Build skills with CompTIA learning and validate them with the A+ Core 1 exam.
V15
A+ Core 1
CompTIA A+ Core 1 is the first of two exams required to earn the industry-standard A+ certification, designed to launch your tech career. This exam focuses on foundational skills in hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. Passing Core 1 and Core 2 prepares you for roles like IT support specialist and help desk technician while building the knowledge needed to pursue advanced certifications like Network+ and Security+.
Skills you'll learn
Install, configure, and maintain hardware components and mobile devices.
Troubleshoot hardware, network, and connectivity issues.
Understand networking basics and configure SOHO networks.
Explain virtualization and cloud computing concepts.
Use troubleshooting tools to diagnose and resolve technical problems.
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)
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
Passing score: A+ Core 1: 675 (on a scale of 900)
Recommended experience: 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support specialist job role
Languages: English, German, and Japanese
Retirement: Usually three years after launch (estimated 2028)
DoD 8140 approved work roles: Technical support specialist, system administrator, and cyber defense infrastructure support specialist
Pick the right learning and practice solutions for your skill-building and exam preparation needs
No matter where you are in your journey, CompTIA’s CertMaster products deliver flexible learning and practice experiences to help you build skills, boost confidence and achieve A+ Core 1 exam readiness.
Shop A+ Core 1 Learn and Practice products
| Learn | Practice | Labs | |
| Best for: |
Best for those building foundational knowledge and skills. No prior related job role experience needed. |
Best for those having experience with the skills and concepts. |
Best for those looking to gain hands-on experience applying skills. |
| Primary purpose: |
Comprehensive learning with lab activities to practice skills. |
Confirm exam readiness and close gaps. |
Apply skills in real-world scenarios. |
| Contains: |
Instructional content, video, interactives, labs (simulated), assessments, practice tests |
Timed practice exams, objective quizzes, exam objective mastery scores |
Live virtual lab environment with guided tasks and real world-scenarios |
| Estimated duration: |
25–40 hours |
10–20 hours |
15–25 hours |
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A+ Core 1 (V15) exam objectives summary
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.
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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.
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Hardware and network troubleshooting (28%)
- Diagnosing issues: identifying and fixing hardware, network, and connectivity problems.
- Troubleshooting tools: using multimeters, cable testers, and loopback plugs.