CompTIA A+ Training | CT-8733

User-level knowledge of operating systems, including navigation, searching for information on the Internet, shutting down and starting up a system, as well as launching applications.
Moving, copying, deleting, and renaming files in Windows Explorer.

Credentials and certification

Exams features

Codes: 220-1201 and 220-1202
Titles:  A+ Core 1 and Core 2
Duration: 90 minutes each
Number of Questions: 90 each
Questions Format: Multiple-choice, multiple-answer
Passing Score: 675 out of 900 (Core 1) and 700 out of 900 (Core 2)
Cost: 500 USD

Exams topics

Demonstrate baseline security skills for IT support professionals
Configure device operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Chrome OS, Android and iOS and administer client-based as well as cloud-based (SaaS) software
Troubleshoot and problem solve core service and support challenges while applying best practices for documentation, change management, and scripting
Support basic IT infrastructure and networking
Configure and support PC, mobile and IoT device hardware
Implement basic data backup and recovery methods and apply data storage and management best practices

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CompTIA Career Advancement Pathways

Eccentrix offers multiple CompTIA certification pathways to develop your IT skills progressively. Here’s how CompTIA A+ positions itself relative to other available certifications and how to build your complete training pathway.

Recommended CompTIA Infrastructure Pathway

📚 Level 1 – Foundations – You are here
CompTIA A+ – Technical support & computer hardware
➡️ Level 2 – Networking – Next step
CompTIA Network+ – Network configuration & management
🔧 Level 3 – Administration – Advanced progression
CompTIA Server+ – Server management & virtualization
🎯 Level 4 – Systems Expertise – Expert Achievement
CompTIA Linux+ – Linux administration & automation

Skills Development by Level

Skill	A+	Network+	Server+	Linux+
Hardware & PC	Mastered	Mastered	Mastered	Mastered
Networking	Basics acquired	Mastered	Mastered	Mastered
Server Administration	Introduction	Basics acquired	Mastered	Mastered
Linux Systems	Not covered	Introduction	Basics acquired	Mastered
Virtualization	Not covered	Introduction	Intermediate	Mastered
Infrastructure Security	Basics acquired	Intermediate	Mastered	Mastered

Level 1 – Foundations with A+ (Your current step)

Why this is your ideal starting point:

CompTIA A+ is the foundational certification in technical support and computer hardware, globally recognized and often required for technical support roles in enterprises. This certification positions you as a professional capable of diagnosing, troubleshooting, and repairing computer systems and peripherals.

Roles accessible after A+:

IT Support Technician
Technical Support Specialist
Junior Systems Administrator
IT Maintenance Technician

Level 2 – Networking with Network+ (Recommended next step)

If you have completed A+, Network+ is the logical next step to deepen your knowledge in networking and understand how systems communicate in complex network environments.

Explore CompTIA Network+ Training

Level 3 – Administration with CompTIA Server+ (Advanced progression)

If you have completed Network+, Server+ is the logical next step to deepen your skills in server administration and enterprise infrastructure management.

Explore CompTIA Server+ Training

Level 4 – Systems Expertise with Linux+ (Expert achievement)

Linux+ represents maximum expertise in systems administration. After completing the previous levels, this certification positions you as an expert systems administrator capable of managing and automating complex Linux environments at the enterprise level.

Explore CompTIA Linux+ Training

Other Available CompTIA Pathways

After completing A+, you can also explore other specialized pathways:

CompTIA Security Pathway

Ideal for those who want to specialize in cybersecurity, threat analysis, and penetration testing.

CompTIA Cloud Pathway

Perfect for IT professionals wanting to master cloud environments and hybrid architectures.

CompTIA Project Management Pathway

Develop your IT project management skills to advance toward coordination and leadership roles.

Explore Project+ Training

CompTIA Data & Analytics Pathway

Master data systems, data analysis, visualization, and data governance for analytical roles.

Benefits of the Complete Pathway

Structured progression

Each certification builds on previously acquired knowledge, creating a solid and coherent technical foundation.

Global recognition

CompTIA certifications are internationally recognized and valued by employers across all sectors.

Increased versatility

You develop comprehensive expertise covering hardware, networking, servers, and systems—a profile highly sought by organizations.

Rapid career advancement

Progress from technical support to systems administration in 12-24 months.

Ready to Progress?

Plan your CompTIA pathway with our experts now!

CompTIA A+ Certification Training (CT8733)

The CompTIA A+ (CT8733) certification training is the foundational course for IT professionals aiming to kickstart or enhance their careers in information technology. This training provides comprehensive knowledge of hardware, software, troubleshooting, and network connectivity, preparing participants to excel in IT support and operational roles.

