Network+ 2011 Certification
Free Network+ study guides
Free Network+ practice exams and questions
The Network+ 2011 Certification from CompTIA is a vendor-neutral certification that is aimed at network technicians with roughly one to two years work experience. The Network+ certification is an entry-level certification that tests a candidate's ability to understand the functions and features of networking components, as well as their ability to carry out essential network installation, maintenance and troubleshooting duties (candidates with a bit more networking experience than 'entry-level' however might be better served with Cisco's CCENT certification). Reportedly over 180,000 individuals have gained the Network+ certification since its inception in 1999.
The latest incarnation of this credential is the Network+ 2011. To gain this certification you need to pass just one exam (designated N10-005) which consists of 100 predominantly multiple-choice questions with 90 minutes to complete them. The full list of exam objectives can be found at the official CompTIA website, here.
Anyone still studying under the previous N10-004 exam objectives will have until April 31, 2012 to take the exam. After that period, the N10-004 is officially retired.
During the exam you may be presented with 'unscored questions'. These are questions that may or may not correspond to the official list of exam objectives and, regardless of whether you correctly answer them or not, they will not affect your time or score. CompTIA includes these questions as a way of testing future exam content and relevance. You will be advised prior to starting the exam as to whether you can expect such questions in the exam proper.
Once you finish your exam your score is calculated and you'll be given a pass or fail mark immediately. To pass the Network+ N10-005 exam the candidate needs to score at least 720 on a scale of 100 - 900.
If you fail your first attempt at the Network+ exam you can try again immediately (upon payment of the exam fee), but if you fail for a second time then you are required to wait at least 14 days before you are eligible to try again.
Previously, the Network+ certification was a lifetime award but, from 1st January 2011, CompTIA have introduced a three-year shelf life for their flagship exams - including the Network+ certification. What this means is that candidates who earn the Network+ credential must renew their certification after 3 years if they wish their certification to remain valid. CompTIA offer a couple of ways to achieve this renewal; either by passing the current version of the Network+ exam, or by participating in CompTIA's continuing education program. More details can be found here. Candidates who have earned the Network+ credential prior to 1st January 2011 will continue to be considered 'certified for life' and need not do anything to remain certified.
The Network+ N10-005 exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Thompson Prometric testing facility. Keep in mind that there are discount vouchers available for the exam that not only reduce the cost of the exam but may also include free training material (read more about Network+ exam vouchers). Discount vouchers can be bought directly from CompTIA, or from a third-party supplier.
Free Network+ study guides
Free Network+ practice exams and questions
