Wednesday, July 30, 2025

CERT-EXAM GUIDE : COMPTIA A+ CORE 1 CERTIFICATION

INTRODUCTION

The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam (220-1201) is the first of two required exams for achieving the A+ certification. It tests foundational skills in hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and troubleshooting. Passing both Core 1 and Core 2 qualifies individuals for entry-level IT roles such as IT Support Specialist or Help Desk Technician.

EXAM OVERVIEW

EXAM CODE: 220-1201 (Core 1)

VERSION: V15 (Launched March 25, 2025)

NUMBER OF QUESTIONS: Up to 90

QUESTION TYPES: Multiple choice, multiple response, drag-and-drop, and performance-based

DURATION: 90 minutes

PASSING SCORE: 675 on a scale of 100–900

RECOMMENDED EXPERIENCE: Approximately 12 months of hands-on IT support experience

EXAM DOMAINS AND WEIGHTS

DOMAIN                                               WEIGHT

Mobile Devices                                    15%

Networking                                             20%

Hardware                                             25%

Virtualization and Cloud Computing     11%

Hardware and Network Troubleshooting     29%

MOBILE DEVICES (15%)

Covers installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of laptops, tablets, smartphones, and accessories. Topics include device types, displays, accessories, and configuration of wireless and email.

NETWORKING (20%)

Focuses on network technologies, connections, protocols, and hardware. Topics include networking concepts, TCP vs UDP, ports and protocols, wireless standards, network topologies, and SOHO configurations.

HARDWARE (25%)

Examines identification, installation, and maintenance of hardware components. Topics include motherboards, CPUs, RAM, storage devices, power supplies, printers, and interface types.

VIRTUALIZATION AND CLOUD COMPUTING (11%)

Tests basic understanding of virtualization concepts, cloud computing models (IaaS, SaaS, PaaS), and client-side virtualization setup.

HARDWARE AND NETWORK TROUBLESHOOTING (29%)

Emphasizes problem-solving and diagnostic skills. Includes troubleshooting hardware, networks, and peripherals using logical steps and common tools.

PREPARATION TIPS

Review all exam objectives thoroughly

Practice with real hardware and simulation tools

Use domain-specific flashcards and note-taking

Work on timed mock exams to improve pacing

Gain hands-on experience with troubleshooting scenarios

Study performance-based question styles and tools

PRACTICE NOTES AND PRACTICE TESTS

Study resources often include the following:

  1. Practice Questions for A+ Core 1 Certification
  2. Cert-Ex™ Exam Simulator for A+ Core 1 : Product Video
  3. A+ Core 1 study notes on memory
  4. Books Recommended For A+ Certification

Structured notes for each domain

Component identification charts

Protocol and port flashcards

Simulation labs for BIOS settings, cable management, and OS installations

Full-length practice exams with scoring

Step-by-step explanations for troubleshooting questions

Time management and test strategy tips

These tools are designed to replicate real exam conditions and reinforce both knowledge and problem-solving skills.

VALIDITY AND RENEWAL

CERTIFICATION VALIDITY: Typically valid for 3 years

RENEWAL OPTIONS: Retake exams, earn higher-level certifications, or submit continuing education credits

CAREER APPLICATIONS

A+ Core 1 certification supports career entry into:

Help Desk Technician

Field Service Technician

IT Support Specialist

Desktop Support Analyst

It also provides a strong foundation for progressing toward Network+, Security+, and more specialized certifications.

CONCLUSION

The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam validates critical IT support knowledge and skills. With focused preparation, hands-on practice, and familiarity with real-world troubleshooting, candidates can pass the exam confidently and start their journey into a professional IT career.

For more information visit this site : CERT-EXAM GUIDE : COMPTIA A+ CORE 1 CERTIFICATION

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