CompTIA A+ Topic Breakdown: What You Actually Need to Know

CompTIA A+ stands as the gold standard that launches IT careers. Wondering what this certification actually tests? The exam reviews your knowledge of troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining computer systems, along with managing networks. Many employers consider this dual-exam certification a must-have since it validates your expertise in core IT domains.

You'll face two separate exams for the CompTIA A+ certification. Each exam contains up to 90 questions with a 90-minute time limit. The complete certification process involves answering a maximum of 180 questions that test your fundamental IT skills across multiple domains. Success requires scoring at least 675 out of 900 on the Core 1 exam and 700 out of 900 on the Core 2 exam.

The certification has been updated to align with the skills IT professionals need for supporting today's hybrid workforce. CompTIA A+ covers essential topics like hardware, software, networking, and IT support. This vendor-neutral certification focuses on universal IT knowledge instead of specific brand products. We'll break down both exams by domain in this piece, explore different question types, and help you understand the key study areas for CompTIA A+ certification success.

Understanding the CompTIA A+ Certification Structure

The CompTIA A+ certification tests your IT skills through two different exams. Unlike other CompTIA certifications that need just one test, this two-exam format gives you a full picture of your technical abilities.

Core 1 (220-1101) vs Core 2 (220-1102)

Each exam tests different IT knowledge areas. We tested hardware, networking, and mobile devices in Core 1. Core 2 tests your knowledge of operating systems, security, and software troubleshooting. This split helps evaluate both physical and logical IT components thoroughly.

CompTIA currently offers two versions:

• V14: Exam codes 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2)
• V15: Exam codes 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2)

V15 launched on March 25, 2025. V14 stays available until September 25, 2025 (in English) and December 19, 2025 (other languages).

Each exam has up to 90 questions with a 90-minute time limit. You'll need different passing scores: 675 out of 900 for Core 1 and 700 out of 900 for Core 2. Important note: Your exams must come from the same version series, you can't mix V14 and V15 exams.

What does the CompTIA A+ cover?

CompTIA A+ certification covers nine domains across both exams, giving you a detailed assessment of IT skills:

Core 1 Domains:

• Mobile Devices (13-15%): Hardware setup, accessories, network configuration
• Networking (20-23%): Protocols, ports, SOHO networks, tools
• Hardware (25%): Component installation, cables, peripherals, motherboards
• Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%): VMs, hypervisors, IaaS, SaaS, PaaS
• Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (28-29%): Diagnosing issues, using tools

Core 2 Domains:

• Operating Systems (28-31%): Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile OS installation
• Security (25-28%): Encryption, access controls, malware prevention
• Software Troubleshooting (22-23%): OS and application issues, mobile troubleshooting
• Operational Procedures (21-22%): Documentation, safety, backups

The latest version (V15) supports a hybrid workforce better. It puts more emphasis on cloud technologies, remote troubleshooting, SaaS applications, and IoT device security. The exam now includes simple AI and automation concepts, reflecting changes in the digital world.

Exam prerequisites and who should take it

The CompTIA A+ certification's accessibility makes it attractive. You don't need any mandatory prerequisites - no prior certifications, degrees, or formal training. There's no age limit, though CompTIA suggests candidates should be at least 13 years old.

While not required, 9-12 months of hands-on IT support experience helps. This could be from professional work or lab environments. Real-world experience builds the knowledge foundation you'll need for both exams.

This certification works best if you want to start an IT career, especially as:

• IT support specialist
• Help desk technician
• Technical support engineer
• Field service technician
• Network support specialist

New IT professionals usually need 3-4 months to prepare. Plan for about 120 study hours plus extra time for hands-on practice. Your effort will pay off - the CompTIA A+ certification appears in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential.

CompTIA A+ Exam Format and Question Types

Your test preparation strategy depends on how the CompTIA A+ exam is structured. The exam uses specific question formats to test what you know and how well you can apply it. Here's what you'll face on test day.

Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and PBQs

The CompTIA A+ exams test your IT knowledge and skills through three different question types:

• Multiple-choice questions make up most of both exams. You'll see two formats: single-response where you pick one answer, and multiple-response where you select two or more answers. The instructions tell you how many correct answers to choose for multiple-response questions.
• Drag-and-drop questions need you to match items or put them in the right spots. These questions show how well you understand the connections between IT concepts, components, and processes.
• Performance-based questions (PBQs) are the toughest part of the exam. These hands-on simulations put you in virtual environments that mirror ground scenarios. PBQs test your practical skills beyond what you know from books, which makes them a vital part of getting certified. You'll usually find most PBQs at the start of each exam. Each exam has 3-6 PBQs, but this number could go up to 10.

