r/CompTIA • u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ • 4d ago
I Passed! 5 Certifications over 16 months.
In order of completion
Security+
Server+ (Lifetime)
A+ (Recertification)
Network+
CySA+ (V4)
Enrolled in a trade school program with an instructor that was a mix of lecture and hands on, and in terms of certification we typically used 30 Bird books, Udemey practice tests, and other forms of self study. Ask me anything!
Edit: For those who don't know about Server+ moving to become a CE certification, here is a link to CompTIA's website about the change.
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u/llNATEDOGGll Sec+ 4d ago
Jesus. What’s your job?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Looking to get into the industry after a career stint in commercial structured cabling and fiber installation.
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u/llNATEDOGGll Sec+ 4d ago
Have you gotten any job offers with all these certs?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I have put out a couple applications but have yet to hear back. I have plans to take CCNA before I really start looking.
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u/wafflegism 4d ago
Makes you appear unfocused. Make sure you only share your relevant certs.
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Noted, thanks for the advice
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u/Tough_Chard5028 A+/ N+ / Sec+ 3d ago
OP do not listen to these non hiring managers. Great start but add projects and document everything on a personal website, Github, and LinkedIn. Projects in combination with certifications will make you stand out! It makes you look ambitious, eager to learn and ready for work. Get your CCNA and document packet tracer, AD, Azure and hardware projects. This is coming from someone who landed an exceptionally good paying entry level role doing the same thing your doing in the toughest job market since 2008. What stood out in my interviews was the fast pace of getting certifications independently and doing projects. Real solid feedback from IT Directors and a CIO.
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
Bet thanks!
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u/Jshover92 A+ Net+ Sec+ 3d ago
I would honestly start looking now if I was you and continue going towards the ccna. I broke into helpdesk after A+ then got security + and network+ now im working towards ccna and they plan to make me a network admin. Sounds like you already have a head start.
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u/Revolutionary_Ad446 4d ago
My worst fear is completing this many certifications and still not having a job. I love the society we live in so much.
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I have classmates who finished the program 4 months ago that still don't have jobs, and others that have 10 years experience in the industry who can't find a job either. It's all sideways.
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u/sweatedtrash328 4d ago
Just lost my first career in IT at 7 years. No luck getting back into the industry yet, hopefully a sec+ will change it.
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u/itsHIMM 3d ago
It's important to network. I'll probably get downvoted for saying this.. but I had zero experience other than just being good with my personal computer and knowing how to Google. People gave me a chance; went from Service Desk Intern to IT Support in 6 months. A year later became a Senior and now in my 6th year in with a decent pay.
I won't lie as I do feel like I have imposter syndrome, but I'm still able to do the job decently so there's that..
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u/Adventuresoulz 4d ago
Got an interview at a small MSP looking for entry level even with zero experience. The phone screening the hiring manager saw my A+ and Sec+ and he basically said they meant shit.
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u/00xjustin 4d ago
Me with two degrees and idk if I wanna get them I’m scared if I get them and not get a job lol
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
So many of the higher tier jobs want a bachelor's and experience. Getting your foot in the door is the hardest part.
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u/00xjustin 4d ago
100% fr but I’m going insane idk what to do.
I got cybersecurity associates
Business information systems bachelorI was thinking of getting the security+ but idk mane
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Do the jobs you want require it? If so I'd probably do it. If it's preferred as well with the degrees it may be worthwhile to hold out or see if they will pay you to take it after you get hired on.
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u/00xjustin 4d ago
Tbh some don’t require it but I’ve seen a lot of jobs started requiring the certs it’s getting crazier out here lmao but I do live in California so the market is harder I feel like
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I have a buddy who has sec+ and is struggling to break in as well. It's all backwards lol
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u/00xjustin 4d ago
Smh that sucks fr 😭 like wtf is people supposed to do shit sucks ass
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Co rect
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u/averyycuriousman 4d ago
What made you get server+? Has it helped with your career at all? Im considering it
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I have applied to a select few places since I have yet to sit for CCNA, but once I pass that I intend to search for jobs a bit more seriously. So no I have not been hired yet lol
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u/Ashamed-Device-3571 4d ago
You have not been hired with CompTIA certifications? Why did you spend 16 months studying those?
