From scratch…
Welcome to the first post of this website.
This journey begin from scratch. Even if I used computers since I was a teenager, I never didn’t really dive into IT very deep. Curious by nature, with the desire to knowing how things work, I knew almost enough for taking the Core 1 of the CompTIA A+ certification.
But first thing first, what is the CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ certified professionals are proven problem solvers. They support today’s core technologies from security to networking to virtualization and more. CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching IT careers into today’s digital world.
from https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a
In my opinion, if like me, you don’t have any degrees or background in IT, this should be the first step of your journey.
Here is 9 basic skills that you will master and validate with the CompTIA A+:
HARDWARE
Identifying, using, and connecting hardware components and devices, including the broad knowledge about different devices that is now necessary to support the remote workforce
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Install and support Windows OS including command line & client support. System configuration imaging and troubleshooting for Mac OS, Chrome OS, Android and Linux OS.
SOFTWARE TROUBLESHOOTING
Troubleshoot PC and mobile device issues including common OS, malware and security issues.
NETWORKING
Explain types of networks and connections including TCP/IP, WIFI and SOHO
TROUBLESHOOTING
Troubleshoot real-world device and network issues quickly and efficiently
SECURITY
Identify and protect against security vulnerabilities for devices and their network connections
MOBILE DEVICES
Install & configure laptops and other mobile devices and support applications to ensure connectivity for end- users
VIRTUALIZATION & CLOUD COMPUTING
Compare & contrast cloud computing concepts & set up client-side virtualization
OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
Follow best practices for safety, environmental impacts, and communication and professionalism
There is 2 exams for being certified :
CompTIA A+ – Core 1 covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing and network troubleshooting.
CompTIA A+ – Core 2 covers installing and configuring operating systems, expanded security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures.
They’re both Multiple choice questions (single and multiple response), drag and drops and performance-based questions (between 75 and 90 questions per exam) and you need to get a least 675/900 for the Core 1 and 700/900 for the Core 2 to pass.
CompTIA recommends 9 to 12 months hands-on experience in the lab or field for this exam.
How did I prepared?
For this exam, I used :
- The CompTIA A+ Study Guide from SYBEX.
- The Mike Meyers’ videos on Udemy.
- ThePractice exams from Boson ExSim-Max.
- The Practice tests from ABC E-Learning on Android.
I’ve learned a lot on my way through the CompTIA A+. And during the exams, questions were pretty straight forward. It took me about 40 min to going through.
I’ve spent 15 days to pass the Core 1 and 15 days to pass the Core 2. (I’ve treated each one independently)
What’s my Roadmap?
With the knowledge bringing by the CompTIA A+, I’m working on one hand on the CompTIA Network+ and Security+, and on the other hand on the eJPT from eLearnSecurity (Junior Pentester Certification).