common network service problems.
How long does it take to learn Network+?
How many days does it take to complete CompTIA Network+? What is the actual time period to complete the course? So on.
- Once you are equipped with every major detail of the exam, you might be looking for an answer to these questions. Well, don’t worry, we have got you covered for this too.
- First things first, how long it takes depends on how early and how you begin with. It is important to note that how fast people learn can vary tremendously.
- After that, if you start from scratch, which means no networking knowledge, then you should undergo a complete 6 months project, provided that you devote at least 2 hours each day.
- Subsequently, if you are a seasoned professional, then you will surely have an upper hand in preparing for the exam.
Tips and Tricks for the CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) exam
Exams are likely a common fear for everyone. Now, this might sound sad, especially for CompTIA exams, which need a lot of time and prep. Yet, tough doesn’t mean undoable. Many people succeed and earn CompTIA certificates daily. Even though nothing replaces thorough studying, the upcoming advice will definitely aid you in acing your exam.
KNOW WHAT TYPE OF LEARNER YOU ARE
To start, you must know how you learn best. This means everyone learns in their own way – some write or use cards, while others prefer quiet. Reading with excitement might help you remember, or explaining aloud to someone could be better. So, finding your best method is the top tip for acing a big study session.
SKIP STRANGE EXAM QUESTIONS
After that, you need to remind yourself again and again that this test about managing time and are graded on a pass-fail basis. So, if you find a question hard, you’d better skip it. By the time you revisit the question, you may see it in a whole new light or have the confidence to answer it.
BE PREPARED FOR PERFORMANCE-BASED QUESTIONS
Subsequently, it’s important to know that most PBQs will come toward the beginning of the test and, while they are a little more complex, they aren’t impossible. The best defense to these types of questions is online labs will make it much easier for the candidates.
KNOW THE MULTIPLE-CHOICE TRICKS
Lastly, Multiple-Choice Questions often create a chaotic state in your head. However, there are a few ways to even the odds. In other words, you can always eliminate answers that are obviously wrong. Moreover, you can recall the information related to the question. Doing so can be a surprisingly effective method for remembering the right answer.
CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) Learning Resources
Now that you’ve grasped all about CompTIA Network+, it’s time to equip yourself with learning materials. Yet, the main question is, where can you find a trustworthy source? So, here’s a list of resources that will assist you in exam prep and making your CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) study notes.
Learning Resource 1: Exam Objectives
The initial and most important resource is the CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) exam goals. Yes, you got it right. Understanding the exam goals goes beyond getting ready for the test’s structure. It’s like a map that shows how well you’re progressing through the content. Plus, focusing on the goals ensures you’re all set to successfully take the exam, which is a great accomplishment. These objectives precisely outline what you should understand before entering the exam room.
Learning Resource 2: Books
Next, it’s a wise choice to read exam reference books. Books give you in-depth information that matches the exam criteria. There are some great books that have been popular for years to help you prepare for different CompTIA Network+ certifications. So, we recommend you to look for books from reliable sources. Here are a few examples of CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) books:
- Firstly, CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) Study Guide
- After that, CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Exam Cram
- Moreover, CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide: Exam N10-004
- Also, CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-one Exam Guide
Learning Resource 3: Study groups or Online Community
Furthermore, discovering an online CompTIA study group is a wonderful method to stimulate your mind. Study groups provide you with many useful materials and study tips directly from the experienced individuals who are deeply involved in the process. If you encounter a challenging part, you can request assistance. Also, they are eager to share their success strategies and provide all the information you might need about the tests.
Learning Resource 4: Practice Test
Finally, but certainly not of less importance, CompTIA offers practice questions for nearly every exam, including Network+. Using CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) practice tests won’t just help you gauge your overall readiness, but you can really concentrate on the areas that are giving you trouble.
When you review your answers, try to figure out what you keep getting wrong and then redouble your study efforts in those areas. So, start preparing and get your hands on hundreds of unique practice questions here!
Final Verdict: Is CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) Hard?
The CompTIA Network+ exam is challenging—but fair. Its difficulty lies in the breadth of topics and the emphasis on practical application, but it’s not unmanageable.
- It’s Challenging—But Fair: The questions are well-designed and reflective of real-world scenarios. If you take the time to understand the material and gain hands-on experience, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the exam.
- It Depends on Your Preparation Strategy: How hard the exam feels often depends on how you study. Random cramming won’t help much—but methodical, consistent, and practice-driven preparation will.
- With the Right Mindset, It’s Achievable: Approach the exam with curiosity, discipline, and a growth mindset. Even if you don’t have prior experience, dedication and the right resources can take you far.
- A Stepping Stone to More Advanced Certifications: Network+ lays a strong foundation for certifications like Security+, Cisco CCNA, and cloud-specific credentials. It’s not just a goal—it’s a launchpad for your IT career.
Expert’s Corner
To sum up, the CompTIA Network+ exam is a really worthwhile choice for you. This certification gives you a strong grasp of networking basics. Plus, studying for the Network+ exam lets you establish a sturdy base you can utilize to land a job or upgrade your current one. It’s true that the CompTIA Network+ certification test isn’t simple. Yet, by getting ready diligently with reliable resources, you can easily pass the exam and earn your certification.
Therefore, to prepare extensively, take a training course from a reputed training center now.
Enrich your profile with advanced learning skills and expert tutorials on CompTIA Network+. Prepare and become Certified CompTIA Network+ Professional Now!
