COMPTIA NETWORK+ / HOW MANY QUESTIONS Know the Network+ format.
Plan your time.
Review the question types and domain coverage before you practise under timed conditions.
Published by PrepForCerts · Editorial responsibility and sources · Updated
How Many Questions Are on the CompTIA Network+ Exam? Complete 2026 Guide
The CompTIA Network+ exam contains up to 90 questions to be completed in 90 minutes, with a passing score of 720 out of 900. As the industry's leading vendor-neutral networking certification, Network+ validates your ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot wired and wireless network devices. According to PrepForCerts analysis, Network+ is required or preferred in over 65% of network administrator job postings.
Current exam and planning guidance
Network+ N10-009 allows up to 90 questions in 90 minutes and requires a scaled score of 720/900. Preparation schedules, salary scenarios, and materials budgets here are planning examples, not verified market prices or guaranteed outcomes. Practice percentages are optional review targets, not official pass predictors.
CompTIA uses scaled scores and does not disclose its detailed scoring formula or the weight of individual questions. The 720/900 passing threshold is not a fixed raw percentage or count of correct answers.
Provider references checked September 8, 2026: Current exam details and objectives · Retake policy · CE renewal fees.
Plan your next step
The CompTIA Network+ exam contains Up to 90 questions . You have 90 minutes to complete the exam, and you need a score of 720/900 to pass. The exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs), testing your knowledge across all certification domains. Understanding the exact structure helps you plan your time and preparation strategy effectively.
Planning your study schedule for CompTIA Network+? Understanding the exact exam format—including question count and time limits—helps you practice effectively for Network+ success.
The CompTIA Network+ certification from CompTIA validates your expertise in this field. This guide covers Up to 90 questions across 90 minutes, the 720/900 passing threshold, and strategic approaches for each question type. Whether you're scheduling your first attempt or retaking the exam, understanding format details helps optimize your preparation.
Understanding the exam format is critical because the 720/900 passing threshold leaves minimal margin for error — you can only afford to miss approximately 18 questions out of 90. This guide provides a complete breakdown of the exam structure, domain weightings, question types, time management strategies, and how Network+ compares to alternative certifications like CCNA.
Network+ Domain Breakdown
| Domain | % of Exam | ~Questions | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Networking Fundamentals | 24% | ~22 | OSI model, TCP/IP, ports, protocols, network topologies, cable types |
| Network Implementations | 19% | ~17 | Routing, switching, wireless standards, WAN technologies |
| Network Operations | 16% | ~14 | Monitoring, documentation, high availability, disaster recovery |
| Network Security | 19% | ~17 | Security concepts, attack types, mitigation, authentication |
| Network Troubleshooting | 22% | ~20 | Methodology, tools, wired/wireless/network service issues |
CompTIA Network+ Exam Structure Overview
The CompTIA Network+ exam is designed to thoroughly assess your knowledge and skills. Here's the complete breakdown of what you'll face:
Total Questions: Up to 90 Time Allowed: 90 minutes Passing Score: 720/900 Number of Exams: 1
The exam is administered by CompTIA and can be taken at authorized testing centers or online with live proctoring. The questions are designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application of concepts.
Question Types and Format
Multiple-Choice Questions (70-80%)
Standard questions with four options (single-answer) or explicit multi-select ("Choose TWO" or "Choose THREE"). No partial credit for multi-select — you must get all selections correct.
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
Typically 3-5 PBQs appear at the beginning, testing hands-on networking skills:
- Network diagram analysis: Identify misconfigurations, place devices correctly, or design a network meeting specific requirements
- Command-line troubleshooting: Use ping, traceroute, nslookup, ipconfig/ifconfig to diagnose issues
- IP addressing and subnetting: Calculate subnet masks, assign IP addresses, identify valid host ranges
- Wireless configuration: Set up SSIDs, security protocols, channel selection
Drag-and-Drop Questions
Match network devices to functions, order troubleshooting steps, or classify protocols by OSI layer.
Types of Questions You Will See
The CompTIA Network+ exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). Understanding each question type helps you prepare effectively:
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) The majority of questions are traditional multiple-choice with four answer options. Some questions may have multiple correct answers, which will be clearly indicated (e.g., "Select TWO answers").
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) PBQs require you to complete tasks in a simulated environment. You might configure settings, troubleshoot issues, or demonstrate hands-on skills. Read each task carefully; CompTIA does not disclose its individual scoring weight.
Question Distribution by Domain
Questions are distributed across all exam domains based on their weight in the exam objectives. Higher-weighted domains have more questions. Review the official exam objectives to understand the percentage breakdown for each domain.
Time Management Strategy
With 1 minute per question and PBQs requiring 5-10 minutes each, use the two-pass strategy:
- First pass (55-60 minutes): Flag all PBQs. Work through MC at 40-50 seconds each.
- Second pass (25-30 minutes): Return to PBQs and flagged questions.
