CompTIA A+ Core 1 vs. Core 2: What's the Difference?

Want to jumpstart your IT career? The CompTIA A+ certification is a fantastic starting point. But here's the twist - A+ isn't just one exam, it's actually two tests you'll need to ace to earn your credential. Let's explore the key differences between Core 1 and Core 2 so you can prep like a pro.

The Basics

First up: you need to pass both the Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams to snag that coveted A+ certification. While they tackle different topics, both exams follow a similar format:

Up to 90 questions
90 minutes to complete
Mix of multiple-choice and performance-based questions
Taken through Pearson VUE (online or at a testing center)

Now, let's get into what makes each exam unique.

Core 1 (220-1101): Hardware

Core 1 is the "physical" exam. It focuses on the physical components and practical skills you'll need as an IT support pro. Key topics include:

Mobile devices
Networking
Hardware
Virtualization and cloud computing
Hardware and network troubleshooting

If you love tinkering with computer parts or setting up networks, you'll likely feel right at home with Core 1 material. This exam tests your ability to work with various hardware components. You'll also need to understand the basics of networking and how to troubleshoot common hardware issues.

Core 2 (220-1102): Software

Core 2 zeroes in on the "software side" of IT support. It tackles:

Operating systems
Security
Software troubleshooting
Operational procedures

This exam delves into installing and configuring operating systems (with a heavy emphasis on Windows), implementing cybersecurity best practices, and troubleshooting software problems. You'll also be tested on professional skills like documentation and change management.

Preparing for Success

While you can take the exams in any order, most people tackle Core 1 first. Here are some tips to help you prep for both:

Hands-on experience: Nothing beats real-world practice. Set up a home lab, volunteer, or look for entry-level IT work to gain hands-on skills.
Study materials: Get solid A+ study guides, practice tests, and video courses.
Focus your efforts: Core 1 requires more memorization of hardware specs and networking concepts. Core 2 leans towards scenario-based questions and troubleshooting skills.
Practice performance-based questions: Both exams feature simulations, so make sure you can apply your knowledge in practical scenarios.
Don't neglect soft skills: Core 2 touches on professional procedures, so brush up on documentation and customer service best practices.

Which Comes First?

It doesn't actually matter which order you pass the exams in, purely talking about obtaining the certification. You can do either first, and once you pass both you are officially CompTIA A+ Certified. Most people start with the Core 1, simply because that is how most training sources will handle it but if you feel the Core 2 would be easier for you based on the content it could be wise to start with that and get your feet wet with CompTIA's PBQs and often needlessly wordy and long question style. Generally if you are ensure, we recommend starting with Core 1 but that is entirely up to you!

Can You Mix Versions?

CompTIA regularly updates their exams (typically every 3 years) and when they do, there is about a year of overlap between the new and old versions. At the time we are writing this, there is only one version: the 1100 series (1101/1102) so there isn't much to discuss. However when CompTIA eventually releases the 1200 series, which would then be exam versions 220-1201 and 220-1202 for Core 1 and Core 2 respectively, you may ask yourself if you can take one of each and the answer is: You cannot mix different versions of the exam to get the CompTIA A+!

Here is a helpful table that illustrates this:

Core 1	Core 2	Result
220-1101	220-1102	You are A+ Certified!
220-1201	220-1202	You are A+ Certified!
220-1101	220-1202	You are not certified, as you passed the 1100 series Core 1 and the 1200 Core 2.

Note: The 1200 Series is not yet released, but is expected in the future. This is just an example.

The Bottom Line

While Core 1 and Core 2 tackle different aspects of IT support, they're two halves of the same certification. Mastering both the hardware and software sides will make you a well-rounded technician ready to take on real-world challenges.

Remember, you need to pass both exams to earn your CompTIA A+ certification. But with solid preparation and a good grasp of what each test entails, you'll be well on your way to launching your IT career.