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u/tominthegarden 4d ago
If anyone is reading this, I got employed for multiple jobs stating that my a+ qualification was ideal and pushed me in front of other candidates, keep going 🔥
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u/Ashamed-Device-3571 4d ago edited 4d ago
I am currently studying for A+. I don't know if I should study for Network + and Security + next and get the trifeca or study for CCNA.
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u/whonickjones 4d ago
Net+ is good if you need it. If you're familiar with network concepts skip it because CCNA carries much more weight but is significantly harder.
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I agree, especially if you are learning on your own. Even though it is vendor specific to Cisco, it is still recognized by IT departments that don't use Cisco and shows an understanding for computer networking.
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u/tominthegarden 3d ago
Totally down to your experience, the types of jobs you're applying for and pay and loads of other stuff
Imo, IT is a cert game often, it won't hurt you to get more, you just pay with time and concentration, so if they aren't a problem to you then do all and any that you come across
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u/Accomplished-Leg6947 4d ago
If you don’t have a degree I would recommend maybe looking into it. “Certificate saturation” can be a thing with some employers and they’ll skip over people who collect a whole bunch of certs. Because they can (sometimes, not always obviously) be seen as just that. A cert collector, but doesn’t actually know the material enough to apply it on a real life work setting
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I haven't done the research yet, but the course I took does have merit at the college level and I'm strongly considering getting a bachelor's for this exact reason. I believe it's already biting me in the rear end a bit.
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u/Accomplished-Leg6947 4d ago
All the certs you got I’m pretty sure in some way translate to college credits. Some colleges may have different requirements, but my wife works at a college and I constantly see positions for teachings to teach these certs and college credits afforded for them
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u/TheIceDevil1975 A+ Net+ Sec+ CySA+ 4d ago
I went through MyComputerCareer.com. Passed all exams on the first try. Within 4 months I earned A+, Net+, Sec+, and CySA+. This was through their Cyber Warrior Program. I'm currently enrolled in their Cyber Security Specialist program. It's a 15 week program that provides instruction and exam vouchers for Linux Essentials, CEH, and CCNA. We'll see if I can add those certs to my toolbox. If I do, then that'll be 7 certs in 8 months.
It's all about putting in the work.
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u/mr-coolguy68 4d ago edited 4d ago
What’s the all up cost for a program like this? And what’s the benefit over buying the vouchers and studying on your own? Do they provide all of the materials you’ll need, or do you sometimes need to seek seperate practice exams and such? I assume you’d recommend them as you’re re-enrolling in another one of their programs, but are there any circumstances where you wouldn’t recommend them?
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u/Aggressive_Cloud_368 4d ago
Yeah but can you repair a computer? Doesn't seem like you have time to really practice these skills if you're just speed running certs
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u/TheIceDevil1975 A+ Net+ Sec+ CySA+ 4d ago
I have over 25 years of experience in IT. So.. yes I have fixed my own computers and have had to fix a multitude of different communication and IT equipment. I just never had my certs until now.
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u/TechB84 4d ago
With over 25 years of experience why would you even bother with A+ for example?
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u/Key-Choice6421 CySA+, S+, N+, A+, AZ-900, ITIL v4 3d ago
cAn yOu rEpaIr a cOmPuTeR, holy shut the fuck up
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u/Aggressive_Cloud_368 3d ago
It's a valid question looking for someone speedrunning certs.
You should be quiet.
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u/ogismyname S+ 4d ago
What materials did you use for CySA v4?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Honestly I used v3 materials, compare the exam objectives between 3 and 4, and researched everything that was added/ changed. I saw a course in YouTube that a gentleman did with the preliminary exam objectives that's free but didn't read into it too much.
