CompTIA is an organization that offers training and certification for IT professionals. CompTIA A+ certification is one of the more popular computer technician certifications, and it’s also one of the easiest to get.
If you’re interested in becoming a certified computer technician, this guide will give you everything you need to know about CompTIA A+.
A Quick Overview Of CompTIA
The CompTIA A+ certification is an entry-level credential in the IT industry. It’s designed to teach you how to use your computer and troubleshoot and maintain it.
CompTIA A+ was created by an independent non-profit organization called the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).
The certification has become one of the most popular vendor-neutral certifications because it allows users to work with multiple operating systems and hardware platforms without prior knowledge about those technologies.
What Is CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ certification is a vendor-neutral IT certification that is the foundation for all other CompTIA certifications. It’s an essential certification for computer technicians and a good starting point for a career in IT.
What does “A+” mean?
A+ stands for an Associate degree. The purpose of this designation was to make it easier for students to get their hands on an industry-recognized credential without having to go through another step, such as earning additional credits or taking advanced classes at school before getting their degree.
How To Get CompTIA A+ Certification?
You must pass the A+ certification exam to become a CompTIA A+ Certified Professional. The test is offered by Pearson VUE Testing Centers and can be taken at any of their locations worldwide.
You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, have at least nine months of experience in IT support, and be able to read, write and speak English fluently (for both written and spoken tests).
The current cost for an official CompTIA A+ certification exam is USD 215 (or GBP 125).
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Why Get An A+ Certification?
The A+ certification is a great way to show employers that you are serious about your career. In addition, it shows that you have the skills needed to be a computer technician, which can lead to higher salaries and promotions.
The certification also makes it easier for employers to find qualified employees willing to work long hours and stay late at night when necessary.
In addition, an A+ certification can help boost your resume so that recruiters will be more likely to interview you for IT (information technology) jobs.
What Are The Requirements For CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ certification is for people who want to work in computer support, IT, and IT service. This includes:
- Computer technicians who install, configure, and repair PCs.
- Helpdesk specialists who troubleshoot problems on a technical level.
- Helpdesk managers who manage the operation of a help desk team with responsibility for project planning and follow-through on service requests.
- Technical support engineers help end users troubleshoot software, hardware, and networking problems.
- IT project managers who plan and manage the implementation of new technology within an organization.
CompTIA A+ Training Courses
The following are some of the most popular CompTIA A+ training courses:
A. Coursera
This online resource offers over 200 certification-related courses, including in-classroom and online sessions. There are also self-paced tutorials for those who prefer to learn at their own pace.
B. Udacity
This platform offers a wide variety of courses on technology topics, from programming languages and software engineering basics to cybersecurity skills like penetration testing and ethical hacking techniques.
In addition, students can take an Introduction To Programming course or an Advanced Python Programming Course if they want more flexibility with their schedules while learning how to code.
Benefits Of CompTIA A+ Certification
CompTIA A+ Certification is an efficient way to get started in IT. If you have experience as a technician or support professional, then the CompTIA A+ certification will help you gain recognition from your peers and employers.
CompTIA A+ certification is also suitable for those who want to get their foot in the door with IT careers. Having this credential can help set you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs in any industry where technology plays an important role.
The CompTIA A+ certification is designed for IT technicians and support professionals with at least two years of hands-on experience. However, if you’re starting out, it can help you learn about the basics of IT and prepare for more advanced certifications.
What Is On the CompTIA A+ Certification Exam?
The CompTIA A+ certification exam is made up of 220 questions that you’ll need to answer correctly in order to pass.
The exam is multiple choice, and there are no other ways to score points on the test. You can take a free practice test online before your big day, but keep in mind that this will not count toward your score.
The total time taken for completing the CompTIA A+ certification exam varies based on how well prepared you were when starting out; however, most people estimate taking about 90 minutes per question.
There are no prerequisites required before applying for this certification—you don’t need any prior experience or training before taking it.
How To Study For CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ Certification is one of the most popular certifications in the IT industry. So if you want to get certified, you must know about the certification and how to prepare.
With the proper preparation, you can become a certified computer technician. The CompTIA A+ certification exam is one of the most popular exams among IT professionals, and it’s no wonder it tests your knowledge of hardware and software components; how to troubleshoot problems; and how to install, configure and support a system.
The first step towards becoming an A+ Certified Professional is getting an official CompTIA A+ Certification Guide and studying it thoroughly. The guide contains essential information such as exam objectives, knowledge areas covered on the exam, and more.
You can also use practice tests online or offline whenever needed, as well as read through other resources like blogs or articles written by experts in their fields which will help improve your understanding of various concepts related to this certification process.
You can join a course offered by one of many organizations providing training courses specifically designed for those who wish to earn their CompTIA A+ Certification title (or renew theirs).
You may also choose from self-study options where participants study independently but meet together periodically during class sessions where they discuss topics related to what has been covered so far during class time itself.
There are ways to prepare for this exam by attending seminars where instructors teach you everything from basic concepts to studying yourself at home for several hours each day until your brain starts hurting.
But, of course, whatever method works best for you depends on what type of learner/learner-as-a-whole person you are.
What Job Roles Should Take CompTIA A+ Exams?
CompTIA A+ Certification is for entry-level computer technicians, IT professionals, and students interested in computer repair and support. It’s also an excellent way to further your career if you want to work as an IT professional or technician.
Where Can I Get The Training And Preparation I Need To Pass The CompTIA A+ Exam?
There are a number of ways you can prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. For example, you may be able to find training and preparation courses online, in person at a local testing center or another resource center, or even through an independent study course.
However, if you have just one week to study and want to start as soon as possible, I recommend signing up for our Free Certification Course.
CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Question Types
There are several different question types you will see on the exam. The most common are multiple-choice, true or false, short answer, select all that apply, and fill in the blank.
If you’re not familiar with any of these question types, don’t worry! It’s easy to learn them all at once by taking a CompTIA A+ practice test online or using our free online courses (which include quizzes).
What Does The CompTIA A+ Exam Cover?
The CompTIA A+ certification test covers the following topics:
A. Hardware
This section includes questions about essential electronic components and systems. For example, you’ll learn how to identify and use cables, connectors, power supplies, and circuit boards. The exam also tests your knowledge of laptops and mobile devices (phones, tablets) by asking questions on these topics.
B. Software
In this section, you’ll learn how to;
- Install and configure operating systems like Windows 7 or Mac OS X; create folders.
- Copy files between folders.
- Open files with various types of applications such as word processors or spreadsheets
- Edit text documents using word processing programs such as Microsoft Word rather than simply typing directly into them—all while keeping track of changes made along the way.
C. Networking
When it comes to networking technologies like wireless access points/routers/switches, it doesn’t get much easier than this.
How Much Can I Make With CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ certification is a great way to start your career as a computer technician. Computer technicians with this certification can expect to make an average salary of $45,000 per year, with some earning more than double that amount.
The average salary for an A+ certified computer technician varies from country to country:
- In the United States, it’s about $50k.
- In Canada, it’s about $65k.
- In India, it’s about Rs 15 lakhs (15 million).
Some employers may require you to have additional qualifications, such as Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer or Cisco Certified Network Associate, before hiring you full-time as an IT professional. Still, these two certifications will not necessarily guarantee higher paychecks because they’re less competitive than A+.
CompTIA A+ Exam Center.
You can take the CompTIA A+ Exam at any Pearson VUE Testing Center. You must bring your valid ID, photo ID, and Social Security card (if you have one).
If you are taking the exam in person, you must ensure that your name is on the list of candidates who Pearson VUE has approved for this event. They will check this information before allowing anyone else into the test room.
How Difficult Is It To Get CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification that covers all aspects of installing, configuring, and troubleshooting personal computers. The exam will test your knowledge in installing and configuring a PC hardware platform, as well as troubleshooting common problems related to hardware components.
The exam is designed to be administered by Pearson VUE test centers worldwide. It costs $195 ($225 if you need it expedited). Still, there are no additional fees for taking it at an authorized Pearson VUE testing center or through another testing service provider such as Prometric (which offers discounted prices).
The CompTIA A+ certification is valid for three years after passing it. However, suppose you pass within two years of obtaining your initial certification.
In that case, no further tests are necessary until after that period has elapsed — thus allowing you time to practice with other certifications before moving on again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Do You Need To Know To Get CompTIA A+?
There are no prerequisites for either of these exams. CompTIA does mention that it is helpful to have nine to twelve months of experience working as an IT support specialist, but this is not mandatory. More than enough accounts of people who passed this exam without any prior work experience.
Is the CompTIA A+ Exam Hard?
Again, this is a subjective question. If you come from virtually zero IT experience, you may find preparing for the CompTIA A+ exam harder than some.
Can A Beginner Take CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ and other basic certifications will prepare you for a basic IT position. But the value of the certification does not end there. A whole world of certifications can help you build your career and expand your horizons as you continue into the higher levels of the IT profession.
How Hard Is The CompTIA A+ Exam?
Actually, CompTIA A+ is not difficult because many can pass it, and it is known as the easiest IT certification. It may be difficult for first-time certification exam takers but more accessible for those with basic IT knowledge. It covers topics at a basic level.
How Long Should One Study For The CompTIA A+?
If you work or attend school full time, plan to spend at least one year working toward CompTIA’s A+ certification.
How Long Does the CompTIA A+ Certification Last?
Your CompTIA A+ certification is good for three years from the date you pass your certification exam.
Is CompTIA A+ Enough To Get A Job?
There are many advantages to having a CompTIA A+ certification under your belt, and simply earning the certification is often considered sufficient to be hired for an entry-level IT position.
What Scoreline Do You Need To Pass A+?
675.
Is A+ Core One Or Core Two Easier?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (1001) exam focuses primarily on hardware and network troubleshooting.
Learners who took the beta exam said it was the easier of the two exams. They noted the exam’s straightforward nature and focused on the basics that resembled the 900-series first exam.
Is CompTIA A+ Multiple Choice?
CompTIA A+ is an industry-wide, vendor-neutral certification program developed and sponsored by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). You achieve this certification by taking two computer-based exams consisting of multiple-choice and performance-based questions.
How Many Questions Will You Have On CompTIA A+?
You will never have more than 90 questions on this exam. There can be as few as 82 – 83 questions, but the maximum CompTIA allows itself on either A+ exam is 90.
Which A+ Exam Should I Take?
You can choose to take 1002 first, or you can take 1001 first. There is also no time limit between these exams.
Is CompTIA A+ Two Parts?
CompTIA A+ certification consists of 2 separate exams, 220-1001 and 220-1002, or 220-1101 and 220-1102.
How Long Does it Take to Get a CompTIA A+ Certification?
You can study and become certified in as little as eight weeks.
Conclusion
Having addressed all you need to know about CompTIA A+ certification, it is easy to see why it is a good starting point for anyone who wants to be a computer technician.
The most vital thing to do when preparing for the CompTIA A+ exam is practice, practice, and more practice.
This will help you learn the material so that your knowledge will be even more solid when you sit in front of an actual test.
Once you’ve completed all your studying and feel comfortable taking tests again at any Pearson VUE Testing Center location around town, it’s time to take the big step toward becoming certified.