Tips for handling PBQs:

1. You can skip simulation PBQs and come back later, your progress stays saved
2. Use the "mark for review" feature if you want to check questions again
3. Plan about 5-7 minutes for each PBQ

Time limits and number of questions

Core 1 and Core 2 exams follow similar format rules. Each test gives you 90 minutes to answer a maximum of 90 questions. This works out to about one minute per question. Time management becomes key since different types of questions need different amounts of time.

Here's how to split your time:

• Multiple-choice questions: 30-45 seconds each
• Drag-and-drop questions: 1-2 minutes each
• Performance-based questions: 5-7 minutes per question

You can see the clock during multiple-choice sections but not during PBQs. Keeping track of your overall time is important. The exams let you move back and forth between questions, mark them to review later, and change your answers if you have time left.

New test-takers often don't realize how fast 90 minutes goes by. Taking practice exams helps build your speed and stamina for the real thing.

Scoring system: 675 and 700 out of 900

CompTIA scores both exams on a scale from 100 to 900 points. You need these scores to get A+ certified:

• Core 1 (220-1201): At least 675 points
• Core 2 (220-1202): At least 700 points

These scores roughly match 75% for Core 1 and 77% for Core 2. CompTIA keeps the exact scoring method private.

Questions get different point values based on how complex and important they are. PBQs usually give you more points than multiple-choice questions. The fewer PBQs on your exam, the more multiple-choice questions you'll see.

After the exam, you won't see which questions you got wrong. Instead, you'll get a list of exam topics where you need more work. This helps you know what to study if you need to retake the test.

You must pass both exams separately since there's no partial certification. You can't mix passing scores from different exam versions (like V14 and V15). The certification shows you can use what you've learned in ground situations, which explains why PBQs play such a big role in testing.

Core 1 Domain Breakdown: Mobile Devices and Networking

The Core 1 (220-1101) exam tests your technical skills in two vital areas. The first two domains make up 35% of the exam and are the foundations for hardware and troubleshooting sections that follow.

Mobile Devices (15%): Configuration and Troubleshooting

Mobile device topics take up 15% of the Core 1 exam, showing how much they matter in modern IT support roles. This domain splits into four main areas:

• Hardware/device replacement - You'll learn about seven types of hardware such as batteries, keyboards, hard drives, and wireless cards plus physical privacy components like biometrics
• Display components - Tests what you know about display types, Wi-Fi antenna placement, cameras, microphones, and touch screens
• Accessories and ports - Looks at connection methods, docking stations, and port replicators
• Network connectivity and application support - This is the biggest part, covering wireless/cellular data, Bluetooth, location services, and mobile device management

Email setup is a big part of this domain. You need to know how to set up both POP3 and IMAP protocols on iOS and Android devices. Cloud access setup shows up often too, with questions about Microsoft 365, iCloud, and synchronization options.

You'll face common troubleshooting scenarios like fixing black screens through soft and hard resets, solving app performance issues, dealing with battery life problems, and managing device temperature. To name just one example, see how a hard reset works differently on iOS (holding power and home/volume buttons for 10 seconds) versus Android devices (often removing the battery or using device-specific button combinations). This knowledge could make or break your exam success.

Networking (20%): Protocols, Devices, and SOHO Setup

The networking domain makes up 20% of the Core 1 exam, growing to 23% in newer versions of the certification. This part tests your grasp of networking basics plus hands-on implementation skills.

Network protocols are a major focus here. You should know common protocols like DHCP (UDP ports 67/68), DNS, LDAP (TCP/UDP port 389), SNMP, SMB, SSH (TCP port 22), and AFP (TCP port 548). Learning these port numbers helps you answer multiple-choice questions correctly.

Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) network setup is another key component. A single SOHO router does multiple jobs: it routes between internal and external networks, switches through multiple Ethernet ports, provides wireless access, and protects as a firewall.

SOHO configuration goes beyond basic setup. It involves IP addressing (usually through DHCP), DNS settings, speed/duplex configurations, wireless security setup, and IoT device integration. The exam tests how well you can configure wireless settings including channels, bands, SSID creation, and security modes like WPA2.

