Learn about the different CompTIA certifications available to you, the benefits of each certification, and the right mix of certifications that will fit your needs.
CompTIA is the Computing Technology Industry Association and is an association that issues professional certifications in the IT industry. Their certifications are some of the best of the best and are very desirable in the IT industry.
Types of CompTIA Certifications
There are 15 total certifications offered by CompTIA. Those 15 certifications include:
- ITF+
- A+
- Network+
- Security+
- Cloud+
- Linux+
- Server+
- CySA+
- CASP+
- PenTest+
- Data+
- DataSys+
- Project+
- CTT+
- Cloud Essentials+
Each certification serves a different purpose. What may be a good certification for one person may not be a good certification for someone else.
You can combine various certifications to build your skills for specific paths within the field of IT. Read more about combining CompTIA certifications in our how to choose section of this article.
ITF+ Certification
The ITF+ certification, also known as the IT Fundamentals certification, focuses on the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, software development, and database use.
- Number of Questions: Max of 75
- Time Limit: 60 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice
- Passing Score: 650
- Recommended Experience: None
- Cost: $134
- Certificate Expires: Good for Life
| Domain | % of Exam |
|---|---|
| 1.0 IT Concepts and Terminology | 17% |
| 2.0 Infrastructure | 22% |
| 3.0 Applications and Software | 18% |
| 4.0 Software Development | 12% |
| 5.0 Database Fundamentals | 11% |
| 6.0 Security | 20% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official test outline for more information. You can practice for this exam by taking our CompTIA ITF+ practice test.
A+ Certification
The A+ certification is made up of 2 exams – CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) and CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (Core 2). You will need to pass both exams to get the A+ certification.
The A+ certification focuses on foundational IT skills that spans across a wide variety of operating systems and devices.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90 (Per Exam)
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes (Per Exam)
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice, Drag and Drop, and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 675 for 220-1102 and 700 for 220-1102
- Recommended Experience: 9-12 Months of Hands-On Experience
- Cost: $246 Per Test ($492 Total)
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
220-1101 Details
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Mobile Devices | 15% |
| 2.0 Networking | 20% |
| 3.0 Hardware | 25% |
| 4.0 Virtualization and Cloud Computing | 11% |
| 5.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting | 29% |
| Total | 100% |
220-1102 Details
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Operating Systems | 31% |
| 2.0 Security | 25% |
| 3.0 Software Troubleshooting | 22% |
| 4.0 Operational Procedures | 22% |
| Total | 100% |
Here are the official outlines for more information – 220-1101 Outline and 220-1102 Outline. You can practice for this exam by taking our CompTIA A+ practice test.
Network+ Certification
The Network+ certification focuses on the skills to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless devices.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 720
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA A+ Certification and 9-12 Months of Experience as a Junior Network Admin
- Cost: $358
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Network Fundamentals | 24% |
| 2.0 Network Implementations | 19% |
| 3.0 Network Operations | 16% |
| 4.0 Network Security | 19% |
| 5.0 Network Troubleshooting | 22% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information. You can practice for this exam by taking our CompTIA Network+ practice test.
Security+ Certification
The Security+ certification focuses on best practices in operational security and IT networks.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 750
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ Certification and 2 Years of Experience in IT Administration with a Security Focus
- Cost: $392
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Attacks, Threats, and Vulnerabilities | 24% |
| 2.0 Architecture and Design | 21% |
| 3.0 Implementation | 25% |
| 4.0 Operations and Incident Response | 16% |
| 5.0 Governance, Risk, and Compliance | 14% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information. You can practice for this exam by taking our CompTIA Security+ practice test.
Cloud+ Certification
The Cloud+ certification focuses on the skills related to securely implementing, maintaining, and utilizing cloud technology.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 750
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ and Server+ Certifications and 2-3 Years of Experience in a Systems Admin or Networking Role
- Cost: $358
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Cloud Architecture and Design | 13% |
| 2.0 Security | 20% |
| 3.0 Deployment | 23% |
| 4.0 Operations and Support | 22% |
| 5.0 Troubleshooting | 22% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
Linux+ Certification
The Linux+ certification focuses on the technical aspects required for Linux administrators, specifically at the junior level.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 720
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA A+, Network+, and Server+ Certifications and 1 Year of Hands-On Experience Working With Linux Servers
- Cost: $358
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 System Management | 32% |
| 2.0 Security | 21% |
| 3.0 Scripting, Containers, and Automation | 19% |
| 4.0 Troubleshooting | 28% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
Server+ Certification
The Server+ certification focuses on the knowledge and skills related to tasks performed on server platforms.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 750
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA A+ Certification and 2 Year of Hands-On Experience Working In A Server Environment
- Cost: $358
- Certificate Expires: Good for Life
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Server Hardware Installation and Management | 18% |
| 2.0 Server Administration | 30% |
| 3.0 Security and Disaster Recovery | 24% |
| 4.0 Troubleshooting | 28% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
CySA+ Certification
The CySA+ certification focuses on cybersecurity. The certificate focuses on incident detection, prevention, and responses.
