Unlock Your Career as a Computer Technician with A+ Certification
[Posted 8 October 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Passing CompTIA’s A+ certification can be an important key to finding a great job as a computer service technician or information technology (IT) specialist. Read on to find out more about how A+ certification lays the groundwork for a career in computer technology and how the right examination materials can help you prepare for taking this important examination.
Why Is The A+ Certification So Widely Recognized?
The A+ certification examination was among the first computer certifications offered by CompTIA. The examination has been updated several times since being launched in 1993. The most recent update occurred on August 31, 2013, and includes the latest information on such advanced topics as wireless networking, mobile devices, computer security and the newest software on the market. When the test was first administered, the passing rate was less than 10 percent. Performing the amount of study required to achieve A+ certification set an individual apart as a high performer in the field of computer technology. Today the passing rate for each test has increased to around 20 percent, but doing the work necessary to pass is still a true accomplishment for any computer expert.
How Is The A+ Examination Structured?
The newest version of the A+ examination consists of two parts, 220-801 and 220-802. Each portion of the test consists of 90 questions and the test-taker has 90 minutes to complete each module. Section 220-801 covers the most basic aspects of computer installation, PC configuration and networking. Section 220-802 includes, among other topics, troubleshooting, problem solving, advanced configuration and mobile devices. The test is made up of both multiple-choice questions and performance-based problems administered using realistic computer simulations that replicate the actual conditions under which computer technician’s work. The test is given at supervised testing centers around the world.
Do All Employers Require A+ Certification?
Very few employers specifically require A+ certification of all computer technicians. Computer manufacturers Dell, Intel and Lenovo do require A+ certification for all computer service technicians, and several government agencies also recognize and favor applicants who have achieved A+ certification. As with many occupations, even though a certification is not required, many employers who hire computer technicians look for specially trained applicants who have demonstrated an ability to perform the work for which they are being hired.
How Do I Prepare For The A+ Examination?
The CompTIA A+ certification examination is designed to test the basic computer knowledge acquired through several hundred hours of on-the-job training. For individuals with little or no hands-on experience, a formal course of study is highly recommended. Total Seminars is your online source for study materials for the A+ examination, as well as several other CompTIA certification examinations. Total Seminars provides an all-in-one guide to the A+ examination, as well as practice test packages that include samples of questions that are similar to those found on the actual examination. Training materials are available in book and video form. Test vouchers can also be purchased through Total Seminars individually or as part of a package of study materials.
Spending the time and effort to study and pass the A+ examination can pay off in many ways. Demonstrating the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a computer service technician or IT expert is attractive to many employers and may open the door to career advancement and higher income. Contact Total Seminars today for a full listing of A+ examination study products to get started on the road to a successful, lucrative career in computer technology.
Take Hold of a New Career with the A+ Certification
[Posted 8 October 2013 by Kathy Yale]
An individual just starting out in the field of computing and computer technology is faced with a number of choices for professional certification. The CompTIA A+ certification is an excellent place to start and can help a talented computer professional break into any of the following occupations.
Computer Service Technician
The A+ certification is not geared toward any specific computer brand or manufacturer. Individuals who plan to service all types of computers will find the information acquired while pursuing A+ certification to be beneficial. Although not required throughout the industry, several major computer manufacturers, including Lenovo, Dell and Intel, require successful completion of the CompTIA A+ certification as a condition of working as a service technician on their products.
Field Service Technician
A field service technician is a type of computer service specialist who generally works in the homes of clients. Field service technicians perform installation and repair of Internet service lines, personal computers and other computer hardware and software. Field service technicians rely heavily upon the information included in the A+ certification and are employed by many different corporate entities, including cable, telephone and internet providers.
Information Technology Specialist
An information technology (IT) specialist is responsible for such tasks as the management of data stored on computers, installation of software and operation and repair of computer networks. Hospital systems and companies of all sizes hire IT specialists to manage databases and maintain complex systems of computers. A+ certification covers the basics needed by an IT specialist or system administrator.