You'll need to know about network devices like routers (which decide where to send data based on destination IP addresses), switches (which forward traffic based on destination MAC addresses), access points, firewalls, cable/DSL modems, and NICs. You must identify the right devices for specific network needs and understand their setup options.

Hands-on labs combined with regular study materials work best to prepare for performance-based questions. Try using virtual network simulators or build your own SOHO network as part of your study plan.

Core 1 Domain Breakdown: Hardware and Virtualization

Hardware and virtualization make up more than a third of the Core 1 exam. These areas are the foundations of your CompTIA A+ knowledge base. They test your knowledge of physical components and your understanding of virtual environments that modern IT relies on.

Hardware (25%): Components, Storage, and Peripherals

Hardware topics are the largest portion of the Core 1 exam at 25%. This shows how physical component knowledge remains essential for IT support roles.

Storage devices are a key testing area. You'll need to know the difference between Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) with their spinning platters and actuator arms, and Solid State Drives (SSDs) that work without moving parts. Performance makes a big difference – traditional HDDs spin at either 5,400 RPM with 5.5 millisecond latency or 15,000 RPM with 2 millisecond latency. SSDs are much faster but typically cost more per gigabyte.

Storage interfaces are another important topic:

• SATA connections deliver 600 MB/second throughput
• NVMe (Non-volatile Memory Express) connections reach 4 GB/second throughput

Peripheral device knowledge covers several types:

• Output devices: displays, printers, projectors
• Input devices: mice, keyboards, touchpads
• Multi-function devices: scanners, copiers, AIO printers
• Specialty devices: barcode readers, signature pads, webcams

USB is the most common way these devices connect. The exam often asks about matching the right connectors to each device type.

Component installation is also a vital part of hardware testing. Questions typically cover:

• Motherboard form factors and connectors
• CPU architecture and sockets
• RAM installation (including SO-DIMMs for laptops)
• Cooling solutions

Virtualization and Cloud (11%): IaaS, SaaS, and VMs

The Core 1 exam dedicates 11% to virtualization and cloud computing. This reflects how important these technologies have become in IT.

These concepts are the building blocks of this section. You should know about:

• Virtual Machines (VMs): separate operating systems that run at the same time on one physical device
• Hypervisors: software that manages resource distribution between VMs
• Type 1 (bare metal) vs. Type 2 (hosted) hypervisors: Type 1 runs directly on hardware, while Type 2 runs on top of an operating system

Cloud computing models appear often in exam questions. The three main service models are:

• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Providers give you basic resources like virtual machines and storage. You handle the OS and applications.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS): Providers manage the platform and OS. You handle applications and data.
• Software as a Service (SaaS): Providers manage everything. You just use the software.

You'll also need to understand deployment models (public, private, hybrid) and cloud features like elasticity and shared resources.

The exam covers practical uses too. These include sandboxing for testing applications, running multiple operating systems at once through cross-platform virtualization, and using application virtualization for security. Questions about virtualization resource requirements also appear.

Core 1 Domain Breakdown: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

Hardware and network troubleshooting makes up 28% of the Core 1 exam at 28% of the content. This represents almost one-third of all questions. The heavy emphasis shows how often IT professionals deal with these challenges in real-life settings. Success comes from using systematic processes and understanding common problems.

Troubleshooting Methodology

The CompTIA A+ exam focuses on a well-laid-out, step-by-step way to solve technical problems. This method shows up in CompTIA certifications of all types. It proves valuable beyond just passing the exam:

1. Identify the problem - Get information from users, error messages, and log files. Write down symptoms, recent changes, and try to recreate the issue.
2. Establish a theory of probable cause - Create theories about what might be wrong based on your findings. Look at both obvious and hidden causes.
3. Test the theory - Check if your theory holds up through testing. This step often means examining hardware parts or using diagnostic tools.
4. Establish a plan and implement the solution - Build a systematic fix once you know the cause. Think over downtime needs, backup requirements, and possible complications.
5. Verify full system functionality - Check that your fix solved the original problem. Let users test it since they know best how things should work.
6. Document findings and outcomes - Write down the whole troubleshooting process, changes, and results. These notes help solve similar problems later.

Note that all exam questions in this domain start with troubleshooting scenarios. This makes the methodology vital to scoring well.

Common Hardware and Connectivity Issues

The exam tests how well you diagnose and fix hardware and network problems:

POST and Boot Issues: A computer's Power-On Self-Test (POST) checks vital components like CPU and memory first. Failed tests create beep codes that point to specific problems. You'll need vendor documentation to understand these codes.

