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V15

A+ Core 1 & 2 V15 (New Version)

Start your tech career with CompTIA A+, the industry standard certification for entry-level roles. Trusted by employers worldwide, A+ builds foundational skills in hardware, software, networking, troubleshooting, and security. The latest version, V15, is updated for today’s technology and prepares you for roles like IT support specialist and help desk technician through two exams—Core 1 and Core 2.

Plus A+ Certification

A+ Core 1 (V15) exam objectives

Mobile devices (13%) 

  • Hardware setup: installing components like batteries, cameras, and Wi-Fi antennas.
  • Accessory options: configuring USB, Bluetooth, NFC, and docking stations.
  • Network setup: configuring Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular data, and synchronization settings.
  • Troubleshooting: identifying and fixing hardware and connectivity issues.

Networking (23%) 

  • Protocols and ports: learning about networking protocols, ports, and wireless technologies.
  • SOHO networks: setting up small office/home office networks, including IP addressing and VPNs.
  • Networking tools: troubleshooting with crimpers, cable testers, and Wi-Fi analyzers.

Hardware (25%) 

  • Component installation: setting up RAM, CPUs, and storage devices.
  • Cables and connectors: working with HDMI, Ethernet, and USB cables.
  • Peripheral devices: installing and maintaining printers, scanners, and other peripherals.
  • Motherboards and power: configuring motherboards, power supplies, and cooling solutions.

Virtualization and cloud computing (11%) 

  • Virtualization concepts: understanding virtual machines, hypervisors, and desktop virtualization.
  • Cloud models: learning about IaaS, SaaS, and PaaS.

Hardware and network troubleshooting (28%) 

  • Diagnosing issues: identifying and fixing hardware, network, and connectivity problems.
  • Troubleshooting tools: using multimeters, cable testers, and loopback plugs.

A+ Core 2 (V15) exam objectives

Operating systems (28%) 

  • OS installation: working with Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems.
  • Windows tools: managing systems with Task Manager, Command Prompt, and Disk Management.
  • File systems: handling file systems, updates, and OS upgrades.

Security (28%) 

  • Security measures: using encryption, access controls, and wireless security protocols.
  • Malware prevention: detecting, removing, and preventing malware threats.

Software troubleshooting (23%) 

  • OS issues: diagnosing and resolving problems with operating systems and applications.
  • Mobile troubleshooting: addressing connectivity, app, and performance issues.
  • Security concerns: fixing unauthorized access and malware issues.

Operational procedures (21%) 

  • Documentation: using best practices for system changes and documentation.
  • Safety and communication: following safety protocols and communicating effectively.
  • Backup and recovery: setting up workstation backups and recovery processes.

Exam details

  • Exam version: V15; Core 1 and Core 2 exams must be taken from the same version, no mixing allowed

  • Exam series code: 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2)

  • Launch date: March 25, 2025

  • Number of questions: Maximum of 90 per exam, including multiple-choice (single and multiple response), drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions

  • Length of test: 90 minutes per exam

  • Passing score: A+ Core 1: 675 (on a scale of 900), A+ Core 2: 700 (on a scale of 900)

  • Recommended experience: 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support specialist job role

  • Languages: English

  • Retirement: Usually three years after launch (estimated 2028)

  • DoD 8140 approved work roles: Technical support specialist, system administrator, and cyber defense infrastructure support specialist

Skills learned

  • Install, configure, and maintain hardware components and devices effectively.

  • Diagnose and resolve issues with PCs, mobile devices, and software applications.

  • Understand networking basics and configure wired/wireless SOHO networks.

  • Apply basic cybersecurity methods to mitigate threats and secure systems.

  • Install and support multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.

  • Explain virtualization and cloud computing concepts and their applications.

  • Follow best practices for safety, environmental impacts, and effective communication.

  • Provide customer support using appropriate troubleshooting and communication skills.

  • Gain a respected certification that validates your foundation in tech and prepares you for success in your career.

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