CompTIA A+ Explained: What It Is, Who It’s For, and What Jobs It Unlocks

Want to start your IT career? CompTIA A+ certification has helped over one million IT professionals build their careers. This industry-standard credential verifies the skills you need for entry-level IT jobs and prepares you for many opportunities in the tech field.

The CompTIA A+ certification requires passing two exams that test your knowledge of troubleshooting various issues. These cover networking, operating systems, mobile devices, and security. The certification works best for professionals who want to begin their tech journey with 9-12 months of hands-on experience or equivalent training. Your career prospects look promising with this credential. Technical support specialists earn an average of $49,072, while system support specialists can earn up to $71,530. Help desk technicians make around $51,019, which makes CompTIA A+ a smart investment for your future.

This piece will show you what the CompTIA A+ certification covers and who should get it. You'll learn how to prepare well and what jobs become available after certification. We'll walk you through the exam structure and guide you on next steps after getting this foundational credential.

What is CompTIA A+ Certification?

CompTIA A+ certification builds a strong foundation if you want to pursue a career in information technology. This certification, which is accessible to more people, verifies the significant skills employers need for essential IT support roles in industries of all types.

Definition and purpose of the certification

You earn the CompTIA A+ certification by passing two exams that IT industry professionals created to verify skills needed for entry-level IT positions. The certification goes beyond simple PC repair knowledge, contrary to what some might think.

CompTIA A+ covers a complete range of technical areas such as hardware, software, networking, troubleshooting, security, mobile devices, and virtualization. The certification shows you know how to troubleshoot and remotely diagnose common software, hardware, and connectivity issues.

This credential gets you ready to support today's hybrid workforce environments and tackles the growing use of SaaS applications and virtualization technologies. The certification also recognizes both your theoretical understanding and how you apply that knowledge in ground scenarios.

Core 1 teaches hardware, networking, mobile devices, and hardware troubleshooting fundamentals. Core 2 lets you take a closer look at operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. These exams work together to test if you're ready to handle the challenges in modern IT support environments.

Why it's considered the industry standard

CompTIA A+ has become the way to measure success when starting an IT career, and with good reason too. The certification appears in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential. Nine out of ten employers say certifications are vital to finding the right person for technical positions.

Employers worldwide trust this certification because it holds ISO/ANSI accreditation status. Certified professionals can confidently look for opportunities across international boundaries.
Companies like Intel, Dell, Ricoh, Nissan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and HP actively seek candidates with CompTIA A+ certification during hiring. The International Data Corporation's (IDC) research shows 96% of HR managers use IT certifications to screen or hire candidates.
Your CompTIA A+ certification puts you among more than one million IT professionals who built their careers on this credential. This large community shows the certification's lasting value and acceptance in the industry.

IT-certified professionals often get promotions more frequently than their non-certified colleagues. This shows how the certification helps advance careers beyond entry-level roles.

What is CompTIA A+ vs. Tech+

CompTIA offers two entry-level certifications that serve different purposes: A+ and Tech+ (formerly the ITF+ or IT Fundamentals).

A+ needs more technical knowledge and hands-on experience than Tech+. The certification works best if you have practical experience or advanced understanding of computers and networks. You'll learn practical, hands-on skills needed for IT operational roles and technical support.

Tech+ serves as a "pre-career" certification that teaches simple IT concepts and terminology. This certification works best if you:

• Want to see if IT is the right career path
• Need a broad introduction to IT as a non-IT professional

While Tech+ isn't required before taking the A+ exam, CompTIA strongly suggests it for those starting their first IT training. Learning basic terminology and concepts through Tech+ helps you focus on technical skills during A+ studies instead of learning both at once.

A+ holders typically work as helpdesk technicians, desktop support analysts, or field service technicians. The certification creates opportunities for advanced certifications and IT roles. Job postings rarely ask for Tech+ alone for technical support roles.

Think about your current knowledge level to choose the right certification. Tech+ makes sense if you're new to IT. A+ might work better if you already understand the basics and have some practical experience.

Who Should Consider CompTIA A+?

