Big Changes to the CompTIA Network+ N10-008

Every three years CompTIA updates each of their certifications to a new version to keep the exams and course content relevant with modern technology.  It can be difficult to understand exactly how these changes affect the exam.  So, we wrote this article to give you a clear understanding of what changed with the newest version of the CompTIA Network+, N10-008.

Version N10-007 of the CompTIA Network+ certification was retired in June 2022.  The current version, CompTIA Network Plus N10-008, was introduced in September 2021 and is expected to remain current until the fall of 2024 (There was a period of time when both versions of the exam were available between June and September).

The Exam is updated every three years to keep pace with evolving technologies. The brand new CompTIA Network+ was launched to keep up with the latest trends in network security.

The CompTIA Network+ certification effectively prepares candidates for real-world scenarios.  It teaches the technical skills essential to secure, maintain, and troubleshoot the important networks that businesses depend on. Network+ is also vendor neutral, which means candidates will be ready to work with any networking technology.

Exam Format of Network+ N10-008

The exam format has not changed from Network+ N10-007 to N10-008. The exam follows the same time limit with 90 minutes allocated for the exam. A passing score of 720 out of 900 is required to pass the exam. Exams will contain about 90 questions with a combination of single, multiple-choice, drag and drop, and performance-based questions (PBQs).

The updated version, N10-008, teaches how to implement enterprise-level wired and wireless networking solutions, identify and troubleshoot network security issues, and protect the network against internal and external threats.

Overview of the Changes in Network Plus Exam Domains N10-007 and N10-008

1) Networking Concepts in N10-007 changed to Networking Fundamentals for N10-008 and the domain weight changed from 23% to 24%

2) Infrastructure changed to Network Implementations and the weight of this domain changed from 18% to 19%

3) The name of domain 3, Network Operations, remained the same while the weight changed from 17% to 16 % for the new exam

4) Network Security kept the same name, but the exam weight of this domain changed from 20% to 19% for the current version

5) Network Troubleshooting and Tools is now changed to Network Troubleshooting with no change in domain weight

Domain 1 Networking Fundamentals

Domain 1 focuses on networking concepts.  This domain is all about the basics. Emphasis is placed on the Operation System Interconnection (OSI) model, data encapsulation, decapsulation, network topologies, and network types. Concepts of common ports and protocols and their encrypted alternatives are core to domain 1.

Students will learn the functions and specifics of various protocols and network services. Learning ports and protocols numbers and uses is still a major part of Network+ exam, so get those flashcards ready!

Domain 2 Network Implementations

Domain 2 teaches implementing networking devices, routing technologies, configuration and deployment of ethernet switching, and installation and configuration of wireless technologies and standards.  This is where candidates will learn the how-to of configuring a network. 

Students will learn 802.1x wireless technologies and how to incorporate networked devices, such as printers, cameras, or VOIP, into the network. 

Domain 3 Network Operations

Domain 3, Network Operations, concentrates on network hardening, security plans, procedures, and practices, and disaster recovery concepts.  This is where candidates will learn risk management concepts and what to do if there is a major disruption on operations (like a natural disaster).

Students will also learn how to create policies and procedures for managing network resources.  Sensors, auditing, and logs are also a major focus of this domain, particularly for monitoring the availability of network devices. 

Domain 4 Network Security

Domain 4 focuses on the cybersecurity aspect of networking.  Network security concepts, attack methodologies, hardening techniques, remote access methods are all taught in this domain.  Physical security is covered in this domain as well as network security professionals are often tasked with the physical security of server rooms and cable junctions. 

In version 008, more focus is placed on security cloud-based networks.  Hybrid cloud networks are a combination of cloud-based and on premises networks.  Students will learn how to incorporate cloud systems into existing networks and the special security steps involved in a hybrid network.

Domain 5 Network troubleshooting

As its title suggests, domain five focuses on troubleshooting network issues.  Many network security professionals find themselves the busiest when something on the network breaks.  So, network troubleshooting is a key skill to learn!

Domain five teaches network troubleshooting methodologies using software tools, terminal, and command line utilities, as well as solving general networking issues.  Students will learn which tool to use to troubleshoot an issue and the common problems encountered in a network. 

Check out our YouTube channel for videos on how to prepare for the Network+ and other CompTIA exams. If you’re ready to start your IT or cybersecurity career, sign up for one of our Network+ classes. Sign up here!

Preparing for a First-Time Pass on Your CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Exam

The Network+ exam is not easy, but good preparation will help you pass on your first attempt!

1) Research the changes to the Network Plus N10-008 exam (you’ve just completed this step by reading this article!)

2) Choose the study method that works best for you, either self-paced or instructor-led training

3) Pick a target date to complete your Network+ exam

4) Buy your study materials through a reputable training school.  Be sure to select a CompTIA Authorized Partner, like Cyberkraft

5) Purchase your exam voucher and schedule your exam either at home or in-person (e-mail info@cyberkrafttraining.com for help scheduling your exam online)

6) Pass your exam and get certified!

If you’re ready to take your exam, be sure to watch this video to learn the best strategies for taking your next CompTIA exam with exam tips from CEO Dennis Kraft.  If you’re ready to begin your training, Cyberkraft has instructor-led and self-paced Network+ courses available.  Sign up now!

The Cyberkraft CompTIA Network+ Bootcamp

The Cyberkraft CompTIA Network+ Bootcamp teaches you everything you needed to ace the exam on the first attempt. With this course, you will receive 40 hours of live in-depth training and full access to the CompTIA Learn+Labs training environment. You will receive labs, performance-based questions, exams, flash cards, games, study guides, and more.

Plus, you are guaranteed to pass on the first attempt or we will pay you for your second attempt too! That’s the Cyberkraft Second Shot Guarantee.

Cyberkraft CompTIA Network+ Self-Paced N10-008 Course

For those who are interested in the self-paced study, our CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Course is a cost-efficient option that still provides access to CompTIA Learn+ Labs training environment and access to our instructors in case you have any questions.

Take Advantage of our Discounted Exam Voucher

If you have already studied for your exam, you can get our discounted Exam voucher by using this link: CompTIA Network+ Exam Voucher. When you purchase the exam voucher through us, you will receive assistance from our instructors to schedule your exam at home or at a PearsonVUE testing center near you!

Thank you for reading!  We hope this article was helpful.  If you have any questions about Network+ Certification, please email info@cyberkrafttraining.com or use our instant chat feature to speak with one of our instructors.