Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)

CompTIA A+

Credential: CompTIA A+  In-Demand resource  GI Bill resource  ANAB (ANSI) resource
Credentialing Agency: Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), A+ certification validates the entry-level computer technician's competency to perform a myriad of critical IT support tasks. CompTIA A+ technicians demonstrate skills in networking, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, network and software troubleshooting, installing and configuring operating systems, security, and operational procedures. Candidates must pass both the Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002) exams.

More information can be found on the certifying agency's website.

CompTIA A+

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Attainability:    high

Eligibility Requirements (View Details)

  • Credential Prerequisite
  • Experience: 9 months recommended
  • Education
  • Training
  • Membership
  • Other
  • Fee

Note: This credential may have multiple options for a Service member to meet eligibility requirements. Requirements listed here are based on the minimum degree required.

Exam Requirements (View Details)

  • Exam
  • Written Exam
  • Oral Exam
  • Practical Exam
  • Performance Assessment

Exam Administration (View Details)

  • In-person exam
  • Remote proctored on-line exam
  • Third-party test vendor

RECERTIFICATION SUMMARY

Renewal Period: 3 years

  • Continuing Education
  • Exam
  • Continuing Education OR Exam
  • Fee
  • Other

AGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)

3500 Lacey Road
Suite 100
Downers Grove, IL  60515

Phone: 866.835.8020

Fax: 630.678.8384
Contact Page

Show Written Exam Requirements / Hide Written Exam Requirements

  • Mobile Devices (14%)
    • Given a scenario, install and configure laptop hardware and components.
    • Given a scenario, install components within the display of a laptop.
    • Given a scenario, use appropriate laptop features.
    • Compare and contrast characteristics of various types of other mobile devices.
    • Given a scenario, connect and configure accessories and ports of other mobile devices.
    • Given a scenario, configure basic mobile device network connectivity and application support.
    • Given a scenario, use methods to perform mobile device synchronization.
  • Networking (20%)
    • Compare and contrast TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purposes.
    • Compare and contrast common networking hardware devices.
    • Given a scenario, install and configure a basic wired/wireless SOHO network.
    • Compare and contrast wireless networking protocols.
    • Summarize the properties and purposes of services provided by networked hosts.
    • Explain common network configuration concepts.
    • Compare and contrast Internet connection types, network types, and their features.
    • Given a scenario, use appropriate networking tools.
  • Hardware (27%)
    • Explain basic cable types, features, and their purposes.
    • Identify common connector types.
    • Given a scenario, install RAM types.
    • Given a scenario, select, install and configure storage devices.
    • Given a scenario, install and configure motherboards, CPUs, and add-on cards.
    • Explain the purposes and uses of various peripheral types.
    • Summarize power supply types and features.
    • Given a scenario, select and configure appropriate components for a custom PC configuration to meet customer specifications or needs.
    • Given a scenario, install and configure common devices.
    • Given a scenario, configure SOHO multifunction devices/printers and settings.
    • Given a scenario, install and maintain various print technologies.
  • Virtualization and Cloud Computing (12%)
    • Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts.
    • Given a scenario, set up and configure client-side virtualization.
  • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (27%)
    • Given a scenario, use the best practice methodology to resolve problems.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPUs, and power.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot hard drives and RAID arrays.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot video, projector, and display issues.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile device issues while adhering to the appropriate procedures.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot printers.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot common wired and wireless network problems.

  • Operating Systems (27%)
    • Compare and contrast common operating system types and their purposes.
    • Compare and contrast features of Microsoft Windows versions.
    • Summarize general OS installation considerations and upgrade methods.
    • Given a scenario, use appropriate Microsoft command line tools.
    • Given a scenario, use Microsoft operating system features and tools.
    • Given a scenario, use Microsoft Windows Control Panel utilities.
    • Summarize application installation and configuration concepts.
    • Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows networking on a client/desktop.
    • Given a scenario, use features and tools of the Mac OS and Linux client/desktop operating systems.
  • Security (24%)
    • Summarize the importance of physical security measures.
    • Explain logical security concepts.
    • Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods.
    • Given a scenario, detect, remove, and prevent malware using appropriate tools and methods.
    • Compare and contrast social engineering, threats, and vulnerabilities.
    • Compare and contrast the differences of basic Microsoft Windows OS security settings.
    • Given a scenario, implement security best practices to secure a workstation.
    • Given a scenario, implement methods for securing mobile devices.
    • Given a scenario, implement appropriate data destruction and disposal methods.
    • Given a scenario, configure security on SOHO wireless and wired networks.
  • Software Troubleshooting (26%)
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot Microsoft Windows OS problems.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve PC security issues.
    • Given a scenario, use best practice procedures for malware removal.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application issues.
    • Explain common safety procedures.
    • Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application security issues.
  • Operational Procedures (23%)
    • Compare and contrast best practices associated with types of documentation.
    • Given a scenario, implement basic change management best practices.
    • Given a scenario, implement basic disaster prevention and recovery methods.
    • Explain environmental impacts and appropriate controls.
    • Explain the processes for addressing prohibited content/ activity, and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts.
    • Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism.
    • Identify the basics of scripting.
    • Given a scenario, use remote access technologies.

Exam Preparation Resources

There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the CompTIA A+ examination:

An additional resource is O'Reilly Learning Safari Books Online, a searchable digital library that provides online access to thousands of books, training videos and conference sessions. See the Educational Resources section on the Related Sites page here on COOL to learn how to get free access.