The CompTIA A+ certification is a starting point for professionals at different stages of their IT career trip. This industry-recognized credential proves your technical skills and opens doors to many opportunities in the tech world.

Career starters and students

Your first steps into IT can start with CompTIA A+. The certification doesn't require prior IT experience, which makes it available to beginners. Students and fresh graduates who want to enter the tech industry will find this perfect.

Employers see this credential as proof that you have the basic skills needed for entry-level IT positions. CompTIA A+ shows up in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential, which improves your chances of getting that first tech job by a lot.

Students can add practical skills that employers value to their academic knowledge with this certification. You'll get hands-on experience with hardware, software, and troubleshooting as you prepare for the exams. These skills apply right away in ground scenarios.

Career changers from non-IT backgrounds

Changing to an IT career from a different field might look tough, but CompTIA A+ makes this switch easier. The certification gives you a clear path to build skills that employers want. With the right focus, you can switch to an IT career within 6-12 months.

Career switchers will be glad to know that many IT roles just need skills and certifications instead of formal degrees. Your current work experience matters, soft skills like problem-solving and communication work great with the technical knowledge you'll get through certification.
Many professionals who work in stressful, physically demanding jobs that aren't meeting their needs find new purpose by moving into IT. IT careers often come with relaxed stress levels, a feeling of achievement, better work-life balance, and clear growth paths.

Big companies like Wipro, TCS, Infosys, Capgemini, and Cognizant keep taking on candidates without IT backgrounds who have the right certifications. The certification becomes your proof of skill when you don't have formal IT education.

IT support staff proving their skills

IT professionals can use A+ certification to verify their expertise and grow their skill set. This official recognition of your abilities can make the difference when you're looking for promotions or new opportunities in the industry.

Employers value your commitment to growth when you get certified. IT industry experts of all sectors keep updating the certification, so your CompTIA A+ shows you meet today's employer standards.

Certification often brings better pay. Technical support specialists earn around $49,072, while system support administrators can reach $71,530. Help desk technician, technical support specialist, and desktop support administrator jobs often ask for this credential.

You should have about 9-12 months of hands-on work as an IT support specialist or similar training before taking the exams.

CompTIA A+ certification ended up being a smart investment in your professional future, whether you're starting in IT, switching careers, or proving your current skills. This credential builds the foundation for a rewarding technology career.

Understanding the CompTIA A+ Exam Structure

Getting your CompTIA A+ certification means passing two different exams. Each exam has its own format and topics. A good understanding of what you'll face on test day can substantially boost your confidence and help you prepare better.

Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202)

CompTIA A+ certification needs two mandatory exams: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). These exams are part of the V15 version, which launched on March 25, 2025. Keep in mind that you must take both Core 1 and Core 2 exams from the same version - you can't mix different versions.

Each exam tests different skills IT support professionals need. We focused Core 1 on:

• Mobile Devices (15% of the exam)
• Networking (20%)
• Hardware (25%)
• Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%)
• Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (29%)

Core 2 exam covers:

• Operating Systems (31%)
• Security (25%)
• Software Troubleshooting (22%)
• Operational Procedures (22%)

These percentages show how many questions you'll see from each topic. This helps you plan where to spend more time while studying.

Types of questions: multiple choice and PBQs

Both CompTIA A+ exams have up to 90 questions. Questions come in different formats but fall into two main types:

Multiple-choice questions make up most of the exam. Some questions have just one right answer, while others need you to pick several correct options.

Performance-based questions (PBQs) test your hands-on skills. PBQs put you in simulated environments where you solve real-world problems. You might set up networks, configure email settings, or fix computer issues - tasks you'd handle in an actual IT job.

PBQs show up at the start of your exam, usually 3-6 of them. These questions take longer than multiple-choice ones. Many successful test-takers skip PBQs at first and come back after finishing the quicker multiple-choice questions.

Passing scores and time limits

You get exactly 90 minutes for each exam. Smart time management matters here, especially with different question types. Most people spend 5-10 minutes per PBQ and about a minute on each multiple-choice question.

