The A+ exam has been the entry point for IT careers for over 25 years, but the current version — 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2) — is meaningfully different from what most study guides published before 2022 cover. Hardware hasn't fundamentally changed, but the job skills tested have. The exam now weights cloud computing, virtualization, and troubleshooting methodology more heavily than the hardware component identification that dominated older versions.
Candidates studying from outdated materials pass fewer questions on the new domains while over-preparing for content that carries less weight. Here's what actually matters now.
The Two-Exam Structure
A+ requires passing both exams to earn the certification. They're not interchangeable — each covers distinct content.
220-1101 Core 1: Hardware and infrastructure 220-1102 Core 2: Operating systems, security, and software troubleshooting
Both exams cost $253 each. The certification is valid for 3 years, with renewal via CompTIA Continuing Education (CE) or retaking the current exam version.
Core 1 (220-1101): Domain Breakdown
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Mobile Devices | 15% |
| Networking | 20% |
| Hardware | 25% |
| Virtualization and Cloud Computing | 11% |
| Hardware and Network Troubleshooting | 29% |
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting at 29% is the single largest domain. This is where candidates fail when they overprepare for component identification and underprepare for diagnostic methodology.
What Changed: Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%)
This domain is entirely new compared to older A+ versions. Pre-2022 study materials often have zero coverage of this content.
Cloud computing models tested:
- IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): renting virtual machines and storage (AWS EC2, Azure VMs)
- PaaS (Platform as a Service): managed application hosting (Azure App Service, AWS Elastic Beanstalk)
- SaaS (Software as a Service): cloud applications (Microsoft 365, Salesforce)
- Public cloud / Private cloud / Hybrid cloud / Community cloud
Virtualization concepts:
- Hypervisors: Type 1 (bare-metal, runs directly on hardware — VMware ESXi, Hyper-V) vs Type 2 (runs on host OS — VirtualBox, VMware Workstation)
- Virtual machines: resource allocation (vCPU, RAM, virtual disks), snapshots, cloning
- Containers vs VMs: containers share the host OS kernel (Docker), VMs include a full guest OS
- Purpose of virtualization: server consolidation, test environments, development isolation
What this means for study time: candidates who have used VirtualBox or VMware Workstation for any purpose have a practical advantage here. Reading about hypervisor types is less effective than having created a VM.
Hardware Domain: What Stays Central
Despite new content additions, hardware remains the core of Core 1. The exam tests:
Memory:
- DDR4 vs DDR5: speed, voltage, slot incompatibility
- ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM: detects and corrects single-bit errors, used in servers
- SO-DIMM vs DIMM: laptop vs desktop form factor
- Dual-channel memory: requires matching sticks in correct slots
Storage:
| Type | Interface | Speed range | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDD | SATA | 100-150 MB/s | Bulk storage, cost-effective |
| SATA SSD | SATA | 500-550 MB/s | General purpose |
| NVMe M.2 | PCIe | 3,000-7,000 MB/s | Boot drives, performance |
| eMMC | Built-in | 100-300 MB/s | Budget laptops, tablets |
The most frequently tested distinction: M.2 is a form factor, not an interface. An M.2 slot can be SATA or NVMe — you can't assume NVMe just because the drive uses M.2 form factor.
Printers: still tested more than many candidates expect.
- Laser: drum, fuser, toner cartridge — the print process (processing, charging, exposing, developing, transferring, fusing, cleaning)
- Inkjet: printhead cleaning, ink cartridge replacement
- Thermal: no ink required, uses heat-sensitive paper (receipt printers, label printers)
- 3D printing: not tested deeply, but filament types and basic troubleshooting appear
Networking (20%)
Core 1 networking tests a practical subset of Network+ content:
- TCP/IP fundamentals (subnets, default gateways, DNS, DHCP)
- Common ports: HTTP (80), HTTPS (443), SSH (22), RDP (3389), DNS (53), DHCP (67/68), FTP (20/21), SMTP (25), POP3 (110), IMAP (143)
- Wireless standards: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (Wi-Fi 6) — speeds and frequency bands
- Network troubleshooting: common cable issues (straight-through vs crossover — less relevant now but still appears), PoE, VLANs at a basic level
Core 2 (220-1102): Domain Breakdown
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Operating Systems | 31% |
| Security | 25% |
| Software Troubleshooting | 22% |
| Operational Procedures | 22% |
Operating Systems at 31% is the largest domain and primarily tests Windows, but also covers macOS and Linux basics.
