CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) FAQ — Format, PBQs, and Study Strategy

How long is the exam and how many questions?

N10-009 is a 90-minute exam with a maximum of 90 questions, including multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs).

What score do I need to pass?

The published passing score is 720 on a 100–900 scale.

What are PBQs and how should I approach them?

PBQs test applied skills (diagram interpretation, subnetting, command output, basic troubleshooting). Strategy:

1. Skim PBQs early, but don’t solve them immediately.
2. Do the MCQs first to bank points.
3. Return to PBQs with remaining time and a calmer head.

Use OSI reasoning: identify the layer, pick the right tool, and fix the root cause.

Do I need to memorize ports?

Yes—at least the high-yield set: DNS (53), DHCP (67/68), HTTP/HTTPS (80/443), SSH (22), RDP (3389), SNMP (161/162), NTP (123), Syslog (514). See the Cheatsheet table.

How deep does subnetting go?

Expect to identify network/broadcast, usable ranges, and whether two hosts are in the same subnet. You don’t need exotic CIDRs, but you do need speed. Practice the /24–/30 patterns until they’re automatic.

What tools should I recognize?

At minimum: ipconfig/ifconfig, ping, tracert/traceroute, nslookup/dig, and basic packet capture awareness (Wireshark/tcpdump).

What certification should I take next?

Common next steps are CompTIA Security+ (security fundamentals) or role-specific vendor certs depending on your goals.

Where do I find official policies and scheduling?

See Resources for official CompTIA links (testing rules, scheduling, renewal).