Recognized globally, the CompTIA A+ certification validates essential IT skills, making it an ideal choice for individuals entering the IT industry or advancing their technical expertise.

Why Choose the CompTIA A+ Certification Training?

The CompTIA A+ certification is a respected credential that demonstrates your ability to manage and troubleshoot a wide range of IT environments. This training focuses on practical, hands-on learning, ensuring participants are equipped to handle real-world challenges in IT support and system maintenance.

The course is tailored to prepare you for the A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams, ensuring you gain the skills and confidence to earn this globally recognized certification.

Skills Developed During the Training

Hardware and Software Fundamentals
Learn to identify, install, and configure computer hardware and operating systems.
Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving
Develop diagnostic skills to resolve issues related to hardware, software, and network systems.
Networking and Connectivity
Understand the basics of networking, including configuration, troubleshooting, and security.
Operational Procedures
Gain knowledge of IT best practices, including safety, professionalism, and customer service.
Security Fundamentals
Learn to identify and mitigate common security threats in IT environments.
Mobile Device and Cloud Support
Understand how to configure and troubleshoot mobile devices and cloud-based applications.

Interactive and Comprehensive Training

This training is delivered by experienced instructors with extensive knowledge of IT systems and certifications. The course includes hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios, ensuring participants acquire practical skills to apply directly in their IT roles.

Who Should Attend?

Aspiring IT professionals beginning their careers in technical support or help desk roles
Individuals preparing for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams
IT support technicians looking to validate their foundational IT skills
Professionals transitioning to IT roles seeking to enhance their technical capabilities

Build Your IT Career with CompTIA A+

The CompTIA A+ Certification Training (CT8733) provides you with the foundational knowledge and skills to excel in IT roles and earn a globally recognized certification. Enroll today to take the first step toward advancing your career in IT support and operations.

Exam Success Strategies for 220-1201 and 220-1202

Mastering the CompTIA A+ certification requires more than hardware knowledge—comprehensive understanding of operating systems, networking fundamentals, mobile devices, security concepts, troubleshooting methodologies, and customer service skills are equally crucial for success. By understanding PC components, Windows/Linux/macOS administration, network configuration, security best practices, and operational procedures, you’ll develop the confidence and expertise needed to excel in both A+ certification exams.

220-1201 and 220-1202 Exams Statistics & Success Rates

Average Pass Rate: 70-78% on first attempt (per exam)
Most Common Score Range: 700-780 out of 900 for passing candidates (passing score: 675/900 for Core 1, 700/900 for Core 2, or approximately 75-78%)
Average Study Time: 10-14 weeks for individuals with basic computer knowledge or limited IT exposure
Retake Rate: 20-25% of candidates require a second attempt on at least one exam
Top Failure Areas: Hardware troubleshooting and component identification (28%), Windows operating system configuration (25%), networking protocols and configuration (24%)

Study Method Comparison

Study Approach	Duration	Pass rate	Best for
Hands-on Practice Only	16-20 weeks	50-60%	Experienced PC users
Documentation + Practice	18-22 weeks	70-78%	Methodical learners
Training + Labs + Practice	10-14 weeks	82-90%	Comprehensive preparation
Practice Tests Only	8-9 weeks	35-45%	Not recommended

Strategic Study Approach

Create a 10-14 week study schedule – This training covers all content needed for both A+ exams: hardware components, operating systems, networking, mobile devices, security, troubleshooting, and operational procedures
Follow the 50-40-10 rule – 50% hands-on practice with hardware and software configurations, 40% reading IT concepts and troubleshooting techniques, 10% practice exams
Focus on practical IT support skills – A+ emphasizes real-world technical support, hardware troubleshooting, and customer service rather than theoretical concepts
Study in 90-minute blocks with 15-minute breaks to maximize retention and avoid burnout
Practice with hardware and software repeatedly – work with PC components, Windows/Linux/macOS systems, mobile devices, and network configurations
Master both exam domains during the course – Core 1 content focuses on hardware and networking, Core 2 content focuses on operating systems and security
Understand scenario-based questions – A+ includes practical scenarios that test your ability to diagnose hardware failures, configure operating systems, and resolve user issues
Plan to take Core 1 (220-1201) first, then Core 2 (220-1202) – schedule both exams after completing the training, with Core 2 scheduled 1-2 weeks after Core 1

