CompTIA Network+ N10-007 vs. N10-008 vs N10-009: What’s New?

As technology changes, so do associated certifications — and that is the case with CompTIA's popular Network+ certification. In September 2021, CompTIA introduced an updated version of the Network+ exam, the N10-008. This new version fully replaced the Network+ N10-007 in June 2022, at which point the N10-007 exam was retired. 

CompTIA recently announced the release of the newest version, N10-009, in June 2024. N10-008 will be retired in December 2024. 

So, what's the difference between the three exams?

In this post, we'll discuss what the Network+ exam is in general, the differences between the exams, and which one is right for your career goals.

What is the Network+ Exam?

The Network+ exam was introduced in 1999 to validate knowledge of all things related to network configuration and infrastructure. It's 90 questions long, features a mixture of performance-based and multiple-choice questions, and requires a passing score of 720 out of a possible 900. As of July 2024, it costs $369 to take the Network+ exam.

The Network+ is not a vendor-specific certification. It tests a wide range of networking concepts and skills that can be applied regardless of vendor. That's why earning Network+ certification is considered the ideal starting point for IT pros. The exam validates the foundational knowledge needed to expand to other areas of IT, including security and the cloud. 

The first Network+ exam was called Network+ N10-001. Naturally, after several iterations, we arrived at N10-008 and subsequently N10-009. While these may be different exams, the overarching theme is the same: to determine whether applicants can troubleshoot, implement, operate, and secure a network environment. 

So, let's talk about how the three exams diverge.

What's Different About the N10-008 and N10-009?

The changes between the three exams aren't huge. Nonetheless, about a quarter of the overall exam has been updated. Here's a breakdown of the exam domains and the percentage of exams they take.

The last two domains of N10-008 are virtually the same as the previous exam. Note that the domains Networking Troubleshooting and Tools from N10-007 have been replaced with Network Troubleshooting for both newer versions. This is because CompTIA wants to focus less on individual tools and more on holistic approaches to troubleshooting.

The first three domains found the most notable changes between the exams. The term infrastructure has been removed from the N10-008 exam because it is the first Network+ exam that focuses on network architecture. This means N10-008 exam takers will be expected to explain the characteristics and network topology of the SD-WAN. They will need to know how an SD-WAN provides secure, reliable transportation in the same way WANs use MPLS.

The N10-009 exam focuses more on troubleshooting and operations than the previous two exams, but otherwise, there were only slight variations in exam objectives. 

What was New in the N10-008 Exam? 

Four major updates were included in N10-008: virtualization, the cloud, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Cellular 5G. Let's address each update in more detail.

1. Virtualization

While virtualization was covered on the N10-007 exam, it is emphasized more in the N10-008. For example, section 1.2 of the N10-008 Exam Objectives includes provider links like Metro-Optical and Leased lines. With the rise of remote work, virtualization has become crucial, and CompTIA has updated its certification accordingly.

The N10-007 exam only required a broad understanding of virtualization, covered in section 2.4. In contrast, the N10-008 goes deeper, testing knowledge on troubleshooting cloud virtual machines (VMs), hardening VMs by managing ports, and handling identity access and management in virtual environments.

2. Cellular 5G

5G is a fifth-generation technology standard for cellular connectivity and networking. The N10-008 Network+ exam expects you to know how to troubleshoot 5G connectivity. For instance, since 5G operates on short-range bandwidth, it only functions within a thousand feet of a 5G tower. So, when troubleshooting, you need to verify that the user is within range of the tower. These sorts of questions and more will be asked on the N10-008 exam.

SD-WAN's/5G combination will be a game changer in regard to network connectivity. For the new Network+ exam, make sure to understand the relationship between the two. Once again, this has everything to do with the work-from-home life. It is important to have a deep understanding of the various wireless technologies and standards.

3. Internet of Things

The Internet of Things, or IOT, is covered on the older exam. Like virtualization, however, it was covered very broadly and briefly. That's not the case with the N10-008 exam. For example, in section 2.1, items such as refrigerators, speakers, thermostats, and doorbells are referenced. When taking the new exam, make sure you know how to remotely access IoT devices on your network.

Also, all IoT devices have a log that monitors their activity. Understanding how to access these logs is vital to passing the exam. As a practical example, take the thermostat. You may have to program the thermostat from a central location and turn it up or down depending on local weather conditions.