- Final review (5 minutes): Verify no unanswered questions. CompTIA does not penalize for guessing.
Subnetting Speed Tips
- Memorize powers of 2: 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256
- Know the "magic number" method: subtract the interesting octet from 256 for block size
- Practice CIDR ↔ subnet mask conversion until instant
- Memorize common subnets: /24 (254 hosts), /25 (126), /26 (62), /27 (30), /28 (14)
Time Management Strategy
With Up to up to 90 questions in 90 minutes, time management is critical. Here's how to approach it:
Calculate Your Average Time Per Question Divide your total time by the number of questions to get your baseline pace. For CompTIA Network+, this works out to approximately 60 seconds per question on average.
Strategy for Maximum Efficiency: 1. First Pass (60% of time): Answer all questions you're confident about. Mark difficult questions for review. 2. Second Pass (30% of time): Return to marked questions and work through them carefully. 3. Final Review (10% of time): Check your answers, especially on marked questions.
PBQ Time Allocation Performance-based questions take longer than multiple-choice. Budget 5-10 minutes per PBQ. Many experts recommend flagging PBQs initially, completing multiple-choice questions first, then returning to PBQs with remaining time.
Don't Get Stuck
If you spend more than 2 minutes on any single multiple-choice question without progress, mark it and move on. Spending too much time on difficult questions can prevent you from answering easier questions you know well.
Must-Know Ports and Protocols
| Port | Protocol | Service |
|---|---|---|
| 20/21 | FTP | File Transfer (data/control) |
| 22 | SSH/SFTP | Secure Shell, Secure File Transfer |
| 23 | Telnet | Remote terminal (insecure) |
| 25 | SMTP | Email sending |
| 53 | DNS | Domain Name System |
| 67/68 | DHCP | Dynamic Host Configuration |
| 80 | HTTP | Web traffic (unencrypted) |
| 110 | POP3 | Email retrieval |
| 143 | IMAP | Email retrieval (sync) |
| 443 | HTTPS | Web traffic (encrypted) |
| 389/636 | LDAP/LDAPS | Directory services |
| 3389 | RDP | Remote Desktop |
Network+ vs. Alternative Certifications
| Certification | Questions | Time | Score | Cost | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network+ | Up to 90 | 90 min | 720/900 | the current regional exam fee | Vendor-neutral networking |
| Cisco CCNA | 100-120 | 120 min | ~825/1000 | $330 | Cisco routing/switching |
| CompTIA A+ | 90 x2 | 90 min x2 | 675-700 | $716 | Hardware + OS + networking |
| CompTIA Security+ | Up to 90 | 90 min | 750/900 | $392 | Cybersecurity fundamentals |
Network+ vs. CCNA: Network+ is vendor-neutral and broader. CCNA goes deeper into Cisco-specific technologies. For general IT careers, Network+ is more versatile. For dedicated network engineering in Cisco environments, CCNA provides stronger depth.
Study Resources and Preparation
Successful candidates typically study 6-10 weeks at 1-2 hours daily:
- Video courses: Visual explanations for topologies, OSI model, protocol interactions
- Hands-on labs: Packet Tracer, GNS3, or physical lab equipment
- Subnetting practice: Daily drills until under 30 seconds per calculation
- Practice exams: 3-4 full-length timed tests. Aim for 80%+ before scheduling
How to Prepare for Up to 90 Questions
Preparing for Up to 90 questions across all domains requires a strategic approach:
1. Master the Exam Objectives Every question is tied to the official exam objectives. Get the current objectives from CompTIA and use them as your study checklist.
2. Practice with Realistic Questions Complete at least 500+ practice questions before your exam. Focus on questions that match the exam format, including multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs).
3. Time Your Practice Exams Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions. This builds stamina and helps you calibrate your pacing for the real exam.
4. Focus on Weak Domains Use practice test results to identify domains where you score below 80%. Concentrate additional study time on these areas.
5. Understand, Don't Memorize With Up to 90 questions covering diverse scenarios, memorization alone won't work. Focus on understanding concepts so you can apply them to novel situations.
Facts and planning estimates
- Questions
- Up to 90
- Time Limit
- 90 minutes
- Passing Score
- 720/900
- Question Types
- Multiple-choice and PBQs
Scoring and Passing Requirements
Understanding how CompTIA Network+ scoring works helps you set realistic goals:
Scaled Scoring CompTIA uses scaled scores and does not disclose its detailed scoring formula or the weight of individual questions. The 720/900 passing threshold is not a fixed raw percentage or count of correct answers. Some questions may be unscored "beta" questions being tested for future exams, but you won't know which ones—answer all questions as if they count.
Required Correct Answers: CompTIA uses scaled scores and does not disclose its detailed scoring formula or the weight of individual questions. The 720/900 passing threshold is not a fixed raw percentage or count of correct answers.