To get your CompTIA A+ certification, you need these minimum scores:

• Core 1 (220-1201): 675 out of 900 points
• Core 2 (220-1202): 700 out of 900 points

Scores range from 100-900, and each correct answer adds points based on its weight. This scaled scoring keeps things fair across different exam versions.

Your certification stays valid for three years before you need to renew it. Understanding how these CompTIA A+ exams work helps you create a better study plan and tackle the tests with confidence.

What Topics Are Covered in the Exams?

CompTIA A+ exams check your technical skills in ten different areas. A good grasp of each exam's content will help you plan your study time and identify where you need more practice.

Core 1: Mobile devices, networking, hardware, cloud

Core 1 (220-1201) checks your skills in five main areas. Mobile devices make up 13% of the exam. You'll need to know about hardware installation, setting up accessories, network configuration, and fixing mobile connection problems. The exam tests how well you work with parts like batteries, cameras, Wi-Fi antennas, and connection types such as Bluetooth and NFC.

Networks take up 23% of Core 1. You'll need to know about protocols, ports, SOHO networks, and network tools. This part tests your understanding of IP addressing, VPNs, and tools like crimpers and Wi-Fi analyzers.

The hardware section takes 25% of the exam. It focuses on installing components, working with cables and connectors, managing peripherals, and configuring motherboards. You'll show how well you can install RAM, CPUs, storage devices, and work with different cables like HDMI and Ethernet.

The virtualization and cloud computing part (11%) has questions about virtual machines, hypervisors, and cloud services like IaaS, SaaS, and PaaS.

Hardware and network troubleshooting fills the final 28% of Core 1. This section tests how well you can diagnose and fix hardware and connection issues.

Core 2: Operating systems, security, troubleshooting

Core 2 (220-1202) has four main parts. Operating systems take up 28%. This section tests how well you can install and use Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems. You'll show your skills with Windows tools like Task Manager, Command Prompt, and Disk Management.

Security also takes 28% of the exam. You'll need to know about encryption, access controls, wireless security protocols, and stopping malware. This part grows more important as cybersecurity becomes vital in IT jobs.

Software troubleshooting fills 23% of Core 2. You'll learn to diagnose and fix problems with operating systems, applications, mobile devices, and security issues. Questions might ask you to solve common error messages or performance problems.

Operational procedures and best practices

The last part takes 21% of Core 2. It covers how IT professionals should work. You'll learn about documentation, safety rules, communication, and backup/recovery processes.

This section tests several areas: documentation methods, change management, workstation backup and recovery, safety procedures, environmental impacts, and professional communication.

Start by checking the exam objectives on CompTIA's official website to understand what you'll face. Then create a study plan based on each domain's percentage. Spending more time on bigger sections like hardware troubleshooting (28%) makes more sense than spreading your time evenly.

How to Prepare for the CompTIA A+ Certification

Getting ready for your CompTIA A+ certification just needs good planning and the right resources. Your best path depends on how you learn, your schedule, and your budget. Here's how you can prepare yourself to succeed on exam day.

Self-study vs. instructor-led training

Self-study gives busy professionals complete flexibility. You can learn at your own pace, go over tough concepts multiple times, and study whenever it works for you. A well-laid-out study plan is vital if you pick this option. Block specific daily or weekly study hours and find a quiet space to increase efficiency.

Instructor-led training offers a more organized learning experience with expert guidance. CompTIA Live Online Training brings classroom learning to your home, with immediate support from industry professionals. These interactive sessions connect you with instructors and other students while you enjoy remote learning convenience.

Each method offers clear advantages:

• Self-study benefits: Economical solutions, flexible scheduling, self-paced learning
• Instructor-led benefits: Organized curriculum, expert guidance, interactive Q&A sessions

Self-study students can access CompTIA's self-paced study guides through login.comptia.org after buying an access key. These guides give you complete resources and practice activities to monitor your progress.

Students in instructor-led training use learn.comptia.org to watch videos, take assessments, and track their skills through a Strengths and Weaknesses dashboard.