Technical Support Specialist
Internet service providers, telephone service providers, cell phone and smartphone companies, cable providers and computer manufacturers all utilize technical support personnel to communicate with clients and troubleshoot problems. Troubleshooting and repairing computer problems is a topic heavily covered in the A+ certification. Working as a technical support specialist is one employment option that may offer a flexible work schedule. Large corporate entities need tech support experts on call 24 hours a day, while smaller companies may operate tech support lines only during normal business hours.
Governmental Agencies and Contractors
The U.S. Department of Defense recognizes A+ certification, as do many government contractors. Most government agencies utilize a range of technical support experts and computer service technicians to assist in the operation and maintenance of the computers used by each agency. While an A+ certification might not be required to get a job with a government agency, the knowledge attained with an A+ certification may help an individual perform better and advance more quickly than uncertified individuals.
Self-Employment
Many A+ certified computer and IT specialists find success as entrepreneurs. Self-employment is an excellent choice for a parent with small children, a person whose spouse works an irregular schedule or for any individual who needs flexible work hours. Striking out on one’s own is also a great way to earn a second income.
Average salaries for computer professionals vary widely depending on experience, work setting and geographic location, but salaries are generally higher for individuals who have become certified in one or more areas of specialization. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists a median annual salary for 2010 of $46,260 for “Computer Support Specialists,” a very broad grouping into which many of the above careers are classified. The A+ certification is an ideal way to get a foot in the door in one of these exciting, high-paying careers.
900,000+ IT Professionals Can’t be Wrong: Why You Should Have an A+ Certification
[Posted 1 October 2013 by Kathy Yale]
CompTIA is a world leader in computer examination and certification programs. CompTIA was founded in 1982 as a computer dealer trade association and was later rebranded as the Computer Technology Industry Association, a non-profit trade organization devoted to all aspects of computing and information technology. Since the CompTIA A+ certification was first offered in 1993, it has become an industry standard in measuring basic computer competency.
What Is A+ Certification?
The CompTIA A+ certification examination tests the basic skills most likely to be needed when working in computer installation and repair. Material covered on the certification test includes computer operating systems, hardware, software, peripherals, setting up and troubleshooting computer systems and operation of mobile devices. The examination materials and the test itself are frequently updated to stay abreast of new technology. The latest revision was finalized in mid-2013, which means that people who take the examination today are tested on the newest, most relevant material available.
Why Is A+ Certification So Popular?
Nearly 1 million computer professionals have taken and successfully completed the CompTIA A+ examination. The A+ certification is the most broad-based examination offered by CompTIA and tests a wide range of basic computing skills. However, just because the A+ examination tests the most basic areas of computer knowledge does not mean that the test is easy. A person needs a minimum of several hundred hours of hands-on experience with computers and computing systems, as well as a specialized course of study, before even attempting the A+ examination.
Who Needs A+ Certification?
Anyone who is interested in a career in information technology (IT,) computer installation and repair and technical support should start by obtaining A+ certification. A+ certification can be a springboard for other computing specializations or be used as a stand-alone certification by a person interested in a career in one of the above areas.
Is An A+ Certification Required To Work As Computer Technician?
A few employers directly recognize the A+ certification and automatically favor employees who hold it and allow them to advance more quickly on the job. Some employers also require a certain level of demonstrated professional knowledge and certification, although this is not a requirement of all employers. While an A+ certification is not a requirement to work in computing, professional certification can be a plus when seeking employment or advancement in a career. Not everyone takes the time to earn professional certification, and an individual who does devote the necessary effort to become certified in one or more areas of specialization will stand out to employers in a large pool of potential employees.
How Do I Earn A+ Certification?
An individual becomes A+ certified upon the successful completion of a two part examination. Each portion of the examination includes up to 90 questions and participants have 90 minutes to finish each section. The examination can be attempted as many times as needed to pass, but a fee must be paid each time the test is taken. A passing score for the first half of the examination is 675 points out of a possible 900 and 700 points out of 900 for the second half. The test must be taken in an approved testing location under the supervision of an examination proctor.
With the United States employment outlook expected to remain unpredictable for the immediate future, it is important for individuals working in any field to improve their employment marketability by becoming certified. A+ certification is a great starting point for any computer professional who wishes to advance in his or her career.
