Network+ (N10-007) Study Plan: 60-Day Balanced Plan

Preparing for the CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) certification requires a structured approach that balances theory, hands-on practice, and exam preparation. Offered by CompTIA, Network+ is one of the most widely recognized certifications for building a strong foundation in networking.
A 60-day balanced study plan allows working professionals and students to prepare effectively without overwhelming their daily schedule. By dedicating consistent study time and practicing real networking scenarios, candidates can confidently approach the exam.
This guide provides a practical week-by-week roadmap to help you prepare for the Network+ (N10-007) exam.
Understanding the Network+ (N10-007) Exam
Before beginning your preparation, it is important to understand the exam structure and objectives.
Exam Overview
• Certification: CompTIA Network+
• Exam Code: N10-007
• Number of Questions: Up to 90
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Question Types: Multiple choice and performance-based questions
• Passing Score: 720 out of 900
The exam focuses on networking concepts, infrastructure, troubleshooting, and security fundamentals.
Major domains include:
• Networking Concepts
• Infrastructure
• Network Operations
• Network Security
• Network Troubleshooting
60-Day Balanced Network+ Study Plan
This study plan divides preparation into 8 weeks (60 days) with focused learning goals.
Week 1: Networking Fundamentals
The first week focuses on understanding basic networking principles.
Topics to study:
• OSI model and TCP/IP model
• Network devices and components
• LAN vs WAN
• Bandwidth and latency concepts
• Basic networking terminology
Practical tasks:
• Install Wireshark and observe network packets
• Identify devices in your home network
Goal: Build a strong conceptual foundation in networking.
Week 2: Networking Protocols and Ports
In this phase, focus on communication protocols used in networks.
Topics to study:
• TCP vs UDP
• Common port numbers
• DNS, DHCP, HTTP, HTTPS
• FTP, SMTP, POP3, IMAP
• SNMP and NTP
Practical tasks:
• Use command-line tools like ping, traceroute, and netstat
Goal: Understand how devices communicate within networks.
Week 3: Network Infrastructure
Now begin exploring physical and logical network infrastructure.
Topics to study:
• Routers, switches, hubs
• Access points and wireless controllers
• Cabling types (Cat5e, Cat6, fiber)
• Network topologies
Practical tasks:
• Learn network simulation using Cisco Packet Tracer
Goal: Understand how networks are built and interconnected.
Week 4: IP Addressing and Subnetting
IP addressing is one of the most important topics in the Network+ exam.
Topics to study:
• IPv4 addressing
• IPv6 fundamentals
• Subnetting concepts
• CIDR notation
• Private vs public IP addresses
Practical tasks:
• Practice subnetting exercises daily
• Use subnet calculators for verification
Goal: Become comfortable with IP addressing and subnet calculations.
Week 5: Network Security Fundamentals
Networking professionals must understand basic security practices.
Topics to study:
• Network threats and vulnerabilities
• Firewalls and intrusion detection systems
• Secure protocols (HTTPS, SSH, SFTP)
• Wireless security (WPA2, WPA3)
Security tools to explore:
• Nmap for network scanning
• Kali Linux for security testing
Goal: Learn how networks are protected from attacks.