Course Description:

This competency-based course prepares students for entry-level positions common in the computer maintenance and repair field such as a computer support specialist and computer service technician. Classroom instruction and practical experience will include installation and configuration of various components, diagnostics, operating systems and software. Students achieving competency in this course will be prepared to take the A+ Certification exams in both hardware and operating systems.

For a complete Course Description to include Information about Competency-Based Course and Career Preparation Standards, please see:
A+ CERTIFICATION.

What Is A+ Certification?

The A+ certification program was developed by the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) to provide an industry-wide means of certifying the competency of computer service technicians. The A+ certification is granted to those who have attained the level of knowledge and troubleshooting skills that are needed to provide capable support in the field of personal computers.

It is similar to other certifications in the computer industry, such Novell’s Certified Novell Engineer (CNE) program and the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) program. The theory behind these certifications is that if you need to have service performed on any of their products, you would sooner call a technician who has been certified in one of the appropriate certification programs than you would just call the first “expert” in the phone book.

The A+ certification program was created to offer a wide-ranging certification, in the sense that it is intended to certify competence with personal computers from many different makers/vendors. You must pass two tests to become A+ certified:

• The A+ Essentials (220-601) exam, which covers basic computer concepts, hardware troubleshooting, soft skills (such as customer service), and hardware upgrading, security, and safety.
• One of three “technician” exams—IT Technician (220-602), Remote Support Technician (220-603), or Depot Technician (220-604)—which cover more of the hands-on aspects of the topics tested on in the Essentials exam.

• You don’t have to take the Essentials and the technician exams at the same time. The A+ certification is not awarded until you’ve passed both tests.

Why Become A+ Certified?

There are several good reasons to get your A+ certification. This is a list five major benefits:

• It demonstrates proof of professional achievement.
• It increases your marketability.
• It provides greater opportunity for advancement in your field.
• It is increasingly a requirement for some types of advanced training.
• It raises customer confidence in you and your company’s services.

How to Become A+ Certified

• A+ certification is available to anyone who passes the tests. You don’t have to work for any particular company. It’s not a secret society. It is, however, an elite group. To become A+ certified, you must do two things:
• Pass the A+ Essentials exam
• Pass the one of the three A+ technician exams: IT Technician, Remote Support Technician, Depot Technician exam

CompTIA A+® Certification Video