The CompTIA Network+ certification is one of the most respected vendor-neutral networking credentials in the IT industry. At $358 for a single exam, it represents a significant but worthwhile investment for networking professionals. This comprehensive guide covers every cost associated with earning and maintaining Network+ certification in 2026, from exam vouchers and study materials to renewal fees and strategies for maximizing your return on investment.
Unlike CompTIA A+ which requires two separate exams, Network+ consists of a single comprehensive exam covering all networking domains. This single-exam structure simplifies both scheduling and budgeting, though the per-exam cost is higher to reflect the broader scope of content tested in one sitting.
Up to 90 questions • 90 minutes • Passing: 720/900
$358 USDThe exam voucher is your primary expense, but building a complete study plan involves additional costs. Here's what candidates typically spend across different preparation approaches:
| Expense | Budget Path | Standard Path | Premium Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam voucher | $358 | $358 | $358 |
| Study guide / textbook | $0 (free resources) | $40-$60 | $50-$80 |
| Video course | $0 (free videos) | $15-$50 | $100-$300 |
| Practice tests | $0-$30 | $30-$50 | $50-$100 |
| Lab tools (Packet Tracer, etc.) | $0 (free tools) | $0 | $0-$200 |
| Total estimate | $358-$388 | $443-$518 | $558-$1,038 |
Student and academic pricing. CompTIA's Academic Store offers up to 50% off exam vouchers for enrolled students. At ~$179 instead of $358, this is the single largest discount available. Even community college enrollment qualifies you for academic pricing, making this accessible to most aspiring IT professionals.
Employer reimbursement programs. Network+ is widely recognized by employers, and many organizations include it in their approved certification lists for reimbursement. Managed service providers (MSPs), internet service providers, and enterprise IT departments frequently pay for Network+ as it directly relates to daily job responsibilities. Ask your HR department about professional development funds before paying out of pocket.
Military and government programs. Active-duty service members can obtain free vouchers through the DoD Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program. Veterans may use GI Bill benefits or VET TEC programs. These programs cover 100% of exam costs and sometimes include study materials as well.
Bundle deals and retake vouchers. CompTIA's CertMaster bundles combine exam vouchers with study tools at a reduced total price. Some bundles include a free retake voucher worth $358—essentially exam insurance that's especially valuable for first-time test takers. Third-party training providers like Dion Training also offer discounted voucher packages during promotional periods.
Free study resources. Professor Messer offers a complete free Network+ video course covering all current exam objectives. Cisco Packet Tracer (free) provides excellent virtual lab experience. CompTIA's own exam objectives document serves as a comprehensive study checklist. Combined with free practice tests, you can prepare effectively with minimal financial investment beyond the voucher itself.
Choosing between networking certifications involves balancing cost, career goals, and vendor preferences. Here's how Network+ stacks up financially:
| Certification | Exam Cost | Type | Avg Salary Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Network+ | $358 | Vendor-neutral | +$8K-$15K |
| Cisco CCNA | $330 | Cisco-specific | +$12K-$20K |
| Juniper JNCIA | $200 | Juniper-specific | +$5K-$12K |
| CompTIA A+ | $506 (2 exams) | Vendor-neutral | +$5K-$10K |
Network+ is slightly more expensive than CCNA but offers vendor-neutral knowledge applicable across all networking environments. For professionals working in mixed-vendor environments or considering multiple career paths, Network+'s vendor-neutral approach provides broader flexibility. CCNA is better for Cisco-focused roles and carries slightly higher salary premiums in Cisco-heavy organizations.
Network+ is valid for three years. Renewal requires 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and a $75 renewal fee. CEUs can be earned through training courses, webinars, teaching, publishing, or attending industry events. The most efficient renewal strategy is passing a higher-level CompTIA certification—Security+, CySA+, PenTest+, or CASP+—which automatically renews Network+ and all lower certifications. This dual-purpose approach means you invest in career advancement while satisfying renewal requirements simultaneously.
Make sure you're ready before buying exam vouchers.
Start Free Network+ Practice Test →The CompTIA Network+ exam costs $358 USD for a single exam. Total investment including study materials typically ranges from $358 for budget self-study to over $1,000 with premium courses and lab equipment.
Network+ costs $358 for one exam, while A+ costs $506 total for two exams ($253 each). Per-exam, Network+ is $105 more expensive, but the total certification cost is $148 less since it's a single exam.
Yes. Academic pricing offers up to 50% off ($179). Military programs provide free vouchers. CertMaster bundles and third-party training providers offer seasonal discounts of 10-20%.
You can retake after a 14-day waiting period with no limit on attempts. Each retake costs $358 at full price. Consider purchasing a retake bundle upfront or waiting until you consistently score 85%+ on practice tests.
Network+ is $358 vs CCNA at $330—a $28 difference. Network+ is vendor-neutral; CCNA is Cisco-specific. Choose based on career goals and whether you'll work primarily in Cisco environments.
Renewal costs $75 every 3 years plus 30 CEUs. The best strategy is passing Security+ or another higher-level CompTIA cert, which auto-renews Network+ and adds a new credential simultaneously.