CompTIA A+ Objectives
Obtaining the CompTIA A+ certification showcases that an IT professional has proficient skills and knowledge across various IT domains by testing their knowledge of software, hardware, troubleshooting, and more. This article is a comprehensive guide to the objectives of the exam, helping you prepare for this globally recognized benchmark that IT professionals across the world strive for.
About The Exam
Exam Accreditation
Accreditation is crucial if you want to ensure your certification is going to be legitimate. The CompTIA A+ certification is fully accredited by both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Organization for Standardization (IOS). With this accreditation, the exam is ensured to meet the strict guidelines for quality standards, and it is globally recognized as being credible.
Exam Development
The CompTIA A+ certification exam maintains industry relevance, no matter how much technology changes. With IT professionals, subject matter experts, and other industry experts weighing in on the exam, it is easily updated regularly to stay up-to-date.
CompTIA Authorized Materials USE Policy
The use of exam-related leaks, including braindumps, is strictly prohibited. Authorized training courses and materials are the only approved materials for candidates to use. If this policy is violated, they could face severe penalties, which can include disqualification from the exam and renovation of the certification.
CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Objectives
There is a wide range of exam topics that evaluate a candidate’s knowledge of various IT domains. The main CompTIA A+ exam objectives include:
Hardware
The objective of the hardware portion tests the candidate’s knowledge of storage devices, computer components, and peripherals. This will require a broad knowledge of different devices that are currently needed to support the workforce.
Operating Systems
For this objective, the candidate will need to show their knowledge of the installation and support procedures for Windows OS, including command line usage and client support. System configuration, imaging, and troubleshooting are also needed for Mac OS, Chrome OS, Android, and Linux OS.
Software Troubleshooting
Troubleshoot PC as well as mobile device issues across all common OS platforms, with an emphasis on malware and security issues.
Networking
For this objective, the candidate will need to be able to thoroughly explain various networks and connection types, including TCP/IP, WIFI, and SOHO.
Troubleshooting
The candidate will need to show their ability to troubleshoot real-world device and networking issues with speed and efficiency.
Security
This objective requires the candidate to be able to identify and protect against various security vulnerabilities for various devices and their network connections.
Mobile Devices
The main focus of the mobile devices section is to install and configure laptops and other mobile devices, and support apps to ensure user connectivity.
Virtualization and Cloud Computing
This section requires a candidate to be able to compare and contrast cloud computing concepts, as well as set up virtualization on the client side.
Operational Procedures
This objective will show the candidate’s knowledge of best practices for safety, communication, professionalism, and environmental impact.
An Important Note About A+ Objectives
While general objectives are still part of both core exams, they are organized differently now and comprise a much wider range of specific knowledge points. The full details of the Core 1 and Core 2 exams can be found below.
CompTIA A+ Certification Exam
About A+ certification
With more than 1 million certified professionals across the globe, this is easily the most popular certification. The CompTIA A+ certification is generally considered the foundation for IT professionals, as it provides a solid understanding of various domains across the IT industry.
Why A+ is the most popular
Due to the vendor-neutral approach, the A+ certification is highly regarded. It ensures that any professionals that hold this certification possess a broad understanding of multiple platforms and technologies. Many employers see the A+ certification as an essential qualification for anyone seeking an entry-level position in the IT industry, which makes it a valuable asset to anyone just getting started on their career in IT.
A+ Prerequisites
One of the benefits of taking the A+ certification is that there are no set prerequisites to be able to apply for and take the test. It is recommended, however, that candidates looking to take the certification exam have at least 9-12 months of hands-on experience with IT administration or support.
Availability
The CompTIA A+ certification is available to IT professionals worldwide. Candidates should schedule their exams through Pearson VUE testing centers online. From there, they can choose the best location and date available to them.
Performance-Based Question Walkthrough
The CompTIA A+ certification test consists of a combination of performance-based questions (PBQs) and multiple-choice. The PBQs require candidates to demonstrate their abilities to solve problems or perform tasks in a simulated environment. They assess the candidate’s practical knowledge and allow them to show that they can apply the objectives of the CompTIA A+ certification to real-life situations.
CompTIA A+ Core Series Test
Exam Details: Sections of the CompTIA A+ Core Series Exam
There are two separate tests that make up the CompTIA A+ certification: The 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2). Both exams have to be passed in order to receive the A+ certification.
The Core 1 exam consists of a maximum of 90 questions, with a passing score being 675 out of 900. Like Core 1, Core 2 has a maximum of 90 questions, but a passing score is 700 out of 900.
CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (CORE 1)
There are 4 sections to the 220-1101 exam. These sections consist of operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. They count for 31%, 25%, 22%, and 22% of the total score, respectively.
Operating Systems
In the operating system section of the exam, you’ll start by identifying some basic features of the various editions of Windows. Then, you’ll be given a particular scenario and will need to use the correct command line tool to find a resolution. You’ll also need to use features and tools of Windows 10 OS, Windows 10 Control Panel, Windows Settings, and Windows Networking, to find solutions and create configurations. Similar objectives will also apply to Mac OS.
Security
In the security section, you will need to summarize various security components, features, scripts, and their purposes. You’ll need to be able to compare and contrast wireless protocols, security, and authentication. Be ready to detect, remove, and prevent malware, and explain common social engineering attacks and vulnerabilities. You’ll also need to demonstrate a working knowledge of security processes within Windows and Mac OS. Data destruction and remote client security are also included here.
