The CompTIA A+ 220-1002 is the well-recognized certification exam that allows the candidates to test their knowledge about the core technologies. The applicants who are interested in pursuing their careers in the IT sector should definitely apply for such a test. Thus, once you pass the 220-1001 & 220-1002 exams, you will be granted the A+ certificate. After getting this designation, you can share it on your profile to attract potential employers and get a desirable job role.

Eligibility Criteria

The A+ 220-1002 exam is designed for candidates who have a minimum of 9-12 months of hands-on experience in the field. And to pass the official test, the candidate should have knowledge and skills in configuring the operating systems, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. It also includes expanding security and the core technologies of the IT sector. The candidate should have relative experience in these technologies to perform well in the final exam.

What Is A+ 220-1002 Exam?

Like many other CompTIA evaluations, this one also consists of 90 questions and you get 90 minutes to attempt them. The format of the main exam is multiple-choice questions that can be single and multiple responses, performance-based, and drag & drop items. Next, the passing score for such an exam is 700 marks on a scale of 100-900. To add more, the candidates can take the evaluation in testing centers or online, and you need to register with Pearson VUE by paying $232 as a registration fee. Note that the candidates who have passed the 220-1001 Core 1 exam then move forward towards the A+ certification by passing the 220-1002 Core 2 as both of these tests are essential to get the designation.

What Domains Are Covered by A+ 220-1002 Test?

The candidates need to demonstrate their understanding of the domains covered by the final exam in order to get a pass. Thus, it is required from candidates to dedicate their time and energy to master the exam objectives. The areas that you have to learn and understand deeply are the following:

• Setting up Operating Systems;
• Troubleshooting Software;
• Procedures for Operations;
• Expanded Security.

The first tested area measures your skills in setting up operating software. In more detail, it includes comparing facets of Microsoft Windows variations, utilizing appropriate Microsoft command-line tools, and differentiating between the types for the operating system and their purposes. Moreover, the basic knowledge of summarizing common OS considerations for installation and upgrading their methods are also included in the exam syllabus. The candidate should also have skills in utilizing the Microsoft Windows Control Panel utilities and recognizing Microsoft Windows networks on a desktop or with a client. Finally, such a domain deals with outlining tools as well as features for the Mac OS & Linux client or desktop OS.

The second part discusses software troubleshooting. In particular, it tests your knowledge of troubleshooting & resolving PC security issues and also resolving Microsoft Windows OS glitches. In addition, you should be able to solve mobile OS and application issues. Not only this, but the candidate should also know about troubleshooting mobile OS and application security breaches. Finally, such an objective also includes utilizing the best practices for the removal of malware like scans, run updates, infected systems, and malware symptoms.

The third tested domain talks about the procedures for operations. Here, the candidates have to validate their knowledge of implementing change management best practices, the associated practices that prove to be best for certain types of documentation and detailing environmental influences alongside controls. Besides, you should have competency in explaining the safety procedures and checking the fundamentals of scripting as well as utilizing remote access technologies. Finally, within this part, you’ll have to develop the skills in taking advantage of proper communication methods and expounding on the prohibited content, licensing, and privacy.

The fourth section defines expanded security. In more detail, it includes detailing logical security concepts and detecting, preventing, and removing malware utilizing suitable tools as well as methods. Besides this, the candidate should have knowledge of the physical security measures and differentiate between wireless security protocols along with their authentication methods. The individuals would also be tested upon putting into operation methods for protecting mobile devices and executing the data destruction along with disposal methods. Last of all, the applicants will need to get a solid knowledge of security on SOHO wireless as well as wired networks.

What Are Career Opportunities for CompTIA A+ Specialists?

Once you pass the final 220-1002 exam, there will be thousands of opportunities in front of you. All in all, you will be offered employment in several job roles and can apply for the following positions:

• End-User Computing Technician;
• Service Desk Analyst;
• Associate Network Engineer;
• Field Service Technician;
• System Support Specialist;
• Desktop Support Administrator;
• Technical Support Specialist;
• Help Desk Tech;
• Data Support Technician.

Moreover, when you pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1002 exam you will see an increase in your salary. Thus, when we look at the annual income, the End-User Computing Technician earns around $38,000 per year while the Help Desk Tech has an annual income of $41,694 as revealed by PayScale. Also, the salary of an Associate Network Engineer is $57,049 per year, and a System Support Specialist makes $51,413 yearly, which is also revealed by PayScale. After going through all these figures, it is clear that you can earn a promising salary if you work in the job roles mentioned above. Plus, the A+ certification will not only provide you with a better job opportunity but will also allow you to work with technology and IT experts. So, get yourself prepared to achieve this entry-level designation and embark on the journey that will lead you to the path of success in the IT sector.

Certification Path

After passing the 220-1002 test you will get the CompTIA A+ certification. Indeed, it will lead you to unlimited opportunities but the candidates who want to upgrade their knowledge and expand their skills can go for the CompTIA Network + certification. With it, you will be able to enhance your skills in networking as well as problem-solving and launch your career in digital technologies and become a specialist in networking technologies.