The Complete Guide to CompTIA A+ (220-1201/1202) in 2026

The Complete Guide to CompTIA A+ (220-1201/1202) in 2026

Everything you need to know about the CompTIA A+ certification — exam structure for Core 1 and Core 2, what's new in the V15 update, official prep resources, and a realistic study plan.

CompTIA A+ is the cert that opens the door to IT. It validates that you can troubleshoot computers, mobile devices, networks, and operating systems — the daily reality of help desk, IT support, and field tech work. It's also the gateway credential to nearly every other CompTIA certification, including Network+, Security+, and the entire cybersecurity pathway.

This guide covers everything you need: how the A+ exam works, what's new in the 220-1201/1202 update (V15), the official prep stack, and a study plan that actually fits real life.

What Is CompTIA A+?

CompTIA A+ is the world's most widely-recognized entry-level IT certification. Unlike vendor-specific credentials (Microsoft, Apple, Google), A+ teaches the underlying knowledge that applies across every platform and every workplace.

A+ holders demonstrate they can:

  • Install, configure, and maintain PCs, mobile devices, and peripherals.
  • Set up and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks.
  • Install, configure, and troubleshoot Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Chrome OS.
  • Diagnose and repair hardware and software problems.
  • Apply security best practices to endpoints.
  • Provide effective customer service and operational documentation.

It's the credential employers expect for entry-level IT roles, and it's approved by the U.S. DoD under directive 8140 for select positions.

The A+ Two-Exam Structure

Unlike most CompTIA certifications, A+ requires you to pass two separate exams to earn the certification:

Core 1 (220-1201)

Focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, cloud computing, and hardware/network troubleshooting.

Core 2 (220-1202)

Focuses on operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

You can take them in either order, and you have 12 months from passing the first exam to pass the second. Until you pass both, you don't have the A+ certification.

Exam Details at a Glance

Detail 220-1201 (Core 1) 220-1202 (Core 2)
Number of questions Maximum 90 Maximum 90
Question types Multiple choice + PBQs Multiple choice + PBQs
Length 90 minutes 90 minutes
Passing score 675 (on scale of 100–900) 700 (on scale of 100–900)
Recommended experience 9–12 months on-the-job or lab experience 9–12 months on-the-job or lab experience
Languages English (initially); others roll out later English (initially); others roll out later
Validity 3 years from passing the second exam 3 years from passing the second exam

For current voucher pricing, see A+ Core 1 (220-1201) Voucher and A+ Core 2 (220-1202) Voucher.

Already certified and need to renew? See How to Renew Your CompTIA A+ Certification.

What's Covered: The Domains

Core 1 (220-1201) — Five Domains

  1. Mobile Devices (15%) — Laptops, smartphones, tablets, configuration, and connectivity.
  2. Networking (20%) — Wired and wireless networking, protocols, and basic security.
  3. Hardware (25%) — Internal components, peripherals, storage, printers.
  4. Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%) — Hypervisors, cloud models, virtualization basics.
  5. Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (29%) — Diagnosing and resolving hardware and connectivity problems.

Core 2 (220-1202) — Four Domains

  1. Operating Systems (28%) — Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome OS installation, configuration, and management.
  2. Security (28%) — Threats, endpoint security, account management, secure data destruction, social engineering awareness.
  3. Software Troubleshooting (22%) — OS issues, app problems, mobile OS issues, malware response.
  4. Operational Procedures (22%) — Documentation, safety, environmental controls, communication, professionalism, scripting basics, remote access tools.

What's New in V15 (220-1201/1202)

The V15 update — released to replace 220-1101/1102 — modernizes A+ in several important ways:

  1. AI tools and AI awareness show up as topics in operational procedures and security.
  2. Modern endpoint protection (EDR concepts, zero trust at endpoint level).
  3. Refreshed Windows coverage with current versions and removal of legacy versions.
  4. Cloud computing gets more depth, including SaaS/PaaS/IaaS in real-world context.
  5. Updated mobile device coverage, including current iOS and Android ecosystems.
  6. Stronger emphasis on documentation and communication — soft skills that employers consistently flag as missing.

For a side-by-side comparison, see 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202: The Latest A+ Refresh.

Who Should Take A+?

A+ is built for:

  • Career changers entering IT from another field.
  • Help desk and IT support hopefuls who want a credible foundation cert.
  • Field service technicians working with end-user devices.
  • Recent grads building a CV for entry-level IT roles.
  • Self-taught IT enthusiasts formalizing their skills.

If you're already comfortable troubleshooting computers professionally for 2+ years, you may be ready to skip directly to Network+ — but for most learners new to IT, A+ is the right starting point.

Official Study Resources from CompTIA

CompTIA offers a full official prep stack for A+. Here's what each piece does:

1. CertMaster Learn for A+ Core 1 & Core 2 — The Theory Foundation

CertMaster Learn is CompTIA's official self-paced e-learning course. It covers every exam objective for both Core 1 and Core 2, with instructional content, embedded videos, interactive activities, lesson quizzes, performance-based question practice, and full-length final assessments.

