A+
Updated: 04/26/2017 by Computer Hope
The A+ or A-Plus is a certification program created by CompTIA and administrated by Drake Parametric, covering both hardware and software for the IBM-compatible and Macintosh platforms. This certification is usually the minimum requirement for most computer technical support jobs.
Note
Up until 2011, the A+ certification was a lifetime certification; now, it must be renewed every three years. Any certification received before January 1, 2011, is considered GFL (good-for-life) and does not expire.
What skills do you learn from the CompTIA A+?
The CompTIA A+ certification helps validate you have the following skills:
- Hardware - Knowledge of computer and computer-related hardware and the ability to support it.
- Operating system - Install and support the Microsoft Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS (operating system), and Linux operating systems.
- Mobile devices - Install, configure, and support mobile devices like laptops.
- Networking - Understand networking connections like TCP/IP, Wi-Fi, and SOHO (small office/home office).
- Security - Identify and know how to protect against security threats (e.g., malware and viruses) posed to computers and networks.
- Software - Familiarity with common programs and how to install and support them.
- Troubleshooting - Be able to troubleshoot common, real-world computer and network issues.
- Virtualization - Set up client-side cloud and virtualization solutions.