CompTIA A+
A broad starting credential for learners building practical knowledge of computer hardware, operating systems, troubleshooting, basic networking, security, and technical support.
Last verified: 2026-09-01
Overview
CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral entry-level IT certification focused on practical support skills across hardware, operating systems, networking, security, cloud concepts, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. Earning A+ requires passing both Core 1 and Core 2. The certification is commonly used as a starting point for help desk, desktop support, field service, and junior IT support roles.
- Recommended experience
- CompTIA recommends about 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support specialist job role. Candidates should be comfortable installing, configuring, securing, and troubleshooting common endpoints and basic networks.
- Estimated study time
- 80–140 hours
- Target job roles
- Help Desk TechnicianIT Support SpecialistDesktop Support TechnicianField Service TechnicianService Desk AnalystJunior Systems Support Technician
Exam Details
CompTIA A+ Core 1
- Exam code
- 220-1201
- Number of exams
- 2
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Question count
- Up to 90 questions
- Delivery method
- Pearson VUE testing center or online proctored exam
- Price
- Verify current regional pricing with CompTIA
CompTIA A+ Core 2
- Exam code
- 220-1202
- Number of exams
- 2
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Question count
- Up to 90 questions
- Delivery method
- Pearson VUE testing center or online proctored exam
- Price
- Verify current regional pricing with CompTIA
Skills and Domains
Core 1: Mobile Devices
13%Mobile device hardware, accessories, connectivity, synchronization, and support scenarios.
Core 1: Networking
23%Networking concepts, protocols, wireless technologies, network services, addressing, devices, and SOHO configuration.
Core 1: Hardware
25%PC components, storage, memory, processors, peripherals, printers, power, and hardware installation.
Core 1: Virtualization and Cloud Computing
11%Client virtualization, cloud models, virtual machines, and common cloud concepts used in IT support.
Core 1: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
28%Structured troubleshooting of hardware, storage, displays, mobile devices, printers, networks, and connectivity.
Core 2: Operating Systems
28%Installation, configuration, administration, and command-line use across common desktop operating systems.
Core 2: Security
28%Endpoint security, authentication, permissions, malware response, hardening, and security best practices.
Core 2: Software Troubleshooting
23%Troubleshooting operating system, application, malware, and mobile software issues.
Core 2: Operational Procedures
21%Documentation, change management, safety, professionalism, backup, disaster recovery, and operational processes.
Study Resources
CompTIA Exam Objectives
Official resourceOfficial Guide · Free
Official CompTIA exam-objectives resource for downloading the current A+ objectives.
View resourceCompTIA A+ Certification
Official resourceDocumentation · Free
Official CompTIA A+ certification overview and current exam information.
View resourceCompTIA Continuing Education Renewal Options
Official resourceDocumentation · Free
Official CompTIA renewal options and Continuing Education guidance.
View resourceRenewal
- Validity period
- 3 years
- Renewal method
- Renew through CompTIA Continuing Education by earning the required CEUs, completing an eligible renewal option, or earning an approved higher-level certification.
- Notes
- A+ requires 20 CEUs during the three-year renewal cycle when using the CEU route. Verify current fees and eligible activities with CompTIA.
Related Certifications
Recommended Before
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Recommended After
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Alternatives
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Specializations
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