Score Report
After the exam, your score report lists objectives to review. If you don't pass, this report helps identify weak areas for focused study before your retake. Review those objectives and your practice notes to guide further learning.
Study tips
CompTIA scenario questions often include irrelevant details. Identify what they're actually asking before reading answer choices.
Use CompTIA CertMaster Labs or similar environments to get hands-on practice that mirrors PBQ scenarios.
CompTIA exams test both theoretical knowledge and practical application—balance your study between concepts and labs.
Review CompTIA's official acronym list—you'll encounter many during the exam without explanation.
CompTIA exams often front-load Performance-Based Questions—consider flagging them initially and returning after completing multiple-choice sections.
Focus on the official CompTIA exam objectives as your study checklist—every question ties directly to these objectives.
Common mistakes to avoid
Skipping hands-on practice and focusing only on theory and memorization.
Not taking enough practice tests under realistic, timed conditions.
Rushing through the exam and missing key details in question wording.
Changing answers without a specific reason—second-guessing often leads to errors.
Underestimating the exam because it's "entry-level"—these certifications still require serious preparation.
Relying solely on work experience without structured study of exam objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the Network+ exam?
Up to up to 90 questions in 90 minutes including multiple-choice, multiple-select, drag-and-drop, and PBQs.
What is the Network+ passing score?
720 out of 900. Higher than A+ but lower than Security+.
Does Network+ have PBQs?
Yes, 3-5 PBQs testing hands-on networking skills like configuring devices and troubleshooting connectivity.
How hard is Network+ compared to CCNA?
Network+ is vendor-neutral and broader at a foundational level. CCNA goes deeper into Cisco-specific technologies.
Is Network+ worth it in 2026?
Yes. DoD 8570 approved, vendor-neutral, recognized globally for network administrator roles.
How long should I study for Network+?
6-10 weeks with A+ experience. 10-14 weeks for complete beginners.
What are the most important domains?
Networking Fundamentals (23%) and Network Troubleshooting (24%) together cover 46% of the exam.
Should I get Network+ before Security+?
Recommended path is A+ → Network+ → Security+. Network+ covers concepts Security+ builds upon.
How many questions should I expect on the Network+ exam?
The CompTIA Network+ exam features Up to 90 questions . The 90 minutes time limit requires strategic pacing. Note that some exams include unscored beta questions being tested for future use.
Are all Network+ exam questions scored?
CompTIA may include unscored "beta" or "pilot" questions for future exam development. Since you can't identify which questions are unscored, treat every question as if it counts toward your final Network+ score.
What types of questions are on Network+?
The CompTIA Network+ exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). Multiple-choice questions form the majority of the exam. Some questions require selecting multiple correct answers, which will be clearly indicated.
How long is the CompTIA Network+ exam?
With Up to up to 90 questions in 90 minutes, you have approximately 60 seconds per question on average. Some questions require more time than others, so pace yourself strategically.
Can I skip questions and come back later on Network+?
Yes, CompTIA Network+ allows marking questions for review and returning to them later. Many successful candidates answer confident questions first, then revisit challenging ones.
How many points are required to pass Network+?
CompTIA Network+ requires 720/900 to pass. The detailed scoring formula is not public. An optional practice target is 85%+. Use it to guide review alongside objective coverage and hands-on skills; it does not predict the exam result.
How many questions can I miss on Network+?
CompTIA uses scaled scores and does not disclose its detailed scoring formula or the weight of individual questions. The 720/900 passing threshold is not a fixed raw percentage or count of correct answers.
Are Network+ questions randomized?
Yes, CompTIA Network+ draws questions from a large pool and randomizes order. No two exam experiences are identical. This prevents memorization of specific question sequences.
Practice Network+ Questions
Test your networking knowledge with adaptive practice questions covering all five Network+ domains.
Start Free Practice Test →Ready to Practice CompTIA Network+ Questions?
Test your knowledge with unlimited adaptive CompTIA Network+ practice questions. Simulate the real exam experience and identify areas for improvement.
Practice & quick reference
- Network+ Acronyms
- Free CompTIA Network+ Practice Test
Test your knowledge with realistic exam questions.
- Free Network+ Practice Test With Explanations (2026)
Free practice test
Study tools & plans
- Network+ Study Guide
- What Is CompTIA Network+?
Complete certification overview and career benefits.
- How to Pass CompTIA Network+
Study strategies and exam tips.
- CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives & Domains (2026)
Exam objectives
Exam facts & renewal
- What If I Fail Network+?
If you fail
- A+ Question Count
How many questions
- Security+ Question Count
- Does Network+ Expire?
Network+ renewal requirements and validity period. · Does it expire?
- Is Network+ Hard? 2026 Difficulty Analysis
Difficulty
Career & comparisons
- Is Network+ Worth It in 2026? ROI Analysis
Worth it?
- Network+ Without Experience: 2026 Guide
Without experience