CompTIA A+ certificate holders have a proven track record of solving problems in the IT industry. They can work with cloud, security, data management, and other technologies. A+ is a standard certification that can be used to get a job in an entry-level position within the IT industry. This certificate is based on performance and equips the holder to solve difficult problems critically. Employers around the world trust A+ because it makes you the best professional in technical support and endpoint management.
TheLinux+ certification might be worth looking into if you are just starting out with Linux administration or have at least 1 to 2 years experience. Many companies use Linux in cloud, security, mobile, and web administration applications. CompTIA Linux+ will help you manage all things that use Linux, such cars, servers, and smartphones.
CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Linux+Exams
CompTIA A+
CompTIA A+ certification requires that you pass Core 1 (220-1001) or Core 2 (220-1002). CompTIA A+ 220-1001 is focused on mobile devices, networking technology and hardware, virtualization, cloud computing and network troubleshooting. CompTIA A+ 220-002 focuses on configuring and installing operating systems, expanding security software, troubleshooting and operational procedures.
These core exams cover the following skills and concepts:
IT support professionals need to have basic security skills
Configure operating systems such Windows, Mac, Linux and Chrome OS. Android and iOS. Manage client-based and cloud-based SaaS software.
Troubleshooting and solving core service and support problems while using best practices in documentation, change management and scripting
Supporting basic IT infrastructures and networking
Supporting PC, mobile and IoT devices hardware
Basic data backup and recovery methods are implemented for data storage and management
To be eligible for the certificate, you must take both exams. You cannot combine them. Each exam contains 90 multiple-choice questions. Each exam lasts 90 minutes. Core 1 220-1001 is scored 675 out 900, Core 2 220-1002 scores 700 out 900.
The A+ core exams are focused on professional and technical skills.
The exams can be taken in English, Japanese, Thai, Portuguese, Spanish or both. The exam fee is US$232.
CompTIA A+ 1000-series certification is the latest version. It includes:
A general expansion of the security topics, including physical and logical security concepts and security measures, malware, etc.
A new approach to defining competency in operational procedures like disaster prevention and recovery and scripting basics.
Increased dependence on device connectivity and networking
CompTIA Linux+
CompTIA Linux+ requires that you pass one exam, Linux+ XK0-004 to receive your certificate. It is a job-focused Linux certification that focuses on the most important foundational skills required by hiring managers.
No experience is required to take the Linux+ certification. It is recommended that you have at most 12 months of Linux admin experience, A+ and Network+ certifications.
This certificate is composed of multiple-choice performance-based questions. They cover all aspects of Linux, thus laying the foundation for vendor-specific knowledge. Linux+ covers all the common tasks under major Linux distributions. It includes essential maintenance, installation, configuration, and maintenance of workstations, as well as networking. The CompTIA Linux+ exam voucher is US$ 319.
The exam contains 90 performance-based questions. These can be single response MCQs, fill in the blanks, or multiple choice. The exam lasts 90 minutes. To pass, you must score 720 out of the 900. The exam can be taken in Spanish, English or Japanese. The expiration date for the certificate is three year after passing the exam.
CompTIA A+ Skills
CompTIA A+ certification will allow you to master the following skills:
Hardware: Identify, connect, and use hardware components and devices
Networking: Describe the different types of connections and networks, including TCP/IP and WIFI.
Mobile devices: Setup and configure mobile devices and laptops
Operating systems: Install and support Windows OS including command line support and client support. Understanding Mac OS, Linux and mobile OS
Hardware and network troubleshooting
Virtualization and cloud computing: Compare cloud computing concepts and set-up client-side virtualization
Software troubleshooting: Troubleshoot PC or mobile device issues, including security support
Security: Protection against security vulnerabilities of devices and network connections
Operational procedures: Follow best practices for safety and environmental impacts.