Thursday, July 24, 2025

COMPLETE GUIDE TO COMPTIA A PLUS CERTIFICATION (CORE 1 AND CORE 2 – V15)

INTRODUCTION

The CompTIA A Plus certification is one of the most recognized entry-level certifications for IT professionals. It validates essential knowledge in areas such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. The certification is vendor-neutral and widely accepted across the IT industry.

This guide provides a complete overview of the latest version (V15) of the CompTIA A Plus certification, which includes the 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2) exams.

WHAT IS THE A PLUS CERTIFICATION

The A Plus certification is designed to test your knowledge and skills in supporting and troubleshooting hardware and software in modern computing environments. It is suitable for roles such as

IT support specialist
Help desk technician
Field service technician
Technical support analyst

It covers both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills, preparing you for real-world scenarios in IT support.

LATEST VERSION – A PLUS CORE 1 AND CORE 2 V15

Exam Codes
220-1201 Core 1
220-1202 Core 2

Maximum Questions
Up to 90 questions per exam

Format
Multiple choice (single and multiple responses)
Drag and drop
Performance-based questions

Time
90 minutes per exam

Passing Scores
Core 1 requires a score of 675 out of 900
Core 2 requires a score of 700 out of 900

Recommended Experience
Nine to twelve months hands-on experience in a help desk or technical support role is suggested but not mandatory

DOMAINS COVERED IN CORE 1 AND CORE 2

CORE 1 220-1201

Mobile Devices
Covers laptops, smartphones, tablets, installation and configuration, and mobile operating system syncing

Networking
Covers IP addressing, protocols, ports, routers, switches, wireless standards, and network troubleshooting tools

Hardware
Includes motherboards, CPUs, RAM, storage devices, printers, power supplies, and peripherals

Virtualization and Cloud Computing
Covers cloud service models like IaaS, SaaS, PaaS and setting up virtual machines

Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
Focuses on common issues and tools such as ping, tracert, and cable testers as well as troubleshooting steps

CORE 2 220-1202

Operating Systems
Covers Windows, Linux, macOS, and Chrome OS. Includes installation, configuration, system tools, and command-line utilities

Security
Includes malware types and protection methods, secure protocols, user authentication, and social engineering threats

Software Troubleshooting
Focuses on identifying and resolving issues related to operating systems and applications using logs and error messages

Operational Procedures
Includes safety, environmental control, documentation, backup strategies, and communication best practices

PREPARATION TIPS

STEP-BY-STEP STUDY STRATEGY

Understand the Exam Objectives
Study all domains listed in the official exam objectives for both Core 1 and Core 2. Make a checklist to monitor progress

Use Multiple Resources
Refer to textbooks, video tutorials, practice tests, and flashcards to reinforce knowledge

Practice with Labs
Use hardware simulators or real machines to practice installing, configuring, and troubleshooting systems

Take Practice Exams
Simulate the real exam environment to get used to the question format and timing

Review and Revise
Analyze performance in mock tests and revisit topics that need more attention

EXAM DETAILS

Location
The exams can be taken at physical test centers or online through remote proctoring systems

Cost
Each exam costs approximately 250 US dollars. Combined, the total certification cost is around 500 US dollars

ID Requirement
A valid government-issued ID is required on exam day

CAREER BENEFITS

With the A Plus certification, you become eligible for a wide range of entry-level IT roles such as

Service desk analyst
IT support technician
Desktop support administrator
Field service technician

The certification is also recognized by government agencies and defense contractors, adding weight to your resume

RENEWAL AND CONTINUING EDUCATION

The certification is valid for three years
You can renew it by earning continuing education units, completing CertMaster CE, or earning a higher-level certification

CONCLUSION

The CompTIA A Plus Certification offers a solid foundation for launching a career in IT support and services. It validates a wide range of technical skills, from hardware installation to system troubleshooting and security awareness. With structured study, practical experience, and consistent effort, candidates can pass both Core 1 and Core 2 exams and open doors to entry-level IT job opportunities and further career growth.


For more information visit this site :COMPTIA A PLUS CERTIFICATION (CORE 1 AND CORE 2 – V15)

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