CompTIA’s A+ certification is meant for entry-level computer technicians. The A+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that was introduced in 1993 and is now held by over 500,000 people. It has no prerequisites but is widely used as a starting point for various system administration and network administration certifications. For example, the A+ certification, coupled with either the CompTIA Network+ or Server+ certification, can be used as an elective for Microsoft’s MCSA certification.

The skills and knowledge measured by the CompTIA A+ exams were derived from an industry-wide and worldwide job task analysis. It means that by doing this course you are equipped to deal with every conceivable issue you face at work. Earning CompTIA A+ certification proves that you have a broad base of knowledge and competency in core hardware and operating system technologies including installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventive maintenance and basic networking.

CompTIA’s Network+ certification is aimed at IT professionals with nine months experience in network support or administration. The Network+, exam code N10-002, was first introduced in 1997 and was most recently updated in January 2002. As of mid 2003, CompTIA says that over 70,000 people hold this certification. Network+ is an entry-level, vendor-neutral certification that you can achieve on your way to more advanced certifications, such as the Microsoft MCSE

Earning a CompTIA Network+ certification demonstrates you can describe the features and functions of networking components, and posses the knowledge and skills needed to install, configure and troubleshoot basic networking hardware, protocols and services. The exam tests technical ability in the areas of media and topologies, protocols and standards, network implementation, and network support. The exam also covers new technologies such as wireless networking and gigabit Ethernet.

COMPTIA A+ Certification Requirements

For A+ Certification, you must pass 2 exams. CompTIA A+ Core Hardware (2003) and the A+ Operating System Technologies examination.

• The Core Hardware examination measures essential competencies for an entry-level IT professional or PC service technician.
• The A+ Core Hardware exam will validate whether you have the important knowledge and skills necessary to competently install, build, configure, upgrade, troubleshoot and repair personal computer compatible hardware including troubleshooting basic network and internet connectivity, dial-up, DSL, and cable. Additionally, the A+ Core Hardware exam will cover the latest memory, bus, peripherals, and wireless technologies.

• The Operating System Technologies examination measures essential operating system competencies for an entry level I.T professional
• Once you have completed this course you will able to demonstrate basic knowledge of operating systems (Windows 9x, Windows NT 4.0 Workstation, and Windows 2000). Additionally, the 2003 Objectives will cover later operating systems (Windows Me and Windows XP).

Exam 1:  Hardware

Exam 2: Operating Systems

COMPTIA Network+ Certification Requirements

For CompTIA Network+ Certification, you must pass 1 exam.

• The Network+ examination measures essential competencies for an entry-level IT professional or PC service technicians who have an A+ or 9 months work experience.
• The Network+ exam certifies that you know the layers of the OSI model, and can describe the features and functions of network components. It also measure your skills needed to install, configure, and troubleshoot basic networking hardware peripherals and protocols.

Network+ Breakdown