While the previous version N10-008 will still be available, anyone planning on getting certified in the future should be aware of the differences. How do they stack up, what has changed? Read on for a comprehensive break-down of the two versions.
The CompTIA Network+ certification exams serve as foundational benchmarks for IT networking professionals, covering a comprehensive range of topics necessary for proficiency in the field. The latest versions, N10-008 and N10-009, have been updated to reflect the evolving landscape of networking technologies. This post compares the objectives of these two exam versions, highlighting the key differences and similarities, based on the detailed comparison provided by CompTIA.
N10-008 Objectives:
N10-009 Objectives:
While the domains are similar, N10-009 places a slightly higher emphasis on Network Troubleshooting and Network Operations. Network Security has a slightly reduced weight in the N10-009 exam.
Networking Concepts:
Network Implementations:
Network Operations:
Network Security:
Network Troubleshooting:
The following table aligns the exam objectives from N10-009 to N10-008 for a clear comparison:
N10-009 | N10-008 | Mapping |
---|---|---|
1.1 Explain concepts related to the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model. | 1.1 Compare and contrast the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model layers and encapsulation concepts. | Maps |
1.2 Compare and contrast networking appliances, applications, and functions. | 2.1 Compare and contrast various devices, their features, and their appropriate placement on the network. | Maps |
1.3 Summarize cloud concepts and connectivity options. | 1.8 Summarize cloud concepts and connectivity options. | Maps |
1.4 Explain common networking ports, protocols, services, and traffic types. | 1.5 Explain common ports and protocols, their application, and encrypted alternatives. | Maps |
1.5 Compare and contrast transmission media and transceivers. | 1.3 Summarize the types of cables and connectors and explain which is the appropriate type for a solution. | Maps |
1.6 Compare and contrast network topologies, architectures, and types. | 1.2 Explain the characteristics of network topologies and network types. | Maps |
1.7 Given a scenario, use appropriate IPv4 network addressing. | 1.4 Given a scenario, configure a subnet and use appropriate IP addressing schemes. | Maps |
1.8 Summarize evolving use cases for modern network environments. | N/A | New Content |
2.1 Explain characteristics of routing technologies. | 2.2 Compare and contrast routing technologies and bandwidth management concepts. | Maps |
2.2 Given a scenario, configure switching technologies and features. | 2.3 Given a scenario, configure and deploy common Ethernet switching features. | Maps |
2.3 Given a scenario, select and configure wireless devices and technologies. | 2.4 Given a scenario, install and configure the appropriate wireless standards and technologies. | Maps |
2.4 Explain important factors of physical installations. | N/A | New Content |
3.1 Explain the purpose of organizational processes and procedures. | 3.2 Explain the purpose of organizational documents and policies. | Maps |
3.2 Given a scenario, use network monitoring technologies. | 3.1 Given a scenario, use the appropriate statistics and sensors to ensure network availability. | Maps |
3.3 Explain disaster recovery (DR) concepts. | 3.3 Explain high availability and disaster recovery concepts and summarize which is the best solution. | Maps |
3.4 Given a scenario, implement IPv4 and IPv6 network services. | 1.6 Explain the use and purpose of network services. | Gap |
3.5 Compare and contrast network access and management methods. | 4.4 Compare and contrast remote access methods and security implications. | Maps |
4.1 Explain the importance of basic network security concepts. | 4.1 Explain common security concepts. | Maps |
4.2 Summarize various types of attacks and their impact to the network. | 4.2 Compare and contrast common types of attacks. | Maps |
4.3 Given a scenario, apply network security features, defense techniques, and solutions. | 4.3 Given a scenario, apply network hardening techniques. | Maps |
5.1 Explain the troubleshooting methodology. | 5.1 Explain the network troubleshooting methodology. | Maps |
5.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common cabling and physical interface issues. | 5.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common cable connectivity issues and select the appropriate tools. | Maps |
5.3 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common issues with network services. | 5.5 Given a scenario, troubleshoot general networking issues. | Maps |
5.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common performance issues. | 5.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common cable connectivity issues and select the appropriate tools. | Maps |
5.5 Given a scenario, use the appropriate tool or protocol to solve networking issues. | 5.3 Given a scenario, use the appropriate network software tools and commands. | Maps |
Skillset Alignment:
Industry Relevance:
Preparation Strategy:
The transition from N10-008 to N10-009 reflects CompTIA's commitment to keeping the Network+ certification relevant and comprehensive. The updated objectives in N10-009 ensure that network professionals are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of modern networking environments, with a strong emphasis on cloud integration, security, and automation. By understanding these changes and preparing accordingly, candidates can achieve certification success and advance their careers in the dynamic field of network technology.
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