The CompTIA FC0-U61 is the exam that helps the candidates to decide on a career in the IT field by developing a broader understanding of IT as a whole. It is the entry-level certification test that allows the students to determine if they are interested in information technology. So, if you wish to pursue your career in this sector, you should take this exam. Once you pass it, you will be honored with the IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification.

Who Is CompTIA FC0-U61 Intended for?

This exam is designed for entry-level IT specialists who want to validate their skills in identifying common software applications, using best practices for security and web browsing, and establishing network connectivity. Moreover, the advanced end-users and candidates who are interested in pursuing their careers within the IT sector have to take this evaluation.

What Is FC0-U61 Test?

This exam allows the candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the basics of computing, software development, database use, and IT infrastructure. All in all, it consists of 75 questions that are in the form of multiple choices. Next, the candidates need to attain 650 marks on a scale of 900 to get a pass status, and luckily, there is no formal prerequisite for the actual evaluation plus, you don't require any previous experience. To add more, this test only comes in English and you have to pay $126 as an exam fee. Still, this price is not fixed and varies from one country to another. Finally, as this is a timed test, you only get 60 minutes to complete it.

What Are Domains Covered by FC0-U61 Exam?

The candidates have to master the following domains to get a good score in the final evaluation:

• IT Concepts & Terminology 17%;
• Applications and Software 18%;
• Infrastructure 22%;
• Software Development 12%;
• Database Fundamentals 11%;
• Security 20%.

The first tested topic focuses on IT concepts and terminology. In particular, it discusses comparing and contrasting notational systems as well as fundamental data types along with characteristics. What’s more, the candidate's knowledge of illustrating the basics of computing and processing is also included in such an exam. Finally, it provides you the opportunity to validate your skills in explaining troubleshooting methodology and contesting common units of measure.

The second area discusses applications and software. It focuses on disk management, process management, device management, etc. The candidate's knowledge of comparing and contrasting components of an operating system is also tested in the final evaluation. You should also know how to use the software properly and explain the methods of application architecture. Moreover, the applicants should have the skills to compare the general application concepts and contrast them. Lastly, under this category, you’ll get to know how to configure as well as utilize various web browsers via such terms as caching, private browsing, certificates, the blockers of popups & scripts, and finally, settings for proxy.

The third section includes infrastructure. In more detail, it classifies the common types of input/output devices and their interfaces, sets up & installs the peripheral devices, and explains the common internal computing components as well as internet service types. Furthermore, you will be tested on comparing & contrasting storage types and common computing devices & their purposes. Not only this, but it also includes installing, configuring, and securing the wireless network and other basic networking concepts.

The fourth part involves software development concepts. In more detail, it examines comparing and contrasting programming languages, using programming organizational techniques, and interpreting logic. Also, such an objective tests the candidate's skills in explaining the purpose of the programming concepts like identifiers, objects, functions, and the like.

The fifth topic defines the database fundamentals. All in all, it explains database concepts and their purpose. Then, it involves comparing as well as contrasting several database structures and summarizing methods utilized to interface with databases. In more detail, such a domain focuses on the usage of database, scalability, storage, records as well as relational and non-relational databases. It also talks about the relational methods, database access methods, and export/import. The candidates need to have a strong grip on these concepts to ace the final evaluation.

The sixth tested objective emphasizes security. It summarizes integrity, availability, and confidentiality concepts. Moreover, it explains the methods that are used to secure devices and the best practices utilized in the organizations. In detail, it focuses on changing default passwords, patching, validating legitimate sources, and removing unwanted software. Next, this section talks about behavioral security concepts that involve social networking sites, file sharing, and mobile applications. After that, it discusses comparing and contrasting authorization, authentication, and non-repudiation concepts. Finally, the candidate is tested upon explaining the uses of encryption, business continuity notions, and the best practices for passwords.

What Are Career Opportunities for CompTIA ITF+ Specialists?

As you know, once you pass the FC0-U61 exam, you will be awarded the CompTIA IT Fundamentals certification. It will make you feel more confident to opt for the core certifications from CompTIA to gain solid skills in the IT filed and launch a successful career there. After being eligible to start working in the information technology field you can get a well-paying job. By the way, according to CompTIA, there are around 110,000 net new jobs for the candidates interested in IT. When it comes to the annual income of certified specialists, this equals around $52k according to the ZipRecruiter.com website.

Certification Path

The candidates who have achieved the IT Fundamentals validation and want to expand their knowledge of the IT world should opt for the CompTIA A+ certification. It will provide the candidates with great opportunities and give them a chance to work with IT professionals in reputable organizations. More so, the A+ designation will polish your skills and provide you with a platform to prove your dexterity for gaining a better position and salary.