Key Takeaway: What You’ll Learn

If you’re new to tech—or just looking to level up—CompTIA certifications can be your launchpad into a thriving IT career. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular CompTIA certifications—A+, Network+, and Security+—and help you decide which one fits your career goals best. You’ll also learn how to stack them for even greater opportunity and how ACI Learning can support your journey.

And if you’re still not sure where to start, check out our Choose Your Own IT Adventure ebook. Meet Leo, Donna, Mike, and Raquel—real-life inspired learners who stood exactly where you are now and found their paths in IT.

What is CompTIA, and Why Should You Care?

CompTIA (short for the Computing Technology Industry Association) is a trusted name in tech certifications. Their credentials are vendor-neutral, which means they apply across industries and job types—whether you’re working with Microsoft, Cisco, AWS, or beyond.

Think of CompTIA certifications as stepping stones: each one opens a door to more specialized roles and higher salaries. Just ask Leo, the grocery store worker turned cloud professional, who discovered his new path through ACI Learning’s training.

CompTIA A+: Your First Step into IT

Who it’s for: Total beginners, career changers, and those starting an entry-level IT job.

What it covers:

• Basic troubleshooting

• Installing and maintaining hardware and software

• Networking fundamentals

• Security basics

• Customer support and professionalism

Why it matters:
CompTIA A+ is often the first certification employers look for in entry-level IT roles like help desk support or field service technician. It’s your "proof of readiness" for hands-on tech work.

Typical roles after A+:

• IT Support Specialist

• Desktop Support Technician

• Help Desk Analyst

Adventure alert: Leo started with A+ to break into IT—and you can too. Read his full story in the [Choose Your Own IT Adventure guide](https://www.acilearning.com/reports/choose-your-own-adventure-in-it/).

CompTIA Network+: Building Your Networking Foundation

Who it’s for: People who already have a bit of tech experience or have earned their A+ and want to understand networks.

What it covers:

• Network configuration and troubleshooting

• Network security

• Cloud computing basics

• Virtualization and wireless technologies

Why it matters:
Network+ is great if you’re leaning toward infrastructure, systems, or network administration. It also pairs well with Security+ if cybersecurity is your end goal.

Typical roles after Network+:

• Network Administrator

• Systems Support Specialist

• Network Technician

Network-ready: Donna mapped out her entire move to the city—then mapped out her path to a career in networking. Learn how she did it in the Choose Your Own IT Adventure ebook.

CompTIA Security+: The Gateway to Cybersecurity

Who it’s for: IT professionals ready to specialize or those aiming for cybersecurity roles.

What it covers:

• Threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities

• Risk management

• Identity and access control

• Cryptography

• Network security and compliance

Why it matters:
Security+ is often the first cybersecurity certification employers look for. It’s also DoD 8570-compliant, making it essential for many government and defense-related tech roles.

Typical roles after Security+:

• Security Analyst

• Systems Administrator

• Information Assurance Specialist

Looking for inspiration? Raquel turned her love for tech and desire for a better work-life balance into a new career path—starting with ACI Learning and Security+. See her journey in the [Choose Your Own IT Adventure guide](https://www.acilearning.com/reports/choose-your-own-adventure-in-it/).

Security+ vs. Network+: Which Comes First?

This is a common question, and the answer depends on your background.

• If you’re brand new to IT, go for A+ → Network+ → Security+

• But if you already have IT experience or a good understanding of networking, you might be able to jump right into Security+

That said, Network+ can make Security+ easier to digest, especially the networking and protocols sections.

How to Choose the Right CompTIA Certification for You

Ask yourself:

• ✅ Am I just getting started in IT? → Start with A+

• ✅ Do I want to work with networks or systems? → Go for Network+

• ✅ Am I aiming for cybersecurity roles? → Consider Security+

• ✅ Do I want the flexibility to grow in any IT direction? → Stack them: A+ → Network+ → Security+

Still not sure? Read through the Choose Your Own IT Adventure and see which learner you relate to most.

Why ACI Learning is Your Partner in Success

At ACI Learning, we make certification training easier—and more effective. With video-based learning, hands-on labs, and practice exams, you’ll not only understand the material—you’ll be ready to pass the test and apply it on the job.

Our learning paths are fast, flexible, and designed for real people with real lives. Whether you're a high school grad like Donna, a career-changer like Mike, or a busy parent like Raquel, we’ve got your back.

FAQs About CompTIA Certifications (and ACI Learning)

Q: How long does it take to prepare for a CompTIA exam?
A: It depends on your experience, but most learners take 6–12 weeks to prep with ACI Learning’s training resources.

Q: Do I need all three—A+, Network+, and Security+?
A: Not necessarily. Many learners start with just one based on their goals. But stacking them can open more doors.

Q: What’s the cost of CompTIA certification exams?
A: Prices vary, but here’s a ballpark:

• A+: ~$239 per exam (2 exams required)

• Network+: ~$358

• Security+: ~$392
  ACI Learning offers training bundles that can include exam vouchers.

Q: How do ACI Learning’s labs help me prepare?
A: Our Skill Labs let you get hands-on practice in real-world scenarios, so you’re not just watching videos—you’re doing the work.

Q: Where can I get started?
A: Explore ACI Learning’s CompTIA Certification Training at www.acilearning.com to browse course options, free demos, and flexible learning formats.

Ready to take the next step?

Your future in IT starts now—with a CompTIA certification and ACI Learning by your side.

Or, if you’re still figuring out your “what’s next,” explore our Choose Your Own IT Adventure ebook. You might just discover your next dream job waiting in the next chapter.