CompTIA A+ Certification Overview

Importance of CompTIA A+ Certification

• One of the most popular IT certifications globally.
• Introduces individuals to IT and proves necessary skills for IT jobs.
• Often listed as a prerequisite in job postings.

About CompTIA

• Managed by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).
• Recognized as a large provider of vendor-neutral IT certifications.
• Members include manufacturers, resellers, training organizations, etc.
• Certifications recognized worldwide; exams available in multiple languages.

Instructor Introduction

• Instructor: James Messer
• Extensive experience in IT: supercomputer operations, hardware troubleshooting, networking, cybersecurity.
• Focuses on building training courses to help others gain or improve IT employment.

Overview of A+ Certification Exams

• Two main exams:
  1. 220-1101 (Core 1)
     • Domains Covered:
       • Mobile Devices
       • Networking
       • Hardware
       • Virtualization and Cloud Computing
       • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
     • Exam Duration: 90 minutes
     • Maximum Questions: 90
     • Passing Score: 675 (scale: 100-900)
  2. 220-1102 (Core 2)
     • Domains Covered:
       • Operating Systems
       • Security
       • Software Troubleshooting
       • Operational Procedures
     • Exam Duration: 90 minutes
     • Maximum Questions: 90
     • Passing Score: 700 (scale: 100-900)

Exam Details

• Both exams must be passed to obtain A+ certification.
• No time restriction between the two exams; order of exams can be reversed.
• Exams typically stay active for about 3.5 years after release.
• Verify retirement dates on the CompTIA website (comptia.org).

Exam Format

• Includes multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions.
• Performance-based questions may involve tasks at a command prompt, matching, sorting, drag and drop, etc.
• Familiarity with CompTIA exam objectives is crucial for success.

Study Recommendations

• Review CompTIA exam objectives (available on comptia.org) as a checklist.
• Supplement studies with video training courses and recommended books.
• Gain hands-on experience using personal equipment and labs available on professor messer’s website.
• Practice exams are advised to gauge knowledge retention.

Course Structure

• Videos are numbered according to CompTIA exam objectives to aid in navigation.
• Study methods can vary: either watching videos sequentially or jumping to specific topics.

Exam Day Preparation

• Familiarize yourself with the testing environment (test center or home setup).
• Ensure proper setup for online testing adhering to CompTIA rules.
• Arrive early at the testing location to reduce stress.

Time Management During the Exam

• Consider skipping difficult performance-based questions initially.
• Utilize the mark option for questions to revisit later.

Post-Exam

• Results will detail performance and topics missed.
• Training materials and resources available at professormesser.com, including closed captions and transcripts for videos.

Additional Resources

• Access to live study groups for A+, Network+, and Security+ certifications.
• Community support via Discord (available at professormesser.com).
• Event calendar for upcoming study groups available on the website.

Conclusion

• Best of luck in your A+ certification journey!
• All training materials are accessible for free without paywalls at professormesser.com.