Display Problems: Black screens usually mean video output has failed due to faulty video cards, bad cables, or monitor problems. Dim images need brightness/contrast checks. A black screen after Windows loads might need VGA mode to see if drivers are the issue.

Storage Device Failures: Storage devices making grinding noises signal they're about to fail. Hard drives often make clicking sounds. Slow performance points to failing drives or space running out. Missing drives need connection checks, BIOS setting reviews, and partition verification.

Temperature Issues: Things overheat because of fan/heat sink problems, dust buildup, or blocked airflow. Clean with compressed air, but blow dust away from internal parts.

Network Connectivity Problems: Network troubleshooting starts with checking Ethernet connection link lights. Then test step by step:

• Ping the loopback address (127.0.0.1) to check your IP stack
• Ping your local IP address to test network adapter
• Ping your default gateway to verify local network
• Ping external addresses (like 8.8.8.8) to confirm internet access

Wireless Issues: Wireless connections drop because of interference from microwaves, fluorescent lights, or signal problems. Switching channels on your access point might fix interference.

Core 2 Domain Breakdown: Operating Systems and Security

Core 2 of the CompTIA A+ certification focuses on software environments rather than hardware. Two major domains make up more than half of the exam content. These domains are vital to passing the exam.

Operating Systems (31%): Windows, Linux, macOS

The operating systems domain makes up almost one-third of the Core 2 exam content at 31%. This large percentage shows how much OS knowledge matters to IT professionals.

Windows takes center stage in the exam. You'll need to know management tools like Task Manager to monitor system resources, Command Prompt to execute text commands, and Disk Management to handle storage devices. The exam also covers Windows security, including User Account Control (UAC) that stops unauthorized system changes.

File systems are the foundations of this domain. Windows uses NTFS which offers these features:

• File and folder permissions
• File encryption through EFS
• Inheritance of permissions from parent objects

Linux knowledge is another vital component. This open-source operating system based on UNIX/POSIX powers many modern computing environments. You should know these simple command-line tools:

• File management: ls, cd, mkdir, cp, chmod
• System monitoring: ps, top
• Package management: apt-get, yum

The exam tests how well you can handle Linux package installation, manage dependencies, create simple shell scripts, and set file permissions.

MacOS gets equal coverage in the exam. You need to understand the Finder tool to manage files, System Settings to configure the system, and Time Machine to handle backups. MacOS uses these key file formats:

1. DMG (disk image) - common for software distribution
2. PKG (installer package) - works like Windows setup.exe
3. APP (application bundle) - looks like one file but contains many

The exam often includes questions about FileVault encryption and Apple ID management. Recovery options for all operating systems also appear frequently.

Security (25%): Threats, Permissions, and Tools

Security makes up 25% of the Core 2 exam. This reflects how vital security is in today's IT environments.

Malware is one of the biggest threats. Here are the common types:

• Viruses - self-replicating code that needs user action
• Worms - self-replicating without user input
• Trojans - malware disguised as legitimate software

Social engineering attacks pose a major security risk. These attacks target people instead of technology:

• Shoulder surfing - watching screens or keyboards directly
• Phishing calls - fake technical support calls
• Tailgating - following authorized staff into restricted areas

Zero-day attacks are especially dangerous. They exploit unknown vulnerabilities before patches become available. Regular system updates are your best defense against these threats.

Windows security uses different user account types. Administrators control everything in the system, standard users have limited access, and guest accounts (turned off by default) provide minimal access. Power Users get extra rights without full administrative control.

File system security depends on permissions. NTFS and share permissions work together - the most restrictive setting always wins. A user might have full NTFS access but if share permissions only allow reading, network access will be read-only.

BitLocker protects all Windows drive data, even if someone removes the drive from the computer. MacOS users get similar protection from FileVault.

Core 2 Domain Breakdown: Software Troubleshooting and Procedures

The last two domains of the Core 2 exam test your ability to fix software problems and keep IT operations running smoothly. Each domain makes up an equal part of the exam but requires different skills.

Software Troubleshooting (22%): Crashes, Errors, and Fixes

Software troubleshooting makes up 22% of the Core 2 exam. You'll need to diagnose and fix problems with operating systems and applications. A step-by-step approach works best when apps crash or operating systems act up.

