1. Preface

2. Overview In this preface, you will learn how to –Understand the importance of the A+ Certification –Know the structure and contents of the A+ Certification exams –Plan a strategy to pass the exams

3. Importance of Certification How do you show someone like a prospective employer that you can fix PCs? –by being A+ certified! What is A+ Certification? –Industry-wide, vendor-neutral certification program –Sponsored by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) –Wide recognition in computer industry –Shows basic competency in supporting microcomputers

4. Who is CompTIA? Non-profit, industry trade association Virtually every company of consequence in the IT industry is a member Offers certifications such as A+

5. Other Certifications CompTIA Network+ –Shows competency as a network technician CompTIA Server+ –Shows competency in server-specific hardware and operating systems Microsoft Certified Professional –Various certifications showing competency in Microsoft NT, 2000, and XP operating systems Novell NetWare –Various certifications showing competency in Novell NetWare networks Cisco –Various certifications showing competency in routing and switching technologies

6. A+ Certification How to become A+ certified: –Pass two computer-based, multiple-choice exams Requires paying a fee –No prerequisites required No training required No computer experience required Basic exam structure –A+ Core Hardware Hardware identification and configuration –A+ Operating System Technologies Organization, operation, function, and troubleshooting of Windows 9x/ME, NT 4.0 Workstation, 2000 Professional, and XP Professional

7. A+ Certification CompTIA updated the A+ exams in November, 2003 –This course covers the new revisions How do I take the exams? –Offered by Prometric at testing sites worldwide 800-776-4276 www.prometric.com –-Offered by Pearson/VUE at testing sites worldwide 877-551-PLUS www.vue.com Cost of the exams –$145 (U.S.) per exam – pass or fail –Discount vouchers often available Must pass both exams to become A+ certified

8. Core Hardware Exam Installation, Configuration, and Upgrading 35% Diagnosing and Troubleshooting21% Preventive Maintenance5% Motherboards, Processors, Memory11% Printers9% Basic Networking19%

9. OS Technologies Exam OS Fundamentals28% Installation, Configuration, and Upgrading 31% Diagnosing and Troubleshooting25% Networks16% Visit CompTIA’s web site for more information: www.comptia.orgwww.comptia.org

10. Passing the A+ Exam Set a date as your goal Set aside enough time for study and lab Use the practice exams on the CD that came with the book Use good study strategies such as: –Writing it down in your own handwriting –Make flash cards –Set aside a special time for study each day