CompTIA A+ Certification Guide

CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching IT careers. With over 1 million certified professionals worldwide, it's the most widely recognized entry-level IT certification. This guide covers everything you need to know about the current A+ exams (220-1101 and 220-1102).

Why Get A+ Certified?

• Career Foundation — A+ is the starting point for IT support, help desk, and field service technician roles
• Vendor-Neutral — Covers hardware, software, networking, and security across multiple platforms
• DoD-Approved — Meets the DoD 8140/8570 baseline certification requirement for IT roles
• Employer-Recognized — Required or preferred by major employers like Dell, HP, Intel, and Best Buy
• Path to Advancement — Prerequisite for Network+, Security+, and specialized certifications

Exam Overview

CompTIA A+ requires passing two exams:

| Exam | Code | Focus | Questions | Length | | ------ | -------- | -------------------------------------------------------------- | --------- | ------ | | Core 1 | 220-1101 | Hardware, Networking, Mobile, Cloud | 90 max | 90 min | | Core 2 | 220-1102 | OS, Security, Software Troubleshooting, Operational Procedures | 90 max | 90 min |

Both exams use a combination of multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). You need a score of 675 (on a scale of 100–900) for Core 1 and 700 for Core 2.

Domain Breakdown

Core 1 (220-1101) — 5 Domains

| Domain | Weight | Key Topics | | -------------------------------------- | ------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | Mobile Devices | 15% | Laptop hardware, mobile device types, accessories, displays, ports | | Networking | 20% | TCP/IP, cable types, SOHO routers, wireless standards, network tools | | Hardware | 25% | CPUs, RAM, motherboards, storage, PSUs, connectors, cooling | | Virtualization & Cloud | 11% | Cloud models (IaaS/PaaS/SaaS), virtualization concepts, vCPU/vRAM | | Hardware & Network Troubleshooting | 29% | Troubleshooting methodology, hardware issues, network connectivity, storage problems |

Core 2 (220-1102) — 4 Domains

| Domain | Weight | Key Topics | | ---------------------------- | ------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | Operating Systems | 31% | Windows, macOS, Linux installation, CLI, system management | | Security | 25% | Threats, vulnerabilities, access control, encryption, social engineering | | Software Troubleshooting | 22% | Application issues, malware removal, OS recovery, boot problems | | Operational Procedures | 22% | Professionalism, safety, environmental impacts, documentation |

Study Resources

Official CompTIA Resources

• CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Objectives — Download the official PDF from CompTIA
• CompTIA CertMaster Learn — Official eLearning platform with interactive content
• CompTIA CertMaster Labs — Hands-on virtual lab environment

Third-Party Resources

• Professor Messer — Free video series covering all A+ objectives
• Mike Meyers A+ Guide — Comprehensive textbook and video training
• Jason Dion Practice Exams — Realistic PBQ simulations on Udemy
• Courses GraphWiz Practice — Unlimited practice questions with detailed explanations and weak-area analysis Start practicing →

Hands-On Practice

• Build a PC — Assemble and disassemble a desktop computer to understand components
• Set up a SOHO network — Configure a wireless router, connect devices, troubleshoot connectivity
• Install operating systems — Practice Windows, Linux (Ubuntu), and macOS installation in VMs
• Use CLI tools — Master ipconfig, ping, tracert, netstat, chkdsk, sfc, diskpart, and more

Exam Tips

1. PBQs First — Performance-based questions take longer. Flag and return to multiple-choice.
2. Memorize Port Numbers — Know: HTTP(80), HTTPS(443), FTP(20/21), SSH(22), Telnet(23), SMTP(25), DNS(53), DHCP(67/68), RDP(3389)
3. Know the 7-Step Troubleshooting Process — Identify problem → Establish theory → Test theory → Plan solution → Implement → Verify → Document
4. Understand RAID Levels — RAID 0(striping), RAID 1(mirroring), RAID 5(parity), RAID 10(mirror+stripe)
5. Learn Wireless Standards — WiFi 4(802.11n), WiFi 5(802.11ac), WiFi 6(802.11ax), frequencies and speeds
6. Practice Cable Types — Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, fiber optic, coaxial, STP vs UTP, plenum vs PVC
7. Study Windows Versions — Windows 10/11 editions, features, system requirements, upgrade paths
8. Know Malware Types — Virus, worm, trojan, ransomware, spyware, rootkit, keylogger, botnet

Practice Questions

Ready to test your knowledge? Our practice platform includes 216+ A+ questions covering all Core 1 and Core 2 domains, with detailed explanations for every answer.

Start A+ Practice →

Beyond A+

After earning A+, consider these certifications:

1. Network+ — Deepen your networking knowledge (routing, switching, subnetting)
2. Security+ — Move into cybersecurity (threats, cryptography, identity management)
3. Linux+ — Gain Linux administration skills (increasingly valuable)
4. Cloud+ — Cloud computing fundamentals for modern IT infrastructure

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare for A+? Most candidates study 2-3 months, spending 10-15 hours per week. If you have some IT experience, you may need less time.

How much does the exam cost? Each exam costs approximately $253 USD (as of 2026). A+ requires two exams, so the total is ~$506. Discount vouchers are often available through CompTIA or academic institutions.

Do I need experience before taking A+? No. A+ is designed for entry-level candidates. CompTIA recommends 9-12 months of hands-on experience but it's not required.

How long is the certification valid? A+ is valid for 3 years from the date you pass the second exam. You can renew by earning CEUs, passing a higher-level CompTIA exam, or completing training activities.

Is A+ worth it in 2026? Absolutely. IT help desk and support roles consistently require or prefer A+. According to CompTIA, A+ certified professionals earn 5-15% more than non-certified peers in similar roles. With the growing complexity of IT systems, foundational hardware and software knowledge is more valuable than ever.