Overview#
CompTIA A+ is the classic entry point into IT — hardware, operating systems, networking basics, mobile devices, troubleshooting, and operational procedures. The current version is split across two exams, 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2), both of which launched in March 2025 and are required to earn the cert. It’s foundational for help-desk and support roles and a solid base before moving into security.
Status: Earned
Recommended Resources#
Professor Messer — A+ Training Course#
The go-to free video series, fully updated for 220-1201/1202. Clear, exam-focused, and complete enough to pass on its own.
- Type: Video course
- Cost: Free (optional paid notes/practice bundles)
- Link: professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training
Mike Meyers — CompTIA A+ All-in-One Exam Guide#
Comprehensive reference text that doubles as a study guide and a keep-on-the-shelf hardware reference. Pairs well with the Total Seminars Udemy video course.
- Type: Book (+ video course)
- Cost: Paid
- Link: totalsem.com
Jason Dion — A+ Practice Exams#
Realistic practice questions that closely track the exam’s difficulty and phrasing — the best way to gauge readiness before booking.
- Type: Practice exams
- Cost: Paid
- Link: diontraining.com
CompTIA CertMaster Learn + Labs#
The official self-paced platform with adaptive learning and hands-on virtual labs. The authoritative content baseline straight from the exam vendor.
- Type: Official courseware + labs
- Cost: Paid
- Link: comptia.org/en-us/certifications/a
ExamCompass — Free A+ Practice Questions#
A large free question bank organized by objective — handy for quick topic drills between longer study sessions.
- Type: Practice questions
- Cost: Free
- Link: examcompass.com