Common Exam Pitfalls to Avoid

Don’t confuse similar hardware components – Know the difference between DDR4 vs. DDR5 RAM, SATA vs. NVMe storage, PCIe slots vs. expansion slots, ATX vs. micro-ATX motherboards
Cable types serve specific purposes – Understand HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-A/B/C, Thunderbolt, Ethernet (Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6a), fiber optic, and their use cases
Networking protocols have specific functions – Know TCP vs. UDP, DHCP (automatic IP), DNS (name resolution), HTTP/HTTPS (web), FTP/SFTP (file transfer), SMB (file sharing), RDP (remote desktop)
IP addressing requires calculation skills – Understand IPv4 classes (A/B/C), subnet masks, default gateways, private IP ranges (10.x, 172.16-31.x, 192.168.x), IPv6 basics
Windows tools have specific purposes – Know Command Prompt vs. PowerShell, Task Manager, Device Manager, Disk Management, Event Viewer, Registry Editor, and their functions
Security concepts are multi-layered – Understand authentication (passwords, biometrics, MFA), authorization (permissions, ACLs), encryption (BitLocker, EFS), malware types (virus, worm, trojan, ransomware, spyware)
Mobile device management is essential – Know iOS vs. Android differences, MDM (Mobile Device Management), email configuration (IMAP, POP3, Exchange), synchronization, and security settings
Troubleshooting follows a methodology – Understand identifying the problem, questioning the user, establishing a theory, testing the theory, establishing a plan, implementing the solution, verifying functionality, and documenting findings
Customer service skills matter – Know proper communication (active listening, avoid jargon, set expectations), professionalism, and dealing with difficult situations
Operational procedures include safety – Understand ESD (electrostatic discharge) protection, proper disposal (batteries, toners), environmental controls, and documentation

Topic Weight Distribution

Core 1 (220-1201) - Hardware & Networking

Exam Domain	Weight	Focus Areas	Priority
Mobile Devices (Domain 1)	15%	Laptops, mobile device connectivity, accessories	High
Networking (Domain 2)	20%	TCP/IP, ports, protocols, network devices, wireless	Critical
Hardware (Domain 3)	25%	Cables, connectors, RAM, storage, motherboards, power supplies, peripherals	Critical
Virtualization and Cloud Computing (Domain 4)	11%	Hypervisors, cloud models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)	Medium
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (Domain 5)	29%	Diagnosing hardware, network, mobile, and printer issues	Critical

Core 2 (220-1202) - Software & Security

Exam Domain	Weight	Focus Areas	Priority
Operating Systems (Domain 1)	31%	Windows, Linux, macOS installation, configuration, management	Critical
Security (Domain 2)	25%	Malware, social engineering, authentication, encryption, wireless security	Critical
Software Troubleshooting (Domain 3)	22%	Windows issues, PC security problems, malware removal	Critical
Operational Procedures (Domain 4)	22%	Documentation, change management, disaster recovery, safety, communication	High

Exam Day Time Management

Core 1: 90 questions, 90 minutes (1 minute per question average)
Core 2: 90 questions, 90 minutes (1 minute per question average)
Expect performance-based questions (PBQs) – Each exam includes 3-5 simulations that test hands-on configuration and troubleshooting skills
Complete PBQs strategically – some candidates prefer to skip PBQs initially and return after completing multiple-choice questions to maximize time efficiency
Read scenario questions completely before attempting to answer – A+ questions often contain user complaints, error messages, or system specifications
Flag uncertain questions and return to them – don’t get stuck on complex hardware or networking scenarios and waste valuable time
Reserve 15-20 minutes at the end to review flagged questions and double-check your answers
Manage your pace strategically – aim to complete 60 questions in the first 60 minutes, leaving time for PBQs and review
Pay attention to questions with “BEST” or “FIRST” – these require evaluating multiple correct approaches and choosing the most appropriate or initial action

Managing Exam Stress & Performance

Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep the night before each exam – avoid last-minute cramming that reduces analytical thinking capacity
Arrive at the test center 15 minutes early (or log in 10 minutes early for online testing) – settle in and complete check-in procedures calmly
Use deep breathing techniques if you feel overwhelmed during the exam – clear thinking is essential for troubleshooting and configuration scenarios
Trust your IT experience – your first instinct is usually correct for hardware and software questions
Remember that the passing scores are 675/900 (Core 1) and 700/900 (Core 2) – you need strong competence but not perfection
Take a 1-2 week break between exams – this allows time to review Core 2 content after completing Core 1

