CompTIA Server+

networking Entry-level Updated: 2025-04-10 Methodology

CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005) validates the hands-on skills required to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot server hardware and software technologies in data center and on-premises environments. It covers server architecture, storage, security, networking, and disaster recovery — making it ideal for IT professionals working with physical and virtual server infrastructure.

$72K
Avg Salary
75%
Pass Rate
6.0K
Job Listings
80h
Study Time
$358
Exam Cost

Exam Details

Exam CodeSK0-005
Exam Cost$358 USD
Duration90 minutes
Questions90
Passing Score750/900
ProviderCompTIA
Difficulty5/10

Salary Data

Professionals holding the CompTIA Server+ certification earn between $52,000 and $95,000 annually, with an average of $72,000.

Job market demand trend: Stable (+2% YoY)

Prerequisites

  • No formal prerequisites
  • CompTIA A+ certification recommended
  • 18-24 months of server administration experience recommended

Skills Covered

Server ArchitectureServer AdministrationStorageSecurityNetworkingDisaster Recovery

Best Study Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CompTIA Server+ worth it?
Server+ is worth it if you work with on-premises server infrastructure or data centers. It validates vendor-neutral server administration skills and meets DoD 8570 requirements. However, if your career is focused on cloud, certifications like AWS SAA or Azure Administrator may offer better ROI. Server+ is strongest for roles in government, healthcare, and enterprises that maintain physical infrastructure.
How hard is the Server+ exam?
Server+ is considered moderately easy with a 75% pass rate. It covers server hardware, storage, virtualization, and basic networking. Most candidates with 2-3 months of study and hands-on server experience pass on the first attempt. The exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions.
What jobs can I get with CompTIA Server+?
Server+ prepares you for roles like Server Administrator, Data Center Technician, Systems Administrator, and IT Support Specialist. Average salary is $72K, with a range of $52K-$95K depending on experience and location. It pairs well with Network+ and Security+ for broader infrastructure roles.

Data Sources

  • Salary data — Aggregated from job postings and salary surveys (US median)
  • Job listings — Active postings across major job boards
  • Pass rates — Community-reported estimates (not official vendor data)
  • Exam details — CompTIA official documentation