- Number of Questions: Max of 85
- Time Limit: 165 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 750
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ and Security+ Certifications and 4 Year of Hands-On Experience Working As a Incident Response Analyst or Equivalent Role
- Cost: $392
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Security Operations | 33% |
| 2.0 Vulnerability Management | 30% |
| 3.0 Incident Response and Management | 20% |
| 4.0 Reporting and Communication | 17% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
CASP+ Certification
The CASP+ certification focuses on critical thinking skills related to security for complex environments. This is an advanced certification.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 165 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: Pass/Fail
- Recommended Experience: Minimum of 10 Years of IT Experience (5 Of Those 10 Years Related to Security Experience)
- Cost: $494
- Certificate Expires: 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Security Architecture | 29% |
| 2.0 Security Operations | 30% |
| 3.0 Security Engineering and Cryptography | 26% |
| 4.0 Governance, Risk, and Compliance | 15% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
PenTest+ Certification
The PenTest+ certification is a cybersecurity certification that focuses on penetration testing and vulnerability management. This is an intermediate certification.
- Number of Questions: Max of 85
- Time Limit: 165 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 750
- Recommended Experience: CompTIA Network+ and Security+ Certifications and 3-4 Years of Hands-On Experience Working With Information Security
- Cost: $392
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Planning and Scoping | 14% |
| 2.0 Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning | 22% |
| 3.0 Attacks and Exploits | 30% |
| 4.0 Reporting and Communication | 18% |
| 5.0 Tools and Code Analysis | 16% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
Data+ Certification
The Data+ certification focuses on data analysis and making data-driven decisions.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 675
- Recommended Experience: 18-24 Months of Experience in a Business Analyst Role with Exposure to Databases and Analytics Tools
- Cost: $246
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Data Concepts and Environments | 15% |
| 2.0 Data Mining | 25% |
| 3.0 Data Analysis | 23% |
| 4.0 Visualization | 23% |
| 5.0 Data Governance, Quality, and Controls | 14% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
DataSys+ Certification
The DataSys+ certification focuses on deploying, maintaining, and protecting data for businesses and organizations.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 700
- Recommended Experience: 2-3 Years of Experience as a Database Admin
- Cost: $358
- Certificate Expires: After 3 Years
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Database Fundamentals | 24% |
| 2.0 Database Deployment | 16% |
| 3.0 Database Management and Maintenance | 25% |
| 4.0 Data and Database Security | 23% |
| 5.0 Business Continuity | 12% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
Project+ Certification
The Project+ certification focuses on skills related to project management like ability to initiate and manage a project and things like budget and timing.
- Number of Questions: Max of 90
- Time Limit: 90 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Performance-Based
- Passing Score: 710
- Recommended Experience: 6-12 Months of Experience Managing IT Projects
- Cost: $358
- Certificate Expires: Good for Life
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Project Management Concepts | 33% |
| 2.0 Project Life Cycle Phases | 30% |
| 3.0 Tools and Documentation | 19% |
| 4.0 Basics of IT and Governance | 18% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
CTT+ Certification
The CTT+ certification focuses on skills related to teaching technical topics in today’s environment. The certifications stands for Certified Technical Trainer.
This exam is a bit different than the others. It consists of a classroom “performance” and an actual exam.
- Number of Questions: Max of 95
- Time Limit: 90
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice and Drag and Drop
- Passing Score: 655
- Recommended Experience:6 to 12 Months of Instructor Experience
- Certificate Expires: Good for Life
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Planning Prior to the Course | 13% |
| 2.0 Methods and Media for Instructional Delivery | 14% |
| 3.0 Instructor Credibility and Communications | 10% |
| 4.0 Group Facilitation | 45% |
| 5.0 Evaluate the Training Event | 18% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
Cloud Essentials+ Certification
The Cloud Essentials+ certification focuses on the business acumen side of things as they relate to making informed cloud service decisions and recommendations.
- Number of Questions: Max of 75
- Time Limit: 60 Minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-Choice
- Passing Score: 720
- Recommended Experience: 6-12 Months of Experience as a Business Analyst in IT
- Cost: $134
- Certificate Expires: Good for Life
| Domain | % of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 Cloud Concepts | 24% |
| 2.0 Business Principles of Cloud Environments | 28% |
| 3.0 Management and Technical Operations | 26% |
| 4.0 Governance, Risk, Compliance, and Security for the Cloud | 22% |
| Total | 100% |
Here is the official outline for more information.
Which CompTIA Certification is Right for You?
With so many different certifications to choose from, how do you decide which certifications are right for you?
Luckily, CompTIA has paths for individuals to follow that group certain certifications together based on defined career paths within IT.
Core Pathway
The core pathway covers a broad variety of skills and is great for anyone who wants to build their core skills in the IT industry. This pathway is the foundation for a lot of the other pathways.
This pathway is made up of the following certifications:
- ITF+
- A+
- Network+
- Security+
Infrastructure Pathway
The infrastructure pathway covers skills in the operations sector of IT. This pathway builds on the core pathway. If you choose this pathway, you will complete the core pathway and then these certifications:
- Server+ or Linux+
- Cloud+
Cybersecurity Pathway
The cybersecurity pathway covers skills in the cybersecurity sector of IT. Just like the infrastructure pathway, you will complete the core pathway first and then these certifications:
- PenTest+ or CYSA+
- CASP+
Data and Analytics Pathway
This pathway is fairly straightforward and covers skills in the data analytics sector. This pathway is independent of the core pathway and only consists of 1 certification:
- Data+
Professional Skills Pathway
Lastly, there is the professional skills pathway. This pathway deals with skills that will help you elevate and advance your career. This pathway is also independent of the core pathway.
The certifications in this pathway include:
- Project+
- Cloud Essentials+
- CTT+
You can learn more about the pathways from the official site.
