CompTIA A+ Certification: Course Details, Jobs, Salary, and Exam Guide

CompTIA A+ Certification Overview

Are you a beginner looking to build a career in the tech industry but don't know where to begin? 

Entering 2025, you must know that degrees alone won't be enough to land you a job, especially in the competitive tech market, where new technologies are constantly developing. You need certified courses with projects to validate your knowledge. One such great option would be to get CompTIA A+ certification.

But first let’s understand:

What is CompTIA A+ certification?

CompTIA is a globally recognized certification program for professionals who want to start their careers in IT and operational roles. It is perfect for Individuals aiming to secure entry-level IT jobs. Want to know why? It is a performance-based program where students work on their practical skills over and above the theoretical know-how. It ultimately prepares the candidates for real-world issues that IT professionals face daily. Making them more attractive to employers. 

Talking specifically about the CompTIA A+ certification, it focuses on roles like PC repair, software development and installation, and technical support like troubleshooting and cyber security. These roles are highly in demand at various tech firms like Intel, Amazon, Google, Microsoft, etc. 

This is just the beginning. CompTIA offers a lot more benefits, which are covered below.

Benefits of Earning the CompTIA A+ Certification

Here are the top 7 benefits that will convince you to take a CompTIA A+ Certification:

• CompTIA A+ brings Global Achievement

Not only is CompTIA recognized worldwide, but it also has ISO/ANSI accreditation status. This accreditation brings home a host of job opportunities and credibility worldwide.

• Needs Less than a Month Investment

You don't need to invest a whole year completing the CompTIA A+ course If you have basic knowledge of the IT field, you can take a training course from a reputed learning institute and clear your exams. At Netcom Learning, we offer a complete CompTIA A+ exam prep course that takes around 40 hours of study. With online and virtual instructor options, you can easily get exam-ready.

• Builds Technical Skills To survive

CompTIA is the ultimate foundation for your IT career. Being CompTIA certified means you know all the technical skills in computer hardware, software, troubleshooting, and networking. 

• Offers Career Mobility

Unlike other courses, CompTIA is not focused on one major field. It is a diverse program that can complement multiple career paths. Whether you're interested in cyber security or technical support space, this certification allows you to choose your role.

• Open Doors for High-Paying Jobs

Studies say almost 96% of HR managers use certifications to screen candidates. So, having a reputed and credible certification like CompTIA a+ can get you hired in no time. Studies by BLS show that technical fresher roles offer higher salaries than other occupations. If you pursue CompTIA, you can land your first job in IT, and that too with better pay than your mates. 

• Allows For Remote Work Options

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has shifted to online work. Most job roles, even in the tech industry, don't need on-site attendance. With CompTIA A+, you can work for global MNCs and brands from the comfort of your home. 

• Makes You A Part of Community

Currently, two million IT professionals hold this certification. Upon acquiring this certificate, you can network with peers and industry experts online (on job boards like Linkedin) or offline (at work, seminars, and conferences). You can learn and grow while networking on a global scale.

What jobs Can I Get with the CompTIA A+?

Earning a CompTIA A+ certification opens up your candidacy for various IT positions. Some of the most common CompTIA A+ jobs include : 

• IT Technician
• Help desk specialist
• Information Security Analyst
• Security Consultant
• Field Technician
• Associate network engineer
• Desktop Support Admin

Who Should Pursue the CompTIA A+ Certification?

CompTIA A+ course is suitable for all those -

• Who are beginners and want to make a mark in the field of IT
• Who wish to switch their career to IT and learn about tech 
• Who are IT graduates and want to land a decent job
• Who are working without formal IT qualifications and wish to validate their skills.

Entry-Level IT Roles Perfect for A+ Certified Professionals

For beginners, the following are some entry-level roles FOR A+ certified candidates:

• IT Support Specialist
• Help Desk Technician
• Field Technician
• System Administrator Assistant

What is on the CompTIA A+ Exam?

