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[Posted 11 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]

Many different companies offer knowledge- and performance-based testing of computer skills and provide certification programs in various aspects of computer technology. Certiport, an American company founded in 2000, is one of the leading providers of certification examinations designed to test competency in the operation of computers and computer systems. The IC3 certification program tests general computer knowledge and is not targeted at any brand of computer or operating system.

The designation “IC3” is an abbreviation that stands for “Internet and Computer Core Certification” and also represents the three areas covered by the certification; Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online. Earning an IC3 certification can open the door to new employment opportunities and opportunities for advancement for an individual interested in a career in computer installation, repair and operation.

The Computing Fundamentals examination tests an individual’s knowledge of computer hardware, software, basic operations and system set-up. Here are some things that a potential test-taker needs to know before attempting the Computing Fundamentals examination and the IC3 certification process.

IC3 Certification Basics

Each separate examination that comprises the IC3 certification consists of 45 multiple choice questions. The maximum possible score on each test is 1000 points, and to successfully pass and become IC3 certified an individual must earn a score of at least 710 points per section. The three modules of the IC3 examination are offered at testing locations within the United States and around the world. The tests must be taken at one of these approved locations under the supervision of a proctor. 

Material Included In the Computing Fundamentals Examination

As the name would suggest, the Computing Fundamentals examination covers all the basics of computers and computer systems. The following topics are included on the Computing Fundamentals examination:

• Names and uses of computer and peripheral components
• Computer memory and storage
• Input and output devices
• Computer performance
• Computer security
• Troubleshooting common problems
• Computer maintenance and repair
• Basic knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentation software
• Operating and networking basics

Preparing for the Examination

The questions on the Computing Fundamentals examination are designed to test knowledge in many different areas of computing. For a student who is relatively new to computers, an in-depth study course may be necessary to successfully pass the examination. An individual who has extensive experience with computers and computer systems may only need a brief review of the material covered on the test. All potential test-takers benefit from taking a practice examination. A practice version of the test familiarizes the test-taker with the format and time constraints of the actual test. Practice tests and study materials are available on-line.

After completing a practice test, the test-taker is issued a report that includes their overall score and how they performed in different areas covered by the test. This information allows student who did not pass the practice examination to prepare more effectively to re-take it and highlights knowledge gaps for students who did successfully pass the practice test. 

The IC3 Computing Fundamentals examination can be attempted multiple times, so if an individual does not pass the first time, he or she can pursue further studies and re-take the test again. In order to achieve full IC3 certification from Certiport, all three sections of the examination must be passed. The only to ensure that test-takers will pass all three sections of the exam is to fully prepare themselves by reviewing the study materials offered by Total Seminars. Total Seminars offers a variety of study materials and practice that will help individuals gain computer literacy and pass their exams.  

[Posted 3 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]

As computers become more user-friendly and prevalent in our society, information technology careers are becoming very popular. We now have an entire generation of people who grew up with computers, and many of them have taught themselves to build, repair and sometimes even program their own machines. It’s easy to think that learning about computers and becoming a proficient IT technician is simple, but the truth is that there are still many fields that require an A+ certification from CompTIA. In other words, it’s not enough to simply know how to build and repair computers.

Of course, requiring A+ certification for certain career paths is hardly a bad thing. Such certifications allow technicians to prove to employers that they are knowledgeable and proficient in their chosen field, not unlike a college degree. With that being said, here are just a handful of fields that require A+ certification.

Computer Repair Technician

Many organizations employ computer repair technicians to troubleshoot any problems that may arise with their own computer systems. People can be self-taught to repair a computer, but being A+ certified will show employers that you are more than capable of handling most computer issues.

Computer Network Technician

Private companies and academic institutions alike often rely on computer networks for easy communication and problem solving, and they need technicians to help set up those networks and fix problems that may come up. Part of the job of a computer network technician is installing the cables, routers and wireless connectors necessary for any network to operate, but it also requires installing and upgrading networking software and determining the needs of every computer in the network to ensure that everything runs smoothly. It’s surprisingly intricate work, so it stands to reason that it will require A+ certification.

