Welcome to your journey toward the latest CompTIA A+ certification.
Whether you’re stepping into the world of IT for the first time or looking to validate your skills with a globally recognized credential, this guide is your comprehensive roadmap to mastering the 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams. With the release of this updated certification in March 2025, CompTIA has once again aligned its A+ program with the evolving demands of the modern tech landscape—introducing stronger emphasis on cloud computing, mobile devices, cybersecurity, remote work, and support tools used in real-world environments.
The 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams officially replace the previous 220-1101 and 220-1102 versions, which were launched in 2022. English-language testing for the 1100-series exams will remain available until September 25, 2025, after which only the 1200-series will be valid. That means now is the perfect time to start preparing for the newest version—and this book is your step-by-step support system for that process.
This guide has been written to not only prepare you for the exam but also to help you build a practical mindset. It breaks down complex topics in accessible language, reinforces learning through hands-on examples, and presents IT troubleshooting as a dynamic skill, not a static checklist. You’ll find every chapter structured around the actual exam domains—hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures—with emphasis on applied learning.
If you’re brand new to the field, this book gives you a solid, approachable foundation. For seasoned professionals, it offers a clear and organized review of updated material, bridging gaps in knowledge and aligning your skill set with the latest standards. Whether you’re looking to land your first IT support role or seeking to move into more advanced areas like cybersecurity or cloud operations, this certification—and this book—will help you get there.
Throughout this guide, you’ll also find:
- Exam tips and strategies to help you navigate different question types effectively
- Test Your Knowledge checkpoints that reinforce what you’ve learned
- Real-world examples that connect theory with practice
Passing the CompTIA A+ exam isn’t just about memorizing acronyms—it’s about developing the judgment and problem-solving habits expected from a professional technician.
What Does the A+ Certification Offer?
The CompTIA A+ is recognized worldwide as the essential entry point for a career in IT. It certifies your ability to troubleshoot, configure, and manage everything from operating systems to peripheral devices to mobile networks. Employers value it because it proves you can adapt to a variety of support environments—corporate, remote, or field-based.
It also sets you up for future growth. The A+ serves as a springboard into areas such as networking, cybersecurity, system administration, and cloud computing. It’s a credential that doesn’t just open doors—it builds a foundation for a long-term, evolving IT career.
Updated Content for a New IT Landscape
The 220-1201/220-1202 exams include:
- Broader coverage of cloud and virtualization technologies
- Enhanced focus on security, including zero trust and access control
- Realistic scenarios for supporting hybrid workforces and remote troubleshooting
- Deeper knowledge requirements for mobile devices, software deployment, and system imaging
All of these areas are reflected in the chapters ahead, designed to help you not just pass the test—but thrive in a professional environment.
Let’s get started. With the right preparation, determination, and the guidance of this book, you’ll be ready to conquer the A+ and take the next big step in your IT career.
Exam Tips and Study Strategies
Successfully passing the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams requires more than just memorizing terms—it demands strategic preparation, real-world understanding, and the ability to think like a technician under pressure.
The A+ certification has always tested a wide array of foundational IT skills, and the 2025 edition is no different. It now places stronger emphasis on areas like remote troubleshooting, device security, virtualization, and cloud technologies. With this in mind, preparing efficiently is just as important as knowing the material.
Understanding the Exam Structure
Each of the two A+ exams—Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202)—consists of up to 90 questions, with a time limit of 90 minutes per exam. That gives you, on average, one minute per question, though some items may require more thought, particularly performance-based questions.
You’ll encounter three primary types of questions:
- Multiple-choice questions: These ask you to select the best answer from several options. Some may be single-answer; others require selecting multiple correct responses.
- Drag-and-drop activities: These evaluate your understanding of processes, sequences, or relationships by having you organize or categorize elements visually.
- Performance-based questions (PBQs): These simulate real IT scenarios in a virtual environment. You might be asked to configure firewall settings, diagnose a networking issue, or manage user permissions—all within a time-limited interface that mimics on-the-job challenges.
Time management is essential. PBQs can be time-consuming, so many candidates choose to flag them and return later, tackling quicker multiple-choice items first to secure easy points and build momentum.