Operating Systems (31%)
Windows versions tested: Windows 10 and Windows 11. The exam tests practical Windows administration:
- File system navigation and management (cmd.exe and PowerShell commands)
ipconfig,ping,tracert,netstat,nslookup— the A+ technician's diagnostic toolkitmsconfig(System Configuration — startup programs, services),regedit,taskmgr,eventvwr- Windows features: BitLocker (drive encryption), Windows Defender, User Account Control (UAC), Remote Desktop
Active Directory basics: the exam tests at a shallow level — what Active Directory is, domain vs workgroup, joining a domain, user accounts vs computer accounts. Not deep configuration.
macOS and Linux basics: just enough to troubleshoot common issues — macOS Finder navigation, Terminal basics, Linux command line (ls, cd, mkdir, chmod basics).
"The A+ operating systems domain is really a Windows administration exam with a macOS and Linux vocabulary test appended. Candidates who've used Windows professionally for a year already know 70% of this content. The other 30% is command-line tools and Active Directory concepts that aren't obvious from daily desktop use." — Professor Messer, CompTIA exam instructor
Security (25%)
Security on Core 2 changed significantly in recent versions. The exam now tests:
Malware types and indicators:
- Ransomware: encrypts files, demands payment. Indicator: files renamed with unknown extensions, ransom note on desktop.
- Spyware: monitors user activity, collects data. Indicator: unusual CPU usage, browser redirects, new toolbars.
- Rootkit: hides its presence in the OS. Indicator: antivirus can't find it but system behaves abnormally.
- Trojan: appears legitimate but contains malicious payload.
- Keylogger: records keystrokes.
Malware removal procedure: the A+ defines a specific order — a step-by-step process the exam will test by asking which step comes next:
- Investigate and verify malware symptoms
- Quarantine infected systems
- Disable System Restore (prevents malware from restoring itself)
- Remediate the infected systems (remove malware, update signatures)
- Schedule scans and run updates
- Enable System Restore and create a restore point
- Educate the end user
Physical security: the exam tests badge readers, key fobs, server locks, equipment locks, multifactor authentication concepts, and the principle of least privilege.
Software Troubleshooting (22%)
Core 2's troubleshooting content tests Windows-specific diagnostic workflows:
The CompTIA troubleshooting methodology: also tested in this domain — a systematic approach the exam asks about repeatedly:
- Identify the problem
- Research knowledge base / internet / manuals
- Establish a theory of probable cause
- Test the theory to determine the cause
- Establish a plan of action
- Implement the solution or escalate
- Verify full system functionality
- Document findings, actions, and outcomes
The exam presents scenarios and asks "which step comes next?" or "the technician is doing X — which step is this?"
What Older Study Materials Miss
If your study guide was published before 2022, verify coverage of these areas:
Content added in 220-1101/1102:
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) specifications
- Cloud computing service models (IaaS/PaaS/SaaS)
- Type 1 vs Type 2 hypervisors
- Containers vs VMs
- Updated Windows 10/11 administrative tools
- Ransomware and modern malware indicators
Content reduced from older versions:
- Legacy hardware (parallel ports, IDE drives)
- Windows XP/Vista/7 specific content
- Legacy networking (Token Ring, coaxial cable)
Candidates using pre-2022 materials: download the current 220-1101 and 220-1102 exam objectives PDFs from comptia.org. Compare against your materials. Any topic in the PDF not in your course is a gap.
Performance-Based Questions on A+
Both Core 1 and Core 2 include performance-based questions (PBQs) — interactive simulations requiring you to perform actual tasks rather than answer multiple choice. These appear at the beginning of the exam.