Help Desk Technician

Having A+ certification is also necessary to become a help desk technician. A good help desk technician will be familiar with a wide range of hardware and software issues that can plague computer users, and they will be able to find solutions even if solutions aren’t immediately clear. The help desk technician is usually the primary job that requires A+ certification in most companies, and since it’s an entry-level position it can lead to other career options down the road.

Desktop Operating Systems Support

People sometimes take operating systems for granted. Companies have tried so hard to make them as user-friendly as possible that people tend to forget how complex they can be. A desktop operating systems support specialist should know the ins and outs of an operating system, even one that seems easy for the layperson to use. An A+ certification exam requires candidates to be familiar with operating system installation, configuration and maintenance and be able to diagnose and repair problems as they arise.

If you are interested in a career in information technology, receiving A+ certification from CompTIA is practically essential. A+ certification will qualify you to perform a wide range of IT-related jobs, not to mention make you far more attractive to employers.

[Posted 2 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]

For many computer network professionals, taking an examination to become certified after receiving extensive training or gaining years of hands-on experience in information technology (IT) and computer networking may seem like an unnecessary extra step to the education and training process. However, certification as an expert in computer networking can help an individual get ahead in today’s challenging work environment. Earning a Network+ certification is one way that a computer network specialist can set herself or himself apart as an expert in this field.

What Is Network+ Certification?

Network+ is a certification program administered by CompTIA, a leading provider of computer certification examinations. The Network+ examination covers a range of computer networking and related topics, including installation and operation of both hard-wired and wireless networking systems, network administration, network configuration, security and troubleshooting. Unlike computer network certification programs offered by computer manufacturers, the CompTIA Network+ certification is not geared toward a specific computer brand. Many private IT companies and leading technology manufacturers recognize the Network+ certification, and the United States Department of Defense accepts Network+ certified individuals as qualified to work as IT network specialists. In addition to Network+, CompTIA offers certification in a number of other areas of computer technology. 

Why Do I Need Network+ Certification?

Although certification is not required by all employers, many private businesses and government entities prefer to hire employees with proven knowledge in network and information technology. Given the choice between a prospective employee who has no specialized certification and one with a CompTIA Network+ certification, most employers would rather hire the individual who has passed an examination and received certification as a computer network expert. Becoming certified as a specialist also boosts personal confidence because an individual who has earned a Network+ certification knows that he or she possesses the critical knowledge needed to perform well on the job. 

How Do I Become Network+ Certified?

The first step to earning a Network+ certification is to complete one or more computer network training courses. In some cases, coursework may not be necessary if an individual has long-term, hands-on experience with computer networking. Such on-the-job training can be sufficient if the training is in-depth and covers a range of networking issues. Many companies also offer training courses and preparation materials designed to help individuals prepare to take the Network+ examination. Extremely experienced individuals may find that they need minimal preparation for the examination. However, most people who are planning to take the Network+ examination benefit from purchasing guides and practice tests to become familiar with the types of questions presented on the test and the format in which the test is conducted. The Network+ examination and other computer specialist examinations are offered by CompTIA at testing locations around the country. The Network+ examination consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes about an hour and half to complete. Cost of the examination varies—package deals combining preparation materials and the examination fee may be available at discounted rates when purchased together.

Certification as a computer network specialist can make the difference between landing a great job and being passed over for employment. Network+ certification can also help a person who is already employed in IT advance in his or her career. With so many potential benefits to earning professional certification as a network specialist, a Network+ certification is something that no IT network professional should be without.

[Posted 26 June 2013 by Kathy Yale]

The Network+ certification exam is critical for any networking professional, because it examines crucial knowledge bases such as networking, technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, management, and security using multiple-choice and performance-based questions. Successful completion of the Network+ test qualifies you for IT jobs such as network administrator, help desk technician, installer, certified computer technician, and IT cable installer. Many major companies, including Dell, HP, and Xerox, as well as the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security, require their technicians to receive Network+ exam certification. This is why it is critical to take the Network+ practice test to ensure you are properly prepared to pass the exam.

Passing the Network+ test and receiving your certification shows that you can competently install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot basic network infrastructure. The Network+ certification is vendor-neutral and internationally-recognized, and being Network+ certified proves that you are knowledgeable about networking features and functions, wiring standards, and testing tools. The Network+ practice test will provide you with the necessary tools to understand the actual exam.

