How Much Hands-On Practice Do You Really Need for Network+?

Network+ is one of the most practical CompTIA certifications. Unlike some exams that can be passed with pure memorization, Network+ tests whether you can actually configure, troubleshoot, and manage network infrastructure. The PBQs (Performance-Based Questions) will quickly expose anyone who hasn't practiced hands-on.

So how much lab time do you really need? The answer depends on your background, but here's what the data tells us about successful candidates.

Recommended Lab Hours

hours minimum

For experienced IT professionals with networking background

hours recommended

Optimal for most candidates — best balance of time and preparation

60+

hours for beginners

If networking is completely new to you

Quality Over Quantity

40 hours of focused, goal-oriented lab practice beats 80 hours of unfocused clicking around. Each session should have a clear objective: "Today I will configure and test VLANs."

Network Diagrams You Need to Understand

Network+ PBQs frequently involve analyzing or building network diagrams. You need to be comfortable with common topologies:

🌐 Typical Enterprise Network Topology

Internet

Firewall

DMZ

Core Switch

Wireless AP

Access Switch

Workstations

Printers

VoIP

Servers

Essential Lab Skills for Network+

Focus your lab time on these specific skills that appear frequently on the exam:

Subnetting

Calculate network/broadcast addresses, determine valid host ranges

VLAN Configuration

Create VLANs, assign ports, configure trunks

Routing

Static routes, default gateways, routing table interpretation

DHCP/DNS

Configure scopes, reservations, DNS records

Wireless

SSID, channels, security modes (WPA2/WPA3)

Troubleshooting

ping, tracert, nslookup, netstat, ipconfig

Where to Practice

You have several options for hands-on practice:

Cloud-based labs — Platforms like certlabz.com provide pre-configured virtual environments designed specifically for Network+ preparation. No setup required, instant access.
GNS3/Packet Tracer — Free network simulators that require more setup but offer flexibility
Home lab hardware — Used switches and routers (great for learning but expensive and time-consuming to set up)

Best Approach

Start with cloud-based labs to learn the concepts quickly, then supplement with a network simulator if you want deeper exploration. Free lab demos help you test your learning style before committing.

Key Takeaways

40 hours of lab practice is the sweet spot for most candidates
Focus on practical skills — subnetting, VLANs, routing, troubleshooting
Practice network diagrams — PBQs frequently involve topology analysis
Use cloud-based labs for efficient, exam-aligned practice
Set specific goals for each lab session

🎯 Start Network+ Lab Practice

Access pre-built Network+ labs designed for exam success. Practice subnetting, VLANs, and troubleshooting scenarios.

Try Free Network+ Labs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need real networking hardware?

No, virtual labs and simulators are sufficient for exam preparation. While real hardware provides valuable experience, it's not required to pass Network+. Cloud-based labs like certlabz.com simulate real network environments effectively.

How many PBQs are on Network+?

Network+ typically includes 3-5 Performance-Based Questions. These may involve configuring devices, troubleshooting scenarios, or analyzing network diagrams. They appear at the beginning of the exam but you can flag and return to them.

Should I memorize port numbers?

Yes, know the common ports (20/21 FTP, 22 SSH, 23 Telnet, 25 SMTP, 53 DNS, 80 HTTP, 443 HTTPS, etc.). More importantly, understand what each protocol does and when to use it. Lab practice helps reinforce this through practical application.