CompTIA A+ certification is earned by passing a set of two exams – created by IT industry professionals – that validate skills needed for entry-level IT jobs. That said, CompTIA A+ is not just about PC repair. CompTIA A+ candidates are better prepared to troubleshoot and problem solve a wider variety of issues, ranging from networking and operating systems to mobile devices and security.
Unlike other certifications, many of which only require covering one domain, CompTIA A+ covers a broader diversity of knowledge required of technicians today, making A+ relevant to many more job roles.
What Job Roles Should Take the CompTIA A+ Exams
CompTIA A+ is for professionals looking to start a career in IT and have 9 to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field, or equivalent training. CompTIA A+ prepares candidates for the following job roles:
- Service desk analyst
- Help desk tech
- Technical support specialist
- Field service technician
- Associate network engineer
- Data support technician
- Desktop support administrator
- End-user computing technician
- Help desk technician
- System support specialist
How Much Can I Make with CompTIA A+ Certification?
Here are a few CompTIA A+ jobs and their average salaries:
- Support specialist: $54,500
- Field service technician: $46,000
- Desktop support analyst: $60,000
- Help desk tier 2 support: $45,000
What Is on the CompTIA A+ Exam?
CompTIA A+ is a performance-based certification that supports the ability to connect users to the data they need to do their jobs regardless of the devices being used. Successful candidates will have the following skills to:
- Configure, install and upgrade operating systems, including: Windows, Apple OS X, Linux, iOS, Android and Windows Mobile
- Install and image virtual machines
- Set up and troubleshoot peripheral devices
- Assemble and disassemble computing hardware
- Set up and support basic home and small office networks
- Implement cybersecurity controls appropriate to helpdesk and technical support roles
- Troubleshoot and support end-user access to applications and data
The CompTIA A+ exam covers the following domains and topics:
- Hardware: Identify, use and connect hardware components and devices
- Networking: Explain types of networks and connections including transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP), Wi-Fi and small office/home office (SOHO)
- Mobile Devices: Install and configure laptops and other mobile devices
- Network and Hardware Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot device and network issues
- Security: Identify and protect against security vulnerabilities for devices and their network connections
- Windows Operating System: Install and support Windows OS, including command line and client support
- Other OS Technologies: Understand Mac OS, Linux and mobile OS
- Software Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot PC and mobile device issues, including application security support
- Operational Procedures: Follow best practices for safety, environmental impacts and communication and professionalism
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