The CompTIA A+ certification is an “entry-level” program for IT technicians. It covers PC and laptop hardware, software installation, and computer and mobile operating system configurations. The A+ tests the candidate’s understanding of basic networking, troubleshooting, and security skills.
According to CompTIA, more than one million IT professionals hold the A+ certification. Dell, Intel and HP service technicians require A+ and are accredited by the US Department of Defense. CompTIA released the new “Core” exam for the CompTIA A+ certification on January 15, 2019. These new exams focus on operational procedure skills and baseline safety issues. Candidates must pass the Core 1 (Exam 220-1001) and Core 2 (Exam 220-1002) exams. The Core 1 exam targets virtualisation, cloud computing, mobile devices, hardware, networking technologies, and troubleshooting. The Core 2 exam focuses on operating system installation and configuring, troubleshooting software, operational procedures and security.
Why should I get CompTIA A+ certified?
CompTIA’s A+ certification is the top certification for associate-level IT professionals. This 100% online course will prepare you for CompTIA A+ certification exams 220-1001 and 220-1002. You will learn how to install and configure operating systems, extend IT security, troubleshoot software issues, and other standard operational procedures.
Course Objectives
-Learn installation, maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for most devices.
-Be fully prepared to sit for the CompTIA 220-1001 and 220-1002 certification exams.
Course Curriculum
- CompTIA A+ (220-1001)
- Introduction to CompTIA A+ Exam Section 220-1001
- hardware
- Desktop and laptop assemblies, motherboards, BIOS and processors
- Hardware Part II
- Troubleshooting cooling and power issues, maintaining and installing hard drives and storage.
- Networking
- General methods of network connection, router setup, TCP/IP and local networking
- Mobile and more
- Mobile Device Security and Virtualization
- CompTIA A+ (220-1002)
- Introduction to CompTIA A+ Exam Section 220-1002
- Windows
- Windows interface, command line and tools for remote desktop installation and maintenance
- problem-solving
- Fixing problems with the boot process, startup and reinstallation
- safety
- Best practices for protecting Windows from malicious software
- Mac and Linux
- Troubleshooting and maintenance of macOS and Linux operating systems
Benefits of Completing CompTIA A+ Certification Course?
Completing the 591lab CompTIA A+ online course will not only prepare you to get your foot in the door of any IT position, but it has many other benefits – especially when you earn your A+ certification. Some of these benefits include:
- Extensive and vendor-neutral knowledge – IT professionals who are A+ certified will have expertise in technologies found in many IT environments. Ability ranges from conventional machines to mobile devices and operating systems commonly used for both.
- Trusted by Employers – The most beneficial aspect of the CompTIA A+ certification is its employability. Employers of all types need IT professionals, within their companies and trust A+ certified professionals to maintain the operations of their computer systems.
- Global recognition – A+ certification is an internationally recognised standard endorsed by the US Department of Defense.
- Basic Skills Validation – A+ certified professionals master troubleshooting, security, and networking skills that prepare them for many IT careers.
What are the job titles in CompTIA A+?
According to CompTIA™, A+ certification is often associated with baseline or entry-level support positions such as service desk analyst, technical support specialist, field service technician, associate network engineer, data support technician, desktop support administrator, end-user computing technician, Help Desk technician, or system support specialist.
How to get a CompTIA A+ certification
You can prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam in several ways:
- Online instructor-led courses can prepare you for the exam.
- Community colleges in your area may offer preparatory courses.
- Self-study—learning through online videos or books without an instructor—can also work.
Whichever method you choose, CompTIA recommends dedicating 120 hours to preparing for the exam.
What jobs can I get with CompTIA A+ certification?
The CompTIA A+ certification is widely recognised as the go-to certification for entry-level positions in IT. Some entry-level jobs here often require CompTIA A+ certification and their average US salary (according to October 2021 data from Glassdoor).
- Help Desk Analyst: $44,436
- IT Technician: $46,744
- Help Desk Specialist: $44,586
- Technical Support Specialist: $48,836
- Desktop Support Administrator: $50,903
- System Support Specialist: $54,997
- Associate Network Engineer: $67,162
Remember that this number can vary depending on where you are—for example, IT jobs in big cities may pay more than in smaller towns to adjust for the cost of living. Other factors like your education level and previous experience can also affect your salary.
What’s next after the CompTIA A+?
For many IT professionals, CompTIA A+ is the first of many certifications in their careers. Since the A+ certification is pretty standard, you may choose to go into an IT specialisation such as networking, cybersecurity, or cloud computing. CompTIA offers more advanced certifications in these areas, like many other reputable organisations.
