How Many CompTIA Certifications Exist? The Complete Path Guide

You might be curious about the number of CompTIA certifications available. As of December 2025, CompTIA currently offers 16 different certifications in IT specialties of all types. These range from simple computer hardware to advanced cybersecurity and cloud computing. Tech professionals find these credentials essential to confirm their skills and advance their careers.

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) has established itself as a global certification leader. Their program has issued over 2.2 million certifications in more than 120 countries. These credentials make a real difference, a recent ISACA survey revealed that 87% of employers value IT and cybersecurity certifications when making hiring decisions. The financial benefits are clear too. Security+ certified professionals earn an average of $91,350, while CASP+ holders can command $127,451.

CompTIA streamlines professional development through five career pathways: IT support, networking, cybersecurity, data, and software development. This well-laid-out structure helps professionals plan their learning path based on career goals. This piece explores all current CompTIA certifications and shows you the best route to advance your IT career.

How many CompTIA certifications are there in 2026?

CompTIA currently has 16 active certifications in multiple IT domains. These credentials start from foundational and go up to expert level. They cover simple technical concepts to specialized cybersecurity and data analytics.

Total number of active certifications

The complete CompTIA certification list shows certifications in several technical domains:

Each certification comes with a specific version number and exam code. These help professionals identify the current version. A+ runs on version 15 (exams 220-1201 & 220-1202), while Security+ is on version 7 (exam SY0-701).

Recent additions and retired certifications

CompTIA updates its certification lineup based on industry needs. New additions include:

• CloudNetX (CNX-001) - Secure and scalable networking solutions for hybrid environments
• DataX (DY0-001) - Advanced-level data science credential for analytics professionals
• SecAI+ - Launching February 17, 2026, this certification targets AI-enabled security skills for professionals with 3-4 years of IT experience

Several certifications have been retired. CTT+ retired in 2023. Other notable retirements include:

• CDIA+ (2017)
• Healthcare IT Technician (2017)
• Storage+ (2016)
• Mobile App Security+ iOS (2015)
• Mobile App Security+ ADR (2015)

Cloud Essentials+ will retire on September 25, 2025.

Why the number keeps evolving

CompTIA's certification landscape changes often for several reasons:

• Technology advancement - CompTIA retires exam certifications every three years to match changing technology. This gives professionals current skills instead of outdated knowledge.
• Industry demands - New specialties emerge as IT evolves. SecAI+ shows the growing need for professionals who understand AI and cybersecurity.

Career progression needs - CompTIA provides "certification stacks" that match ground job roles. These create clear career paths. Examples include:

• A+ → Network+ → Security+ → CySA+ → CASP+ for cybersecurity
• A+ → Network+ → Server+ → Cloud+ → Linux+ for infrastructure

Strategic rebranding - Names change to show evolving focus. CASP+ became SecurityX, and ITF+ changed to Tech+. CompTIA launched the "Xpert Series" of certifications in 2023 for specialized experts, with new releases throughout 2026.

Certification validity periods - Certifications issued after January 1, 2011, expire in three years. Professionals must recertify or complete continuing education. This promotes continuous learning and creates demand for updated certifications.

Understanding the CompTIA certification structure

CompTIA's certification programs follow five career pathways that help you direct your professional growth. This well-laid-out system lets IT professionals pick certifications that match their career goals and skills.

Core, Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Data, and Professional paths

CompTIA's certification framework uses a practical system that matches real-life IT roles and duties. The five main certification paths are:

1. Core Skills Path: These certifications are the foundations for all IT careers:

   • Tech+ (formerly ITF+): Teaches simple technology concepts
   • A+: Covers hardware, software, and troubleshooting
   • Network+: Focuses on networking principles
   • Security+: Addresses simple security concepts

2. Infrastructure Path: Takes core skills further with server and cloud technologies:

   • Server+: Confirms server administration skills
   • Linux+: Tests abilities in Linux environments
   • Cloud+: Covers cloud computing technologies
   • CloudNetX: Deals with advanced cloud networking (emerging)

3. Cybersecurity Path: Moves from Security+ to advanced security specialties:

   • CySA+: Covers security analytics and defensive operations
   • PenTest+: Tests penetration testing skills
   • SecurityX (formerly CASP+): Deals with advanced security for senior practitioners

4. Data and Analytics Path: Contains:

   • Data+: Tests simple data analysis skills
   • DataSys+: Covers data systems management
   • DataX: Handles advanced data management (emerging)

5. Professional Path: Project+ tests project management and Cloud Essentials+ covers business-focused cloud concepts

These paths let professionals specialize in specific areas or build skills in multiple domains.