You buy Core 1 and Core 2 separately (or as a bundle, depending on the offering).

👉 CertMaster Learn for A+ Core 1 (220-1201) 👉 CertMaster Learn for A+ Core 2 (220-1202)

2. CertMaster Labs for A+ — Hands-On Practice

CertMaster Labs provides browser-based virtual environments where you install operating systems, configure hardware, set up networking, troubleshoot real scenarios, and build the hands-on skills A+ tests with PBQs. Starting with the V15 release, Labs are tightly integrated with CertMaster Learn.

👉 CertMaster Labs for A+ Core 1 (220-1201) 👉 CertMaster Labs for A+ Core 2 (220-1202)

3. CertMaster Perform for A+ — The Integrated All-in-One

For A+ specifically, CompTIA offers CertMaster Perform — a guided experience that integrates Learn, Labs, instructional videos, and exam prep tools in a single environment with optional live instructor support. Unique to A+ and a few other foundational certs, it's the closest thing to a virtual classroom CompTIA produces.

👉 CertMaster Perform for A+ Core 1 (220-1201) 👉 CertMaster Perform for A+ Core 2 (220-1202)

4. CertMaster Practice for A+ — Adaptive Exam Prep

CertMaster Practice uses an adaptive engine that finds your weak areas and drills you on them. Best used in the final 3–4 weeks before the exam.

👉 CertMaster Practice for A+ Core 1 (220-1201) 👉 CertMaster Practice for A+ Core 2 (220-1202)

5. Official A+ eBooks

CompTIA also publishes official eBooks for Core 1 and Core 2 — useful as a reference companion to CertMaster Learn, or as a budget option if you prefer reading.

👉 A+ Core 1 eBook (220-1201) 👉 A+ Core 2 eBook (220-1202)

Exam Vouchers: Standard vs Retake

You'll need a voucher for each exam (Core 1 and Core 2). IT-MASTER Co. offers:

  • Standard Vouchers — Single attempt for each exam, best if you're confident.
  • Voucher + Retake Assurance — Includes a guaranteed second attempt within 12 months.
  • Bundle Vouchers — Cover both Core 1 and Core 2 in one purchase, often at better combined pricing.

👉 A+ Core 1 Voucher (220-1201) 👉 A+ Core 2 Voucher (220-1202) 👉 A+ Voucher Bundle (Core 1 + Core 2) 👉 A+ Voucher + Retake (Core 1) 👉 A+ Voucher + Retake (Core 2)

All vouchers from IT-MASTER Co. are 100% genuine, sourced directly from CompTIA's official distribution channels, and delivered to your email within 4–8 hours.

A Realistic Study Plan (12–16 Weeks for Both Exams)

A+ is two exams, so realistic prep takes longer than single-exam certs. Here's a plan that works:

Weeks 1–6: Core 1 (220-1201)

  • Weeks 1–4: Work through CertMaster Learn or Perform for Core 1, one domain per week.
  • Weeks 5–6: Hands-on with CertMaster Labs, redo each lab until comfortable.
  • End of Week 6: Take CertMaster Practice for Core 1. When readiness indicator goes green, book.

Week 7: Test Core 1, Rest

  • Take the Core 1 exam.
  • Take a few days off to recover before starting Core 2.

Weeks 8–13: Core 2 (220-1202)

  • Weeks 8–11: CertMaster Learn or Perform for Core 2.
  • Weeks 12–13: CertMaster Labs for Core 2.
  • End of Week 13: CertMaster Practice for Core 2.

Week 14: Test Core 2

  • You're A+ certified.

This is a comfortable pace. If you're studying full-time, you can compress to 8–10 weeks total. If you can only study weekends, expect 20+ weeks.

Where A+ Fits in the Bigger Picture

A+ is the foundation of two major career pathways:

While you're studying, you can also start building real-world security awareness habits — for free — at cyberawareness.pro, our hands-on multilingual cybersecurity awareness platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is A+? Moderate. Most newcomers to IT pass in 3–4 months of consistent study. The breadth is the challenge — A+ covers a lot of ground, even if no single topic is extremely deep.

Can I skip Core 1 and just take Core 2 (or vice versa)? No. You need to pass both to earn A+. You can take them in either order, but you need both.

Do I need experience before taking A+? CompTIA recommends 9–12 months of hands-on IT experience, but plenty of learners pass A+ as their first cert with no prior professional experience — just solid study habits and hands-on lab time.

How long does my A+ last? Three years from the date you pass your second (final) exam. See How to Renew Your CompTIA A+ Certification when renewal time approaches.

Is A+ worth it in 2026? Yes. A+ remains the most commonly requested IT certification in entry-level job postings worldwide. For career changers and new IT pros, it's still the most efficient way to prove baseline competence.

Ready to Get Started?

Pick your starting point:

All products delivered in 4–8 hours, 100% genuine CompTIA codes.

Questions? Contact IT-MASTER Co. — fast response via WhatsApp.

Back to blog

Leave a comment