Recommended study hours and experience

CompTIA suggests 9-12 months of ground experience in lab or field settings before taking the A+ exams. With focused study, you can prepare well even with less hands-on experience.
Most people who pass spend three to four months studying for the CompTIA A+ exams while putting in 10-15 hours each week. Your timeline might differ based on what you already know and how fast you learn.

These strategies will help you study better:

1. Check all exam objectives really well
2. Mix different learning resources (textbooks, videos, labs)
3. Take practice exams regularly to check progress
4. Spend extra time on areas where you're weakest

Ground experience improves your preparation substantially. Building a test lab with simple equipment like a desktop computer, monitor, and networking components helps if possible. Working with actual hardware strengthens theoretical concepts and builds your confidence for performance-based questions.

Using Crucial Exams 220-1201 and 220-1202 practice tests

Practice tests are vital to pass the exam. Crucial Exams offers complete practice tests for both 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams that match the actual certification format.

These practice exams help you:

• Get familiar with question types, especially performance-based questions (PBQs)
• Find knowledge gaps where you need more study
• Build confidence and improve time management
• Experience real exam conditions beforehand

Crucial Exams practice tests include multiple-choice questions and performance-based scenarios that mirror the actual exams. Regular practice reinforces key concepts through active recall, one of the best ways to remember long-term.

Note that CompTIA A+ exams have two question types: traditional multiple-choice and performance-based questions. PBQs test your practical abilities in simulated environments, not just theoretical knowledge.

Your choice between self-study or instructor-led training matters less than consistent practice and preparation. The best approach is the one that matches your learning style and guides you to certification success.

How Much Does It Cost and How to Take the Exam

CompTIA A+ certification demands financial commitment and hands-on preparation to pass the exams. You should know the costs and testing choices before scheduling your exams.

Exam voucher pricing and discounts

The exact costs will help you plan your budget. Each CompTIA A+ exam costs $265 per voucher. You'll need to invest $530 total since certification requires passing both Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) exams.

Exam vouchers let you schedule and take the certification exam. These vouchers last 12 months from purchase, so plan your study schedule. Expired vouchers can't be extended under any circumstances.

CompTIA offers several options to help cut costs:

• Basic voucher: Just the exam ($265 per exam)
• Voucher + retake: Gives you a safety net if you don't pass first time
• Training bundles: Come with study materials and exam vouchers

Failed attempts mean buying another voucher.

Online vs. in-person testing options

You can take your exams online or at a testing center. The cost stays the same whatever method you pick.

Online testing lets you take your exam from home or any quiet spot. The service runs 24/7, and works best if you:

• Want flexible scheduling
• Have a quiet, private space
• Own reliable equipment
• Don't want to travel

In-person testing at Pearson VUE centers might suit you better if you:

• Don't have a private, quiet space
• Have unreliable internet
• Face language challenges
• Feel better in a structured environment

Most people choose testing centers because they offer controlled conditions with fewer tech issues. Pearson VUE's worldwide network makes finding a nearby center simple.

System requirements for online exams

Online testing needs specific technical setup:

• Testing space: A quiet, private room where you can work alone
• Operating system: Windows 11/10 (64-bit) or macOS 10.15+
• Hardware: Single display screen only (multiple monitors not allowed)
• Camera: Webcam with minimum resolution of 640x480 @ 10 fps
• Audio: Working speakers and microphone (no headsets)
• Internet: Stable connection with minimum 6 Mbps download/3 Mbps upload

Test your system before exam day to check all requirements. This helps you spot any tech problems early.

Let others know about your exam schedule and close unnecessary programs to avoid interruptions.

What Jobs Can You Get with CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ certification opens up many career opportunities. Employers actively seek professionals with skills validated by this credential for several entry-level IT positions.

Help desk technician

Help desk technicians play a vital role in providing technical support to computer users. They solve computer issues, install software, and guide users through IT problems. These professionals connect with customers through phone, email, and live chat.

The job market shows 47,000+ listings in the U.S. in the last 12 months. Help desk technicians make a median salary of $53,000 annually. Job projections through 2030 indicate 228,000 positions.

