Last Updated on October 22, 2022 by Hamna Nouman
The CompTIA A+ certification is a professional certification highly recommended for IT professionals. The certification follows the industry-set standards, establishing its credibility in the fields of network security, cloud computing and software troubleshooting.
What is A+ Certification?
Dating back to 1993, the CompTIA A+ certification is one of the oldest accepted certifications in the professional IT field. The A+ certification issued by CompTIA is a globally-recognised credential that affirms one’s ability to manage computer hardware and software. Moreover, it also confirms one’s ability to troubleshoot.
Due to its balanced focus on both hardware and software, CompTIA A+ certified individuals are considered well-rounded and highly qualified for entering the IT industry.
Eligibility Criteria for CompTIA A+
There are no specific eligibility criteria for taking the CompTIA A+ exam. However, having an experience of 9 to 12 months is highly beneficial. In most cases, the candidate may opt to gather hands-on experience through work or CompTIA A+ training programs.
Cost of CompTIA A+
The cost of the CompTIA A+ exam is $239. However, it does not include any study material or the CompTIA A+ training program. The other prep bundles, such as the $349, 449 and 699, includes study materials and an exam retake voucher.
The certificate remains valid for three years from the date of issuance. However, it can be renewed for free using 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) accrued by participating in the Complete CertMaster CE course.
CompTIA A+ Exam Details
The CompTIA A+ is a two-part 90-minute online examination. The examination comprises Multiple Choice questions (MCQ), drag and drop questions and performance-based PDQ questions. The scoring range of the exam is 0 to 900, of which the candidate must secure 675 and 700 in both exams.
Job Prospects After CompTIA A+
Those with a CompTIA A+ certification can easily secure an entry-level IT job. In addition, due to its constantly updated course material, it is suitable for candidates seeking job prospects in the field of cloud computing, cybersecurity and technical support.
How to Prepare for CompTIA A+?
The CompTIA A+ exam is fairly easy for experienced IT professionals. However, preparation of 3 to 4 months is sufficient for inexperienced individuals. Individuals can opt for online CompTIA A+ training programs for well-rounded preparation. In addition, a detailed study of hardware and software can help you easily clear the exam.
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Benefits of CompTIA A+ Certification
The CompTIA A+ certification offers several benefits apart from increasing your chances of recruitment.
1. High Credibility
The CompTIA A+ has high credibility in the field of Information Technology. Moreover, most notably, it is recognised by the United States Department of Defense. Globally, the CompTIA A+ certificate is recognised and considered a professional certification. Therefore, completing and earning the certificate will allow you to work in any part of the world.
2. Paves the Way to an IT Career
A CompTIA A+ certification is a great way to start your career in the IT industry. Since the certification course covers a wide range of topics and information on the latest IT technology, it is suitable for beginners.
3. Validates Your Skills and Knowledge
While the A+ certification is suitable for those looking to kickstart their IT professional career, it can be a good source of validation. Experienced IT professionals can validate and test their knowledge and skills with the A+ certification exam. Moreover, they can use it as a way to enhance their existing skills and knowledge.
4. Greater Career Prospects
An A+ certification can provide you with opportunities to work as an:
- Computer Support Technician
- Junior Network Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
Apart from the roles mentioned above, A+ certified individuals are eligible for many more roles in the hardware troubleshooting domain.
5. Better Remuneration
Providing certification to back up your knowledge and skills can provide better remuneration. Most certified professionals have better pay than non-certified professionals.
Overall, the CompTIA A+ certification is a highly beneficial certification that can ensure a successful career in the IT industry.
Source: https://www.koenig-solutions.com/blog/fasttrack-your-it-career-with-comptia-a-certification
