Haze Networks ApS

CompTIA PenTest+ Certification

Origin

CompTIA PenTest+ was created by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), a non-profit trade association established in 1982 that develops vendor-neutral IT certifications. The PenTest+ certification was launched in 2018 to address the growing need for standardized skills validation in offensive security and penetration testing. CompTIA developed this certification in response to the increasing demand for qualified penetration testers and the lack of intermediate-level certifications that bridge the gap between foundational security knowledge and advanced ethical hacking skills. The certification was designed with input from cybersecurity professionals and industry experts to ensure it reflected real-world penetration testing practices and methodologies.

Industry Value and Importance

PenTest+ is valued in the penetration testing and cybersecurity industry because it validates hands-on technical skills in planning, scoping, and conducting penetration tests, as well as analyzing results and producing actionable reports. Unlike purely theoretical certifications, PenTest+ emphasizes practical abilities including vulnerability assessment, exploitation techniques, and post-exploitation activities across various systems and networks. Many organizations and government agencies recognize PenTest+ as meeting compliance requirements, with the certification approved under the DoD 8570.01-M directive for certain information assurance roles. Penetration testing companies value team members with PenTest+ certification because it demonstrates a standardized baseline of competency, helps establish credibility with clients, and shows commitment to professional development in offensive security practices.

CompTIA Network+ Certification

Origin and Background

The CompTIA Network+ certification was created by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), a non-profit trade association established in 1982. Network+ was launched in 1999 as a vendor-neutral certification designed to validate foundational networking skills across all platforms and technologies. CompTIA developed this certification in response to the IT industry's need for a standardized way to assess the competency of networking professionals, particularly as internet connectivity and network infrastructure became increasingly critical to business operations.

Industry Value and Importance

Network+ is widely valued in the IT industry because it demonstrates that holders possess essential networking knowledge required for troubleshooting, configuring, and managing wired and wireless networks. The certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it covers universal networking concepts rather than proprietary technologies, making it applicable across diverse IT environments. Many organizations, including the U.S. Department of Defense, recognize Network+ as meeting baseline requirements for networking positions. It serves as a stepping stone for IT professionals pursuing careers in network administration, help desk support, and systems administration, and is often considered a prerequisite for more advanced networking certifications.