which is better A+ or N+?

Question

I am considering getting certified, which is a better career path, A+ or N+?

Answer 1

I am A+/N+ and highly recommend both as a start to cover a spectrum of support knowledge. A few months ago, I completed Microsoft's new equivalent called MCDST and it was somewhat more challenging and focused on Microsoft products, of course. Recently took a Microsft beta exam called MCITP and working on my MCSA, which MCDST can be applied as a credit exam.

MCDST = Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician
MCITP = Microsoft Certified IT Professional
MCSA = Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/mcp/default.mspx
http://certification.comptia.org/
http://certcities.com/

Answer 2

Do both. A+ first and then N+.

Doing the A+ alone may help get you in the door as an entry level PC tech or Help Desk tech. The N+ will significantly broaden your scope as many PC problems are really network problems and a good knowledge of networking is critical to success.

They are both entry level certs however so don't expect a high 5-figure offer starting out.

If you're serious about getting into IT, I'd also add a Cisco CCNA as well as 2 or 3 Microsoft certs -- XP, Server 2003 and at least one Active Directory cert. Or look into one of the Linux certs instead of (or in addition to) the Microsoft certs if that's where your interests lie. That package will make you quite a bit more employable and should attract a significantly better salary offer. The only path to the really big money is experience but that will get you in the door.

Answer 3

I have bot A+ and Net+. basically if you are just going to work on computers for repair and upgrade then A+ is the way to go. All your regular computer techs either have an A+ certification or where trained as one without even knowing it. A+ is considered to be the equivilent of 6 months to a year of actual on ab experience. Though I have met people who are A+ who are a little wet behind the ears. As for Net+, if you are going for that you will only use it if you get into network admin or large companies that run multiple subnets and workgroups. even that is managable with an A+ and some on the job training. if you want the Net+ you wuld benifit greatly by getting your A+ first. I wouldn't recommend trying to do a Net+ certification witout it. once you have your A+ you can then paly the field and see if you actually need to go any further. if you are really interested in a career in computers you might think about about getting your network engineer certificate. you can get them for Microsoft and novell at most univeristies and colleges.

Answer 4

I have both, But I would say A+ is widely more known and respected.