Now that you know the basics about CompTIA A+ certification and the career options, let's learn about the academic part of what is on the CompTIA A+ exam.

The CompTIA A+ test has 2 sets of exams:

1. Core 1 (220-1101)
• Mobile Devices
• Networking
• Hardware
• Virtualisation & Cloud Computing
• Hardware & Network Troubleshooting
2. Core 2 (220-1102)
• Operating Systems
• Security
• Software Troubleshooting
• Operational Procedures

No professional experience is mandatory to take up the certification. 

Exam Details:

• Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions.
• Duration: 90 minutes per exam.

Costs and Registration Process

Here is a breakdown of CompTIA A+ certification costs in India and the USA:

For the CompTIA A+ registration process, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the CompTIA official website.
2. Select the CompTIA A+ certification.
3. Purchase the exam voucher.
4. Schedule your exams. You can either appear in person at the exam center or online for the exams.

Maintaining and Renewing Your Certification

The course is valid for three years. It starts right from your exam dates.  To renew your certificate:

• Earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by completing higher-level certifications or training.
• Retake the CompTIA A+ exam.

How Does CompTIA A+ Compare to Network+ and Security+?

As discussed, CompTIA A+ is a foundation program for IT graduates. The core focus is on hardware and software-related skills. If we compare it to Network+, then it is one level up from CompTIA A+ that focuses on networking concepts, including how to set up and manage networks.

While CompTIA Security+ certification teaches basic cybersecurity skills. It covers threat management, risk analysis, and security measures. So, all those who have an interest in cybersecurity must opt for CompTIA Network+.

How to Get a CompTIA A+ Certification

Follow these steps to get the certificate for CompTIA A+:

1. Understand the syllabus of Core 1 and Core 2.
2. Take a CompTIA A+ course. It can be instructor-led or online courses. If not, you can choose to self-study via books or free online lectures.
3. Practice with mock tests to determine your readiness.
4. Schedule and appear for the two tests.

CompTIA A+ Training Courses

At NetCom Learning, we offer the ultimate roadmap of CompTIA Prep Courses. Our courses are designed to equip you with the skills needed to pass the certification in one go.

CompTIA A+ Certification Prep Course

• Level: Beginner
• Time To Complete: 40 Hours

• Topics Covered: 

• Mobile Device Configuration
• Networking
• Virtualization and Cloud Computing
• Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
• Operating Systems
• Security
• Operational Procedures

• Priced at:

• $712 for e-learning
• $2675 for instructor-led learning

• New Schedule: Starts from Jan 6, 2025, Feb 3, 2025, Mar 3, 2025 and April 7, 2025

CompTIA Security+ Certification Prep Course

For those who wish to advance further, NetCom Learning also offers the CompTIA Security+ Certification Prep Course. The details are as follows:

• Level: Beginner
• Time Required: 5 Days (40 Hours)

• Topics Covered:

• General Security Concepts
• Network Architecture
• Security Operations
• Risk Mitigation
• Vulnerability Management
• Security governance

• Priced at:

• $ 2,675 for Virtual Instructor-Led Training
• $ 572 for e-learning

• New Schedule:

• January 13, 2025
• February 3, 2025
• March 10, 2025
• April 14, 2025

Is CompTIA A+ Worth It?

The short answer is yes. CompTIA A+ certification is worth it if you aim for an IT career. This course - 

• Opens doors to high-demand IT roles.
• Provides hands-on knowledge.
• Increases your earning potential.
• Validates your skills for global recognition.
• Build networking opportunities

CompTIA A+ Exams

CompTIA A+ is a certification for IT professionals. To become certified, candidates must clear the following:

• Core 1 (220-1001): Covers areas of hardware, mobile devices, and cloud technologies.
• Core 2 (220-1002): Focuses on operating systems, software troubleshooting, and security.

Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification

Getting ready for the CompTIA A+ exams requires a combination of study, practice, and strategy. Below are some preparation strategies to help you ace the exams:

1. Master the Exam Objectives

The first thing you need to do is download the CompTIA exam objectives from the official website. This will help you get clarity on -

• What topics are covered?
• How can the course help you in your IT career?
• What are your weak points or strong points?