What Makes the Network+ Different from Other CompTIA Exams?
[Posted 26 September 2013 by Kathy Yale]
As the title suggests the Network+ certificate deals with establishing and administering various types of computer networks. The certification test is maintained by CompTIA. This is a non-profit organization, established in 1982, that represents multiple computer-related businesses. The name is a partial acronym for Computing Technology Industry Association. Because of the different companies involved, the Network+ test, like others they provide, is not focused on the hardware or software of any particular business.
The Network+, along with the A+ and Security+ certificates, is viewed as one of the most respectable certificates for advancing a person’s career in information technology. These three certificates have received accrediting by ANSI. CompTIA also provides other certifications for separate specialties of the industry. The Network+ certificate, like all the others, has some unavoidable overlap in subject matter with these other tests. For example, the A+ certificate requires basic knowledge of networking as it relates to desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. However, the Network+ test also deals with security that pertains to network administration.
How Network+ is Different
All CompTIA tests, including the Network+ test, have the same basic structure as there is a combination of written and hands-on questions. However, the Network+ test is designed to gauge an individual’s knowledge of networking skills like assembling, overseeing, and correcting problems in either a local area or wide area network. These topics are more extensive than the network-related questions in the A+ test. In fact, while there is no required prerequisite for the Network+ test, the A+ certificate is recommended. The A+ certificate just touches on the very basics of networking. This would include linking a desktop computer to the internet or tying the desktop together with peripheral equipment.
The actual physical layout and operation of networks is the prime focus of the Network+ certificate. There are two basic categories: the local area network often referred to as a LAN, which is limited to a home, business, or facility, and the wide area network, or WAN, which covers more space and can span nations or continents. Someone pursuing this document would need to understand how to set-up any of the primary configurations for LANs. These would include the ring, bus, star, and tree pattern, among others.
In addition, the candidate would need to know the various means of linking the components together, such as ethernet, fiber optics, or wireless transmissions. They also need to be able to determine which of these arrangements is best for a particular situation. This goes beyond the basics covered by the A+ test. The test also covers knowledge of establishing WANs and connecting them, along with LANs, to the existing internet. Network administrator, network technician, and network troubleshooter are some of the job titles of careers this document prepares test-takers for.
Other topics covered by the Network+ test include network security, servers, storage, and network operating systems. These areas overlap with other certificates. The Security+ test deals specifically with protecting a network from hackers and other threats. There is a Server+ and Storage+ certificate that handles the details of each of these components. There is also a Linux+ certificate that covers this open-source operating system commonly used on servers. Since information technology involves all these fields, it’s useful for someone wanting to move up to obtain multiple certificates related to the specialty they’re interested in. One of the most essential of these certificates is the Network+.
Feel Comfortable Before Your Exam with a Network+ Practice Test
[Posted 19 September 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Taking the Network+ exam can be a stressful experience. However, there is a way for any test taker to make sure that they are prepared for the test. Studying beforehand is helpful, but even more helpful is taking the practice exam. A Network+ practice test is the best to see how questions on the test are framed and to see how the test itself is laid out. The test taker must also determine what to take away from the practice exam.
Have a Better Knowledge of the Questions that Will be Asked
As with all tests, there are some questions on the Network+ practice test that make it onto the real exam. However, no one can properly predict what will be on a test, and that means the layout and formatting of the questions becomes very important. Knowing what types of questions to expect will help the test taker to adequately prepare to take the test. Instead of solely studying the content, time spent expressing that content in the forms of the questions asked on the practice exam can be especially helpful.
Be Prepared for Different Types of Questions.
Many times, there are two answers that are seemingly identical, and it is the test taker’s job to discern between the two. This can only happen effectively if they have taken the practice exam and learned the language and style in which the questions will be asked.
Free response questions require the ability of the test taker to express what it is that they know in their own writing. Without this ability, it is very hard for the test taker to convey their personal knowledge to the exam scorer. Having practice in writing out the answers to these types of questions will make test takers more effective at answering the questions quickly and thoroughly.
True/false test items are tricky because they can use double speak in order to confuse test takers. It is very easy to be confused when reading these types of questions if test takers are not prepared for them.
