Table of Contents
CompTIA A+ Core 1 Quick Facts
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam sets the stage for your IT career by validating the essential hardware, networking, mobile, and troubleshooting skills you need to thrive. This overview equips you with the key details and structured insights to help you approach the certification process with clarity and confidence.
Why is the CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification a powerful first step in IT?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification affirms your ability to work with foundational IT concepts across devices, networks, and virtualization. It ensures you can confidently set up, maintain, and troubleshoot hardware and software while also giving you exposure to modern technologies like cloud computing and virtualization. This certification is widely recognized by employers and helps you establish credibility in entry-level IT support, help desk, or technical support roles. By earning it, you gain the practical expertise to solve real-world IT issues and lay the groundwork for long-term growth in the technology field.
Exam Domains Covered (Click to expand breakdown)
Exam Domain Breakdown
Domain 1: Mobile devices (13% of the exam)
Mobile devices
- Hardware setup: installing components like batteries, cameras, and Wi-Fi antennas.
- Accessory options: configuring USB, Bluetooth, NFC, and docking stations.
- Network setup: configuring Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular data, and synchronization settings.
- Troubleshooting: identifying and fixing hardware and connectivity issues.
Mobile devices summary: This section teaches you the essentials of working with mobile hardware and accessories. You will gain practical experience in installing components such as batteries or cameras and learn how to configure connectivity options ranging from Bluetooth to NFC. A strong understanding of how these devices integrate with docks and other accessories ensures you can support modern mobile workflows with ease.
The focus is also on mobile networking and troubleshooting skills. Here, you will learn how to properly configure wireless networks and synchronize data, as well as how to identify and address hardware or connectivity issues when they arise. These hands-on troubleshooting essentials give you confidence in ensuring mobile devices operate smoothly in both professional and personal contexts.
Domain 2: Networking (23% of the exam)
Networking
- Protocols and ports: learning about networking protocols, ports, and wireless technologies.
- SOHO networks: setting up small office/home office networks, including IP addressing and VPNs.
- Networking tools: troubleshooting with crimpers, cable testers, and Wi-Fi analyzers.
Networking summary: This section covers the backbone of IT by ensuring you develop a clear understanding of essential networking concepts. You will explore protocols, ports, and wireless technologies, providing context for how data flows across small or enterprise systems. By studying SOHO networks, you will also learn how to configure IP addressing and VPNs to maintain secure and efficient communication in small office and home setups.
Beyond theory, networking places strong emphasis on problem-solving using hands-on tools. From using cable testers to verify connections to employing Wi-Fi analyzers to diagnose wireless issues, you will gain the ability to maintain and repair networks effectively. These skills empower you to keep systems connected and resilient, a core requirement for IT success.
Domain 3: Hardware (25% of the exam)
Hardware
- Component installation: setting up RAM, CPUs, and storage devices.
- Cables and connectors: working with HDMI, Ethernet, and USB cables.
- Peripheral devices: installing and maintaining printers, scanners, and other peripherals.
- Motherboards and power: configuring motherboards, power supplies, and cooling solutions.
Hardware summary: This section builds your technical expertise with hardware installation and configuration. You will practice setting up core components such as CPUs, RAM, and storage devices while becoming familiar with a range of cables and connectors like HDMI and Ethernet. These skills provide the foundation for building and maintaining physical systems that power all types of computing environments.
Equally important is your ability to work with peripheral devices and supporting systems. Learning to install and maintain printers, scanners, and cooling solutions allows you to support both individual devices and complex setups. By mastering hardware fundamentals, you will have the knowledge needed to keep computer systems running reliably and efficiently.
Domain 4: Virtualization and cloud computing (11% of the exam)
Virtualization and cloud computing
- Virtualization concepts: understanding virtual machines, hypervisors, and desktop virtualization.
- Cloud models: learning about IaaS, SaaS, and PaaS.
Virtualization and cloud computing summary: This section introduces you to modern technologies that expand beyond traditional hardware. You will learn about virtual machines and hypervisors, understanding how they enable desktop virtualization and resource optimization. These skills help you adapt to IT environments where virtualization is commonplace to improve efficiency and scalability.
Additionally, you will explore the primary cloud service models: Infrastructure as a Service, Software as a Service, and Platform as a Service. By understanding how each model supports businesses differently, you will gain the ability to identify and recommend suitable cloud solutions. This ensures you can help organizations adopt flexible and cost-effective IT strategies.
Domain 5: Hardware and network troubleshooting (28% of the exam)
Hardware and network troubleshooting
- Diagnosing issues: identifying and fixing hardware, network, and connectivity problems.
- Troubleshooting tools: using multimeters, cable testers, and loopback plugs.
