A+ Certification
A+ Certification was created by a non-profit organization called CompTia, their goal was to have a vendor neutral certification for the computer industry. This certification would allow a worker to let his future boss know he’s capable of working in various areas of the computer industry. A worker must have approximately 500+ hours working with Microsoft Windows, computer systems hardware, network software and other computer related hardware. This certification is a steppingstone for most workers to get their foot in the door to eventually become computer system engineers, certified software engineers, computer hardware engineers and network administrators. This certification was designed so that companies could find out in advance if the person has the capabilities of understanding of computer hardware and related systems.
What does A+ Certification mean?
Being A+ certified means you have the ability to properly work and recognize computer hardware and software. There are several different areas in which you be tested before you can become A+ certified. There are eight areas in which you are tested, each of these areas go towards a different percentage of your overall grade. Please look at the following chart to see how it’s broken down.
Test Percentage Breakdown:
Person Computer Components 21%
Laptop and Portable Devices 11%
Operating Systems 21%
Printers and Scanners 9%
Networks 12%
Security 11%
Safety and Enviromental Issues 10%
Communication and Professionalism 5%
Total 100%
knowing each of these areas in detail will greatly increase your chance of passing all eight tests and becoming A+ certified worker. A+ certifications is not required in every company, But it can greatly increase your chances of being hired for most technical and computer related jobs. Having your A+ certification tells your boss that you are a valued employee.
How much money can you make?
A+ certification in and of itself is not worth a whole lot without the extra training in your chosen field. It can however increase your chances of being hired by the company you’re looking to work for. A+ certifications is a great addition to any computer technician trying to get his foot in the door. Certified workers on average can make as much is 10% to 20% more than a non-certified workers.
Where can I get training?
A+ certification training courses are found all over the United States. Some can be done online, others can be done in a grueling 10 day workshop. It really depends upon how much previous experience you have with computer systems and computer hardware. If you have worked in the computer industry for many years you may want become certified to increase value to your current employer. While becoming certified can be expensive, it may well pay off when it comes time for layoffs and you still have a job because you are certified.
Job Outlook for A+ Certification?
While A+ certification has lost some of its luster over the last few years is not gone away completely. It is a great start to your computer career, most employers would rather hire somebody with some experience or some certification than hire someone that they know nothing about.