If you are planning an IT career in 2026, one question probably keeps popping up: How much can I actually earn? Certifications alone do not guarantee success, but CompTIA certifications remain one of the most reliable entry points and growth accelerators in the IT industry.

From career switchers and fresh graduates to experienced professionals aiming for higher pay, CompTIA offers a clear, vendor-neutral roadmap. Combined with real-world data, a CompTIA salary calculator helps you turn abstract career goals into concrete income expectations.

This article will guide you through CompTIA certifications, career paths, salary expectations, and how to use a free interactive calculator to plan your next move with confidence.

How to Use the CompTIA Salary Calculator (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Select Your Certification

Choose your current certification, such as A+, Network+, or Security+.

Step 2: Add Experience & Location

Input your years of experience and region. This fine-tunes salary accuracy.

Step 3: Review Salary & Career Recommendations

Instantly see:

• Expected salary range
• Matching job titles
• Suggested next CompTIA certification

Why This Tool Is Valuable for IT Beginners and Professionals

For beginners, it removes uncertainty. For experienced professionals, it validates whether your current path aligns with your income goals.

Instead of asking, “What should I study next?”, the calculator answers with data-backed clarity.

Overview of CompTIA Certifications

CompTIA certifications are structured to match real IT job roles. In 2025, several exams have been updated to align with modern infrastructure, cloud, and security demands.

CompTIA A+ (220-1201 & 220-1202)

CompTIA A+ remains the foundation for IT beginners. It validates core skills in hardware, operating systems, networking basics, security fundamentals, and troubleshooting.

• Best for: IT beginners, career changers
• Common roles: IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician
• 2025 exam codes: 220-1201, 220-1202

Think of A+ as learning the grammar of the IT language. Without it, everything else becomes harder.

CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)

Network+ focuses on networking concepts, infrastructure, troubleshooting, and security. It bridges the gap between entry-level support and more technical networking roles.

• Best for: Junior network engineers, system administrators
• Common roles: Network Technician, IT Administrator
• 2025 exam code: N10-009

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)

Security+ is often the turning point where salaries jump significantly. It covers cybersecurity fundamentals, risk management, and incident response.

• Best for: Security-focused professionals
• Common roles: Security Analyst, SOC Analyst
• 2025 exam code: SY0-701

Other Popular CompTIA Certifications

• Linux+ – For system administration roles
• CySA+ – Intermediate cybersecurity analytics
• PenTest+ – Ethical hacking and penetration testing
• CASP+ – Advanced enterprise security

Conclusion: Take Control of Your IT Career

IT careers are no longer built on intuition alone. With CompTIA certifications and a CompTIA salary calculator, you gain visibility into both career progression and earning potential.

Certifications open doors, but planning keeps them open. Use the calculator, understand your value, and make informed decisions that move your career forward.

FAQs

1. Is CompTIA A+ still worth it in 2026?
Yes. It remains the most recognized entry-level IT certification worldwide.

2. Which CompTIA certification has the highest salary?
Advanced security certifications like CASP+ and PenTest+ typically lead to higher salaries.

3. How accurate is the CompTIA salary calculator?
It provides estimated ranges based on U.S. market averages, experience, and location.

4. Can I use the calculator if I have no certification yet?
Yes. It can still suggest a starting path and expected entry-level salaries.

5. How often should I update my career plan?
Ideally every 6–12 months, especially after gaining experience or new certifications.