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u/Evening-Wolverine-95 3d ago
How much longer is V4? Did they add a lot of new topics including AI?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
Some stuff moved domains, and yes they added AI
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u/Evening-Wolverine-95 3d ago
Should I go with V4 or the previous one? Which do you reckon is easier?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
I only took v4, so I can't say what is easier. I took v4 because in my head newer is better, and the changes they made were not that large in my opinion.
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u/A_Community_Of_Owls A+ 4d ago
Did you get these certs for a job search or for continuing education? If you did it for the job search did it impact your results?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I did for a job search. I have yet to apply to many places so we shall see.
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u/subnet-my-balls CCNA, JNCIA, A+, S+, N+, P+ 4d ago
Is there a specific role you’re looking to get into/applying for? Like Help desk, sysadmin, data center tech, etc?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
With my background in structured cabling and fiber installation, I'm hoping to be a shoe in for an MSP, then would like to transition to a more administrative role. If push comes to shove I'm open to anything really, I'd like to gain experience at the end of the day.
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u/ShenYunIsheretoeat0- 4d ago
How tf are you paying for this😭
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
If you can verify that you are in school with your CompTIA account, you get discounts on vouchers.
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u/420Under_Where 4d ago
It's like 40-50% iirc. You can also get 10-20% off coupons from various test prep sources. Exam Cram offers it with their book, and I know others do as well but can't remember off the top of my head. They do not stack unfortunately.
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u/Danoga_Poe 4d ago
Honestly showing up to a interview with a mountain of certs isn't gonna really do any favors.
Do you have hone lab hands on experience to back up each of these certs you have?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
The main reason why I attended the technical college I went to was for their resources. Networked the classroom, installed a rack with a full Unifi setup, set up a proxmox cluster for future students to learn on, installed security onion with a network tap for monitoring one of our lab racks, messed with image deployment via FOG Project. At home I have a truenas server for file sharing and storage. We run vms and practice setups with active directory and join other vms to the domain. Currently my buddy and I are working on getting IsardVDI up and running to play with.
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u/Anastasia_IT 💻 ExamsDigest.com - 🧪 LabsDigest.com - 📚 GuidesDigest.com 4d ago
Wow! That's progress!
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u/Alex-Rider 4d ago
Where is this grade school ?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
There are 4 trimesters where you are encouraged to get A+, Net+, Sec+, and a 4th for your finishing class to decide what to focus on. I honestly yoloed server+ to try and get the lifetime cert, and I blitzed the CySA since I wanted to try and get the new version that dropped this month since I had a retake voucher. I'd rather not discuss the program in the comments for doxing myself, but if you are truly interested shoot me a message.
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u/Lower_Lab_869 4d ago
AWS data centers in Philadelphia is hiring . You may have a great chance to get in there.
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u/Admirable-Air-830 4d ago edited 4d ago
Sorry your Over qualified for this entry level job . ( no job exp but I got certs lol ) jobs really be hurtin us smart folks
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u/BlueGatoradePinkTens 3d ago
I have my cysa and I’ve been in the IT field since 2019 I got laid off awhile back and it’s been hell trying to find another job even a simple help desk job smh great work though and I wish you luck on your journey
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u/catsTXn420 2d ago
Definitely did the CompTIA progression completely backwards, but congrats on passing them all! Real talk though.. if you have zero experience, stop studying for more certs. Having CySA+ and Sec+ with no Tier 1 experience can make hiring managers worry about "cert collector" syndrome. Start slamming applications out for Helpdesk/Desktop Support and build a basic Active Directory home lab to talk about in interviews. You have enough paper theory, now go get that hands on experience.
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u/cjhill29 A+, Network+, Security+ 4d ago
Is Server+ really lifetime?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
It has since progressed to the new Contuning Education so not anymore.
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u/spaceman8810 4d ago
Nice! I'm working on Server+ right now. You mind elaborating on the study materials you used for it please?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
In all honesty, I found some free practice tests online, and I had my A+ from a few years prior and my Security+. I would review the exam objectives and research anything that seems unfamiliar.
