CompTIA A+ Certification Guide 2026 | How To Get Comptia A Certification
CompTIA A+ Certification Guide | How To Get Comptia A Certification. CompTIA A+ certification validates entry-level skills in today’s essential IT domains, including network administration, information security, computer repair, software & operating systems, cloud computing, and troubleshooting of both desktops and mobile devices.
A+ can help you find a job in tech support or servicing computers but will not likely to help you find a job as a Java programmer. The CompTIA A+ certification is for those who are looking to begin their IT career journey. It demonstrates competence as an entry-level IT Technician.
Contents
How to get a CompTIA A+ certification
There are several ways you can prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. Whatever method you choose, CompTIA recommends 9 to 12 months hands-on experience in the lab or field and dedicating 120 hours to prepare for the test. The various way are:
- Community colleges in your area might offer preparatory courses.
- Online: instructor led-courses can prepare you for the exam.
- Self-study—learning through online videos or books without an instructor can also work.
A+ Certification Exams
You must pass the two CompTIA exams to become A+ certified. The current A+ exam versions are A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) and A+ 220-1102 (Core 2). The exam for the certification combines multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions.
- # of Questions: Exams 220-1101 and 220-1102 contain a maximum of 90 questions each.
- A+ Exam Cost: A+ test vouchers cost $246 USD per examination.
- A+ Exam Format: Multiple choice, Drag & drops, and Performance-based questions
- A+ Exam Duration: The time-limit for each A+ certification exam is 90 minutes.
- Passing Grade: 675 out of 900 for A+ Core 1 | 700 out of 900 for A+ Core 2.
Is a course required to receive A+ certification?
No. The certification exam actually consists of two tests, one focusing on core hardware technologies, the other on operating systems. People who already have experience with PC troubleshooting, or have a lot of self-motivation, self-study with a book about A+.
Why is CompTIA A+ certification a starting point to IT career
- A+ certification is globally recognized as the mark of a skilled entry-level technician.
- A+ certification is a mandatory hiring requirement for a variety of entry-level tech jobs.
- The A+ certification exam demands no prerequisites.
- A+ certification is a requirement or elective in the advanced certification paths of leading technology vendors, including Microsoft, Cisco, Novell, HP, and IBM.
- A+ certification introduces candidates to the essential IT domains.
CompTIA A+ vs. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)
- CompTIA offers two separate entry-level certifications, the CompTIA A+, and the CompTIA IT Fundamentals, or ITF+. They’re slightly different. The CompTIA A+ is billed as a certification that will test you on the knowledge needed to land an entry-level IT job.
- The ITF+, on the other hand, is designed for students and professionals who want to see if IT is the right career fit. The ITF+ exam is also used by non-IT professionals who want a broad introduction to the field.
What do you learn in an A+ certification program?
Domains for CompTIA A+ exam 220-1102
- Security: Identifying and protecting against vulnerabilities in both devices and network.
- Operational procedures: Best practices for safety, sustainability, communication, and professionalism.
- Software troubleshooting: Resolving issues with applications on PC and mobile devices, including security support.
- Operating systems: Installing and configuring Windows OS, and understanding Mac OS, Linux, and mobile OS.
Domains for CompTIA A exam 220-1101
- Networking: Types of networks and connections (TCP/IP, wifi, SOHO, etc.)
- Hardware and network troubleshooting: Solving issues with devices and networks.
- Virtualization and cloud computing: Comparing cloud concepts and setting up client-side virtualization.
- Hardware: Identifying, using, and connecting devices and hardware components.
- Mobile devices: Installing and configuring laptops and mobile devices.
Skills and knowledge areas measured by the A+ certification exam
The exam check if you:
- Can categorize and explain multiple types of data storage devices and backup media.
- an describe in detail the types and features of motherboard components.
- can install and configure input devices, e.g., keyboards, mice, bio-metric scanners and touch screens.
- can implement a variety of troubleshooting techniques to fix system errors and connectivity issues.
- know how to follow proper computer safety procedures and best practices.
- understand the basics of computer and mobile device hardware, software, networking and security.
- can identify PC hardware, peripherals and network components in a business environment.
- know how to configure and support mobile devices, PCs & Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
- can setup and manage popular operating systems inc. Windows, iOS, Android, Mac OS and Linux.
- have interpersonal communication skills to better interact with peers and customers.
Universities offering A+ Certification Training Degrees Programs
1. Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies – Master’s in Technology Management
Gain the business expertise and project management skills necessary to become an effective leader in the information technology field. The curriculum of Georgetown University’s online Master’s in Information Technology (IT) Management program focuses on integral business skills in addition to IT proficiencies and current industry issues.
2. Southern New Hampshire University – Online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
According to U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics 35% projected job growth for information security analyst occupations through 2031. Defend against cyberattacks and protect your organization’s data with your BS in Cybersecurity from Southern New Hampshire University. Median annual salary of $102,600 for information security analyst occupations. Includes Certification Preparation for: CompTIA A+, Network+ & Security+, TestOut Network Pro, Security Pro & Pro PC.
3. Capella University – Bachelor of Science in Network Technology: Cisco
Includes Certification Preparation for: CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Project+ & Linux+, Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching. Online programs range from individual courses to doctoral-level degrees, providing skills that are essential to every IT professional.
Recommendation
