Get the Newest CompTIA A+ 2025 Course for Only $12.99

Launching Your IT Career with the New CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 Certifications

Vision Training Systems – On-demand IT Training

CompTIA Online Training Courses

Common Questions For Quick Answers

What skills are essential for passing the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams?

To successfully pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams, candidates should focus on acquiring a diverse set of foundational IT skills. For the 220-1201 exam, key skills include understanding mobile device configurations, PC hardware components, networking fundamentals, and cloud computing basics. Familiarity with virtualization concepts and troubleshooting techniques is also crucial.

The 220-1202 exam emphasizes software and security skills, such as knowledge of various operating systems including Windows and Linux, as well as security best practices. Candidates should be versed in software troubleshooting, user management across multiple operating systems, and operational procedures. Emphasizing these skills will enhance your chances of achieving certification and advancing your IT career.

How do the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams differ from previous versions?

The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams have been updated to align with the latest trends and technologies in the IT industry. Unlike previous versions, these exams place a stronger emphasis on mobile devices, advanced networking technologies, and the management of hybrid work environments. The 220-1201 exam includes updated topics like USB-C connectors and new wireless standards such as Wi-Fi 6 and 6E.

In contrast, the 220-1202 exam has expanded its focus on cybersecurity, incorporating more in-depth coverage of security best practices, threat mitigation, and procedural documentation. The integration of scripting basics also reflects the modernized skill set required of IT professionals today. Overall, these changes ensure that the certification remains relevant and comprehensive for aspiring IT technicians.

What are the benefits of obtaining the CompTIA A+ certification for IT professionals?

Obtaining the CompTIA A+ certification offers numerous benefits for IT professionals, particularly those at the beginning of their careers. First and foremost, it serves as a recognized credential that validates essential IT skills across hardware, software, and networking domains. This certification enhances job prospects, as many employers require it for entry-level IT positions.

Furthermore, the A+ certification provides a solid foundation for further specialization in the IT field. It equips individuals with the knowledge necessary to troubleshoot and resolve issues effectively, making them valuable assets to any organization. Additionally, it opens up networking opportunities with other certified professionals and can lead to higher earning potential as one gains experience and advanced certifications.

What role does cybersecurity play in the CompTIA A+ 220-1202 exam?

Cybersecurity plays a significant role in the CompTIA A+ 220-1202 exam, reflecting the growing importance of security in IT environments. This exam addresses essential cybersecurity concepts, including secure credential management and practices to mitigate threats. Candidates are expected to understand how to identify potential vulnerabilities and implement security measures effectively.

The focus on cybersecurity ensures that IT professionals are equipped to handle real-world challenges, especially in environments with increasing cyber threats. Topics like social engineering and endpoint hardening are covered in depth, preparing candidates to support secure operations in today’s multi-device, hybrid work settings. This emphasis on security is crucial, as IT professionals often serve as the first line of defense against cyber incidents.

How can candidates best prepare for the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams?

Effective preparation for the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams involves a combination of study materials, hands-on experience, and practice exams. Candidates should start by reviewing the official exam objectives outlined by CompTIA, which provide a clear framework of the topics covered.

Utilizing a variety of resources such as textbooks, online courses, and video tutorials can enhance understanding. Joining study groups or forums can also provide additional insights and peer support. Additionally, practical experience with hardware and software configurations is invaluable, as it helps reinforce theoretical knowledge. Finally, taking practice exams can help identify areas needing improvement and build confidence before the actual tests.

If you’re planning to start or advance your career in information technology, the newly released CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 certifications offer the most up-to-date path to building a strong technical foundation. These two updated core exams reflect the latest demands of IT environments, preparing professionals for today’s hybrid workforces, evolving cybersecurity challenges, and multi-device support needs.

Designed for early-career IT professionals, the CompTIA A+ remains the industry’s leading vendor-neutral certification for foundational IT skills. It proves that you can identify, troubleshoot, and resolve hardware, software, and connectivity issues across a range of devices and platforms—skills that are critical in modern support and technician roles.