Common A+ PBQ types:
- Given a network diagram, configure IP addresses and default gateways
- Drag-and-drop cable connections in a server room scenario
- Identify the correct RAM type for a specific system
- Configure wireless settings (SSID, security type, channel)
PBQ strategy: don't spend more than 10-15 minutes on a PBQ you're stuck on. You can flag it and return. Multiple-choice questions carry the same point weight and take less time. Complete the easier questions first, then return to PBQs.
Study Resources That Work for the Current Exam
Professor Messer's A+ Course (professormesser.com): free video course specifically matched to 220-1101 and 220-1102. Professor Messer updates his materials with exam revisions. The most widely recommended free A+ resource.
Mike Meyers' CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 Study Guides (McGraw-Hill): the most comprehensive book resources. Updated for current objectives. Includes practice questions and access to online resources.
Jason Dion's Udemy courses: video format, comprehensive coverage, regularly updated. Popular for candidates who prefer structured video over textbook study.
CompTIA's own practice tests: available through the CertMaster Learn platform. Expensive but directly aligned with exam content and question format.
Target practice score before booking: 80% consistently on practice exams. A+ passes at 675/900 (Core 1) and 700/900 (Core 2). 80% on practice provides reasonable margin given that PBQs can eat unexpected time.
Core 1 vs Core 2 Domain Comparison
Viewing the domain tables side by side clarifies why these exams test such different material:
Core 1 (220-1101) Domain Table:
| Domain | Weight | Primary focus |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Devices | 15% | Laptop components, smartphones, tablets, connectivity |
| Networking | 20% | TCP/IP, ports, cables, wireless standards |
| Hardware | 25% | CPUs, RAM, storage, motherboards, power supplies, printers |
| Virtualization and Cloud Computing | 11% | Hypervisors, VMs, containers, IaaS/PaaS/SaaS |
| Hardware and Network Troubleshooting | 29% | Diagnostic methodology; symptoms and solutions for hardware, cable, display, and network issues |
Core 2 (220-1102) Domain Table:
| Domain | Weight | Primary focus |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Systems | 31% | Windows 10/11 administration, macOS basics, Linux basics, command-line tools |
| Security | 25% | Malware types, physical security, data destruction, SOHO security, least privilege |
| Software Troubleshooting | 22% | Windows troubleshooting, application issues, malware removal steps |
| Operational Procedures | 22% | Safety, environmental impact, documentation, change management, scripting basics |
The practical difference: Core 1 is the "hands in the machine" exam — physical components, cable types, hardware diagnosis. Core 2 is the "working at the keyboard" exam — operating system administration, malware removal, and professional IT practices.
Candidates with field desktop support experience typically find Core 2 more familiar and Core 1 harder (if they lack component-level knowledge). Candidates who've built PCs and done hardware work often find Core 1 easier and Core 2 harder (if they lack Windows administration depth). Self-assessing your background against both domain tables before starting study reveals which exam needs more preparation time.
What Changed from 1001/1002 to 1101/1102
The 220-1101/1102 update in 2022 was more significant than a typical minor revision. Key changes by category:
Cloud computing and virtualization — significantly expanded (1101):
- 1001/1002 had minimal virtualization coverage — a brief mention of hypervisors
- 1101 has a dedicated 11% Virtualization and Cloud Computing domain covering IaaS/PaaS/SaaS distinctions, Type 1/Type 2 hypervisors, containers vs VMs, and cloud deployment models
- Study materials published for 1001/1002 have no coverage of this domain — a critical gap
Wireless standards — updated (1101):
- 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) added to the standard table
- Some older wireless standard specifics de-emphasized
- Any material published before 2019 is missing current wireless coverage
Legacy hardware — removed (1101):
- IDE drives and interfaces: minimal presence in current exam (SATA has fully replaced IDE)
- Parallel ports (LPT): removed from meaningful testing
- Legacy expansion cards (ISA): historical mention only
Windows versions — updated (1102):
- 1002 tested Windows 7/8/8.1/10. 1102 focuses on Windows 10/11 — Windows 7 appears only in historical context
- Windows 11 requirements (TPM 2.0, Secure Boot) are now tested
- Candidates with 1002 materials need supplementary study on Windows 11 specifics
Scripting basics — added (1102):
- Basic PowerShell, Python, batch file, and Bash script concepts now appear in Operational Procedures
- Not writing scripts — understanding what each language is for, when to use each, and basic syntax recognition
- 1002 had no meaningful scripting content
"The biggest trap with A+ is using 1001/1002 study materials for the 1101/1102 exam. I've seen candidates fail specifically on cloud computing and virtualization questions because they weren't in their study guide. The exam objectives PDF is free from CompTIA — that's the authoritative list, not whatever study guide you happen to have." — Professor Messer, CompTIA training instructor
Which Core Is Harder?