Finish the Test with Time to Spare
Beyond studying the content and the types of questions on the test, it is wise for the test taker to consider how long they have to take the test and how long it actually took them to take the test. Some people may test slower than others, and if there is a hint of a timing issue, that needs to be addressed. Those who take the practice exam will find out if they are able to complete the questions in the time allotted and can practice becoming efficient if time is an issue.
The person taking the test needs to know if they are prepared to take a test, in the Network+ format, in the time that is given them. The only way to receive ample preparation is to study and take the practice exam. The practice test may make the difference between passing and not passing when it comes time to take the Network+ test.
Your Future Awaits With a Network+ Certification
[Posted 12 September 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Successfully passing the Network+ certification exam can open doors to new careers and give job candidates an edge in today’s competitive market. The Network+ certification allows those who are seeking jobs in the computer field to show potential employers that they have the skills needed to succeed in a variety of jobs.
What Is Network+ Certification?
The Network+ certification exam was developed to showcase proficiency in basic networking skills. The certification exam covers a variety of knowledge and techniques, including understanding of network technologies; knowledge of installation methods and network configurations; understanding media and topologies; and a foundational grasp of management and security.
Does Network+ Certification Help Candidates Get Jobs?
Network+ certification is not always required for entry-level jobs in the computer industry but it is certainly helpful in separating candidates with proven skills from those without. Many employers who do not require Network+ certification still give preference to job applicants who have it over those who do not.
Network+ certification is not designed to indicate expert status in networking or computer applications. Rather, it is intended to show basic proficiency in certain areas of training. Upon successfully passing the Network+ certification exam, candidates may be able to secure the following positions.
Network Technicians
Most job candidates with Network+ certification will find work in entry-level jobs as network technicians. Technicians are usually training for a higher-level job such as a network administrator and gain valuable experience by working with staff with more knowledge and skills. Network+ certification may be required for some entry-level network technician positions with large companies.
Help Desk Technician
For those interested in working in the help section of a large retailer or computer company, Network+ certification can be very useful. Help desk technicians benefit from having a global understanding of exactly how the computer systems they deal with actually work and Network+ certification can give them that edge. Network+ certification is especially helpful for candidates who plan to move into management positions at a call center.
IT Cable Installer
Cable installers benefit greatly from the knowledge assessed in this exam. By understanding exactly how networks operate, cable installers get a much more comprehensive picture of how their work affects the total network operation. Cable installers with Network+ certification may not only find it easier to get a job but may also find that they are eligible for promotion as a result of their more extensive knowledge of the network.
Network Administrator
Network administrators in large companies often have graduate degrees and much higher certifications than Network+. However, for small companies, a graduate with Network+ certification may be appropriate as a network administrator. Network administrators have the job of overseeing all aspects of a network’s operation, so for a small company the knowledge tested by the Network+ certification exam may be sufficient.
Network+ certification is a good way to start on the journey to higher-paying jobs in the IT industry. By obtaining a Network+ certification, candidates show employers that they are professionals who are serious about their careers and proud of the knowledge they have obtained through their studies.
What is the Best Preparation for an ic3 Certification Exam?
[Posted 5 September 2013 by Kathy Yale]
The Internet and Computing Core Certification exam, also known as the ic3, is widely known in the information technology field as one of the most important exams for IT professionals to take. This is an exam that can be challenging for many IT professionals, but it also is a fundamentals-based program. The ic3 certification is often viewed as a stepping stone for other certifications, and because of this, it is highly popular for most IT professionals to take regardless of how far they aspire to take their career. Preparing for this challenging exam is critical for those who want to pass their exam on the first attempt. Understanding the different preparations options available is key to success with the ic3 exam.
A Closer Look at the Exam
As a first step, individuals who have a desire to pass the ic3 exam should take a closer look at the exam itself. This is an exam that features different sections that cover computing fundamentals, key applications and living online. Each exam has 45 questions, and students are allowed up to 45 minutes to complete each exam. They must achieve a passing score on all three of the exams in order to earn the certification. It is important to note that the exam materials are updated from year to year in order to ensure that those who hold the certification are up-to-date with current trends and knowledge in the industry.
