According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of computer support specialists is expected to grow 17 percent between 2012 and 2020, a growth much faster than the projections for any other occupation. As organizations upgrade computers and software, there is a continual need for qualified service technicians. One way to become qualified for a career as an information technician is to take the exams to obtain A+ certification.
Administration of A+ Certification
The Computing Technology Industry Association, or CompTIA, is a nonprofit trade association. Founded in 1982, the association is made up of computer distributors, manufacturers and resellers. Its voluntary guidelines on professionalism and business ethics deal with such issues as price protection, warranty claims and product returns. For over 20 years it has offered vendor-neutral information technology certification exams in such subjects as PC support, servers, networking and security. One of the exams CompTIA offers is for A+ certification.
What A+ Certification Covers
The A+ certification proves your competency as a computer technician. To achieve certification you must pass two tests. They assume the equivalent knowledge of 500 hours of hands-on experience in the lab or field. You need to have the basic knowledge of computer technology, security and networking, and the ability to identify components of hardware, security, peripheral and networking. You need to be familiar with operating systems functions, troubleshooting methodologies and safety procedures. These skills can be acquired either through on the job training, attending trade school or community college, or studying appropriate materials.
Details of the Tests
Though the tests are designed to be taken by those with experience as service technicians, anyone can take them. The tests are designated CompTIA A+ 220-801 and CompTIA A+ 220-802. Each exam takes 90 minutes and has 90 questions. They are all multiple choice questions having only one correct answer. The exams are available in English, Spanish, German, French, Japanese, Thai, Chinese and Arabic. A number of testing centers around the world administer the A+ certification exam.
Duration of Certification
Since 2011, after you successfully complete the exams, your CompTIA A+ certification is valid for three years. After the three years you must prove that your knowledge is up-to-date by retaking the test or participating in a continuing education program. This involves documented hours spent attending training or college courses, participating in industry events, teaching or having relevant work experience.
Relevance of A+ Certification
Over 900,000 information technology professionals currently hold the A+ certification. The CompTIA A+ certification program is accredited by the American Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Organization for Standardization (IOS). Federal Agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense recognize A+ certification. Law enforcement agencies such as the FBI also look for A+ certification credentials in job applications. Dell, Lenovo and Intel service technicians are required to have an A+ certification.
Anyone who is interested in a career as a support technician in computer technology can benefit from obtaining A+ certification. It proves you are competent in working with computer hardware, software and networks and have the ability to troubleshoot when you need to. Receiving an A+ certification involves studying relevant materials to be able to pass the exams. Training materials are available to ensure that you are fully prepared.
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