Entry-level to expert-level progression

CompTIA's career development sequence associates certifications with experience levels, from beginner to expert roles. This system helps IT professionals grow their careers systematically:

Entry-Level (0-2 years experience):

• Tech+ teaches essential concepts for anyone learning IT or cybersecurity
• A+ tests simple IT support skills
• Network+ proves networking abilities

Mid-Level (2-5 years experience):

• Security+ opens doors to cybersecurity careers
• Server+, Linux+, and Cloud+ develop specialized infrastructure skills
• Project+ tests project management capabilities

Expert-Level (5+ years experience):

• CySA+ and PenTest+ suit advanced security analysts
• SecurityX targets senior security practitioners
• DataX fits advanced data specialists

CompTIA offers "stackable certifications" that show credential combinations matching common career paths. Here are some examples:

• Infrastructure Stackables:

  • IT Operations Specialist: A+/Network+
  • Systems Support Specialist: A+/Linux+
  • Cloud Admin Professional: Network+/Cloud+

• Cybersecurity Stackables:

  • Secure Infrastructure Specialist: A+/Network+/Security+
  • Security Analytics Professional: Security+/CySA+
  • Network Security Professional: Security+/PenTest+/CySA+

These stacks help employers spot candidates with the right mix of skills for specific roles.

Vendor-neutral approach explained

CompTIA's vendor-neutral certifications test core concepts rather than specific products. This approach brings several benefits.

CompTIA certifications test universal skills that work in IT environments of all sizes. This makes them valuable foundation credentials. Teams that share this knowledge base communicate better and complete projects more efficiently.

The vendor-neutral focus shows you can work with different platforms. You learn core concepts that work across systems instead of steps for specific products. This approach makes CompTIA certifications work well with vendor-specific credentials. Many professionals build their CompTIA foundation before specializing in Microsoft, Cisco, or AWS technologies.

Core certifications: The foundation of IT careers

CompTIA's four core certifications are the foundations for many tech professionals. These credentials show the simple skills that employers look for in IT support staff, network administrators, and security specialists.

ITF+ (soon to be Tech+)

CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification shows you know the simple IT concepts and skills. The credential is going through major changes. By mid-2025, the new CompTIA Tech+ certification will completely replace ITF+. Tech+ launched in late 2024.

Tech+ goes beyond simple concepts. It includes practical elements of both fundamental and new IT topics. The certification helps you learn core technology concepts, fix simple problems, and build strong foundations for your tech career.

The Tech+ exam (FC0-U71) tests six main areas:

• Tech concepts (13%)
• Infrastructure (24%)
• Applications and software (18%)
• Software development concepts (13%)
• Data fundamentals (13%)
• Security (19%)

Tech+ doesn't need prior experience. It works well for new IT professionals and people in "tech-adjacent" jobs who need tech knowledge. When you pass Tech+, you'll know how to set up computers, configure networks, write simple code, and fix hardware/software issues.

A+

CompTIA A+ shows up in more tech support job listings than any other IT certification. Many call it the first step into IT careers. A+ shows employers you have the right skills through two exams: Core 1 (hardware and networking) and Core 2 (operating systems and security).

The newest version (V15) has a 90-minute exam with up to 90 questions. These include multiple-choice and performance-based questions. You need to score at least 675 on Core 1 to pass.

The A+ Core 1 exam covers:

• Mobile devices (13%)
• Networking (23%)
• Hardware (25%)
• Virtualization/cloud computing (11%)
• Hardware/network troubleshooting (28%)

A+ certification teaches you to install and configure hardware, fix networks, and understand virtualization concepts. This credential helps you land roles like IT support specialist and help desk technician.