The answer depends on background, but data from the CompTIA community shows consistent patterns:
Core 1 (220-1101) is harder for:
- Candidates with software/IT support backgrounds who haven't done hardware work
- Candidates who haven't physically worked inside desktop systems or laptops
- Anyone who struggles with hardware troubleshooting methodology
Core 2 (220-1102) is harder for:
- Candidates with hardware backgrounds but limited Windows administration experience
- Candidates who struggle with the breadth of Windows command-line tools
- Candidates who underestimate the Security domain (25% of Core 2)
By objective measure: Core 1 carries a slightly lower passing score threshold (675/900) compared to Core 2 (700/900), suggesting CompTIA calibrates Core 1 as slightly more difficult. The higher passing bar for Core 2 reflects the applied OS and security knowledge required.
The failure pattern specific to Core 1: candidates who memorize the hardware component list but can't apply troubleshooting logic. The Hardware and Network Troubleshooting domain (29%) doesn't ask "what is a DIMM?" — it presents a scenario ("A desktop turns on but has no video output") and tests whether you can systematically diagnose the fault (check monitor connection, try different port, test with known-good monitor before replacing GPU or RAM).
Do Core 1 First: Why the Order Matters
CompTIA recommends taking Core 1 first, and there are practical reasons beyond convention:
Scheduling: Core 1 and Core 2 are separate exams. Taking Core 1 first allows you to earn half the certification before sitting Core 2. If you fail Core 2, you don't lose Core 1 credit.
Knowledge dependency: Core 2's Networking domain assumes basic TCP/IP and port knowledge that Core 1's Networking domain (20%) covers directly. The Core 2 Security domain references network concepts. Taking Core 1 first means Core 2 content builds on a studied foundation rather than assumed knowledge.
Motivation: Core 1's hardware and networking content is often more engaging for candidates who got into IT through technical interest. Starting with more engaging material is a retention advantage.
Exam practice: Core 1's performance-based questions (hardware scenarios, cable diagrams, IP configuration) are more common and often easier than Core 2's PBQs. Taking Core 1 first familiarizes you with PBQ format before the more complex Core 2 scenarios.
Specific Hardware Knowledge Candidates Underestimate
The Hardware domain (25% of Core 1) tests specific connector types, cable standards, and display technologies that candidates who only read textbooks often miss. Hands-on recognition matters.
Connector Types
| Connector | Type | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| USB-A | Rectangular, female on host | Standard USB device connection |
| USB-C | Oval, reversible | Modern devices; can carry USB, Thunderbolt, video |
| USB-B | Square with chamfered corners | Older printers and peripherals |
| USB Micro-B | Small trapezoidal | Older smartphones, peripherals |
| Thunderbolt 3/4 | Uses USB-C connector | High-speed data and video (up to 40 Gbps) |
| DisplayPort | Asymmetric 20-pin | Monitor connection; common on laptops |
| HDMI | 19-pin trapezoidal | Monitor/TV connection; standard on desktops |
| VGA (DB-15) | 15-pin D-sub | Legacy monitor connection; still appears in exam |
| RJ-45 | 8-pin modular | Ethernet |
| RJ-11 | 6-pin modular (smaller) | Telephone |
The exam trap: Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.1 Gen 2 both use the USB-C connector but are different technologies. USB-C is the physical connector; Thunderbolt 3 and USB are the protocols. A USB-C port may or may not support Thunderbolt.