Since the Network+ exam is so important for technicians to have, proper exam preparation is essential for passing the exam. Practice tests are the best way to prepare for the Network+ certification exam. Total Seminars offers certification studying materials for the Network+ certification exam. Here are some reasons why you can rely on Total Seminars for the best possible preparation for the Network+ certification exam.

Customizable Exam Approaches

With Total Seminars, you can simulate an entire actual exam, or you can simply focus on material that you need to review and study. The Total Tester lets you customize your tests by chapter content, objective, number of questions, and duration of the exam, or you can try a full-length exam using all the questions in the pools.

Variety of Questions and Tips

The Total Tester contains hundreds of different questions, so you’re sure to cover all of the material that could possibly appear on the real exam. If you get stuck, the program, can offer hints to help you reach the right answer. If you’re absolutely stumped, the program will give you the correct answer. Instead of just supplying the right answer, though, you get an explanation of the correct answer and a reference to the study materials to help you review the information. All of the practice test results are graded by topic, which makes it easy to identify where you need to review.

Easy Steps to Follow

The Total Seminar practice exam offers several steps that are easy to follow when preparing for your exam. Take the exam in Practice Mode, and review the study materials and explanations that are referenced. The Detailed Exam Results will help you identify the learning objectives that you need to review. If your knowledge is weak in one or more of these areas, study those thoroughly and keep reviewing the explanations for each question on the practice exam. Then, take the practice text in Exam Simulation Mode. The Detailed Exam Results from the Exam Simulation Mode will also identify weak areas of your knowledge. Always review the questions that you answered incorrectly.

 Guaranteed Success

If you score 90 percent or higher on two Exam Simulation Mode exams prior to sitting for the Network+ certification exam and if you still don’t pass the certification exam, you may be eligible to claim the guarantee.

[Posted 20 June 2013 by Kathy Yale]

Across various industries today, the tight labor market is causing both employers and employees to take a closer look at the skills and educational background of job candidates. Employers want to hire the most qualified candidate for the position; with competition for jobs fierce, employees must do what they can to differentiate themselves from others in some way. While the competition for positions varies from industry to industry, competition for positions in the IT industry is often competitive. For IT professionals who want to improve their likelihood of getting hired, one great option to consider is to earn a Network+ certification.

What is Network+?

The Network+ certification is a general certification that is not designated for any specific vendor or operating system, and this makes it a popular certification for many employers to look for regardless of the type of system they are running. It is an entry-level certification that covers networking topics like installation, configuration, troubleshooting, maintenance, and management of the network. While it can stand alone for professionals seeking an entry-level IT position, it also can be used as a stepping stone to the more coveted MCSA, or Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator, certification. It also is recognized by other system brands like Cisco, HP, and Novell. The certification can provide the basis for further growth, development, and specialization in the IT field.

Job Positions that May Require Network+

The Network+ certification is an entry-level certification, and it can help new IT professionals prove their knowledge and proficiency in entry-level IT tasks and topics. It may be required for positions like a PC tech, help desk administration, or network administration. It should be noted that even when the certification is not a requirement, it can give job applicants a competitive edge over others. This is because a certification proves to employers that certain objectives they may be looking for in a candidate have been mastered. Employers know when they hire a professional who has this certification that they do have a certain knowledge base in subject matter that is relevant to the position.

How to Get the Certification

To pass the certification exam, you will need to study hard. There are numerous classes available online and in classroom settings that cover all of the material found in the certification exams. There are also training DVDs and instructional books available to help those who are interested in passing the exam. However, this is one of the few certification exams in the industry that can be taken without any formal training. It is not required that students sit through a class before taking the test. Studying the material may increase the likelihood of passing the test and will ensure that students with weak areas in the material are fully ready. However, those who feel that they are proficient in the material can sign up to take the test when ready.

For IT professionals who are struggling to find a position in their field, who want to move into a new position, or who are just getting started in the IT industry, earning a Network+ certification may help. This certification can help IT professionals to meet their current goals, and it can also provide them with a wonderful stepping stone to earn more advanced certifications in the future.