EXAM CODES 220-1201 & 220-1202
CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching IT careers into today’s digital world.
The CompTIA A+ Core Series requires candidates to pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) covering the following new content, emphasizing the technologies and skills IT pros need to support a hybrid workforce:
CompTIA A+ is compliant with ISO 17024 standards and approved by the U.S. DoD to meet Directive 8140.03M requirements. Regulators and governments rely on ANAB accreditation because it provides confidence and trust in the outputs of an accredited program. Over 1 million CompTIA ISO/ANAB-accredited exams have been delivered since January 1, 2011.
Identifying, using and connecting hardware components and devices, including the broad knowledge about different devices that is now necessary to support the remote workforce
Install and support Windows OS including command line and client support, system configuration imaging and troubleshooting for Mac OS, Chrome OS, Android and Linux OS
Troubleshoot PC and mobile device issues including common OS, malware and security issues
Explain types of networks and connections including TCP/IP, WIFI and SOHO
Troubleshoot real-world device and network issues quickly and efficiently
Identify and protect against security vulnerabilities for devices and their network connections
Install and configure laptops and other mobile devices and support applications to ensure connectivity for end users
Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts and set up client-side virtualization
Follow best practices for safety, environmental impacts, and communication and professionalism
Richards’ research showed him that CompTIA was the gold standard for certifications and that getting CompTIA A+-certified was his first step – and so he did it.
Scott previously worked as a personal trainer and now works in IT with the help of CompTIA A+ and Security+.
Vernon, a Chicago salesman, found satisfaction and fulfilment in a cybersecurity career despite lack of experience with the help of CompTIA A+.
| Exam Codes | CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2) Candidates must complete both 1101 and 1102 to earn certification. Exams cannot be combined across the series. |
CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2) Candidates must complete both 1201 and 1202 to earn certification. Exams cannot be combined across the series. |
| Launch Date | April 2022 | March 2025 |
| Exam Description | CompTIA A+ 220-1101 covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud
computing. CompTIA A+ 220-1102 covers operating systems, security, software and operational procedures. |
CompTIA A+ 220-1201 covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing.
CompTIA A+ 220-1202 covers operating systems, security, software and operational procedures. |
| Number of Questions | Maximum of 90 questions per exam | |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice questions (single and multiple response), drag and drops and performance-based | |
| Length of Test | 90 Minutes per exam | |
| Passing Score | 220-1101: 675 (on a scale of 900) 220-1102: 700 (on a scale of 900) |
220-1201: 675 (on a scale of 900) 220-1202: 700 (on a scale of 900) |
| Recommended Experience | 9 to 12 months hands-on experience in the lab or field | |
| Languages | English at launch. German, Japanese, Portuguese, Thai, Spanish, and French |
English, German, and Japanese |
| Retirement | September 25, 2025 for English December 20, 2025 for all other languages |
TBD – Usually three years after launch |
| DoD 8140 Approved Work Roles | Technical Support Specialist, System Administrator, Cyber Defense Infrastructure Support Specialist |
For more information, click here. |
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| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
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| Price | View price in cart per exam (See all pricing) | View price in cart per exam (See all pricing) |
 | Microsoft Certified Fundamentals | ITIL Foundation Certification | Cisco CCST | |
| Performance-based questions | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Exam Length | 2 exams, 90 min. each | 2-3 exams | 1 exam | Three tracks, single exam per track |
| Experience Level | Entry | Entry | Entry | Entry |
| Exam Focus | Technical and professional skills | Tied to specific Microsoft products and technologies | Focuses on IT service management | Entry-level networking for CISCO solutions |
| Pre-requisites | None. 9-12 months experience recommended | None. Prior experience recommended | None | None |
Keep your certification up to date with CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program. It’s designed to be a continued validation of your expertise and a tool to expand your skill set. It’s also the ace up your sleeve when you’re ready to take the next step in your career.
Get the most out of your certification
Information technology is an incredibly dynamic field, creating new opportunities and challenges every day. Participating in our Continuing Education program will enable you to stay current with new and evolving technologies and remain a sought-after IT expert.
The CompTIA Continuing Education program
Your CompTIA A+ certification is good for three years from the day of your exam. The CE program allows you to extend your certification in three-year intervals through activities and training that relate to the content of your certification. Like A+ itself, CompTIA A+ CE also carries globally-recognized ISO/ANSI accreditation status.
It’s easy to renew
You can participate in a number of activities and training programs, including higher certifications, to renew your CompTIA A+ certification. Complete CertMaster CE, an online, self-paced CE course, or collect at least 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in three years, upload them to your certification account, and A+ will automatically renew.
Want more details? Learn more about the CompTIA Continuing Education program.