Hardware and network troubleshooting summary: This section emphasizes diagnosing and resolving common IT issues. You will learn proven approaches to identify and resolve hardware failures, network connectivity problems, and environmental issues that affect performance. With these skills, you can respond quickly and effectively to keep systems up and running.
Hands-on tool knowledge is also central to this domain. From using multimeters to check electrical values to employing cable testers and loopback plugs, you will know how to verify and validate whether hardware and cabling meet operational standards. This prepares you to handle troubleshooting scenarios with confidence and professionalism.
Who should pursue the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) certification?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification is designed for anyone who wants to break into IT and start a rewarding technology career. It is considered the entry-level gold standard IT certification and is perfect for:
- Students who are beginning their journey in IT
- Career changers transitioning into technology roles
- Tech enthusiasts who want to formalize their knowledge with a credential
- Professionals in related fields like office administration or customer service who are ready to take on IT support responsibilities
Whether you’re aiming to become a help desk technician, IT support specialist, or system administrator, this exam builds the foundation needed to succeed in your first IT role and beyond.
What kinds of IT jobs can I get with CompTIA A+ Core 1?
CompTIA A+ Core 1 opens the door to a wide range of IT support and technical roles. Employers everywhere recognize A+ as proof of fundamental skills in troubleshooting, networking, and hardware. Some jobs that commonly require or prefer CompTIA A+ include:
- IT Support Specialist
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Administrator
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Junior System Administrator
This exam also sets the stage for growth into advanced certifications like Network+, Security+, or even into cloud-focused certifications, making it a stepping stone toward exciting long-term IT career paths.
What is the latest version of the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
The most up-to-date version of this certification is CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201), which is part of the A+ V15 exam series. To become CompTIA A+ certified, candidates need to pass both Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202).
It’s important to take both exams from the same version to ensure your certification is valid. This version reflects today’s IT landscape, covering modern topics like mobile devices, cloud technologies, virtual machines, and advanced troubleshooting techniques.
How much does the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam cost?
The cost to sit for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification exam is $265 USD per exam. Because you must also take the Core 2 exam, your total investment will typically be $530. Prices can vary slightly based on your region, and sometimes you can save with discounted exam vouchers, bundles, or training packages.
Many training providers and academic institutions also participate in CompTIA’s partner network to offer discounted vouchers, making it more affordable for students or professionals under training programs.
How long is the exam and how many questions does it include?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) exam allows you 90 minutes to complete up to 90 questions. The question types include:
- Multiple-choice (single and multiple selection)
- Drag-and-drop matching questions
- Performance-based questions (PBQs) where you interact with simulated IT scenarios
Because the exam is dynamic and includes scenario-based questions, it’s important to pace yourself carefully. Many candidates find it helpful to answer the straightforward multiple-choice questions first before diving into the more detailed performance-based tasks.
What is the passing score for CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)?
To pass the Core 1 exam, you need to earn a score of 675 out of 900. CompTIA uses scaled scoring to fairly evaluate different exam forms, so not every question counts the same.
This score ensures that candidates demonstrate strong foundational knowledge across many areas of IT, not just one focus area. A good approach is to equally study topics like hardware, networking, and mobile device support, since all areas contribute to your final score.
In which languages is the Core 1 exam offered?
Currently, the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam is available in English, with additional languages sometimes being introduced in future updates to meet global demand.
For non-native speakers, it’s highly recommended to take full advantage of practice exams and prep resources, as becoming comfortable with IT terminology in English will improve your speed and accuracy during test day.
How are the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam domains structured?
The Core 1 exam covers five weighted content domains. These domains reflect the skills IT professionals most frequently apply on the job:
-
Mobile Devices (13%)
- Hardware setup like cameras, batteries, Wi-Fi antennas
- Connectivity including Bluetooth, NFC, docking stations
- Troubleshooting mobile hardware and apps
-
Networking (23%)
- Understanding wired and wireless protocols and ports
- SOHO network configurations
- Network troubleshooting with common tools
-
Hardware (25%)
- Installing RAM, CPUs, and drives
- Connecting peripherals like printers and scanners
- Power supply and motherboard setups
-
Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%)
- Virtual machines and hypervisors
- Cloud models such as IaaS, SaaS, and PaaS
-
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (28%)
- Diagnosing system failures and connectivity problems
- Using diagnostic tools like multimeters and loopback plugs
This domain structure ensures you’re not only memorizing knowledge but can apply it in real-world IT support scenarios.
How do performance-based questions work in this exam?
Performance-based questions (PBQs) in the A+ exam simulate tasks you may face in the workplace. For example, you may be asked to configure settings in a mock operating system, troubleshoot connectivity for a simulated network, or identify hardware issues based on an interactive scenario.