Most troubleshooting starts with a device reboot. This simple fix often solves problems by clearing memory leaks and restarting services that aren't working right. Windows offers several other fixes too:

• Restarting individual services through Task Manager
• Running System File Checker (SFC) to verify and repair system files
• Using Windows Restore to revert to previous configurations
• Rebuilding damaged user profiles

Task Manager helps you spot apps that drain system resources when performance drops. Slow performance often happens when apps don't have what they need - check if they require specific CPU speeds, memory, or graphics capabilities.

Mobile device fixes cover connection problems, app issues, and battery life concerns. You'll also learn about security threats like unauthorized access and malware infections.

Operational Procedures (22%): Documentation and Safety

Operational procedures take up 21% of the Core 2 exam. This section covers how to document properly, follow safety rules, and handle recovery processes.

Good documentation forms the backbone of IT operations. Companies use central documentation systems that include:

• Network topology diagrams showing equipment layouts
• Knowledge base articles with common problems and solutions
• Security policies listing organizational requirements
• Compliance documentation for regulations like HIPAA or Sarbanes-Oxley

Ticketing systems help track user problems, set priority levels, and maintain the configuration database. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) provide step-by-step guides for common tasks, including templates for installations and incident reports.

Safety procedures protect people and equipment. Simple practices include:

• Cutting power before fixing equipment
• Using correct lifting techniques for heavy equipment
• Using the right fire extinguishers (never water/foam on electrical fires)
• Disposing of hazardous materials like batteries and toner safely

Automated workflows make change management easier through request routing, approval alerts, and document storage. This organized approach keeps everything running efficiently while maintaining proper records.

CompTIA A+ Study Resources and Preparation Tips

Your CompTIA A+ preparation needs smart planning and the right resources. A well-defined study path can help you pass the exam on your first attempt.

Using the official exam objectives PDF

The CompTIA exam objectives document will be your study foundation. You should download this free resource from CompTIA's website and review each section carefully. A simple system works best - use checkmarks for topics you know well, question marks for concepts needing review, and X marks for unfamiliar material. The Core 1 exam dedicates 28% to hardware troubleshooting, so you'll need extra time for this crucial section.

Practice tests and simulation labs

Practice tests help determine your exam readiness. CompTIA's CertMaster Practice gives you timed tests with performance-based questions that match the actual exam. This tool shows whether you answer questions quickly or need more time. You should take domain-specific quizzes right after completing each section. Full-length practice exams work best 3-4 weeks before your scheduled test date. CertMaster Labs provide virtual environments where you can build technical skills. These labs guide you through tasks that mirror workplace scenarios. ExamCompass offers free practice tests without signup requirements.

Recommended study duration and tools

Experience levels determine your study timeline. New learners usually need 60-80 hours per exam (120-160 total). People with some background typically spend 50-70 hours per exam. Experienced professionals might only need 10-20 hours per exam. The best approach involves 8-10 weekly study hours. Short, focused sessions work better than long marathon studies. A complete preparation package needs four key elements: quality videos, reliable textbooks, hands-on practice, and plenty of practice questions.

Conclusion

Getting your CompTIA A+ certification just needs a solid grasp of technical knowledge and practical skills. You'll need to pass two separate exams to get certified - Core 1 (220-1101/220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1102/220-1202). Each exam focuses on different areas and has its own passing requirements.

Core 1 exam checks how well you know mobile devices, networking, hardware components, virtualization, and physical system troubleshooting. Core 2 assesses your knowledge of operating systems, security practices, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. These nine domains create a strong foundation that will jumpstart your IT career.

Your study approach makes a big difference. CompTIA's official exam objectives should be your first step to create a well-laid-out study plan. You should divide your study time based on how much each domain is worth - hardware troubleshooting takes up 28% of Core 1, while operating systems cover 31% of Core 2. Practice tests from providers like Crucial Exams help you spot weak areas before exam day.

Hands-on practice becomes vital for success, especially when you have performance-based questions. Real-world experience with SOHO networks, OS installations, and hardware troubleshooting builds the practical skills needed for PBQs. Practice scenario-based questions from Crucial Exams’s CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 practice tests to develop the problem-solving mindset required during the actual exam.

CompTIA A+ certification is more than a credential - it's the industry standard for IT career beginners. This certification appears in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential. Your investment of 120-160 study hours will pay off. Once certified, you'll have confirmed skills in system troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, and network management - exactly what today's employers want in their tech professionals.