What Total Seminars Offers
Total Seminars is widely considered to be one of the best resources for IT professionals to use when preparing for the ic3 exam. The company has over two decades of proven experience in the field, and it is known for providing high-quality testing materials. For the ic3 exam, it offers several different training options and study aids. For example, students can invest in training books, practice test software programs, lab manuals and more. Students will have the ability to purchase all of the materials in a package, or they can create their own package by selecting the individual options they would benefit from. Each student may have a different learning preference, and Total Seminars provides students with the ability to customize their learning experience.
Why Get the Certification
The ic3 certification is just one of several that Total Seminars offers testing materials and study aids for, and IT professionals can take time to learn more about each of the certifications that are covered by Total Seminars. The ic3 certification is often required by many companies today, and others view it as a preferred credential. The certification can be maintained for life, and it demonstrates the knowledge of and proficiency in certain key areas. These include office applications, electronic communications, operating systems and other basic topics. Some employers will not consider candidates if they do not have this certification, and others will give preferred status to candidates with the certification.
IT professionals who are interested in taking their career to the next level and who want to show potential employers their proficiency in certain fundamental areas should consider taking the ic3 test. Through Total Seminars, IT professionals can find all of the study materials they need to prepare for their certification exam. In addition, they can also find study materials for other popular certifications.
Jump Start Your Career with an A+ Certification
[Posted 3 September 2013 by Kathy Yale]
When people have more training, they are prepared to handle a wider range of tasks. With a certification, workers will have proof that they took the necessary training and passed the exams. One certification that’s extremely useful in this digital age is the A+ certification. Acknowledged by countless companies, here is what workers and job seekers should know about the CompTIA A+ Certification.
Solid Foundation
The certification provides candidates with a solid base to build other skills. While people may want to start with higher certifications, the A+ certification is one of the most versatile options. It prepares individuals for a career in IT, and the holder can go in several different directions.
Stand Out
The job market is competitive, and job seekers need something that sets them apart. Certifications are feathers in the cap that can be highlighted on a resume. They will help a candidate get that second look by a recruiter, and it can help people land more interviews. In addition to making candidates stand out, it’s also helpful for current employees who are trying to advance within their companies. Managers are impressed with people who invest their personal time in extra training, and it can give someone the edge they need to earn a promotion.
New Opportunities
As a powerful starting point, the A+ certification prepares workers for a range of fields. Someone who is growing tired of their customer service position can use the certification to move into another field. In fact, there are several careers that look specifically for this certification. After successfully earning the certification, people can move into more technical careers by becoming PC techs, help desk technicians, field service specialists or moving into manufacturing.
Self Confidence
People who invest in this certification feel more satisfied with their careers and abilities. They know that they are educated and valuable, and it gives them the confidence they need at work. Employers take notice of this certification, and they also take notice of people who are more confident in their skills and abilities. With this certification, people can handle basic computer problems on their own.
Employers Look for the Benefits
People who are already A+ certified require less training and are more skilled. Employers are actively looking for these benefits, and some will even call people who are A+ certified before they will contact other applicants.
The A+ certification is available through several companies, and there are many benefits to making the investment. People who invest their own time in this training will improve their job prospects and earnings potential. They will stand out to employers and supervisors alike, so they are more likely to get the job they desire, be awarded the promotion or get a raise. There is also a great deal of personal satisfaction that comes along with successfully completing this type of training program. The certifications are affordable, and they are a smart career choice for anyone who wants to be in the IT field.
Total Seminars Is Your Best Choice for Network+ Study Materials
[Posted 29 August 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Total Seminars is the ideal purveyor of study materials for the Network+ certification exam. The Network+ certification is vendor-neutral and it is recognized internationally. When you pass the Network+ exam and receive your certification, potential employers know that you have the skills necessary for basic network infrastructures, such as configuring, installing, maintaining and troubleshooting.
Why should I be Network+ certified?
