Summary
Highlights
The CompTIA A+ certification is a foundational IT certification, often a prerequisite for entry-level IT jobs. It covers a broad range of topics including hardware, networking, security, and operating systems. CompTIA is a global organization offering various IT certifications across 100+ countries.
This course breaks down complex topics into small, digestible videos, each focusing on one or two subjects. It covers every objective listed in the official CompTIA exam syllabus and is available for free on YouTube and Professor Messer's website. Additional study materials like course notes, practice exams, and audio versions are available for purchase.
To achieve A+ certification, you must pass two exams: 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2), both released on March 25, 2025, and valid for about 3.5 years. Each exam is 90 minutes with up to 90 questions. Core 1 emphasizes mobile devices, networking, hardware, and virtualization, with a passing score of 675. Core 2 covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures, requiring a passing score of 700. The exams can be taken in any order, but both must be passed for certification.
A+ exams primarily consist of multiple-choice questions, which can be single or multiple answer. Additionally, there are performance-based questions, which can include fill-in-the-blank, command prompts, drag-and-drop, ordering, or matching. These are typically presented at the beginning of the exam.
Professor Messer recommends the WRAP strategy: Watch the video course, Read a good book (such as recommended titles on the Professor Messer website), Apply the information through labs and hands-on practice, and Practice with practice exams to assess readiness. The video numbering matches the official CompTIA exam objectives for easy cross-referencing with other study materials.
Before scheduling the exam, use the official CompTIA exam objectives as a checklist. Familiarize yourself with local testing centers or consider taking the exam at home, adhering to specific requirements. Arrive early at the testing center or prepare your home testing environment thoroughly. During the exam, manage your 90 minutes efficiently, utilize the question marking feature to review, and ensure all questions are answered before submission. Results are provided immediately.
Professor Messer offers an online community via a Discord server for students to ask questions and study together. Free monthly A+ study groups are also available for both Core 1 and Core 2 exams, providing interactive quizzes and Q&A sessions with the instructor.