Network+

Many professionals get Network+ after A+ to learn more about networking. Network+ shows you know how to connect, configure, and secure networks of all sizes. This opens doors to jobs in network support, operations, and administration.

The Network+ exam (N10-009) tests five main areas:

• Networking concepts (23%)
• Network implementation (20%)
• Network operations (19%)
• Network security (14%)
• Network troubleshooting (24%)

This certification proves you understand routing technologies, switching, wireless networks, physical installations, and network security. Network+ certified professionals earn an average annual salary of $81,643 in 2025, making it a great investment.

Security+

Security+ is your gateway to cybersecurity careers and the most trusted way to enter this vital field. The certification proves you have hands-on skills to protect networks, applications, and data.

The Security+ exam (SY0-701) tests five areas:

• General security concepts (12%)
• Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations (22%)
• Security architecture (18%)
• Security operations (28%)
• Security program management (20%)

Security+ shows you can spot different attacks, set up security controls, manage identity access, and apply risk management principles. The exam costs $425 in the US as of August 2025. You need 750 out of 900 to pass.

Infrastructure certifications: Building technical depth

CompTIA's infrastructure certifications build on basic fundamentals and enhance your technical expertise in specialized IT operations. These credentials help you become skilled at specific server, Linux, and cloud technologies that modern businesses need.

Server+

Server+ teaches you how to install, manage, and troubleshoot server hardware in data centers, on-premises, and hybrid environments. This certification stands out because it works with any platform, making it useful in a variety of environments.

The Server+ exam (SK0-005) covers four main domains:

• Server hardware installation and management (18%)
• Server administration (30%)
• Security and disaster recovery (24%)
• Troubleshooting (28%)

Server+ shows you know how to install physical hardware, set up storage solutions like RAID, configure server operating systems, and implement security controls. You need a score of 750 on a scale of 100-900 to pass, and most successful candidates have about two years of hands-on server experience.

Server+ certified professionals earn about $82,000 annually. This makes it valuable for systems administrators, server support technicians, and data center specialists.

Linux+

Linux+ shows you know how to manage, secure, automate, and troubleshoot Linux systems in cloud and hybrid environments. The certification proves your ability to support Linux platforms that run many business operations.

The newest version (V8/XK0-006) focuses on five domains:

• System Management (23%)
• Services and User Management (20%)
• Security (18%)
• Automation, Orchestration, and Scripting (17%)
• Troubleshooting (22%)

Job market data shows Linux administrators can earn between $86,000-$97,000, while network engineers with Linux+ can earn up to $113,000. CompTIA suggests having 12 months of hands-on Linux server experience before taking this certification.

Cloud+

Cloud+ proves your skills in cloud infrastructure and operations across multi-cloud environments. The 2024 version (CV0-004) includes emerging technologies and DevOps principles.

The updated exam covers six key domains:

• Cloud architecture (23%)
• Deployment (19%)
• Operations (17%)
• Security (19%)
• DevOps fundamentals (10%)
• Troubleshooting (12%)

Cloud+ is CompTIA's first certification with a DevOps domain. This reflects how automation and collaboration have become essential in cloud computing. The certification prepares you for roles like cloud engineer, systems administrator, IT manager, and cloud specialist.

CloudNetX (emerging)

CloudNetX is CompTIA's newest infrastructure certification. It targets experienced professionals who design, manage, and secure complex networks in hybrid environments. This Xpert Series certification proves advanced skills for experienced network architects.

The CloudNetX (CNX-001) exam tests candidates on:

• Network Architecture
• Security Design (including Zero Trust Architecture)
• Network Monitoring
• Troubleshooting
• Maintenance

CloudNetX uses a pass/fail system instead of scaled scores. The exam has up to 90 questions over 165 minutes and covers emerging technologies like container networking, software-defined cloud interconnect, and generative AI for automation.

Professionals need substantial experience - at least 10 years in IT and 5 years as a network architect. While there are no required prerequisites, you should understand network design principles and hybrid cloud environments.

These infrastructure certifications create strong career paths. Network+ combined with Cloud+ gives you the Cloud Admin Professional stackable certification. Network+ with Server+ creates the Network Infrastructure Professional credential. Crucial Exams offers free practice tests for CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 certifications to help you assess your readiness.

