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CompTIA Certification
Entry Level

CompTIA A+ Certification(220-1101 & 220-1102)

Launch your IT career with the industry's premier entry-level certification. Master computer hardware, operating systems, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting to become a trusted IT support professional.

Exam Duration

90 min each

Total Cost

$492 USD

Question Format

90 per exam

Core 1 Exam Breakdown

Mobile Devices

15%
Given a scenario, install and configure laptop hardware and components
Given a scenario, install components within the display of a laptop
Given a scenario, use appropriate laptop features
Compare and contrast characteristics of various types of other mobile devices
Given a scenario, connect and configure accessories and ports of other mobile devices
Given a scenario, configure basic mobile device network connectivity and application support
Given a scenario, use methods to perform mobile device synchronization

Networking

20%
Compare and contrast TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purposes
Compare and contrast common networking hardware devices
Given a scenario, install and configure a basic wired/wireless SOHO network
Compare and contrast wireless networking protocols
Summarize the properties and purposes of services provided by networked hosts
Explain common network configuration concepts
Compare and contrast Internet connection types, network types, and their features
Given a scenario, use appropriate networking tools

Hardware

25%
Explain basic cable types, features, and their purposes
Identify common connector types
Given a scenario, install RAM types
Given a scenario, select, install and configure storage devices
Given a scenario, install and configure motherboards, CPUs, and add-on cards
Explain the purposes and uses of various peripheral types
Summarize power supply types and features
Given a scenario, select and configure appropriate components for a custom PC configuration to meet customer specifications or needs
Given a scenario, install and configure common devices
Given a scenario, configure SOHO multifunction devices/printers and settings
Given a scenario, install and maintain various print technologies

Virtualization and Cloud Computing

11%
Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts
Given a scenario, set up and configure client-side virtualization

Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

29%
Given a scenario, use the best practice methodology to resolve problems
Given a scenario, troubleshoot problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPUs, and power
Given a scenario, troubleshoot hard drives and RAID arrays
Given a scenario, troubleshoot video, projector, and display issues
Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile device issues while adhering to the appropriate procedures
Given a scenario, troubleshoot printers
Given a scenario, troubleshoot common wired and wireless network problems

Key Topics to Master

CPU Types

Core 1

RAM Types & Installation

Core 1

Storage Technologies

Core 1

Motherboard Components

Core 1

Power Supply Units

Core 1

Display Technologies

Core 1

Network Protocols

Core 1

Wireless Standards

Core 1

Printer Technologies

Core 1

Mobile Device Types

Core 1

Virtualization Concepts

Core 1

Cloud Computing

Core 1

Operating Systems

Core 2

Windows Administration

Core 2

Network Configuration

Core 2

Security Concepts

Core 2

Malware Prevention

Core 2

Troubleshooting Methodology

Core 2

Study with Zertly

Dual-Exam Preparation

Comprehensive practice questions covering both Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exam objectives.

Performance-Based Questions

Practice with simulated lab scenarios that mirror the actual performance-based questions on the exam.

Troubleshooting Scenarios

Master systematic troubleshooting with real-world scenarios and step-by-step problem resolution.

Hardware Identification

Interactive diagrams and visual aids to help you identify computer components and connectors.

Expert Preparation Tips

Proven strategies to maximize your study efficiency and exam success rate.

Study Resources

  • Hands-on practice with actual computer hardware
  • Build and troubleshoot PCs in a lab environment
  • Practice with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems
  • Use Zertly's performance-based question simulator

Exam Day Strategies

  • Start with Core 1 as it's more hardware-focused
  • Practice the 6-step troubleshooting methodology
  • Focus on performance-based questions first
  • Know port numbers, cable types, and connector identification

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about the CompTIA A+ certification.

How long is the CompTIA A+ certification valid?

The CompTIA A+ certification is valid for 3 years from the date of certification. You can renew it by earning continuing education units (CEUs) or by passing a higher-level CompTIA exam.

Do I need to pass both Core 1 and Core 2 exams?

Yes, to earn the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass both the Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams. You have 3 years to complete both exams after passing the first one.

What is the exam format for CompTIA A+?

Each exam consists of a maximum of 90 questions in multiple formats including multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions. You have 90 minutes to complete each exam.

Do I need prior IT experience to take CompTIA A+?

No prior IT experience is required, making CompTIA A+ perfect for those starting their IT careers. However, having 9-12 months of hands-on experience in a lab or field is recommended.

What jobs can I get with CompTIA A+ certification?

CompTIA A+ opens doors to entry-level IT positions such as Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support Specialist, IT Support Specialist, Field Service Technician, and Junior Systems Administrator.

Ready to launch your IT career?

Join the successful IT professionals who started with CompTIA A+. Use Zertly's comprehensive practice platform to master both Core 1 and Core 2 exam objectives with confidence.

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