CompTIA groups its certifications by specific skillsets, so they are currently categorized into 4 areas: Cybersecurity, Core, Infrastructure, and Additional Professional. To begin your journey with this company and its certificates, you can start with the Core group. These credentials are created to build core foundational skills. They include CompTIA A+, which is the badge that you should opt for first.It is focused on user support and device connectivity. Other certificates under this category are CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+. In this article, we will be discussing the first Core certification.
Detailed information about CompTIA A+ and some ways to get it
CompTIA A+ is a credential, which has been described by the vendor as an entry-level rite of passage for the IT technicians. This description perfectly fits what this certificate is and what it does. It is designed purposefully for those individuals who are seeking a career as a Networking Technician, a Service Center Technician, a Support Technician, or a Help Desk Technician. It covers laptop and PC hardware, software installation, as well as configuration of mobile and computer operating systems.
The A+ certification also tests the student’s understanding of basic networking, security, and troubleshooting skills. This is basically the knowledge that serves as the springboard for more advanced CompTIA security or networking credentials or the ones offered by other vendors.CompTIA reports that at least one million IT professionals are currently the holders of the A+ certificate. This badge is required for the Intel, HP, and Dell technicians. It is also recognized by the U.S. DoD (Department of Defense).
On January 15, 2019, CompTIA released new Core tests for A+. They provide extra focus on the baseline security and operational procedure competency topics. The applicants must pass the 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2) exams. Core 1 comes with mobile devices, virtualization, hardware networking technology, Cloud computing, and troubleshooting. On the other hand, Core 2 focuses on operational procedures, installation and configuration of operating systems, security, and troubleshooting software.
Both tests have a maximum of 90 questions and provide you with 90 minutes to complete them. For the first exam, you need to gain 675 points to get the passing score, and, for the second one, you have to earn more than 700 points. These two certification tests are available in Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai, and German, and the questions will be in the performance-based and multiple-choice formats. You can also face with drag and drop.
Preparation for the CompTIA A+ exams can take various forms as there are more than a few options available. Classroom training, e-Learning, and self-study are some of the most popular variants the learners opt for. There are different platforms that can provide useful prep resources, such as practice tests, books, exam dumps, and video tutorials that the students can use for free or by purchasing.
Conclusion
The CompTIA certifications do not necessarily focus on a single skill set such as virtualization or networking. Due to this fact, the holders of these credentials may find themselves in a range of job roles depending mainly on their knowledge and experience levels as well as their areas of interest. Typically, the specialists with CompTIA A+ usually find work in the support roles. They can work as Support Administrators, Support Specialists, or Support Technicians. Anyone who is eyeing any of these job tiles is an ideal candidate for the A+ certificate.
