CertPath Score
8.5
/10
About this certification
CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching an IT career. It covers PC hardware, software troubleshooting, networking fundamentals, and basic security. It's the starting point for most IT support careers and is required or preferred by major employers including Dell, Intel, and the US military.
What you'll validate
- ✓PC hardware troubleshooting
- ✓OS installation and support
- ✓Network connectivity
- ✓Basic security practices
- ✓Mobile device support
- ✓Cloud computing fundamentals
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Most recognized entry-level IT cert
- +Vendor-neutral — applies to any environment
- +Required by many government and DoD roles
- +Strong foundation for all IT career paths
Disadvantages
- −Two separate exams required
- −Renewal needed every 3 years
- −Entry-level only — won't carry you far alone
Who it's for
Best for
- →Career changers entering IT
- →Help desk and IT support candidates
- →Anyone pursuing a DoD-related IT job
Not ideal for
- ×Experienced IT professionals seeking advancement
- ×Those who already have hands-on IT experience (start higher)
Career paths this unlocks
Study Resources
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Jobs for A+ holders
A+ holders typically see a 5–15% salary increase.
LinkedIn Jobs
Updated daily
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by CertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $253 (Two exams required: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102))
- Exam Duration
- 90 minutes
- Questions
- ~90
- Passing Score
- 700/900 (Core 1), 700/900 (Core 2)
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice + Performance
- Study Time
- ~120 hours
- Validity
- 3 years
- Salary Impact
- Moderate (5–15% uplift typical)
- Certified Globally
- 1M+
Prerequisites
- !Recommended 9–12 months of hands-on IT experience
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