A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Exam Overview

INTRODUCTION

The A+ Core 1 certification is the first of two exams required for the CompTIA A+ credential. It validates foundational IT skills focused on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization/cloud computing, and troubleshooting. 

EXAM STRUCTURE

• Exam Code: 220-1101 

• Covers these objective domains:

  1. Mobile Devices – ~15% 

  2. Networking – ~20% 

  3. Hardware – ~25% 

  4. Virtualization and Cloud Computing – ~11% 

  5. Hardware and Network Troubleshooting – ~29% 

• Number of questions in practice material: 350+ 

• No formal prerequisites, though some experience in IT support is recommended. 

KEY TOPICS COVERED
Candidates should focus on:

• Mobile device types, connection methods, and security

• Networking protocols, wireless technologies, and troubleshooting network issues

• PC and peripheral hardware: installation, configuration, maintenance

• Virtualization technologies, cloud models, and deployment basics

• Diagnosing and repairing hardware and network problems effectively

• A+ Core 1 Cram Notes 

BENEFITS OF A+ CORE 1
Earning the Core 1 (220-1101) helps demonstrate mastery of essential IT support skills and is typically paired with Core 2 (220-1102) to earn the full A+ certification. It supports career roles such as IT support technician, help desk specialist, and field service technician. 

EXAM PREPARATION TIPS

• Review each objective domain thoroughly and focus on the weighting of each topic.

• Use practice tests to familiarize yourself with question formats (MCQ, performance-based items).

• Gain hands-on experience working with mobile devices, networking gear, hardware components, virtualization tools, and troubleshooting scenarios.

• Regularly revisit weaker topics (for example, virtualization/cloud or mobile devices) where you score lower in practice exams.

CONCLUSION
The A+ Core 1 (220-1101) exam is an important step for IT support professionals entering the field. Its balanced coverage of mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization/cloud computing, and troubleshooting ensures that candidates are well-prepared for practical IT tasks. Passing this exam puts you on the path to earning the full A+ certification and strengthening your credentials for IT support roles.

AUTHOR BIO
This article was written by the editorial team at Asoftware, a group dedicated to providing clear, structured, and up-to-date content for IT certification candidates and professionals.

CertExams A+ Core 1 (220-1101): Exam Simulator & Details

Introduction

For candidates preparing for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) exam, CertExams offers a specialized Exam Simulator tool. This simulator is designed to mirror the real exam experience with a wide variety of question types, topic coverage, and features to help you build confidence before sitting for the actual test.

Exam Simulator Features & Highlights

• The CertEx™ A+ Core 1 Exam Simulator includes 350+ practice questions drawn from the latest A+ Core 1 syllabus. 

• A free demo version is available, offering a preview of the simulator with up to 25 sample questions. 

• It supports multiple question types, including multiple-choice (single and multiple answer), exhibit-type questions, drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, and more. 

• Upon purchase, users receive free A+ Core 1 Cram Notes to aid revision. 

• Features include instant online activation, result tracking, answer review, flashcards, and a modular test environment. 

• The software is compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11 (32-bit & 64-bit). 

Content Coverage & Exam Objectives

The simulator’s question distribution follows the official exam domain percentages for A+ Core 

• Mobile Devices – 15% 

• Networking – 20% 

• Hardware – 25% 

• Virtualization & Cloud Computing – 11% 

• Hardware & Network Troubleshooting – 29% 

These domains cumulatively cover 100% of the Core 1 blueprint. 

• A+ Core 1 Cram Notes

Why Use the Simulator?

• Realistic exam-like environment: Practice under conditions similar to the real test, helping you manage time and pressure.

• Diverse question types: Exposure to different formats (drag and drop, exhibits, etc.) prepares you for what appears on the actual exam.

• Review & feedback: After taking tests, you can review your answers, see explanations, and track your performance.

• Supplemental study materials: The included cram notes and flashcards help reinforce memory and concept recall.

• Modular and flexible: You can work on individual domains or take full-length simulation exams.

Practical Tips for Using the Simulator Effectively

1. Start with the full-length mode to get a baseline of your current readiness.

2. Focus on weak domains by taking modular tests (e.g. all networking-related questions) and reviewing explanations.

3. Use the cram notes after each test session to reinforce what you got wrong.

4. Simulate time pressure by sticking to the same time limits as in the real exam.

5. Repeat challenging question types (drag/drop, exhibits) until you're comfortable with their format.

Conclusion

The CertExams A+ Core 1 Exam Simulator provides a robust, exam-aligned practice environment that mimics the real exam’s breadth and question types. Its combination of flashcards, detailed explanations, performance tracking, and cram notes makes it a valuable tool for learners preparing for the A+ Core 1 certification. Used wisely, it can help improve confidence, speed, accuracy and ultimately, exam success.

Author Bio

This article is based on information from the CertExams website, specifically their product page for the A+ Core 1 Exam Simulator. CertExams specializes in test preparation tools and educational simulation software across IT certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, and others. Their mission is to provide learners with practical tools to bridge the gap between theory and real exam performance.

CompTIA A+ Certification: Exam Overview & Details

Introduction

The CompTIA A+ credential is a well-recognized, vendor-neutral certification aimed at IT support professionals. It confirms essential skills in computer hardware, software, networking, mobile devices, troubleshooting, and operational procedures. To achieve it, candidates must pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102).

Exam Structure & Key Details

A+ Core 1 (220-1101)

This exam covers hardware, mobile devices, networking, virtualization, cloud computing, and troubleshooting. It consists of up to 90 questions in multiple-choice or performance-based formats, with 90 minutes allotted. The passing score is 675 (on a 900-point scale). It is recommended that candidates have 6–12 months of hands-on experience. The domain weights include mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization/cloud, and hardware/network troubleshooting.

A+ Core 2 (220-1102)

Core 2 focuses on operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. It also has up to 90 questions, combining multiple-choice and performance-based types, with a 90-minute duration. A passing score is 700 (on a 900-point scale). Recommended experience is similarly 6–12 months. Its domains include operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

Free Study Resources & Cram Notes

TutorialsWeb offers cram notes for both Core 1 and Core 2, which condense the essential topics and key points into quick-review format. Additionally, practice tests are provided to simulate exam conditions and help learners assess their preparedness. These resources are intended to support learning and review and are not officially endorsed by CompTIA.

Preparation Tips for Success

• Gain practical, hands-on experience using real hardware or simulators.

• Regularly review the cram notes to reinforce key concepts.

• Take timed practice exams to build speed, accuracy, and familiarity with question types.

• Focus especially on troubleshooting and domain areas with higher weight.

• Stay updated on the official CompTIA exam objectives to ensure your study stays aligned with the current exam format.

• A+ Core 1 Cram Notes
• A+ Core 2 Cram Notes

Conclusion

The CompTIA A+ certification is an excellent foundation for careers in IT support and system maintenance. Passing both the Core 1 and Core 2 exams demonstrates broad competence across hardware, software, networking, security, and operational best practices. With structured study, hands-on practice, cram notes, and mock tests, candidates can build the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed.

Author Bio

This article is based on TutorialsWeb’s certification notes, which provide study guides, exam overviews, and technical tutorials for IT learners. These resources are independent and not affiliated with or officially endorsed by CompTIA.