Software Troubleshooting
The software troubleshooting section means troubleshooting common Windows issues, general PC security issues, and malware removal best practices. Also, given specific scenarios, you should be able to troubleshoot mobile app issues, mobile OS security, and app security issues.
Operational Procedures
The operational procedure section will cover practical solutions to various scenarios. You’ll need to be able to implement documentation best practices, change-management best practices, workstation backup and recovery, and safety concepts. You should also be ready to explain the importance of prohibited content or activity, as well as privacy, licensing, and policy concepts.
CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (CORE 2)
There are 5 sections to the 220-1102 exam. These sections consist of mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, and hardware and network troubleshooting. Each section counts for 15%, 20%, 25%, 11%, and 29% of the total score, respectively.
Mobile Devices
In the mobile devices section, you will need to demonstrate an overall proficiency with mobile devices. You should be able to install and configure laptop hardware and components, compare and contrast the various displays on mobile devices, set up and configure accessories or ports on mobile devices, and be able to configure basic mobile device network connectivity and app troubleshooting.
Networking
The networking section will be an in-depth examination of networking protocols and their purposes, differences between common pieces of networking hardware, wireless networking protocols, and network host services. You should also be able to install and configure various types of wired and wireless networks, compare network configuration concepts, internet connection types, and network types, and be able to use various physical networking tools such as a crimper punch-down tool, and network tap.
Hardware
This section will be a deep dive into hardware. You’ll be required to explain basic cable types, connectors, and features. You’ll need to be able to install RAM, storage devices, motherboards, CPUs, add-on cards, and power supplies. You’ll need to be able to configure and deploy multifunction devices and printers and replace printer consumables.
Virtualization and Cloud Computing
Virtualization and cloud computing concepts will be tested in this section. You’ll need to summarize those concepts and summarize the aspects of client-side virtualization.
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
In the final section, you’ll need to apply best practice methodology to resolve problems. You’ll need to be able to troubleshoot various issues related to motherboards, RAM, CPUs, and power supplies. You should be able to troubleshoot RAID arrays, video projectors and other displays, mobile devices, printer issues, and issues with wired and wireless networks.
CompTIA A+ objectives 1102 Exam Description
Number of Questions
There are a maximum of 90 questions in the CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam. These questions include both performance-based and multiple-choice questions.
Time Duration
Each candidate has 90 minutes to complete their exam.
Question Types
There are multiple types of questions to gauge a candidate’s understanding of the CompTIA A+ exam objectives. There are performance based-questions, multiple-choice questions, and drag-and-drop questions.
Best Way to Study for the CompTIA A+ 1101 Objectives
There are a few ways to effectively prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification. The best choice is to use multiple study methods that align with the CompTIA A+ objectives. The recommended study strategies include:
CompTIA A+ Objectives
Buy a Study Guide
One of the best methods is using a study guide such as the official CompTIA A+ Certification Study Guide, which provides a structured way of learning through a fully comprehensive overview of the objectives of the CompTIA A+. These guides are helpful because they include review sections, practice questions, and exam tips to help you effectively prepare.
E-learning
Video tutorials and online training courses offer a flexible and convenient way to learn the objectives of the CompTIA A+. There are many platforms, including the official CompTIA A+ training website (CompTIA Learn), that have a range of courses that were designed to help candidates better understand the exam topics and learn the practical skills they need.
Take A Practical Exam
If you’re ready to see where your skills lie, taking a practical exam gives you hands-on experience. You can build a home lab or seek opportunities to work with software and hardware in real life. These real-world experiences are crucial when you’re trying to earn your CompTIA A+ certification.
Learn From The Experts
When you join study groups, participate in online forums, and network with experienced IT professionals, you can gain valuable tips and insights to prepare for the exam. This advice is invaluable, as you won’t find it in any study guide around.
CompTIA A+ Acronyms
There are numerous acronyms related to IT technologies and concepts that are included in the CompTIA A+ certification exams. It’s important that candidates become familiar with these acronyms so they can understand all of the terminologies within the exam questions. There is an official list of acronyms that can be downloaded from the CompTIA website. This list is just as important as the study guides, if not more important.
CompTIA A+ Proposed Hardware & Software List
It’s essential to work with software and hardware that are commonly used within the IT industry when you are preparing to take the CompTIA A+ certification test. This hands-on experience is important because there is only so much you can learn from reading. The proposed hardware and software list from CompTIA includes the recommended technologies and tools candidates can practice with while preparing for the test.
Included in the list is a large range of networking devices, hardware components, operating systems, and software tools. These technologies are crucial in developing the practical skills needed to gain their A+ certification, so candidates should familiarize themselves with the items on the list for the best results.
Conclusion
The globally recognized CompTIA A+ certification validates a candidate’s fundamental skills and knowledge in the IT field. By having an understanding of the CompTIA A+ objectives and using a variety of recommended study resources, expert guidance, and hands-on experience, candidates can effectively prepare to take their A+ certification exam, while also building strong skills and a foundation for a successful career in the IT field.
To ensure the best preparation possible, it’s important that candidates invest the time needed to review the exam objectives, work with real-world software and hardware, participate in e-learning courses, and network with other professionals in the IT industry. By doing these things, candidates can gain the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence they need to pass the CompTIA A+ certification exams, leading them on their journey to a successful and rewarding career working in the IT industry.
Read more on the CompTIA A+ certification page.
