Can You Actually Get a Job With The CompTIA A+ Certification? Is The CompTIA A+ Worth It in 2023?

Summary

This video discusses the value of the CompTIA A+ certification, particularly for beginners in IT. It covers key topics such as job prospects, average salary, and exam details. The A+ is ideal for those starting out in IT, with job roles like help desk technician and desktop support being common entry points. The certification is split into two exams, each costing separately, making the total cost around $478. While the A+ is beneficial for foundational knowledge, some viewers may opt for the Security+ directly if pursuing a career in cybersecurity. The video aims to provide guidance for those considering these certifications.

Takeaways

• 😀 The CompTIA A+ certification is designed for beginners in IT, offering foundational knowledge for those with little or no prior experience in the field.
• 😀 The A+ certification is split into two exams: Core 1 and Core 2, with separate fees for each, totaling approximately $478 for both exams.
• 😀 The A+ certification is not required to have prior IT experience, but CompTIA recommends 12 months of experience in help desk, desktop support, or field technician roles to better prepare for the exam.
• 😀 CompTIA A+ is often seen as a stepping stone to other IT certifications, especially Security+, which is more focused on cybersecurity.
• 😀 The A+ certification can lead to roles such as IT technician, help desk support, and desktop support, with an average salary of $52,000 for entry-level help desk positions.
• 😀 The overall average salary for A+ certified professionals across all experience levels is about $78,000 annually.
• 😀 While A+ provides foundational IT knowledge, those interested in cybersecurity may want to bypass it and pursue the Security+ certification directly, especially if they have a background in tech or IT.
• 😀 The A+ certification is ideal for those starting their IT careers from scratch, as it provides essential knowledge to build a successful career in various IT roles.
• 😀 Some people choose to study for A+ first as a way to prepare for Security+, especially if they’re new to IT, but others may go straight into Security+ if their goal is a cybersecurity role.
• 😀 The speaker shares their own experience of taking the Security+ exam after just one year of experience in IT, studying for about three to four months, and encourages others to pursue certifications at their own pace.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the CompTIA A+ certification?

The CompTIA A+ certification is designed for beginners looking to enter the IT field. It provides foundational knowledge in IT support, including hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting.

Is prior IT experience required to take the CompTIA A+ exam?

No, prior IT experience is not required to take the CompTIA A+ exam. However, CompTIA recommends at least 12 months of experience in IT support roles, such as help desk or desktop support, to increase the chances of success.

How is the CompTIA A+ exam structured?

The CompTIA A+ certification is split into two exams: Core 1 and Core 2. Each exam covers different topics, allowing candidates to study one section at a time.

What are the costs associated with the CompTIA A+ certification?

The total cost for both Core 1 and Core 2 exams is approximately $478. This amount covers the cost of two separate exam vouchers.

How long should one study for the CompTIA A+ certification?

Study time varies depending on the individual’s prior knowledge, but most candidates study for a few months. The split exams make it less stressful compared to studying for a single exam, as the content is divided into manageable sections.

What are the common jobs that individuals with a CompTIA A+ certification can get?

Common entry-level jobs for individuals with CompTIA A+ certification include help desk technician, desktop support technician, IT technician, and field technician roles.

What is the average salary for a person holding a CompTIA A+ certification?

The average salary for someone holding a CompTIA A+ certification is approximately $52,000 per year for entry-level positions like help desk technician. However, the average salary across all experience levels is around $78,000 annually.

How does the CompTIA A+ compare to the Security+ certification?

While the A+ certification provides foundational IT knowledge, Security+ is a more advanced certification focused on cybersecurity. For those interested in a career in cybersecurity, it may be more beneficial to go directly for Security+ if they already have basic IT knowledge.

Can someone skip the CompTIA A+ and go directly to the Security+ certification?

Yes, it is possible to skip the CompTIA A+ and go directly for the Security+ certification, especially for individuals with some IT experience or those already familiar with basic IT concepts.

What factors should you consider before choosing between CompTIA A+ and Security+?

The decision depends on your career goals and experience. If you are new to IT and want to understand foundational concepts, A+ is a good starting point. However, if you're already familiar with IT basics or aim for a career in cybersecurity, Security+ may be the better choice.