4. The Cloud

On the N10-008 exam, the cloud plays a significantly larger role in sections 3.0 and 1.0. While the N10-007 required only a broad knowledge of the cloud, the N10-008 demands a deeper understanding of cloud redundancy concepts such as Warm Site, Cold Site, and Hot Site. Additionally, load-balancing traffic is now a critical component, with questions on different methods and their applications.

The cloud can be thought of as a giant server capable of providing virtually any service the end user needs. This means its capabilities are often appended with "as a service" — Software, Infrastructure, Platform, and Desktop as a Service (SaaS, IaaS, PaaS, and DaaS, respectively) are covered on the N10-008 exam.

• SaaS includes applications like Office 365, Azure AD, and the AWS management console, accessed via a web browser.

• IaaS involves creating networking applications in the cloud, including routers, switches, and firewalls.

• PaaS focuses on deploying applications through the cloud, including intelligent infrastructure provisioning and continuous code delivery.

• DaaS allows administrators to provision customized desktops with SaaS applications and storage.

While this is a networking exam, not a cloud exam, it is essential to know what these cloud concepts are, how to troubleshoot them, and their basic configurations. This in-depth cloud knowledge is the most significant difference between the N10-007 and N10-008 exams.

What's New in the N10-009 Exam?

Now, the N10-008 is on its way out. So what has changed? The N10-009 exam has been updated to reflect the latest advancements in networking technology. Here are some of the key additions:

Modern Network Environments

The updated exam places greater emphasis on modern network environments and expands on factors related to physical installations. Exam takers should be well-versed in contemporary networking setups.

Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Software Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN)

With organizations increasingly relying on geographically dispersed locations, the N10-009 exam now includes both SDN, which is suitable for internal networks, and SD-WAN, which extends the benefits of software-defined approaches to wide area networks.

Infrastructure as Code (IaC)

The N10-009 exam introduces Infrastructure as Code (IaC), an approach that uses code to provision and manage computing infrastructure. This update addresses the inefficiencies and errors associated with manual infrastructure management.

Scalability and VxLAN

Many organizations are concerned about scalability. To address this, the updated exam covers Virtual extensible Local Area Network (VxLAN), which helps manage large-scale network deployments effectively.

Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) and Main Distribution Frame (MDF)

The N10-009 exam now includes topics on IDF and MDF, which are essential for structured cabling and network distribution.

Zero-Trust Architecture and SASE/SSE

Finally, the new N10-009 exam covers zero-trust architecture, which eliminates assumed trust and continuously verifies digital interactions. Additionally, the exam incorporates Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Security Service Edge (SSE) for enhanced network security.

Who Should Take the Network+ N10-009 Exam?

If you are new to the network game, then this is the perfect certificate to start off your career. Let's take a look at a couple roles that benefit from CompTIA Network+ certification.

Network Administrator

CompTIA Network+ certification is perfect for anyone who works with networks on a daily basis. It covers everything you need to know, from networking fundamentals to hardening a network against malicious activity. Furthermore, it looks great on a resume and shows prospective employers that you are knowledgeable and committed to learning the latest skills.

Network Helpdesk

Who here hasn't had their day saved by a network help desk associate? These employees are on the front line solving, troubleshooting, and triaging user issues in real-time. It goes without saying that the CompTIA Network+ certification significantly increases the overall knowledge of anyone working on an IT helpdesk.

Junior Cloud Engineer

The breadth of cloud knowledge is the key difference between the N10-008 and the N10-007 Exam. Thanks to changes made by CompTIA, you will have the knowledge needed for some entry-level cloud positions. 

The job market is hot right now, and cloud engineering is only becoming a more and more in-demand profession. By earning the Network+ certification, you will prove you have the chops to troubleshoot cloud and hybrid networks. 

For even more cloud expertise, check out the CompTIA Cloud+ certification.

Final Thoughts: Should You Take the Network+ N10-008 or N10-009 Exam?

If you are already studying for the N10-008, then there is no need to switch to the N10-009. It is always better to get a certification sooner rather than later. The one drawback is that the exam will be retired by December 2024. So, it is critical to prepare and take (and pass) the test before the exam expires. 

Otherwise, go ahead and take the newest iteration of the Network+ exam. It is an excellent way to learn the fundamentals of computer networking and stay current on the latest trends.