CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates foundational skills and knowledge in IT support and maintenance. It is designed for entry-level IT professionals and covers a wide range of topics related to hardware, software, networking, and security.
To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, candidates must pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). Each exam consists of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions and has a duration of 90 minutes.
The Core 1 exam covers topics such as:
- Mobile devices
- Networking
- Hardware
- Virtualization and cloud computing
- Troubleshooting
The Core 2 exam covers topics such as:
- Operating systems
- Security
- Software troubleshooting
- Operational procedures
By earning the CompTIA A+ certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and skills in IT support and maintenance and increase their chances of getting a job or advancing their career in the field. Some of the job roles that may require or benefit from the CompTIA A+ certification include technical support specialist, help desk technician, field service technician, and IT support specialist.
Topics covered in the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) exam:
- Mobile devices: This topic covers the basic concepts of mobile device hardware, software, and network connectivity. It includes mobile device setup and configuration, mobile operating systems, mobile device security, and mobile device troubleshooting.
- Networking: This topic covers the fundamentals of networking, including networking devices, network protocols and services, wireless networking, network troubleshooting, and network security.
- Hardware: This topic covers the basic concepts of computer hardware, including PC components, storage devices, input and output devices, and peripheral devices. It also covers the installation, configuration, and maintenance of hardware components.
- Virtualization and cloud computing: This topic covers the basic concepts of virtualization and cloud computing, including virtual machines, virtual storage, virtual networking, cloud computing models, cloud storage, and cloud-based applications.
- Troubleshooting: This topic covers the troubleshooting process and techniques used to diagnose and solve hardware, software, and network problems. It includes the use of diagnostic tools and procedures, troubleshooting best practices, and customer support skills.
The Core 1 exam is designed to assess the foundational knowledge and skills required for entry-level IT support roles. By passing this exam, candidates can demonstrate their understanding of these essential topics and their ability to apply them in a real-world setting.
The topics covered in the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) exam are given below:
- Operating systems: This topic covers the installation, configuration, and management of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems. It includes file systems, system utilities, command-line tools, and system recovery procedures.
- Security: This topic covers the essential principles of security and risk management, including physical security, network security, and data security. It also covers common security threats and vulnerabilities, security best practices, and incident response procedures.
- Software troubleshooting: This topic covers the diagnosis and resolution of software-related issues, including common software errors, application compatibility issues, and malware infections. It also covers the use of diagnostic tools and procedures for troubleshooting software issues.
- Operational procedures: This topic covers the best practices and procedures used in IT operations, including change management, disaster recovery, and backup procedures. It also covers the basics of scripting and automation, IT governance, and regulatory compliance.
The Core 2 exam builds on the foundational knowledge and skills covered in the Core 1 exam and focuses on more advanced topics related to IT support and maintenance. By passing both exams, candidates can demonstrate their proficiency in a wide range of IT concepts and techniques and qualify for a variety of entry-level IT support roles.
Q: What is CompTIA A+ certification?
A: CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification for IT professionals who want to start a career in IT support. It covers a broad range of IT concepts and techniques, including hardware, software, networking, and security.
Q: What are the requirements for getting CompTIA A+ certified?
A: There are no formal prerequisites for taking the CompTIA A+ exams. However, it is recommended that candidates have at least six months of experience in an IT support role or equivalent training.
Q: How many exams are required to earn CompTIA A+ certification?
A: CompTIA A+ certification requires passing two exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102).
Q: What are the topics covered in the CompTIA A+ exams?
A: The CompTIA A+ exams cover a wide range of topics, including hardware, software, networking, security, troubleshooting, and operational procedures.
Q: How much does the CompTIA A+ exam cost?
A: The cost of each exam is $226 USD. However, some organizations may offer discounted exam vouchers or exam bundles.
Q: How long does CompTIA A+ certification last?
A: CompTIA A+ certification is valid for three years from the date of certification. After three years, individuals must renew their certification by earning continuing education units (CEUs) or retaking the exam.
Q: What are the benefits of getting CompTIA A+ certified?
A: CompTIA A+ certification can help individuals start a career in IT support and demonstrate their proficiency in a wide range of IT concepts and techniques. It can also improve job prospects, increase earning potential, and provide a foundation for advanced IT certifications.
Q: How can I prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams?
A: There are various resources available to help individuals prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams, including study guides, practice exams, online courses, and in-person training. Candidates can also gain hands-on experience by working in an IT support role or setting up their own computer systems for practice.
Q: What is the exam format for CompTIA A+ certification?
A: The exam format for each Core exam is a maximum of 90 questions in multiple-choice and performance-based formats. The exam duration is 90 minutes.
Q: What is the passing score for CompTIA A+ certification exams?
A: The passing score for each Core exam is 675 on a scale of 100-900.
Q: How long does it take to prepare for CompTIA A+ certification exams?
A: The preparation time varies from person to person, depending on their prior knowledge and experience. It may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare adequately.
Q: What job roles can I apply for after earning CompTIA A+ certification?
A: After earning CompTIA A+ certification, you can apply for various entry-level IT support roles such as Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support Technician, Field Service Technician, Technical Support Specialist, and IT Support Administrator.
Q: Can I take the CompTIA A+ exams online?
A: Yes, you can take the exams online using Pearson VUE’s OnVUE online proctoring service.
Q: Can I earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to renew my CompTIA A+ certification?
A: Yes, you can earn CEUs by participating in various activities such as attending webinars, taking courses, or publishing IT-related content. You need to earn 20 CEUs every three years to renew your certification.
Q: Is CompTIA A+ certification recognized globally?
A: Yes, CompTIA A+ certification is recognized globally and is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the foundational skills required for an IT support career.
Q: How does CompTIA A+ certification differ from other entry-level IT certifications?
A: CompTIA A+ certification covers a broad range of IT concepts and techniques, making it a comprehensive certification that is widely recognized in the IT industry. Other entry-level IT certifications may focus on specific vendor technologies or areas of IT expertise.
Q: Can I take the CompTIA A+ exams in languages other than English?
A: Yes, the exams are available in several languages other than English, including Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean.
Q: Is it necessary to earn both Core 1 and Core 2 exams to earn the CompTIA A+ certification?
A: Yes, you need to pass both the Core 1 and Core 2 exams to earn the CompTIA A+ certification.
Q: Can I earn college credit for CompTIA A+ certification?
A: Yes, some colleges and universities offer college credit for CompTIA A+ certification. You should check with your institution to see if they offer this option.
Q: Can I use CompTIA A+ certification as a prerequisite for other certifications?
A: Yes, CompTIA A+ certification can serve as a prerequisite for some other CompTIA certifications, such as CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+.
Q: Are there any prerequisites for taking the CompTIA A+ exams?
A: No, there are no prerequisites for taking the CompTIA A+ exams. However, it is recommended that you have at least 9-12 months of hands-on experience in the IT support field.
Q: How long is the CompTIA A+ certification valid?
A: The CompTIA A+ certification is valid for three years from the date of certification. You can renew your certification by earning 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or retaking the exam.
Q: Can I take the CompTIA A+ exams at a testing center?
A: Yes, you can take the exams at a Pearson VUE testing center.
Q: How much does it cost to earn CompTIA A+ certification?
A: The cost of each Core exam is currently $226 USD. You can find more information about pricing on the CompTIA website.
Comptia A+ Certification preparation resources: