Recommended Tools, Hardware & Software
Every job requires tools, and the Network+ is no different. You won’t need the tools for your exam, but you will need them for your job.
I recommend
- Buy high quality tools that will last a long time. Cheap tools are more expensive in the long term. They break down and cause frustration.
- Ask for advice, read reddit reviews, read reviews on Amazon, watch YouTube videos, until you find the tools that are best for you. Ask me!
Recommended Tools, Supplies, & Equipment
Some of these are recommended by CompTIA and some are recommended by me!
Laptops & Smartphones
| Apple Tablet/Smartphone |
| Android Tablet/Smartphone |
| Windows Tablet/Smartphone |
Software
Some of the software may also be incorporated into hardware
| Packet Sniffer |
| Protocol Analyzer |
| Terminal Emulation Software such as PuTTy |
| Linux/Windows OS |
| Software Firewall |
| Software IDS/IPS |
| Network Mapper |
| Hypervisor Software |
| Virtual Network Environment |
| Wi-Fi Analyzer |
| Spectrum Analyzer |
| Network Monitoring Tools |
| DHCP Service |
| DNS Service |
| TFTP Server |
| Knowledgebase / Ticket Management Software such as AutoTask or Service Now |
Equipment
| Layer 2/3 Switch |
| Router |
| Firewall |
| VPN Concentrator |
| Wireless Access Point |
| Laptop that supports virtualization |
| Media Converter |
| Configuration Terminal (with Telnet and SSH) |
| VoIP System (including a phone) |
| SOHO Router/Switch |
| Surge Suppressor |
| Power Distribution Unit (PDU) |
| Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) |
| Managed Switch |
| Hub |
Tools
| RJ-11/RJ-45 Crimper |
| Cable tester |
| Punchdown Tools with Cutting and Non-Cutting 110, 66, BIX, and Krone Blades |
| Cable Stripper |
| Coaxial Crimper |
| Wire Cutter |
| Tone Generator and Probe |
| Fiber Termination Kit |
| Optical Power Meter |
| Butt Set |
| Multimeter |
| Power Supply Tester |
| Screwdriver, Drill, or Screw Gun and Assorted Bits |
Spare Parts
| Optical and Copper Patch Panels |
| Punchdown Blocks – 66, 110, and BIX |
| NICs |
| Power Supplies |
| GBICs |
| SFPs |
| Patch Cables – cat5e, cat6, fiber |
| RJ-45 Connectors |
| RJ-45 Jacks |
| RJ-11 Connectors |
| Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable Spool or Box |
| Coaxial Cable Spool or Box |
| F-Connectors / BNC Connectors |
| Fiber Connectors |
| Antennas |
| Bluetooth Wireless Adapters |
| Console Cables and RS-232 to USB Serial Adapter |
| Rack Screws |
| Assorted Sheet Metal, Wood, & Drywall Screws |
| Velcro |
| Zip Ties |
| Grounding Cable and Lugs |