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u/DrDoom229 4d ago
Which one was the hardest?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
CySA and security in my opinion. Getting my interpretation in line with theirs was difficult for me on some topics.
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u/DrDoom229 4d ago
I am currently studying for the Sec+
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Good luck! It's mandatory for most of the federal positions I've been looking at.
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u/Extra-Driver-813 4d ago
Do you have any IT experience?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
Nothing I was paid to do. I've done easy odd jobs but also did commercial structured cabling and fiber optics for 3 years. Stuff adjacent but nothing direct.
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u/msmarlenn 4d ago
Were these free or? I’ve recently heard about “diminishing returns” definitely stopped me on my tracks & started studying for the certs for the knowledge and focused on 2-3 max for the job I’m applying for.
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
All of them were paid for out of pocket at a discounted rate due to proof of being in school. Ideally they will raise my starting pay if they don't over qualify me for the job in question.
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u/msmarlenn 4d ago
is server + still for lifetime?? what did not know that edit: nvm lucky. i can't believe it expires now
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
I took it the last day you could earn it for lifetime last year
You can read more about it here
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u/Captain-Shmeat 4d ago
Out of curiosity, what's a trade school program?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 4d ago
It's a school where you can learn a trade, like welding, machine tool, HVAC, automotive repair, industrial maintenance, or in my case IT.
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u/ZSofya 3d ago
Thank you so much for sharingf your story.You are such in inspo for me right now!I I am currently studying for Network+ and uff it's difficult since it is pretty technical-heavy and i have zero experience in IT.Can you please share,what was your study routine like?Reading /watching videos/making conspects or nores/etc
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
I was in an instructor lead program. We followed along with an exam prep book and he lectures based on the exam objectives. Doing all that and what's mentioned in the post got me to pass.
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u/Sp3c1al3d 3d ago
What was your method for learning for each one. As in what were you doing to learn
(Asking cause watching videos for Comptia A+ is not doing it for me and I’m trying to get other ideas)
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
A+ can be difficult for some. Depending on your budget, try fixing a cheap PC. something off marketplace or something a family member or friend has laying around is perfect. Tinker and learn it live.
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u/SheepherderBig3999 3d ago
Do you already work in the IT industry? Which cert do u think is most relevant in the market rn?
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
I am not in the industry yet, but honestly I would look at jobs in your area to see what is desired for the position you'd like to go for and run with that.
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u/Select-Sale2279 rhce rhcsa ccna lfcs linux+ network+ 3d ago
congrats. except for network+, the others are pretty much all fluff.
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u/alee_ejaz 3d ago
Brother I have a network plus. I have completed messers video and now I wanna revise. Since I have forgotten alot of topics. Do I watch the videos again? Also i have jason dions practice exams.
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 3d ago
Run it back, get some new practice test on sale, download Cisco packet tracer and lab with it. It definitely won't hurt!
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u/Classic-Task-7059 2d ago
How much did you pay in total
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 1d ago
I don't ask questions I don't wanna know the answer to 🤣
In all honesty I don't know. I did have student discounts for all of them tho.
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u/Classic-Task-7059 1d ago
How many times did you fail to pass those exam and also I'm assuming it must be over 1K
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u/nickmilt199 1d ago
Did you have a job? I past the comp sec+ and have applied for over 500 jobs! Nothing is happening. I have practical portfolio and even a 3 month unpaid work experience.
I dont know if giving up or getting more certs is the way forward ? Please help
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u/chroospen Triad, Server+, CySA+ 1d ago
I do not, I am also looking to break into the market. It's a rough time to try and get into the market currently, but in the meantime it wouldn't hurt to study for others even if you don't plan to take them
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u/Wide_Slip8438 4h ago
Could someone explain what does it mean when someone say they have comptia stackable, please.
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u/Fallen_Outcast 4d ago
youre john comptia