2. Enrol in Comprehensive Training

Choose reliable training programs that offer -

• Flexible learning options
• Hands-on lab exercises to help you apply concepts.
• Expert guidance to clear doubts and stay on track.

3. Build Hands-On Skills

You cannot go without practical experience. So, get your hands dirty:

• Build or repair a PC to understand hardware components.
• Configure virtual machines to practice operating system setups.
• Troubleshoot real-world software and network issues.

4. Practise with Mock Exams

Practice makes everything perfect. To excel in exams, first attempt mock exams. 

Mock tests help to:

• Improve time management.
• Identify weak areas for revision.
• Boost confidence by reinforcing concepts.

5. Break Down Study Sessions

Avoid cramming. Plan short, focused study sessions covering one topic at a time. This way, you can gain better clarity of the topic without getting confused.

6. Join IT Communities and Study Groups

Stay motivated and informed by connecting with peers. Join forums like Reddit or study groups to:

• Share study resources.
• Ask questions and clear doubts.
• Learn tips from certified professionals.

7. Focus on Troubleshooting Techniques

Since troubleshooting is a big part of the exams, focus on step-by-step approaches to solving IT issues. Practice identifying and resolving standard hardware, software, and security problems.

CompTIA A+ Practice Exams

CompTIA A+ practice exams can help you familiarize yourself with the question format, manage time effectively, and identify areas needing improvement. You can check out our CompTIA Training Page. We have 30+ bundled courses, resources, and training programs for the CompTIA program.

How Much Can I Make with CompTIA A+ Certification?

Here's a comparison of average salaries for CompTIA A+ positions in India and the USA:

How Long Will It Take to Get CompTIA A+ Certified?

The time taken to clear the CompTIA A+ certificate can differ from person to person based on factors like -

Previous knowledge 

If you already have good knowledge of IT, then you may need less time to prepare. Newcomers who shifted to IT might, with no knowledge, might need a lot more time.

Experience 

If you have working experience, then you are already aware of the challenges and technicalities. So, the certification will be a boost for you. Conversely, individuals without prior experience might need additional time to grasp practical applications.

Study Habits 

Many people dedicate months and months to studying concepts. While others with busy schedules or work may opt for intensive study sessions or boot camps to save time. 

Considering these factors, it can take a few days to weeks to complete the CompTIA A+ certification, depending on individual circumstances.

How Can Individuals Prepare for the CompTIA A+ Exam?

Here is a concise list to help individuals prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam:

• Select quality study guides, textbooks, and online courses. 
• Set up a home lab or use simulators to gain hands-on practice.
• Join study groups or online forums and engage with other students to share knowledge, tips, and resources.
• Attempt CompTIA A+ practice exams regularly to assess your knowledge and get familiar with the exam format.
• Regularly revisit challenging topics and take notes for easy understanding.
• Follow IT forums, blogs, and YouTube channels for the latest tips and trends related to the A+ exam.

Conclusion

In this blog, we covered everything you need to know—what the certification is, its benefits, job opportunities, exam details, preparation tips, and salary potential. If you're serious about starting or growing in IT, you can't afford to miss this credential. 

At NetCom Learning, we make achieving your goals easier with expert-led CompTIA A+ training courses. We offer a 5-day (40 hours) extensive CompTIA A+ Certification Prep Course that covers in-depth training for both exam levels - Core 1 and 2. 

Why Choose NetCom Learning? 

• Proud Platinum Training Partner by CompTIA. 
• Boast 25+ years of business experience in IT training.
• 6,000+ certified instructors 
• Flexible role-based training to cater to your unique needs.
• Highly rated by ex-alumni of 1 million+ learners spread across 600 locations.

What's the wait for? Kickstart your IT career today with NetCom Learning. For more details or queries, please contact us. Let us know how we can support you on your journey to certification!