Network+ (N10-007) Study Plan: 90-Day Beginner-Friendly Plan

Preparing for the CompTIA Network+ certification can feel overwhelming for beginners entering the networking field. However, with a structured learning plan and consistent practice, you can develop the skills needed to understand networking concepts and confidently approach the exam.
The CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam validates essential networking knowledge required by IT professionals working with enterprise infrastructure. It focuses on networking fundamentals, security, troubleshooting, and operational best practices.
This beginner-friendly 90-day study plan is designed to help learners gradually build networking knowledge while balancing practice, theory, and exam preparation.
Why a 90-Day Study Plan Works
Networking concepts can be complex for beginners. A 90-day study plan allows learners to:
• Build foundational knowledge step by step
• Reinforce learning through practice labs
• Avoid information overload
• Gradually strengthen troubleshooting skills
Studying consistently over three months also increases retention and exam confidence.
Month 1: Build Networking Fundamentals (Days 1–30)
The first month should focus on understanding the core networking concepts that form the foundation of all modern networks.
Week 1: Introduction to Networking
Key topics to study:
• What is networking
• Types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN)
• Network topologies
• The OSI and TCP/IP models
• Data transmission basics
Goal: Understand how devices communicate within networks.
Recommended activities:
• Watch beginner networking tutorials
• Draw the OSI model and understand each layer
• Practice identifying networking components.
Week 2: Network Devices and Infrastructure
Focus on understanding common networking hardware.
Topics include:
• Routers
• Switches
• Firewalls
• Access points
• Network interface cards
• Cabling types (Ethernet, fiber, coaxial)
Goal: Learn how different network devices function together.
Practical tip: Try identifying networking devices in your home or workplace.
Week 3: IP Addressing and Subnetting
IP addressing is one of the most important topics in Network+.
Study areas:
• IPv4 addressing
• Private vs public IP addresses
• Subnet masks
• CIDR notation
• Basic subnetting concepts
Goal: Understand how networks identify and organize devices.
Practice:
• Solve simple subnetting problems
• Learn how devices obtain IP addresses.
Week 4: Network Protocols and Services
Networking relies heavily on protocols that allow devices to communicate.
Important protocols to learn:
• HTTP / HTTPS
• FTP / SFTP
• DNS
• DHCP
• SMTP / POP3 / IMAP
• SNMP
Goal: Understand the role of protocols in network communication.
Month 2: Networking Technologies and Security (Days 31–60)
Once fundamentals are clear, the next stage focuses on networking technologies and security concepts.\
Week 5: Wireless Networking
Topics include:
• Wireless standards (802.11)
• Wi-Fi frequency bands
• Wireless encryption methods
• Access point configurations
• Common wireless issues
Goal: Understand how wireless networks operate.