Technical Preparation Tips

Master PC hardware components – understand CPUs (Intel vs. AMD, sockets, cores), RAM (DDR types, capacity, speed), storage (HDD, SSD, M.2, NVMe), motherboards (form factors, chipsets, expansion slots), power supplies (wattage, connectors), cooling (fans, liquid cooling)
Know cable and connector types – master USB (A, B, C, speeds), video (HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA), network (RJ45, fiber), power (Molex, SATA, PCIe), and peripheral connectors
Understand networking fundamentals – know TCP/IP model, OSI model basics, IPv4 addressing and subnetting, common ports (80 HTTP, 443 HTTPS, 22 SSH, 3389 RDP, 21 FTP, 25 SMTP, 110 POP3, 143 IMAP, 53 DNS, 67/68 DHCP)
Practice Windows administration – master installation, user account management, file permissions (NTFS), command-line tools (ipconfig, ping, tracert, netstat, sfc, chkdsk), Control Panel, Settings app, Task Manager, Event Viewer
Know mobile device management – understand iOS and Android differences, email configuration (Exchange ActiveSync, IMAP, POP3), synchronization methods, security settings (passcodes, biometrics, remote wipe), MDM policies
Master security concepts – understand malware types and removal, social engineering (phishing, vishing, tailgating), authentication methods (passwords, smart cards, biometrics, MFA), encryption (BitLocker, EFS), wireless security (WPA2, WPA3)
Understand troubleshooting methodology – know the CompTIA troubleshooting steps: identify the problem, establish a theory of probable cause, test the theory, establish a plan of action, implement the solution, verify full system functionality, document findings
Practice operational procedures – understand proper communication, professionalism, safety procedures (ESD protection, lifting techniques), environmental controls, change management, backup and recovery

Final Week Preparation

Take 2-3 full practice exams for each Core exam to identify knowledge gaps and build confidence
Review the official CompTIA A+ (220-1201 and 220-1202) exam objectives one final time
Focus on your weakest areas – hardware troubleshooting, Windows configuration, and networking are the most common challenge areas
Practice port numbers and protocols – create flashcards for common ports and their associated services
Review command-line tools – practice using ipconfig, ping, tracert, netstat, nslookup, and Windows administrative commands
Avoid learning completely new IT concepts – focus on reinforcing what you already know
Prepare your exam day logistics – required identification, test center location (or computer setup for online proctoring)
Schedule both exams after course completion – book Core 1 first, then schedule Core 2 for 1-2 weeks later to maintain momentum

Mental Preparation Strategies

Visualize success scenarios – imagine yourself confidently troubleshooting hardware and configuring operating systems
Recall your IT experience – you’ve likely worked with computers, mobile devices, or networks before
Stay positive when facing difficult questions – all candidates encounter challenging hardware and software scenarios
Remember that A+ is an entry-level certification – your practical computer experience and problem-solving mindset are your greatest assets
Approach each exam as a validation of your IT support skills and troubleshooting proficiency, not a test of memorized facts
Celebrate passing Core 1 – acknowledge your progress before sitting for Core 2

How to Schedule Your 220-1201 and 220-1202 Exams

Testing is done through Pearson VUE, with options for in-person test centers or online proctoring
Scheduling Process: Create a Pearson VUE account, search for “220-1201” (Core 1) or “220-1202” (Core 2), select test center location or online option, choose your date and time
Exam Cost: Both exam vouchers included in your Eccentrix training – you receive vouchers for Core 1 and Core 2
Scheduling Timeline: Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for better test center and time slot availability
Recommended Timing: Schedule Core 1 shortly after completing the training, then schedule Core 2 for 1-2 weeks after passing Core 1
Rescheduling Policy: Free rescheduling up to 24 hours before your exam appointment
Required ID: Two forms of identification required – primary (government-issued photo ID with signature) and secondary (credit card, student ID, or other ID with name matching registration)
Test Center Benefits: Controlled environment, no technical setup concerns, immediate score report
Online Testing Option: Test from home with remote proctoring, requires webcam, stable internet, and quiet private space
Certification Requirement: You must pass both Core 1 and Core 2 exams to earn the CompTIA A+ certification – both exams are covered in this single training course

Success Mindset: Approach A+ as a validation of your ability to support, troubleshoot, configure, and maintain IT hardware, software, and networks using hands-on technical skills and professional customer service, not as a test of memorized specifications. Your practical IT experience and analytical troubleshooting mindset are your greatest assets. This training prepares you for both exams—pace yourself, apply what you learn, and celebrate each milestone.

Frequently asked questions - Official CompTIA A+ training (FAQ)

What topics are covered in the CompTIA A+ training?

The course covers hardware, software, troubleshooting, networking, operational procedures, and security basics.

Does this training prepare me for the CompTIA A+ certification exams?

Yes, the course is designed to prepare you for the A+ Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) exams.

Are there hands-on exercises included in the training?

Yes, participants engage in practical exercises to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Do I need prior IT experience to attend this training?

No prior experience is required, making this course ideal for beginners in IT.

How does the CompTIA A+ certification benefit my career?

The certification validates your foundational IT skills, opening doors to technical support, IT operations, and other entry-level IT roles.

Is this training suitable for career changers?

Yes, the CompTIA A+ training is an excellent starting point for individuals transitioning to IT careers.

CompTIA A+ (CT8733)

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