It is crucial for all networking professionals to successfully complete the Network+ certification exam because it shows proficiency in essential areas, including installation and configuration, networking, technologies, media and topology, management, and security. By completing the Network+ certification test, you’re qualified for IT jobs like cable installer, certified computer technician, and network administrator. Dell, HP and Xerox are among the many major companies that require their technicians to be Network+ certified. In short, anyone who wants to work in networking needs to be Network+ certified.
How do I study for the Network+ certification?
Practice tests are the best way to study for the Network+ certification exam because they give you a chance to review the information and the complete practice questions similar to what will be asked on the actual exams. Total Seminars is your top choice for practice exams and other materials for studying for the certification exam.
How does Total Seminars help me study for the Network+ certification?
The Total Tester includes hundreds of different questions, ensuring that you will encounter all of the material that might possibly show up on the actual exam. If you’re having trouble with a question, the program can provide hints that will help you reach the right answer. If you absolutely have no idea about the correct answer, the program will provide it. Further, instead of just giving you the answer and moving on to the next question, the program will explain why that answer is correct and provide you with a reference to the study materials so that you can study and review the relevant information.
How do I practice the material using Total Seminars?
Total Seminars has several easy-to-follow steps that will help you prepare for your Network+ exam. First, you can take an exam in Practice Mode; and then you can review any study materials or explanations that are referenced in that mode. The Detailed Exam Results show you the learning objects that you need to review. You can continue to review the explanations for each question that appear on the practice exam. Then, you can take the practice test in Exam Simulation Mode. Afterwards, the Detailed Exam Results from the Exam Simulation Mode will also provide information about areas that you need to review.
Can I customize my practice exams?
Absolutely! Total Seminars offers many different ways for you to prepare. You can customize tests by chapter content, topic objective, number of questions and exam duration. You can also take a full-length exam that includes all of the questions in the pools. You can take a practice version of an entire exam, or you can focus exclusively on the material that is most difficult for you. All of the practice exams are graded by topic, which helps you identify the specific information that you need to study further.
Total Seminars provide test takers with the essential tools they need in order to successfully pass the Network+ exam. Contact Total Seminars today in order to get started.
An A+ Certification is Your First Step to a New Career
[Posted 22 August 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Careers in the information technology or IT field have become increasingly promising over the last twenty years. Computers are now a part of everyday life for people all over the world, and in many ways computer literacy is important to be successful in just about any career. Many people know the ins and outs of using a computer in their daily lives, whether that is to play games, update Facebook, check email or to do their jobs. However, few of these people are certified to be able to hold positions in the IT field. Certifications can open up all kinds of exciting career paths for those willing to work towards them, and A+ certification is one of the most popular credentialing for those starting out in their careers in computer technology.
Obtain Proficiency as a Network Technician
A+ certification is sponsored by CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association). Holding an A+ certification will show that you are trained in the basics of computer networking and network administration. Obtaining an A+ certification proves that each individual who has successfully passed the exam possesses the basic knowledge and proficiency of a computer technician.
Credentialing for a Competitive Field
The most basic reason why one would want to become A+ certified is that it is often a requirement for jobs in the IT field. The certification is industry-wide and earning it will provide individuals with the credentials to work with some of the top technology companies in the country. While basic knowledge and experience can be important on their own, having the proper credentials can serve as proof that you have undergone the training needed to perform a number of tasks that employers may ask of you.
The First Step to Further Credentialing
What you learn as you seek your A+ certification can also be applied to other certifications and specialties as well. Once you have earned your certification, you will be able to accept any number of jobs in the IT industry. In order to continue to excel and move upward in your field, further credentialing may be required. The A+ certification is part of a career path that may include Network+ certification in addition to others.
Taking the time to become A+ certified will show your computer literacy to employers, and the things you learn on the job can be applied to other certifications that will allow you to excel in your career.
How to Become A+ Certified
The A+ certification course is offered by CompTIA through their website. A number of practice tests, courses, training, and exam vouchers can be found at Total Seminars. These materials will ensure that all test takers are prepared for the exam and taking the next step in their careers.
An A+ certification is one of the basic IT certifications available in addition to being one of the most valuable. It is recognized across the PC industry, and it is an important first step for anybody who wishes to work in the world of information technology.