The technology industry offers several exciting career opportunities, especially for those interested in IT. To really make your mark in the IT field, you should consider getting a CompTIA A+ certification. It is a tough goal, but CompTIA A+ is the preferred qualification for IT roles.
It is the industry standard for expert knowledge of computer hardware, software, and troubleshooting. If you can list a CompTIA A+ certificate on your resume, you automatically become a valuable asset to potential employers.
What is a CompTIA A+ Certification?
This certification programme is ideal if you have no previous IT experience or want to validate your existing skills. The difference is that if you have experience working with hardware and operating systems, you may find the exam easier. If you have zero experience, you will have to put in a lot of study hours.
The current iteration of the CompTIA A+ training and certification consists of two primary exams:
Core 1 (220-1101): This exam is the one you will take if you want a certification in hardware components and mobile devices. It is also the correct exam for a qualification in online security, visualisation, and operations.
Core 2 (220-1102): If you want to specialise in operating systems, the Core 2 exam is best for you. If you pass, you will be qualified to work with Windows, Linux, and macOS. You will also be grounded in security practices and software troubleshooting.
Why Should You Pursue a CompTIA A+ Certification?
With a CompTIA A+ certificate, you get valid credentials valued by global employers. This means you can work in just about any industry anywhere in the world. This certification shows potential employers that you are committed to an IT career and will give you the edge over entry-level applicants.
This edge automatically enhances your job prospects. Entry-level IT employees have lots to learn, whereas you will already be familiar with various roles. This includes help desk, desktop support, and field service technician roles.
Moreover, the A+ programme gives you a solid foundation for further learning. You can branch out your education to include network administration and complex cybersecurity.
The best part for most IT specialists is that the A+ certification gives them more earning potential over their non-certified peers.
Is an A+ Certification Right For You?
As mentioned above, if you have no IT experience but want to start in this field, the A+ certification can launch your career.
If you are looking for a change and an entirely new career, the A+ certification can help you. If you are a graduate, an A+ certificate will instantly upgrade your resume and give you an excellent chance of landing a good job.
If you want to validate your current IT knowledge and skills, you can do that with the A+ certification.
Preparing for the CompTIA A+ Exams
CompTIA offers resources for studying, including exam objectives and practice questions. The website also includes an eLearning platform called CertMaster Learn.
Furthermore, you can purchase one of several online and in-person training courses to help you prepare for your exam. These courses cover exam topic explanations and can provide mock exams to test your knowledge.
You will also find textbooks and study guides online but only use the updated versions. You can use several other online resources, including websites and forums, which may include free and paid study materials.
More Tips for A+ Success
Allow yourself enough time to study for the A+ exam. This means creating a study plan that leaves enough time for each topic. Do not just focus on theoretics but put some effort into learning practical applications. If you understand how real-world IT applications work, the theory will make more sense anyway.
Use all the practice exams and quizzes available to you to identify areas of improvement. Spend more time on these areas to ensure you are well-prepared for all the exam questions.
If you find it hard to study alone, look for a study group for motivation and discipline. A study group can also help you stay within the time parameters of a real-life test while you take practice exams.
Consider the CompTIA A+ Certification to Propel Your IT Career
The A+ certification is a stepping stone for anyone who wants to excel in an IT career. With this certification, you open more doors for yourself by gaining skills that fit an evolving technological world.
So, if you want to land a fulfilling job in IT, consider getting A+ certified and watch your IT career dreams come true.
