A+ certification is one of the most popular certifications in the IT industry. The program is administered by CompTIA, a non-profit organization that develops industry-standard certifications for various IT fields. The A+ certification program is divided into two parts, namely A+ core and A+ practical exams. In this article, we will explore the A+ certification program, its requirements, benefits, and success stories of people who have earned this certification.
What is A+ Certification and Why is it Important?
A+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that demonstrates a candidate’s knowledge and skills in supporting, maintaining, and troubleshooting personal computer hardware, software, and peripherals. It is an entry-level certification program designed for IT professionals seeking employment in the field of computer support and services. Employers recognize the A+ certification as an industry-standard for measuring an IT professional’s ability to support and maintain computer hardware and software. A+ certification is considered a foundational certification for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in the field of computer support, services, or networking.
One of the benefits of obtaining an A+ certification is that it can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. According to CompTIA, the organization that offers the A+ certification, certified professionals earn an average of 5-15% more than their non-certified counterparts. Additionally, many employers require or prefer candidates with A+ certification when hiring for computer support positions.
Another advantage of A+ certification is that it provides a solid foundation for further career advancement in the IT industry. After obtaining A+ certification, professionals can pursue more specialized certifications in areas such as networking, security, or cloud computing. A+ certification also demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development and learning, which is highly valued in the fast-paced and constantly evolving field of IT.
The History of A+ Certification: How it Came to Be
The A+ certification program was developed by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) in 1993. The program was designed to establish an industry-standard for measuring an IT professional’s knowledge and skills in the field of computer hardware and operating systems. The certification was created in response to the growing demand for IT professionals with comprehensive knowledge of PC hardware and software.
Since its inception, the A+ certification program has undergone several updates and revisions to keep up with the ever-evolving technology landscape. In 2003, CompTIA introduced the A+ 2003 certification, which included new topics such as wireless networking and security. In 2006, the A+ Essentials exam was introduced, which focused on the fundamental concepts of computer technology, while the A+ Practical Application exam tested candidates on their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
What are the Requirements for Earning A+ Certification?
To earn A+ certification, a candidate must pass both the A+ Core (220-1001) and A+ Practical (220-1002) exams. A+ certification candidates must demonstrate knowledge and skills in PC hardware and peripherals, mobile device hardware, networking, troubleshooting, and security. Candidates are also required to have at least six months of hands-on experience working in the field of computer support or IT services.
Additionally, A+ certification candidates must adhere to the CompTIA Code of Ethics, which includes maintaining confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and providing accurate information to clients. Candidates must also agree to comply with the CompTIA Continuing Education (CE) Program, which requires them to earn a certain number of CE units to maintain their certification.
Furthermore, A+ certification is recognized globally as a standard for validating the skills and knowledge of computer support professionals. It is often a requirement for employment in IT support roles, and can lead to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities. A+ certification holders may also be eligible for other CompTIA certifications, such as Network+ or Security+.
How Long Does it Take to Earn A+ Certification?
The time required to earn A+ certification depends on the candidate’s experience and training. The A+ certification program requires candidates to have at least six months of hands-on experience working in the field of computer support or IT services. It is recommended that candidates complete a training course to prepare for the A+ certification exams. On average, it takes three to six months to prepare for and pass the A+ certification exams.
However, it is important to note that the time required to earn A+ certification can vary depending on the individual’s learning pace and study habits. Some candidates may require more time to prepare for the exams, while others may be able to pass them in a shorter amount of time.
In addition, earning A+ certification is just the beginning of a career in IT. Many professionals continue to pursue additional certifications and training to advance their skills and knowledge. Some popular certifications that build upon A+ include Network+, Security+, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
How Difficult is the A+ Certification Exam?
The A+ certification exam is considered a challenging exam, but with adequate preparation and knowledge, it is passable. The A+ certification exams comprise of multiple-choice questions, performance-based questions, and simulations. Candidates are required to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in troubleshooting and problem-solving in real-world scenarios. To pass the A+ certification exam, candidates must score 675 or higher on a scale of 100-900.
It is important to note that the difficulty level of the A+ certification exam may vary depending on the candidate’s prior experience and knowledge in the field of IT. Candidates with prior experience in computer hardware and software may find the exam easier to pass, while those with little to no experience may find it more challenging. However, with the right study materials and practice, anyone can pass the A+ certification exam and become a certified IT professional.
What are the Benefits of Earning A+ Certification?
Earning the A+ certification provides numerous benefits for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in the field of computer support and services. The A+ certification demonstrates to employers that a candidate has the knowledge and skills necessary to support, maintain and troubleshoot computer hardware and software. A+ certification holders are qualified for jobs such as support specialists, computer technicians, help desk support, and technical support specialists. Additionally, A+ certification holders can earn a higher salary than non-certified IT professionals.
