CompTIA A+ Certification (Core 1)
Exam Code: 220-1201
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) exam validates the foundational skills required to install, configure, and troubleshoot hardware, networking, mobile devices, and virtualization technologies in modern IT environments. Offered by CompTIA, Core 1 focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, and cloud fundamentals. To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, candidates must pass both Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202).
- Exam Breakdown
- Domain Breakdown
- Access Breakdown
Exam Format
- Exam Code: 220-1201 (Core 1)
- Certification Level: Entry-Level
- Exam Duration: 90 minutes
- Passing Score: 675 (on a scale of 100–900)
- Unscored Content: The exam may include unscored questions for research purposes. These do not affect your score and are not identified. Time is adjusted accordingly.
Exam Details
- Question Types: Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions
- Number of Questions: Maximum of 90 questions
- Hands-On Questions: Performance-based tasks assess practical hardware and troubleshooting skills.
Exam Policies
- Offline Proctoring: Must be rescheduled or canceled at least 48 hours before the scheduled exam time.
- Online Proctoring: Must be rescheduled or canceled at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time..
- Waiting Period: First and second attempts: No waiting period,Third attempt: 14 calendar days wait
- Retake Fee: Full exam fee must be paid for each retake.
Certification Validity and Renewal
- Validity: 3 years
- Renewal Options:
- Earn 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
- Pass a higher-level CompTIA certification
- Retake the A+ exam
Exam Fee
- Base Fee: $186USD In India (Pricing is country-specific)
- Taxes: Country-specific VAT/GST may apply
- Example: In India, 18% GST applies → $219 USD ($186 + $33 tax)
Prerequisites
There are no mandatory prerequisites, but CompTIA recommends:- 9–12 months of hands-on IT support experience
- Basic understanding of:
- Computer hardware
- Operating system
- Networking fundamentals
- Prior learning (recommended)
- ITF+ or equivalent knowledge
Exam Topics
- Mobile Devices: Laptops, smartphones, accessories
- Networking: TCP/IP, ports, protocols, wireless standards
- Hardware: PC components, printers, virtualization
- Virtualization & Cloud Computing: IaaS, SaaS, virtualization concepts
- Hardware & Network Troubleshooting: Methodologies and tools
- For a detailed breakdown and official study guide, feel free to contact us!
Intended Audience
The A+ Core 1 certification is ideal for individuals in roles such as:- IT Support Specialist
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Analyst
Career Impact
Jobs You Can Get:- IT Support Technician
- Help Desk Analyst
- Desktop Support Engineer
- Field Technician
- USA: $40,000 – $65,000
- India: ₹3,00,000 – ₹7,50,000
- UK: £22,000 – £35,000
- UAE: 90,000 – 160,000 AED
- Industry-recognized entry-level certification
- Vendor-neutral
- Required by many IT employers
- Strong foundation for IT career growth
Exam Mode
The exam is proctored and can be taken either:- In-person at authorized Pearson VUE test centres
- Online through OnVUE remote proctoring
Exam Booking Link
- Book your CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam via Pearson VUE:
https://home.pearsonvue.com/comptia
Once you pass the exam:
- Download your certificate from CompTIA Certification Account
- Processing Time: 24–48 hours
- Access digital badge via Credly
Offers
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Top Reasons to Choose
CompTIA A+ Certification Exam(Core 1)
Strong Foundation in IT Hardware and Networking
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification builds essential knowledge of computer hardware, networking basics, and troubleshooting skills, enabling professionals to support and maintain modern IT environments effectively.Industry-Recognized Entry-Level Credential
CompTIA A+ is widely recognized by employers worldwide, providing strong credibility and employment opportunities for individuals beginning careers in IT support, hardware maintenance, and technical service roles.
High Demand for IT Support Technicians
Organizations require skilled technicians to install, configure, and troubleshoot devices and networks, making this certification valuable for stable employment and long-term growth in information technology careers.
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FAQ
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Who should take the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam is designed for individuals starting careers in IT support and hardware troubleshooting roles. It is ideal for aspiring technicians, help desk professionals, and entry-level IT staff responsible for installing and maintaining computer systems, devices, and basic network connectivity in enterprise environments.
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How difficult is the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam is considered entry-level but moderately challenging due to its coverage of hardware, networking, and troubleshooting concepts. Candidates must understand device installation and network basics. Hands-on experience and structured preparation significantly improve performance and increase the likelihood of passing successfully.
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Why does CompTIA offer the A+ certification?
CompTIA offers the A+ certification to validate foundational technical skills required for IT support roles. The credential helps employers identify professionals capable of installing hardware, configuring systems, troubleshooting devices, and maintaining enterprise IT infrastructure using standardized industry best practices.
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What tools and resources can be used to prepare for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
Candidates can prepare using CompTIA official study guides, CertMaster Learn, practice exams, online courses, and hands-on labs. Reviewing hardware components, networking basics, and troubleshooting procedures is essential. Practical experience assembling systems and configuring devices significantly improves exam readiness and technical understanding.
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Is the CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification still valuable in 2026?
Yes, the CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification remains valuable in 2026 because organizations continue requiring skilled IT technicians. The credential validates essential hardware and networking skills, enhances employability, supports entry-level IT careers, and provides a pathway to advanced certifications such as Network+ and Security+.