The role involves hardware and software troubleshooting, data backups, and remote technical support.

IT support specialist

IT support specialists take charge of installing and maintaining computer networks for organizations. They handle complex tasks beyond simple troubleshooting, such as configuring computer systems, hardware, software and peripherals like printers and scanners.
These professionals earn an average of $56,484 yearly, which exceeds help desk role salaries. The field remains strong with 194,000+ U.S. job postings in the last year.

Field service technician

Field service technicians bring technical support directly to client workplaces. They travel to customer sites to install hardware, run diagnostic tests, and fix technical problems face-to-face.
The national average salary stands at $57,088 per year. Success in this role requires both technical expertise and strong customer service skills since technicians work directly with clients.

Desktop support administrator

Desktop support administrators maintain computer hardware and software systems. Their work involves troubleshooting technical issues, managing user accounts, and backing up critical data.
UK-based professionals in this role earn around £26,800 yearly. The job includes software installation, device troubleshooting, and teaching users simple IT skills.

Associate network engineer

Associate network engineers support senior engineers with network installation, maintenance and troubleshooting. This position offers growth opportunities beyond standard support roles.
Yes, it is reflected in their higher average salary of $98,097 per year. The job focuses on supporting network infrastructure, implementing security measures, and deploying systems that keep organizations connected.

What Comes After CompTIA A+?

Getting your CompTIA A+ certification is just the start of your IT experience. You'll need to maintain your credentials and possibly get additional certifications to grow in your career.

Renewal and continuing education

Your CompTIA A+ certification stays valid for three years from when you get certified. You have several ways to keep your certification active:

• Complete a CompTIA CertMaster CE course (this covers your CE fee)
• Pass the latest version of the A+ exam
• Get a higher-level CompTIA certification
• Earn enough Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through approved activities

Here's some good news - if you have multiple CompTIA certifications, you only need to meet renewal requirements for your highest certification level.

Advanced certifications: Network+, Security+

Network+ is a natural next step after A+. It moves from user devices to core system connections. The certification shows you can design, configure, and fix networks, skills you need before diving into security certifications.

Security+ builds on what you learn in Network+. You'll learn about cybersecurity concepts like threats, access control, and cryptography. These certifications help you progress along CompTIA's Cybersecurity Career Pathway.

Building a long-term IT career path

CompTIA's career paths fall into three experience levels:

• Specialist: Early-career (0-2 years)
• Professional: Mid-level (2-5 years)
• Expert: 5+ years of experience

After A+, you can take two main paths: Infrastructure (adding Network+, Security+, Server+, Linux+) or Cybersecurity (adding Network+, Security+, CySA+).
Need more exam prep?

Conclusion

CompTIA A+ is the life-blood certification to start or advance in the IT field. This industry-standard credential confirms vital skills in hardware, software, networking, troubleshooting, and security. The two-exam structure (220-1201 and 220-1202) tests both theoretical knowledge and practical abilities to give a complete picture of your IT readiness.
Students beginning their tech experience, professionals changing careers, and IT support staff seeking to validate their skills will find CompTIA A+ offers a clear path forward. The certification appears in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential, which shows its value to employers.

Success in both exams opens many career doors. Help desk technicians, IT support specialists, field service technicians, and desktop support administrators represent viable career paths with attractive starting salaries. This certification also serves as a stepping stone toward more advanced credentials like Network+ and Security+.
Good preparation leads to success. Self-study works well for independent learners, while instructor-led training provides structure and guidance. Practice tests from Crucial Exams for both 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams help you spot knowledge gaps and build confidence before test day.

The $530 investment for both exams might seem high, but the career opportunities and salary potential make CompTIA A+ worth every penny. You can choose between online and in-person testing options to find the setting where you'll perform best.

Your tech career begins here. CompTIA A+ certification builds the foundation for a rewarding, long-lasting technology career. More than a million IT professionals already hold this credential - take this first step, prepare well, and join their ranks in the ever-changing world of information technology.