1

Hi there everyone,

This is a really amazing community I’ve stumbled across. I’ve been interested in breaking into the IT industry for some time now, but I wanted to get some more information before I started my self study.

My first move is going to be getting my A+ Certification by the end of this year. But from what I’ve read the tests are a little behind the times. I was wondering when the last time CompTIA updated their exams, and do we know if they plan on doing so any time soon.

And Secondly, if they have, or haven’t been updated, what are some good study resources I could use?

Any help would be appreciated!

@CompTIA

6 Spice ups
2

That’s the thing about the A+ - while it will give you a solid computing foundation, it’s really intended for a bench technician.

Also, while the test content is updated regularly, CompTIA has this thug about hanging on to legacy technologies- like token ring- that went away 15 years ago.

Not bad, but you might consider the Network+ if you’re already PC savvy. I have both. If you have the time and inclination, nothing wrong with A+, though N+ will help you get into the field a little easier.

Also, being a great person and interviewer is your best shot on getting into the biz. That and experience.

There are a number of articles out here on breaking into IT- give that a quick search and enjoy!

1 Spice up
3

thanks for the reply, I’ll definitely give the network+ some consideration after my A+

my Bro has also urged me into a cisco Cert, but I’m not sure if networking is for me.

Thanks again for the input

4

dont waste your time/$ on A+

1 Spice up
5

When I first started looking into IT, I got my A+, but I knew nothing about computer hardware and very little about troubleshooting. It was a good base for me. If you’re in the same boat, I would recommend A+. I tried jumping right into my CCNA but quickly realized that it was way over my head, so that’s when I backed up to A+.

Wowitsdave is right, though. There are many outdated topics you are expected to know for A+ and I don’t know that they’ve pulled in stuff like 802.11ac yet.

I have used testout.com for two certs and using it for several others right now. If you are a student, it’s $89 per course. If not, it’s in the $500 range.

Good luck!

1 Spice up
6

The CompTIA A+ exam was revamped in 2012. However, as previously suggested, skip it. It is a barebones, entry-level certification for someone with absolutely no experience (personal or professional). To verify, you may wish to print out the outline of the A+ exam and read over the objectives to be tested. You may know more of it than you already realize.

Network+ would be a better start, regardless of whether you wish to pursue the networking aspect of IT for a career. Networking is pretty instrumental in all of IT.

2 Spice ups
7

first A+, then get Server 2012 (MCSA)

8

Better approach—

  • What type of work specifically, as I.T. is a very broad area?
  • Related, what industry and/or area of the country are you intending to get into?
  • Also, what are the immediate salary requirements and intended salary in five years?

9

‘A’ what? ¯_(ツ)_/¯

I agree , the second you have 1year + helpdesk experience the A+ i s as good as useless.