The Network + Certification is an entry level (however more advanced and builds upon knowledge from the A+) exam designed to test your skills with setting up, managing, and troubleshooting networks. It tests your ability to identify routers/switches and know how to use both to segment network traffic, as well as VLANs (Virtual Local Area Network). It calls upon your knowledge of existing network hardware / technology as well as older legacy tech as well. The exam itself will test not only your knowledge of these topics, but also your ability to decide which of them is best in a given scenario.
Like the A+, Network + does not go into any specific vendor or company, it teaches and tests your knowledge of the fundamentals of how networks operate, and how to troubleshoot them. Having this certification does lead to the possibility of entry level IT Jobs better than A+ and is a great foundation for future vendor specific network certs such as Cisco’s CCNA. Knowing the fundamentals of networking is necessary for most IT jobs, and knowledge that anyone who works in the computer repair industry should have. Plenty of people know how to plug in their modem, and router and go, however knowing the how and why they work shows employers that you are dedicated to being the best technician you can be.
The CompTIA trifecta consists of the A+ exam, Network+ exam and Security+ exam. By gaining these 3 you
show
prospective or current companies that not only are you committed to your career and learning but, you
are
also
qualified for more advanced IT careers. While these exams do not focus on any specific company or
vendor,
they
do offer the knowledge that is utilized throughout and can easily be added to for any specific company's
needs.
The trifecta is often suggested to anyone entering IT for the first time. Each exam builds upon the
knowledge
of
the previous exams and helps you gain more confidence in your skills as an IT professional.