Why CompTIA A+ Is the IT Career Launchpad
With over 10,000 active job postings requiring A+ certification, this credential is the universal entry point for IT careers. From help desk to systems administration, A+ proves you have foundational IT competency.
Who This Guide Is For
- Career changers entering IT without prior experience
- Recent graduates seeking first IT position
- Military veterans transitioning to civilian IT roles
- Self-taught technicians formalizing their skills
The Two-Exam Structure
CompTIA A+ requires passing two separate exams.
Exam 220-1101 (Core 1): Hardware & Networking
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Mobile Devices | 15% |
| Networking | 20% |
| Hardware | 25% |
| Virtualization & Cloud | 11% |
| Hardware Troubleshooting | 29% |
Exam 220-1102 (Core 2): Software & Operations
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Operating Systems | 31% |
| Security | 25% |
| Software Troubleshooting | 22% |
| Operational Procedures | 22% |
Exam Format (Both)
- 90 questions maximum
- 90 minutes per exam
- Performance-based questions + multiple choice
- Passing score: 700/900
Core 1: Hardware & Networking Deep Dive
Mobile Devices (15%)
Laptop Components:
- Memory and storage upgrades
- Display types (LCD, OLED)
- Input devices and expansion ports
- Battery management
Mobile Device Features:
- iOS vs. Android configuration
- Email and network setup
- Mobile synchronization
- Mobile security settings
Networking (20%)
Network Types:
- LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN
- Wired vs. wireless
- Client-server vs. peer-to-peer
TCP/IP Fundamentals:
- IPv4 addressing and subnetting
- Common ports (80, 443, 21, 22, 25, 53, 3389)
- DNS, DHCP, NAT
Networking Hardware:
- Routers, switches, access points
- Firewalls and modems
- Cable types (Cat5e, Cat6, fiber)
Hardware (25%)
Motherboard Components:
- Form factors (ATX, Micro-ATX, ITX)
- Expansion slots (PCIe)
- Connectors (SATA, M.2, USB headers)
Processors and Memory:
- CPU sockets and cooling
- RAM types (DDR4, DDR5)
- Compatibility considerations
Storage:
- HDD vs. SSD vs. NVMe
- RAID configurations
- Interface types
Power Supplies:
- Wattage calculations
- Connector types (24-pin, EPS, PCIe)
- Efficiency ratings
Virtualization & Cloud (11%)
Virtualization Concepts:
- Purpose of virtual machines
- Resource requirements
- Hypervisor types
Cloud Computing:
- IaaS, PaaS, SaaS models
- Public, private, hybrid clouds
- Cloud characteristics (elasticity, on-demand)
Hardware Troubleshooting (29%)
This is the largest domain. Master systematic troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting Methodology:
- Identify the problem
- Establish a theory
- Test the theory
- Establish a plan of action
- Verify functionality
- Document findings
Common Issues:
- Boot failures and POST codes
- Display problems
- Power issues
- Network connectivity
Core 2: Software & Operations Deep Dive
Operating Systems (31%)
Windows:
- Installation and upgrade paths
- Control Panel vs. Settings
- System utilities (msconfig, Task Manager)
- Command line tools (ipconfig, ping, sfc)
macOS:
- System Preferences
- Disk Utility
- Finder features
- Time Machine
Linux:
- Basic commands (ls, cd, grep, chmod)
- File system hierarchy
- Package management basics
Security (25%)
Physical Security:
- Access controls (badging, mantraps)
- Equipment security
- Physical locks
Logical Security:
- User authentication methods
- NTFS permissions
- Encryption (BitLocker, FileVault)
- Malware types and removal
Wireless Security:
- WPA2/WPA3
- SSID configuration
- MAC filtering
Software Troubleshooting (22%)
Windows Troubleshooting:
- Boot issues and recovery options
- Application crashes
- BSoD diagnosis
- Performance optimization
Browser and Application Issues:
- Cache and cookie problems
- Certificate errors
- Add-on conflicts
Operational Procedures (22%)
Best Practices:
- Change management processes
- Documentation importance
- Backup strategies (3-2-1 rule)
Safety:
- ESD prevention
- Proper lifting techniques
- Electrical safety
Professionalism:
- Communication skills
- Dealing with difficult customers
- Privacy and confidentiality
The 12-Week Study Plan
Weeks 1-2: Mobile & Basic Networking
- Laptop and mobile device components
- Network fundamentals
- TCP/IP basics
- 50 Core 1 practice questions
Weeks 3-4: Hardware Deep Dive
- Internal computer components
- Peripherals and connectors
- Printer technologies
- Build or disassemble a PC if possible
Weeks 5-6: Cloud, Virtualization & Core 1 Troubleshooting
- Cloud computing concepts
- VM basics
- Hardware troubleshooting methodology
- First Core 1 practice exam
Week 7: Core 1 Final Review & Exam
- Additional practice exams
- Weak area review
- Take Core 1 exam
Weeks 8-9: Operating Systems
- Windows installation and configuration
- macOS and Linux basics
- Command line proficiency
- 50 Core 2 practice questions
Weeks 10-11: Security & Software Troubleshooting
- Security concepts and implementation
- Malware identification and removal
- OS troubleshooting techniques
- Practice exam
Week 12: Operational Procedures & Core 2 Exam
- Best practices review
- Safety and professionalism
- Take Core 2 exam
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
Both exams include hands-on simulations.
Common PBQ Scenarios
Core 1:
- Configure wireless router settings
- Connect appropriate cables
- Configure mobile device email
- Troubleshoot network issues
Core 2:
- Use command line for troubleshooting
- Configure Windows settings
- Set up security parameters
- Partition and format drives
PBQ Strategy
- Skip initially. Complete multiple choice first
- Read all instructions. Missing requirements costs points
- Partial credit exists. Attempt everything
- Manage time. Don’t spend 20 minutes on one PBQ
Hands-On Practice Recommendations
If You Have Hardware Access
- Build a PC from components
- Disassemble and reassemble laptops
- Connect various cable types
- Configure a home router
If You Don’t Have Hardware
- Watch teardown videos
- Use TestOut or similar simulators
- Practice with virtual machines
- Configure VM networking
Operating System Practice
- Install Windows in a VM
- Explore Control Panel and Settings
- Practice command line tools
- Set up file permissions
Study Resources
Official Materials
- CompTIA CertMaster Learn + Labs
- CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide
Third-Party Resources
- Professor Messer’s A+ Course (free videos)
- Mike Meyers’ A+ Guide
- Jason Dion’s Practice Exams
Hands-On Labs
- TestOut PC Pro
- CompTIA Labs
- Home lab with spare hardware
Career Impact
Immediate Benefits
- Entry-Level Access: Help Desk, Desktop Support
- Salary Range: $35,000-$55,000 starting
- DoD Compliance: Meets IAT Level I requirements
Career Pathways After A+
Technical Track:
- A+ → Network+ → Security+ → CySA+
System Administration:
- A+ → Server+ → Microsoft certs
Specialization:
- Cloud: AWS/Azure certifications
- Security: Security+ → CISSP path
Common First Roles
- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Analyst
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Field Service Technician
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating the breadth. A+ covers a LOT of material
- Skipping Core 1 hands-on practice. Know real hardware
- Ignoring command line. Core 2 tests CLI knowledge
- Memorizing without understanding. Know the troubleshooting methodology
The Bottom Line
CompTIA A+ requires commitment—two exams, $492 in fees, and 3+ months of study. But it’s the most recognized entry point into IT careers.
Focus on the troubleshooting methodology, practice with real hardware when possible, and commit to the study plan. Your IT career starts with A+.