Cybersecurity certifications: Protecting digital systems

CompTIA's cybersecurity certifications create a progressive path for IT professionals who want to defend against digital threats. These credentials test your knowledge of protecting systems, finding vulnerabilities, and responding to security incidents at different expertise levels.

Security+ (revisited)

Security+ is the life-blood of CompTIA's cybersecurity pathway that proves right the baseline skills for information security professionals. The certification covers five critical domains: general security concepts, threats and vulnerabilities, security architecture, security operations, and security program management.

The current exam (SY0-701) includes up to 90 questions. Candidates need at least 750 out of 900 to pass. Security+ holders can:

• Spot and alleviate various attack types
• Set up working security controls
• Handle identity and access controls
• Use risk management principles

Security+ is the most trusted entry into cybersecurity that shows you have ground, hands-on skills to protect networks, applications, and data. This globally recognized credential helps advance your security career.

CySA+

CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification targets mid-level security professionals who handle threat detection and incident response. CySA+ builds on Security+ by emphasizing practical security analysis and vulnerability management.

The current exam (CS0-003) tests candidates in four domains:

• Security operations (33%)
• Vulnerability management (30%)
• Incident response management (20%)
• Communication and reporting (17%)

CySA+ certified professionals can:

• Improve security operations processes
• Complete thorough vulnerability assessments
• Apply attack methodology frameworks
• Share security issues effectively

Market data shows CySA+ holders earn an average total compensation of $106,490. The certification needs no mandatory prerequisites, but CompTIA suggests Network+, Security+, or equivalent knowledge, plus about 4 years of hands-on security experience.

PenTest+

PenTest+ shows you can think like an attacker to build stronger defenses. The certification covers all penetration testing stages in systems of all types including cloud, web apps, APIs, and IoT systems.

The latest exam version (PT0-003, launched December 17, 2024) has up to 90 questions with a 165-minute time limit. The five main domains are:

1. Engagement management (13%)
2. Reconnaissance and enumeration (21%)
3. Vulnerability discovery and analysis (17%)
4. Attacks and exploits (35%)
5. Post-exploitation and lateral movement (14%)

PenTest+ focuses on hands-on skills like vulnerability management and lateral movement techniques. You need a passing score of 750, and the certification targets professionals with 3-4 years of penetration testing experience.

CASP+ (now SecurityX)

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) became SecurityX with exam version CAS-005 on December 17, 2024. This change shows its position as an expert-level ("Xpert") certification in CompTIA's portfolio.

SecurityX suits senior cybersecurity practitioners who have extensive experience, at least 10 years in IT and 5 years in security roles. Unlike other certifications for managers, SecurityX targets technical leaders who implement enterprise-wide security solutions.

This certification stands out as the only hands-on, performance-based credential for advanced practitioners covering both security architecture and engineering. It meets ISO/ANSI 17024 standards and aligns with DCWF work roles used by the U.S. Department of Defense.

SecurityX-certified professionals earn impressive salaries. Security Architects average $233,410 while Chief Information Security Officer positions reach $383,631.
Crucial Exams offers free practice tests for CompTIA Security+, CySA+, and other certifications. These tests help you review your readiness before taking the actual exams.

Data and analytics certifications: Working with data

CompTIA's data analytics field is growing faster than ever. The organization now offers three distinct certifications that help professionals prove their skills. These certifications create a clear path from entry-level analysis to advanced data science expertise.

Data+

Data+ is CompTIA's foundational data analytics certification that proves skills in analyzing, interpreting, and communicating business data. This vendor-neutral credential helps professionals turn raw information into meaningful insights for informed decision making.

The current version (Data+ V1/DA0-001) will be available until April 14, 2026. Translated options will retire on July 16, 2026. CompTIA launched Data+ V2 (DA0-002) in October 2025 with better coverage of cloud technologies, AI topics, and updated industry requirements.

Data+ V2 exam covers five key domains:

• Data concepts and environments (20%)
• Data acquisition and preparation (22%)
• Data analysis (24%)
• Visualization and reporting (20%)
• Data governance (14%)

The exam runs for 90 minutes with up to 90 questions. Candidates need a passing score of 720 on a scale of 100-900. CompTIA suggests 18-24 months of experience as a data analyst, but focused training can prepare candidates without this background.

