How Do I Obtain an A+ Certification?
The Computing Technology Industry Association A+ Certification Test is the technology industry's standard competency test for computer support technicians and other entry-level IT professionals. While valuable on its own, the CompTIA A+ is part of a greater battery of certification tests that are essential to finding employment and success in the IT industry. The CompTIA A+ Test comes in two sections. Each section of the exam costs $168, as of 2010.
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Obtain Study Materials
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The CompTIA A+ test is recommended for people with a minimum of 500 hours of hands-on computer repair and troubleshooting experience in a classroom or lab or in the field. The A+ test comes in two sections and covers a wide range of topics. Studying is vital to obtaining A+ certification. Study books, electronic media and other materials are available for purchase. Free study guides and practice tests are available online.
CompTIA A+ Essentials
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The first part of the A+ Certification Test is CompTIA A+ Essentials. This section tests entry-level technical knowledge of networks, security and computer technologies, as well as communication skills and professional behavior.
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CompTIA A+ Practical Application
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The second part of the test is CompTIA A+ Practical Application. This section tests the physical application of the topics covered in CompTIA A+ Essentials. Candidates are tested on working knowledge in troubleshooting and tool-oriented environments.
Where to Take the CompTIA A+ Exam
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CompTIA exams are administered in person internationally at Pearson VUE or Prometric training centers, or other affiliated training and testing centers. CompTIA certification exams for 2010 cost $168. To apply and find testing center locations, visit CompTIA's website at comptia.org.
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References
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