CompTIA A+ / Exam

CompTIA A+ Exam Guide: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Students usually lose time when they treat the exam as a memorization project. CISNET teaches CompTIA A+around the exam blueprint, but the real goal is sharper judgment, repeatable lab habits, and a study pace you can sustain.

Reviewed by Qazi Irfanullah· CompTIA & Helpdesk Instructor· Updated July 2026

Overview Study Guide Career Path Requirements Salary Jobs Exam

Vendor

CompTIA

Exam code

220-1101 (Core 1) + 220-1102 (Core 2)

Format

Two-exam sequence, both must be passed to earn CompTIA A+

Delivery

Pearson VUE test center or CompTIA online testing

What to focus on

Core 1: Mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization & cloud, hardware/network troubleshooting
Core 2: Operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, operational procedures

Before you book the exam

Recommended background: Beginner-friendly with consistent practice and troubleshooting discipline

Renewal cycle: 3 years, renew by earning CEUs, passing a higher CompTIA cert, or re-taking

Treat A+ as a foundation, not a long-term specialization.

Hands-on device and OS troubleshooting is more useful than passive reading.

CompTIA refreshed the A+ series to 220-1101 / 220-1102 in April 2022; next refresh expected 2025-2026.

Exam FAQs

What exam do I take for CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ maps to the CompTIA 220-1101 (Core 1) + 220-1102 (Core 2) exam path. CISNET training is structured to help students prepare for that blueprint with live instruction and labs.

How should I prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam?

Start with the blueprint, map each domain to labs, and use repeated practice on weak areas instead of trying to memorize everything in one pass.

Is CISNET training enough on its own for the CompTIA A+ exam?

CISNET gives you the structure, live teaching, and lab direction. You still need disciplined review and repetition between sessions if you want exam-day confidence.

Need a tighter CompTIA A+ exam prep plan?

Use CISNET's live structure and labs to turn the blueprint into a practical weekly study rhythm.

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