Data+ stands out because it's the only data analyst certification that covers baseline analytics skills, assesses hands-on abilities, and maintains vendor neutrality. This approach prepares you for roles in industries of all sizes, whatever tools you use.

DataSys+

DataSys+ elevates your data expertise by focusing on data systems management. This advanced certification covers configuration, optimization, and security of data storage and processing systems.

The DataSys+ exam tests candidates in five main areas:

1. Data Flow (21%)
2. Data Processing (16%)
3. Data Storage (15%)
4. Data Security (24%)
5. Data Analysis (24%)

The exam includes 90 questions over 90 minutes. Candidates must score 750 to pass. Your certification stays valid for three years. You can renew it by retaking the exam or earning 30 Continuing Education credits.

DataSys+ is different from Data+ in its technical focus. Data+ emphasizes analysis and visualization, while DataSys+ focuses on database architecture, cloud integration, and security protocols. Database administrators, data architects, and IT security professionals who manage data infrastructure will find this certification valuable.

Real-world applications include:

• Managing patient information securely in healthcare settings
• Integrating legacy systems with cloud platforms
• Implementing role-based access controls and encryption

DataX (emerging)

DataX is CompTIA's expert-level certification for data science professionals with extensive experience. This Xpert series certification targets professionals with at least five years in data science or related fields.

The DataX certification (DY0-001) tests advanced knowledge in five domains:

• Mathematics and Statistics (17%)
• Modeling, Analysis, and Outcomes (24%)
• Machine Learning (24%)
• Operations and Processes (22%)
• Specialized Applications of Data Science (13%)

This credential gives experienced professionals skills in mathematics, statistics, machine learning, and specialized data science applications. The vendor-neutral approach makes it valuable in industries of all types, from healthcare and finance to marketing and technology.

DataX certified professionals often work as data scientists, machine learning engineers, and technical analysts. This certification helps candidates stand out in a competitive field. Data scientists earned a median annual salary of $100,000 in 2023.

Professional certifications: Project and cloud essentials

CompTIA's certifications go beyond specialized technical skills to focus on professional competencies that are vital for career advancement. These credentials complete the comptia certification list by addressing project management and business-focused cloud knowledge.

Project+

Project+ is the only industry certification that teaches IT professionals simple project management skills. The certification tests your knowledge of planning, executing, and delivering projects on time while you retain control of communication and resource management.

The current exam (PK0-005) covers four major domains:

• Project management concepts (33%)
• Project life cycle phases (30%)
• Tools and documentation (19%)
• Basics of IT and governance (18%)

You don't need formal prerequisites for Project+, but CompTIA suggests 6-12 months of hands-on experience with tech projects. The certification shows you know how to:

• Manage project constraints and influences
• Implement appropriate communication methods
• Use project management tools effectively
• Create documentation that supports project success

The exam has 90 questions with a 90-minute time limit. You need a score of 710 on a scale of 100-900 to pass. Certified professionals earn between $55,000-$70,000 as project coordinators and $75,000-$120,000 as project managers.

Cloud Essentials+

Cloud Essentials+ is different from technical cloud certifications because it focuses on business aspects of cloud computing. This credential helps non-technical professionals make smart decisions about cloud services.

The certification (CLO-002) includes 75 questions with a 60-minute time limit. You need a score of 720 to pass. The certification targets several roles:

• Business analysts
• Upper-level managers
• Accounting personnel
• Sales and marketing teams
• Cloud administrators

Cloud Essentials+ covers four main areas:

1. Cloud concepts
2. Business principles of cloud environments
3. Management and technical operations
4. Governance, risk, compliance and security

CompTIA updated its guide with new information on AI, multi-cloud deployments, and security recently. The certification stays relevant despite its scheduled retirement on September 25, 2025.

CTT+ (retired but still valid for holders)

CompTIA retired the Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) certification in 2023. CTT+ assessed IT professionals' teaching abilities through multiple-choice tests and recorded teaching demonstrations during its lifetime.

