Jun 2, 2025
If you want to start or advance an IT career, the CompTIA A+ certification is still the go-to entry point. The newest Core Series (220-1201 for Core 1 and 220-1202 for Core 2) launched March 25 2025, while the outgoing 1101 / 1102 exams retire September 25 2025 for English language testers. Two exams stand between you and the credential, and both reflect modern cloud, mobile, and security concepts
Understanding the CompTIA A+ Certification
CompTIA A+ is the industry’s entry level credential for IT support roles. Employers use it as proof that you can install, configure, secure, and troubleshoot common hardware and software.
Exam Code | Name | Focus |
|---|---|---|
220-1201 | Core 1 | Devices, networking, hardware, cloud, troubleshooting |
220-1202 | Core 2 | Operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, operations |
Cost: A US exam voucher for either 220-1201 or 220-1202 is $265
Language: English
Validity & renewal: A+ is valid for three years and can be renewed with 20 CEUs or by earning a higher level CompTIA certification.
CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201): The Hardware Heavy Exam
Updated domain weights
Mobile Devices 13%
Networking 23%
Hardware 25%
Virtualization & Cloud 11%
Hardware & Network Troubleshooting 28%
What you’ll study
Domain | Key skills |
|---|---|
Mobile Devices | Configure laptops, tablets, smartphone email, sync, security |
Networking | TCP/IP, ports, Wi-Fi 6 / 7, cabling, SOHO routers, VPN |
Hardware | Install storage, RAM, CPUs, GPUs, power supplies, custom builds |
Virtualization & Cloud | Client side VMs, basic cloud concepts, cloud storage |
Troubleshooting | Diagnose POST beeps, boot loops, Wi-Fi drops, printer jams |
CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202): The Software and Security Exam
Updated domain weights
Operating Systems 28%
Security 28%
Software Troubleshooting 23%
Operational Procedures 21%
What you’ll study
Domain | Key skills |
|---|---|
Operating Systems | Windows 10 / 11 install and upgrade, macOS, Linux basics, command line tools |
Security | Malware removal, wireless encryption, account policies, social engineering defense |
Software Troubleshooting | OS errors, application crashes, mobile OS issues, security faults |
Operational Procedures | Documentation, change control, disaster recovery, safety, scripting basics |
Exam Details
Item | Core 1 (220-1201) | Core 2 (220-1202) |
|---|---|---|
Questions | Maximum of 90 (multiple choice, drag and drop, PBQs, CLI simulations) | Maximum of 90 (multiple choice, drag and drop, PBQs, OS and security simulations) |
Time limit | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
Passing score | 675 / 900 | 700 / 900 |
PBQ examples | Configure Wi-Fi router, set mobile email, partition a disk, troubleshoot CLI | Remove malware with PowerShell, set NTFS permissions, encrypt a drive, schedule backups |
Who Should Take A+
Help Desk or IT Support Specialists
Field Service Technicians
Desktop Support Analysts
Career changers seeking an entry point into IT
How to Prepare
Hands on practice: build a home lab with spare hardware or VMs.
Official resources: use CompTIA objectives, study guides, and exam style practice tests.
Study schedule: two to three months at one to two hours per day works for most candidates.
Join communities: subreddits, Discord servers, or local study groups keep you accountable.
Mock exams: identify weak areas and simulate the 90 minute time pressure.
Why the Certification Still Matters
Industry recognition: trusted by employers worldwide.
Career advancement: qualifies you for entry level IT roles and salaries.
Vendor neutral: skills apply to Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms.
Meets DoD 8140 baseline for roles such as Technical Support Specialist and Cyber Defense Infrastructure Support.
Foundation for growth: feeds directly into Network+, Security+, and cloud tracks.
Next Steps After A+
Network+: deepen your understanding of routing, switching, Wi-Fi, and network security.
Security+: build a cybersecurity foundation.
Vendor tracks: explore Microsoft, Cisco, AWS, or Google Cloud certifications.
Specializations: pivot into sysadmin, cloud, or penetration testing.
Conclusion
The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams are your gateway to a rewarding IT career. With new 2025 objectives, they cover cloud services, mobile support, and security first operations. Combine solid study materials with real world practice, and you’ll join the ranks of certified professionals ready to tackle today’s IT challenges.
Ready to drill real exam questions?
Jump into our A+ practice exams and test yourself under timed conditions. Pass the cert, launch your career.