Cable Standards
| Standard | Max speed | Max distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 5e | 1 Gbps | 100 meters | Minimum for Gigabit Ethernet |
| Cat 6 | 10 Gbps | 55 meters (10G), 100m (1G) | More common in new installations |
| Cat 6a | 10 Gbps | 100 meters | Augmented Cat 6; thick and stiff |
| Cat 7 | 10 Gbps | 100 meters | Proprietary connectors; less common |
| Fiber (multimode) | 10+ Gbps | 400-2000 meters | Orange jacket; LED light source |
| Fiber (single-mode) | 100 Gbps+ | Many kilometers | Yellow jacket; laser light source |
Critical distinction for the exam: Cat 5e supports 1 Gbps at 100m. Cat 6 supports 10 Gbps but only at 55m. To run 10 Gbps at full 100m, you need Cat 6a or better. This distinction appears in troubleshooting scenarios about performance issues.
Display Technologies
| Technology | Backlight type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| TN (Twisted Nematic) | LED | Fast response; poor viewing angles; lower color accuracy |
| IPS (In-Plane Switching) | LED | Better colors and angles; slightly slower response |
| VA (Vertical Alignment) | LED | Best contrast ratio; good for mixed use |
| OLED | Self-emissive (no backlight) | Perfect blacks; burn-in risk; used in premium laptops |
Exam scenario type: "A graphic designer complains that colors on their monitor don't match the printed output." The answer will reference display technology or color calibration — IPS displays are preferred for color-accurate work. TN panels have color shift at off-angles.
See also: CompTIA Security+ exam guide: the most important cert in IT security, Performance-based questions in CompTIA exams: how to approach them]
References
- CompTIA. 220-1101 CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objectives. CompTIA, 2022. https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a (Current exam objectives PDF)
- CompTIA. 220-1102 CompTIA A+ Core 2 Exam Objectives. CompTIA, 2022. https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a
- Meyers, Mike. CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Exam Guide. McGraw-Hill Education, 2022. ISBN: 978-1264269839. (Most comprehensive A+ study guide, updated for current objectives)
- Professor Messer. CompTIA 220-1101 A+ Training Course. professormesser.com, 2024. (Free video course matched to current A+ objectives)
- Dion, Jason. CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Complete Course and Practice Exam. Udemy, 2024. (Popular video course with practice exam questions)
- CompTIA. CompTIA A+ Continuing Education Program. CompTIA, 2024. https://www.comptia.org/certifications/which-certification/should-i-get-comptia-a/a-continuing-education
Frequently Asked Questions
What is new in CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 compared to older versions?
The current version adds a dedicated Virtualization and Cloud Computing domain (11% of Core 1) covering IaaS/PaaS/SaaS, Type 1 vs Type 2 hypervisors, and containers vs VMs. Security on Core 2 now emphasizes ransomware and modern malware. Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) is included. Legacy content like parallel ports and Windows XP has been removed.
Do I need to pass both Core 1 and Core 2 to earn A+?
Yes. CompTIA A+ requires passing both 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2). Both exams cost $253 each. There is no expiration on passed exams — if you pass Core 1, you have as long as needed to attempt Core 2, though studying both together is more efficient.
What is the passing score for CompTIA A+?
Core 1 passes at 675/900. Core 2 passes at 700/900. Both exams have up to 90 questions (multiple choice + performance-based), with a 90-minute time limit each.
How long does A+ preparation take?
Candidates with IT experience (help desk, tech support) typically need 8-12 weeks. Complete beginners need 16-20 weeks. Both cores can be studied in parallel — many candidates study both simultaneously and schedule exams 2-4 weeks apart.
Is Professor Messer's free A+ course sufficient for exam preparation?
For most candidates, yes. Professor Messer's free video course covers all 220-1101 and 220-1102 objectives and is consistently recommended as the best free A+ resource. Supplement with practice tests (Dion or CompTIA's own CertMaster) since video alone doesn't build the test-taking skills the exam requires.