The CompTIA A+ is the most widely recognized entry-level IT certification in the industry — and it’s two exams, not one. If you’re serious about starting your IT career on solid ground, here’s exactly what you need to know.
Ready to Test Your Knowledge?
The current A+ is V15: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). The older 220-1101/1102 exams retired on September 25, 2025, so skip any study material built for them. Cover6 Academy has a Prep Pack for each exam, with domain-mapped questions, explained answers and a timed simulation.
Core 1 (220-1201) Domain Breakdown
- Mobile Devices: 13%
- Networking: 23%
- Hardware: 25%
- Virtualization and Cloud Computing: 11%
- Hardware and Network Troubleshooting: 28% — Largest domain. Rewards candidates who can work through scenarios methodically.
Core 2 (220-1202) Domain Breakdown
- Operating Systems: 28% — Windows primary, Linux and macOS included. Don’t skip the command-line content.
- Security: 28% — Tied for the largest Core 2 domain in V15.
- Software Troubleshooting: 23%
- Operational Procedures: 21%
Exam Day Logistics
- Questions per exam: Up to 90 (multiple choice, drag-and-drop and performance-based)
- Time per exam: 90 minutes
- Passing: 675/900 (Core 1) | 700/900 (Core 2)
- Cost: One voucher per exam. Check CompTIA’s store for current pricing.
- Rule: Core 1 and Core 2 must come from the same version. 220-1201 pairs with 220-1202.
Performance-based questions (PBQs) appear at the start. Budget time — candidates often spend 20+ minutes on the first 3 questions.
Study Timeline: 8–12 Weeks
Weeks 1–3: Core 1 content (hardware, networking, mobile). Weeks 4–5: Core 1 practice until 80%+. Weeks 6–9: Core 2 content (OS, security, procedures). Weeks 10–12: Core 2 practice until 80%+. Know your ports cold: HTTP (80), HTTPS (443), RDP (3389), SSH (22), DNS (53).
Watch: A+ 100 Terms
Build your vocabulary before diving into practice questions. This video covers the most important terms — explained clearly, no fluff.
Stop Guessing. Start Practicing.
Each A+ Prep Pack covers one exam: domain-mapped, timed, explained. No subscription.