Another benefit of earning A+ certification is that it is recognized globally. This means that A+ certification holders can work in any country and their skills and knowledge will be recognized and valued. This opens up opportunities for international job placements and career growth.
Furthermore, A+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification, which means that it is not tied to any specific hardware or software manufacturer. This allows A+ certification holders to work with a wide range of technologies and products, making them more versatile and valuable to employers. It also means that A+ certification holders can adapt to new technologies and products more easily, which is essential in the fast-paced world of IT.
Where Can You Get A+ Certification Training?
A+ certification training is available from various sources, such as online courses, instructor-led courses, self-paced courses, and study guides. CompTIA offers A+ certification training through CompTIA Authorized Partners. These training courses provide candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for and pass the A+ certification exam.
In addition to CompTIA Authorized Partners, many community colleges and technical schools offer A+ certification training programs. These programs often provide hands-on experience with computer hardware and software, as well as preparation for the certification exam. Additionally, there are many online forums and study groups dedicated to helping individuals prepare for the A+ certification exam, where candidates can ask questions and receive support from others in the field.
How Much Does it Cost to Get A+ Certified?
The cost of A+ certification varies depending on the training provider and exam location. The cost of the A+ certification exam is $226 for both A+ core and A+ practical exams. Training providers may offer bundled packages that include training materials, practice exams, and exam vouchers. The cost of these packages may range from $300 to $1000.
It is important to note that the cost of A+ certification does not only include the exam and training materials. There may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam, such as purchasing study guides or attending review courses. These costs can add up quickly, so it is important to budget accordingly.
Additionally, some employers may offer to cover the cost of A+ certification for their employees. This can be a great benefit for those looking to advance their careers in the IT industry. It is worth checking with your employer to see if they offer any certification reimbursement programs.
What Jobs Can You Get With an A+ Certification?
A+ certification holders are qualified for entry-level jobs in computer support and services. These jobs include support specialists, computer technicians, help desk support, and technical support specialists. A+ certification is a foundational certification for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in the field of computer support, services, or networking.
Additionally, A+ certification holders may also be eligible for positions such as network support specialists, system administrators, and IT support technicians. These roles require a strong understanding of computer hardware and software, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and solve technical issues. A+ certification provides a solid foundation for these positions, and can lead to further certifications and career advancement opportunities in the IT industry.
Success Stories: Real-Life Examples of People Who Have Earned A+ Certification
A+ certification has helped numerous IT professionals advance their careers in the field of computer support and services. One notable success story is that of Tim, an IT professional who had no prior experience in the IT field. Tim enrolled in an A+ certification training program and passed both A+ core and A+ practical exams. This certification helped Tim secure a job as a computer technician, and he has since advanced to the position of a network engineer.
Another success story is that of Sarah, who had been working in the IT field for several years but was struggling to advance her career. She decided to pursue A+ certification to enhance her skills and knowledge. After passing the exams, Sarah was able to secure a higher-paying job as a systems administrator. She credits her A+ certification for giving her the confidence and knowledge to excel in her new role.
Additionally, A+ certification has helped many individuals transition into the IT field from other industries. One such example is John, who had been working in the healthcare industry for several years but was interested in pursuing a career in IT. After obtaining A+ certification, John was able to secure an entry-level position as a help desk technician. He has since worked his way up to a senior IT support specialist position, thanks in part to the foundational knowledge and skills he gained through A+ certification.
Tips and Tricks for Passing the A+ Certification Exam
To prepare for the A+ certification exam, candidates should follow these tips and tricks:- Create a study schedule and stick to it.- Invest in study materials such as practice exams and study guides.- Utilize online training resources such as video tutorials and forums.- Join a study group for extra motivation and support.- Practice hands-on troubleshooting and problem-solving scenarios.- Take advantage of A+ certification test-taking strategies such as pacing yourself and reviewing your answers.
The Future of A+ Certification: Trends and Predictions
The future of A+ certification looks bright as the demand for IT professionals with comprehensive knowledge of PC hardware and software continues to increase. A+ certification is constantly evolving to keep up with the changing trends in the IT industry. In the future, A+ certification may cover emerging technologies such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Employers will continue to recognize A+ certification as an industry-standard for measuring an IT professional’s ability to support and maintain computer hardware and software.
Alternatives to A+ Certification: Are There Other Certifications Worth Considering?
There are several alternative certifications worth considering for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in the field of computer support and services. These certifications include Network+, Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). Each of these certifications is aimed at different areas of expertise in the IT industry and can provide opportunities for career advancement.
In conclusion, A+ certification is a highly respected certification in the IT industry that demonstrates an IT professional’s knowledge and skills in supporting, maintaining, and troubleshooting personal computer hardware, software, and peripherals. Earning A+ certification provides numerous benefits, including job opportunities, career advancement, and a higher salary. With adequate training and preparation, IT professionals can pass the A+ certification exam and advance their careers in the field of computer support and services.