These questions go beyond memorization and let you prove practical IT skills. Many candidates view PBQs as the most exciting part of the exam because they reflect the type of problem-solving you’ll do in real IT jobs.
Is CompTIA A+ Core 1 worth it for beginners in IT?
Absolutely. CompTIA A+ is considered the starting credential for IT careers and is consistently listed by employers in job postings. With this certification, you prove your ability to support devices, troubleshoot systems, and set up networks, making you immediately more competitive in the job market.
A+ is not just about passing a test; it represents readiness for real IT work. For many, it’s the first milestone in building a career path that can lead to high-paying roles like system administrator, cybersecurity analyst, or cloud technician.
How difficult is the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
While every exam requires preparation, Core 1 is built to be accessible, even for people new to IT. CompTIA recommends around 12 months of hands-on experience or equivalent training, but many learners succeed with focused study and lab practice.
The topics are practical and designed for beginners to understand, so as long as you dedicate consistent time to studying, you can approach the exam with confidence.
Are there prerequisites to taking the A+ Core 1 exam?
There are no mandatory prerequisites to sit for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201). Anyone can take this exam at any time.
That said, it’s helpful if you have some familiarity with technology, either through personal computer use, hands-on labs, or coursework. Many individuals with no prior IT job experience have successfully passed this exam by committing to structured learning and practice.
How long does the CompTIA A+ certification remain valid?
Once you pass both Core 1 and Core 2, your CompTIA A+ certification is valid for three years.
To keep it active, you can renew by:
- Earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through training or additional certifications
- Passing the latest version of the A+ exam
- Advancing to higher-level CompTIA certifications such as Network+ or Security+
This ensures your knowledge always aligns with evolving industry standards.
What skills will I come away with after earning A+ Core 1 certification?
The skills you build with CompTIA A+ Core 1 are directly tied to real IT support roles. After certification, you’ll have demonstrated knowledge in:
- Installing and maintaining computer hardware, peripherals, and mobile devices
- Configuring and troubleshooting networks, both wired and wireless
- Diagnosing and solving operating system and hardware issues
- Understanding virtualization and cloud technologies at a foundational level
- Using professional IT tools for troubleshooting and system repair
Most importantly, you’ll feel confident in working with technology hands-on, a skill set employers truly value.
How should I prepare for Core 1 success?
The best preparation strategy combines theory, practical labs, and continuous quiz practice. Many learners start with official training resources and supplement their journey with practice exams.
To gain confidence and simulate the real test, try these trusted CompTIA A+ Core 1 practice exams which mirror the real environment and provide detailed answer explanations. This method helps you build both speed and accuracy under timed conditions.
What resources should I focus on while studying?
You’ll have the strongest preparation by blending multiple study materials:
- Official CompTIA training courses
- Interactive labs, either virtual or hands-on with hardware
- Flashcards to learn networking ports, protocols, and acronyms
- Study guides dedicated to A+ Core 1 objectives
- Community forums where learners share insights
By combining practice with community learning, you’ll cover both knowledge and the applied skills needed to pass.
How do I register for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
Registration for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam is simple. You’ll register through the Pearson VUE exam scheduling system once you have an exam voucher. From there, you’ll:
- Sign in with your CompTIA account
- Select the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) exam
- Choose whether you want to take the test online or at a testing center
- Pick your desired date and time
- Confirm payment and finalize
Once your exam is scheduled, you’ll have a clear target date to work toward.
Can I take the exam online, or do I need to visit a center?
Yes, CompTIA allows flexibility for candidates to take the exam either:
- Online with remote proctoring (requires webcam, stable internet, and private environment)
- In-person at a Pearson VUE authorized testing center
Both options are secure and convenient, so you can choose the method that best fits your comfort and environment.
What comes after CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification?
After earning your CompTIA A+, you can choose to climb deeper into IT specialization. Common next steps include certifications like:
- CompTIA Network+ (focusing on networking)
- CompTIA Security+ (an entry to cybersecurity)
- Specialized vendor certifications like Microsoft, Cisco, or AWS
This progression means you’ll be job-ready while also future-proofing your skills.
Where can I find CompTIA’s official details about the A+ Core 1 certification?
For the most reliable and up-to-date information directly from the certification provider, visit the official CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification page. There you’ll find details on objectives, training resources, and exam policies straight from CompTIA.
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) certification is more than just a test—it’s the start of a lifelong IT career. By preparing with structure, practicing hands-on troubleshooting, and taking advantage of learning resources, you’ll earn one of the most respected credentials in technology and stand out among other candidates in the job market. This is your launchpad into the world of IT.
