Build skills with CompTIA learning and validate them with the A+ Core 2 exam.
V15
A+ Core 2
CompTIA A+ Core 2 is the second of two exams required to earn the industry-standard A+ certification, a trusted credential for starting your tech career. This exam emphasizes essential skills in operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Successfully passing Core 2 and Core 1 equips you for roles like IT support specialist and help desk technician while laying the foundation for advanced certifications like Network+ and Security+.
Skills you'll learn
Install, configure, and manage operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Apply security measures to protect systems and mitigate threats.
Troubleshoot software and operating system issues.
Follow operational procedures for safety, documentation, and change management.
Implement backup and recovery methods to ensure data integrity.
Exam details
Exam version: V15; Core 1 and Core 2 exams must be taken from the same version, no mixing allowed
Exam series code: 220-1202 (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
Passing score: 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, 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 2 exam readiness.
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| Perform | Learn | Practice | Labs | |
| Best for: |
Best for those looking to build skills, learn concepts, and gain hands-on experience. No prior related job role experience needed. |
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 robust set of lab activities in real and simulated environments to practice skills and job readiness. |
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 and live virtual machines), assessments, practice tests |
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: |
30–60 hours |
25–40 hours |
10–20 hours |
15–25 hours |
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A+ Core 2 (V15) exam objectives summary
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.
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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.
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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.