What’s Different About the New CompTIA A+ Exams?

The CompTIA A+ certification is renewed every few years to ensure it stays aligned with the needs of employers and industry trends. The 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams, launched in 2025, include key updates that reflect how the IT landscape is evolving.

The 220-1201 exam emphasizes the hardware side of IT, with objectives covering:

  • Mobile devices and their configurations
  • PC hardware and peripherals
  • Networking technologies and troubleshooting
  • Cloud computing fundamentals
  • Virtualization concepts and implementations

You’ll also find updated coverage of USB-C connectors, expanded wireless technologies like Wi-Fi 6 and 6E, and current mobile device configurations. There’s a sharper focus on managing devices in remote or hybrid setups, which has become critical in today’s workforce.

On the other hand, the 220-1202 exam focuses on software and security. This includes:

  • Modern operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS
  • Security best practices and threat mitigation
  • Software troubleshooting procedures
  • Operational procedures and documentation
  • User management in multi-OS environments

In this updated exam, cybersecurity takes on greater importance. Topics like social engineering, secure credential management, and endpoint hardening are presented in more depth. There’s also new attention to scripting basics and automation—skills that are increasingly necessary for IT professionals in support and administration roles.

Who Should Pursue the CompTIA A+ Certification?

The A+ certification is ideal for anyone looking to get started in IT or change careers into the tech industry. It’s designed for roles such as:

  • IT support specialist
  • Help desk technician
  • Field service technician
  • Desktop support analyst
  • Technical support administrator

If you’re seeking a credential that confirms you can confidently handle a wide variety of IT support tasks—whether that’s setting up a workstation, troubleshooting network connectivity, or securing a user’s device—the CompTIA A+ is a strong first step.

This certification is also highly valued by employers. It helps demonstrate that you’re ready to work in environments that require both in-person support and remote diagnostics, which are now standard in many organizations.

How the Exams Are Structured

To become CompTIA A+ certified, you’ll need to pass both the Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) exams. Each exam consists of up to 90 questions and lasts 90 minutes. Questions include multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based items designed to test your problem-solving ability in real-world scenarios.

The Core 1 exam focuses on identifying and troubleshooting hardware, networking, and mobile devices, while the Core 2 exam focuses on software installation, operating system management, and security practices. Together, they ensure you’re equipped to handle both the physical and logical aspects of today’s IT systems.

The passing score is 675 for the 220-1201 and 700 for the 220-1202, on a scale of 100–900. Once you pass both, your certification is valid for three years, and you can renew it through continuing education or by passing the latest version of the exam in the future.

Why the CompTIA A+ Is More Relevant Than Ever

Today’s IT professionals must support a growing number of devices, platforms, and users. They’re also expected to understand the basics of cybersecurity and cloud services—even in entry-level roles. The new A+ certification addresses all these areas, helping candidates build a skill set that’s versatile, scalable, and employer-ready.

Whether you’re supporting a user’s tablet in the field, setting up a virtual desktop, or managing software patches across dozens of endpoints, the A+ certification ensures you’re prepared to act efficiently and securely.

In addition, the certification lays the groundwork for more advanced credentials. Many professionals use the A+ as a launchpad to pursue certifications in networking, security, cloud computing, or cybersecurity. It gives you the confidence and credibility to pursue more specialized roles as your career grows.

Getting Started

If you’re ready to begin your IT journey, now is the perfect time to prepare for the new 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams. With the latest technologies and security practices woven into the exam objectives, you’ll be learning what truly matters in today’s support-driven tech world.

Studying for these exams helps you not just pass a test—it helps you build a mindset for solving problems, supporting users, and understanding how all the pieces of modern IT infrastructure work together.

Start learning today with our
365 Training Pass

*A valid email address and contact information is required to receive the login information to access your free 10 day access.  Only one free 10 day access account per user is permitted. No credit card is required.

More Blog Posts

Vision What’s Possible
Join today for over 50% off