Skip to main content

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

CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1)

Mobile devices (15%) 

  • Installation and configuration: Install and configure laptop hardware components like HDD/SSD, RAM, and wireless cards.
  • Accessories setup: Set up accessories such as USB, Bluetooth, and NFC devices. 
  • Display technologies: Compare mobile display technologies like LCD and OLED.
  • Network connectivity: Configure network connectivity options, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and mobile data synchronization.
  • Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues related to mobile devices, including hardware failures and connectivity problems.

Networking (20%) 

  • Protocols: Compare and contrast TCP/UDP protocols. 
  • Networking hardware: Explore the roles and functionalities of routers, switches, and firewalls. 
  • Wireless standards: Understand wireless networking standards like 802.11. 
  • Network services: Summarize services provided by networked hosts, including DNS, DHCP, and web servers. 
  • SOHO networks: Install and configure small office/home office networks. 
  • Networking tools: Utilize tools like crimpers, cable testers, and WiFi analyzers for troubleshooting. 

Hardware (25%) 

  • Cables and connectors: Explain various cable types and connectors, such as HDMI and Ethernet. 
  • RAM installation: Install appropriate RAM modules for different systems, including DDR3 and DDR4. 
  • Storage solutions: Select and install storage solutions like HDDs and SSDs. 
  • Motherboards and CPUs: Configure motherboards and CPUs, considering form factors, sockets, and cooling solutions. 
  • Peripheral devices: Install and configure peripheral devices such as printers and scanners. 

Virtualization and cloud computing (11%) 

  • Virtualization technologies: Learn the fundamentals of virtualization technologies, including virtual machines and hypervisors. 
  • Cloud computing models: Understand cloud computing models, such as IaaS and SaaS, and their benefits. 

Hardware and network troubleshooting (29%) 

  • Troubleshooting methodologies: Diagnose, resolve, and document common hardware and network issues. 
  • Tools and techniques: Utilize appropriate tools and techniques, such as multimeters and cable testers, for troubleshooting. 

 

 

 

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (Core 2) 

Operating systems (31%) 

  • Windows features: Identify features of different Windows editions. 
  • Command-line tools: Effectively use command-line tools and Windows 10 utilities like Task Manager and Disk Management. 
  • Control panel utilities: Navigate and utilize Control Panel utilities for system configuration. 
  • Windows settings: Adjust Windows settings for optimal performance and security, including network and user account settings. 
  • OS types: Explain the purposes of various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. 
  • OS installations: Perform installations and upgrades, ensuring compatibility and system requirements are met. 

Security (25%) 

  • Physical and logical security: Implement security measures such as access controls and encryption. 
  • Wireless security protocols: Compare wireless security protocols and authentication methods, including WPA2 and multifactor authentication. 
  • Malware prevention: Detect, remove, and prevent malware using appropriate tools. 
  • Social engineering attacks: Understand social-engineering attacks to mitigate threats and vulnerabilities. 

Software troubleshooting (22%) 

  • Software issue diagnosis: Diagnose and resolve software issues on PCs and mobile devices. 
  • Troubleshooting tools: Use tools such as event logs and system restore to identify and fix software-related issues. 

Operational procedures (22%) 

  • Safety and communication: Follow industry best practices for safety, communication, and professionalism. 
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate documentation and records to support operational efficiency and compliance. 
  • Environmental safety: Implement procedures for environmental safety and equipment handling to prevent damage and ensure workplace safety. 

 

 

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.

Stay informed

Advance with confidence

Get updates, insights, and exclusive offers to support your learning journey and career growth.