CompTIA A+
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (V15) validates foundational hardware, networking, mobile, and virtualization skills for entry‑level IT support roles.
- Exam fee
- $246
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Passing score
- 675 (on a scale of 900)
- Valid for
- 3 years
- Typical salary
- $55K–$75K
A+ Core 1 is a solid stepping stone for anyone starting an IT support career and who can commit to a few weeks of focused study. If you already hold higher‑level certs or need a more specialized credential, consider moving directly to Network+ or Security+.
What CompTIA A+ covers
The universal IT entry-level cert. No experience required. Covers hardware, OS, networking, and troubleshooting fundamentals.
Key topics covered: Hardware components, Networking basics, Operating systems, Security fundamentals, Virtualization & cloud, Troubleshooting methodology.
Best suited for: Anyone starting an IT career. Career changers, students, help desk professionals.
Common career paths: IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Technical Support Engineer, Desktop Support Analyst.
CompTIA A+ exam details
Maximum of 90 questions, including multiple‑choice (single and multiple response), drag‑and‑drop, and performance‑based items
Exam domains
- Mobile devices (13%)
- Networking (23%)
- Hardware (25%)
- Virtualization and cloud computing (11%)
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $246
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Passing score
- 675 (on a scale of 900)
- Prerequisites
- 12 months of hands‑on experience in an IT support specialist job role
- Valid for
- 3 years
How to prepare for CompTIA A+
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Foundations & Hardware Study core hardware components, installation, and cable/connectors. Complete hands‑on labs to cement RAM, CPU, and storage upgrades. | Week 1‑2 |
| 2 | Networking Basics Learn SOHO networking, protocols, ports, and tools. Practice configuring IP settings and troubleshooting connectivity. | Week 3 |
| 3 | Mobile Devices & Peripherals Cover mobile device setup, accessories, and wireless options. Perform troubleshooting scenarios for Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth issues. | Week 4 |
| 4 | Virtualization & Cloud Concepts Understand VMs, hypervisors, and cloud service models. Use simulated labs to deploy a simple virtual machine. | Week 5 |
| 5 | Exam‑Ready Practice Take timed practice exams, review performance‑based questions, and focus on weak areas before the real test. | Week 6 |
Jobs and salary with CompTIA A+
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $55K–$75K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
CompTIA A+ questions answered
What is the CompTIA A+ certification?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (V15) validates foundational hardware, networking, mobile, and virtualization skills for entry‑level IT support roles. It is issued by CompTIA and sits in the IT Fundamentals field.
Is CompTIA A+ hard?
CompTIA A+ is rated Beginner. Most candidates can prepare without prior professional experience in the field.
How much does the CompTIA A+ exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $246. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with CompTIA before you book.
How long is the CompTIA A+ exam?
The exam runs for 90 minutes.
What is the passing score for CompTIA A+?
The passing score is 675 (on a scale of 900).
How long is CompTIA A+ valid?
CompTIA A+ is valid for 3 years, after which it must be renewed under CompTIA's renewal rules.
Are there prerequisites for CompTIA A+?
12 months of hands‑on experience in an IT support specialist job role
What salary can I expect with CompTIA A+?
Professionals with CompTIA A+ commonly report pay in the $55K–$75K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for CompTIA A+?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to CompTIA A+
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| ITIL 4 Foundation | — | Beginner |
| Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900) | Microsoft | Beginner |
| RHCSA - Red Hat Certified System Administrator | Red Hat | Beginner |
| LPIC-1 Linux Administrator | Linux Professional Institute | Beginner |
| Google IT Support Professional Certificate | Beginner |