Current CTT+ holders keep their certification status indefinitely as "certified for life". The credential focused on teaching skills like:

• Individual evaluation
• Tracking progress and comprehension
• Presentation techniques
• Lesson planning
• Developing assignments

Stackable certifications and career pathways

CompTIA's stackable certifications link multiple credentials into powerful combinations that match ground job roles. These certification packages recognize professionals who earn specific cert combinations and create a clear path for career growth.

Infrastructure stackable paths

Infrastructure stackables progress from simple IT skills to specialized technical expertise. The entry-level Specialist tier (0-2 years experience) has two main combinations:

• IT Operations Specialist: A+ and Network+ combination confirms core support and networking skills
• Systems Support Specialist: A+ with Linux+ delivers hardware and open-source expertise

The mid-level Professional tier (2-5 years experience) gives you three options:

• Cloud Admin Professional: Network+ plus Cloud+ lets you manage cloud networks
• Network Infrastructure Professional: Network+ with Server+ helps you run advanced networks
• Linux Network Professional: Network+ and Linux+ work together for open-source network management

Each combination builds on core skills to target specific technical areas. You can customize your path based on your interests and career goals.

Cybersecurity stackable paths

The cybersecurity pathway expands as your expertise grows. At the Specialist level:

• Secure Infrastructure Specialist: A+, Network+, and Security+ work together to build a complete security foundation

Mid-level Professional stackables include:

• Secure Cloud Professional: Security+ with Cloud+ focuses on cloud security
• Security Analytics Professional: Security+ plus CySA+ helps detect advanced threats
• Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional: Security+ with PenTest+ develops offensive security skills
• Network Security Professional: Security+, PenTest+, and CySA+ deliver complete protection capabilities

Senior security leaders can earn these Expert stackables:

• Security Analytics Expert: Security+ with CySA+ and SecurityX (formerly CASP+)
• Secure Infrastructure Expert: The complete package, Security+, CySA+, PenTest+, and SecurityX

How stackables boost your resume

Stackable certifications make your career prospects better in several ways. They show how you build skills step by step and master complex concepts over time.

Employers value professionals with multiple related certifications because they have both depth and breadth of knowledge. This versatility makes you valuable to IT teams of all sizes.

These certifications show your commitment to learning - a must-have trait in tech's ever-changing world. Potential employers see your dedication to growth.

The certification combinations match how organizations build their teams. Your credentials line up with actual job roles and make you an obvious fit for specific positions.

Conclusion

CompTIA certifications serve as powerful stepping stones for IT professionals at every career stage. These credentials include 16 active certifications that span multiple domains. They provide clear direction through structured career pathways for your professional experience.

Five distinct pathways, Core, Infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Data, and Professional, help you focus your learning based on career goals. You can start with foundational credentials like A+ or Tech+ and work your way up to specialized expertise with certifications like SecurityX or CloudNetX.

Stackable certifications stand out as the most practical feature of CompTIA's approach. These combinations match ground job roles and make your resume stand out to employers. A Security Analytics Professional stack (Security+ with CySA+) appeals to organizations looking for threat detection specialists. The IT Operations Specialist credential (A+ and Network+) shows detailed support capabilities.

The vendor-neutral design gives these certifications flexibility across platforms and environments. CompTIA gives you skills you can use throughout the industry instead of limiting your knowledge to specific products.

Updates keep these certifications in line with current technologies and job requirements. CompTIA updates its exams every three years. Certified professionals need to maintain current knowledge through recertification or continuing education.

Your preparation strategy plays a big role in exam success. Crucial Exams offers free practice tests to help you get ready for various CompTIA certifications like A+, Network+, Security+ and others. These practice resources show your knowledge gaps before you take the actual exams.

CompTIA certifications boost your career prospects and salary potential. Security+ holders earn $91,350 on average each year. SecurityX (formerly CASP+) certified professionals earn $127,451. These numbers show how much value these credentials bring.

You choose your path through CompTIA's certification ecosystem. These industry-recognized credentials will confirm your abilities and create new professional opportunities. This applies whether you focus on cybersecurity, build infrastructure expertise, or develop data analytics skills.