[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.