Testing Information

  • Exam Administration

    Credential exams may be administered in-person at a testing site, proctored on-line remotely, or have options for both. If an exam is administered through a test vendor, the third-party test vendor box will be checked. The following test administration options apply to the CompTIA A+ credential where checked:

    • In-person exam
    • Remote proctored on-line exam
    • Third-party test vendor

  • For more information on the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) testing process, visit the agency website.

RECERTIFICATION

CompTIA A+

Renewal Period: 3 years

The CompTIA A+ credential has the following recertification information:

  • CompTIA A+ certification holders must earn 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during the three-year certification period.
  • Certification holders of more than one CompTIA certification only need to meet the renewal requirements for the highest-level certification held and the lower-level CompTIA certifications automatically renew as well.

Additional considerations for the CompTIA A+ include:

  • The CompTIA A+ exams measure necessary competencies for an entry-level IT professional with the equivalent knowledge of nine to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field. This level of experience is recommended but not required. Successful candidate has the knowledge required to understand the fundamentals of computer technology, networking, and security, and will have the skills required to identify hardware, peripheral, networking, and security components.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand. The U.S. Department of Labor sponsored CareerOneStop's analysis indicates the certification is frequently mentioned in online job postings.

Click for external link to CareerOneStop's Credentials Center.

COOL Bucks

See your installation Education Service Officer for credential exam information and coordinating instructions.

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Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the military occupation (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the military occupation (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

CA Eligible

This certification is eligible for CA.

Star

Star credentials are MOS enhancing, as designated by the Proponent. MOS enhancing credentials are directly related to an MOS or ASI, are taught either partially or completely as part of a Program of Instruction (POI), and improves the MOS technical proficiency.

Skill Level

The Skill Level reflects the level, based on MOS training and/or experience, the Soldier should be the most prepared to successfully earn the credential. See the Table Legend for details about each level.

Navy Bucks

Credential voucher or reimbursement for credential exam, re-certification, or maintenance fee has been approved for payment through the Navy's Credential Program Office. To get a voucher request form, click Menu at the top of any page, then click "2 Complete Voucher and Apply" under Credentialing Steps.

CG Bucks

Current Coast Guard policy states all credentials listed on CG COOL may be reimbursed assuming the enlisted service member meets the eligibility requirements as outlined in the Coast Guard Voluntary Credentialing Program Policy (COMDTINST 1540.1(series))

Early Career

1-3 years experience; Enlisted E1 through E4

Mid Career

4-10 years experience; Enlisted E5 through E6

Late Career

10+ years experience; Enlisted E7 through E9

Early Career

1-3 years experience; Enlisted “A” School through E5

Mid Career

4-10 years experience; Enlisted E6 through E7

Late Career

10+ years experience; Enlisted E8 through E9

Early Career

1-6 years experience; Officer O1 through O2

Mid Career

6-12 years experience; Officer O3 through O5

Late Career

12+ years experience; Officer O6 and Above

LaDR

This credential is recommended on the rating Learning and Development Roadmap (LaDR) for Sailors currently in the pay grade indicated on the icon, BUT MAY BE TAKEN BY SAILORS IN OTHER PAY GRADES.

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GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

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ANAB (ANSI)

This credential has been accredited by ANAB (ANSI).

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ICAC

This credential has been accredited by ICAC.

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ABSNC

This credential has been accredited by ABSNC.

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NCCA

This credentialing program has been accredited by NCCA.

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IAS

This credential has been accredited by IAS.

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Low

May be difficult to attain: minimum education requirement is a Bachelor's degree, and/or minimum experience is 10 or more years.

Note: In some cases “years of experience” refers to time actively on duty or while holding a certain occupation or prior certification and not always in consecutive calendar years. Additional years required for certain preliminary stages may not be included in this classification. For requirements measured in hours, 1080 hours was considered a year. For days, 365 days was considered a year. Please review all prerequisites and requirements for eligibility, and additional information for details.

Medium

Moderate ease of attainment: minimum education requirement = Associate's and/or prerequisite and/or minimum experience = more than 2 years and less than 10 years of experience.

Note: In some cases “years of experience” refers to time actively on duty or while holding a certain occupation or prior certification and not always in consecutive calendar years. Additional years required for certain preliminary stages may not be included in this classification. For requirements measured in hours, 1080 hours was considered a year. For days, 365 days was considered a year. Please review all prerequisites and requirements for eligibility, and additional information for details.

High

Highly attainable: minimum education requirement = HS or less and/or minimum experience = 2 years or less experience and no additional requirements.

Note: In some cases “years of experience” refers to time actively on duty or while holding a certain occupation or prior certification and not always in consecutive calendar years. Additional years required for certain preliminary stages may not be included in this classification. For requirements measured in hours, 1080 hours was considered a year. For days, 365 days was considered a year. Please review all prerequisites and requirements for eligibility, and additional information for details.

MOS is Military Occupational Specialty
ASI is Additional Skill Identifier
WOMOS is Warrant Officer Military Occupational Specialty
AOC is Area Of Concentration Officer
Functional Area
Branch

Army e-learning

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NKO e-learning

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Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job

Registered Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. Go to the Apprenticeship Finder and enter career path or location to find apprenticeship opportunities.

Click here for External link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Computer User Support Specialists
Click here for External link to: My Next Move salary info for Computer User Support Specialists

Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job

Click here for external link to: My Next Move for Veterans State Map for Computer User Support Specialists

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Updated: April 30, 2021
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