How Will an Ic3 Certification Advance My Career?
[Posted 14 August 2013 by Kathy Yale]
The Internet and Computing Core Certification is referred to as the IC3 certification, and it can help individuals advance their careers. Offered by training centers around the country, it’s a competitive edge that’s important in a difficult job market. Available to students and working professionals, it lets employers know that an individual is computer literate and ready to work in an environment that relies heavily on computers.
Proof of Entry-Level Skills
In the past, employers who wanted to ensure that candidates were computer literate would ask people to come in and take various computer tests. The IC3 certification allows employers to skip this time-consuming process. The IC3 certification serves as evidence that an applicant has the entry-level skills necessary to function in both academic and work environments where computers and Internet technology are an integral part of success.
Recognized Benefits of Certification
Employers across the board recognize IC3 certifications as the global standard for digital literacy. It serves to validate an applicant’s computer skills that are required in most academic and work environments. It also serves as an excellent foundation for earning other certifications.
Three Examinations
There are three core areas to the IC3. The exam covers Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online. The standards are updated every few years to ensure that this testing standard is keeping up with technology offerings that are constantly changing. These areas cover both computer hardware and software systems, and people will also learn about networks and the Internet.
The Computing Fundamentals section covers hardware, software and operating systems. People with IC3 certification will be trained in Word, Excel and PowerPoint to ensure proficiency in these key applications. Finally, the Living Online section covers networks, Internet, email and Internet on Society.
Prepared for the Digital World
While people expect to work with computers if they enter the field of computer science, the fact is that most professionals now work with computers. Work is increasingly being competed and transmitted electronically, and that means that accountants are trading pencils for keyboards and architects are moving from paper drafting plans to digital drafts. Anyone who is entering a field that uses computers regularly can benefit from this additional training and the certification that comes with it.
In this tough job market, employers are looking for people who are computer literate. In the past, they had to take an applicant’s word that they were skilled in Word or have them take special tests to see how well they could use Excel or PowerPoint programs. Administering the tests for computer literacy was costly, and hiring someone who did not have the necessary skills was even more costly. With the IC3 certification, employers can be confident that any applicant has the computer skills that are necessary in a digital world and office. It’s a valuable edge for candidates that can make a job search more successful. When you are ready to begin preparing for the Ic3 certification, be sure to contact Total Seminars for practice tests, study materials, and exam vouchers.
Prove Your Tech Worth with a Network+ Certification
[Posted 8 August 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Information technology (IT) is expanding and continues to be the home of all innovation. It has, therefore, become important to remain well-versed in these advances. In order to pursue a career in the field of IT many professionals are finding it necessary to achieve a Network+ certification. This particular level of certification a vital credentialing one can add to their portfolio in order to transcend the upper rankings of the job market. The following will list advantages of receiving the Network+ certification and the many reasons IT professionals seek to go through this particular exam.
A Wide-Range of Job Opportunities
The number one reason for becoming certified is to open a host of job opportunities available on the market. Employers are looking for bright minds that are able to handle a plethora of tasks ranging in the specialization in which they are hired. Professionals are often seen seeking the Network+ certification as a means of improving their overall competency and IT literacy in the eyes of employers. After becoming certified, many individuals are given the opportunity to pursue high-paying positions at companies such as Dell or Xerox; or become eligible for pay increases at their current places of employment.
Offer Diverse Learning Opportunities
The Network+ certification covers a variety of topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, securities, and more. This will not only award individuals credentialing in their field, but it will offer them further knowledge in areas of IT they may not have been familiar with before they took the exam. This will ensure literacy in every facet of the specialization, in addition to giving individuals the opportunity to pursue careers of positions outside of the specialization.
This is especially useful if there is a job shortage in a particular area of IT. It will ensure that the individual who has taken the exam has a greater chance of becoming employed.
Key Player in the Job Market
As the economy in the United States is still undergoing extensive repairs, it is necessary for all professionals to be equipped with as much knowledge in their respective fields as possible. This will make each individual a force to be reckoned with when applying for jobs. The certification may also increase job security for individuals. It is necessary for all employees, both current and potential, to be up-to-speed regarding the technology of their individual fields. The Network+ certification will give individuals the tools they need to be successful and primary candidates when employed or seeking employment.
Pursue Further Credentialing
Many individuals find it helpful to become certified in other areas in addition to the Network+. Coupled with CompTIA A+, the Network+ certification can be a stepping stone towards acquiring MCSA qualifications. This combination of credentialing shows an aptitude in networking and will serve to make the individual an in-demand professional.
The sky is the limit for those who become Network+ certified. They will not only learn the tools and skills they need to succeed in their position, but they will become a respected professional in the field of IT.
The A+ Certification Is Your Starting Point for a Career in IT
[Posted 1 August 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Certification is an essential career stepping stone for many professions. In the ever-changing world of computer technology, professional certification is an important way to demonstrate both knowledge and skills to potential employers. CompTIA is an industry leader in computer technology certification and offers a range of examinations and certification pathways designed to test knowledge in different aspects of computers and information technology (IT). The CompTIA A+ certification examination is one of these certification pathways.
What Is A+ Certification?
The CompTIA A+ certification examination is designed to test fundamental knowledge of a wide range of computer skills. Installation, set up and operation of computer systems, PCs, peripherals and mobile devices, as well as use of common computer software programs are the predominant topics covered by the A+ examination. The examination also covers networking, security, troubleshooting, repairs and customer service basics. Since it was first offered in the early 1990s, the A+ examination has been revised several times, most recently in 2012, to keep pace with changing technologies and system upgrades.
What Is Required To Achieve A+ Certification?
The A+ examination consists of two sections and tests proficiency in the skills most commonly used by IT professionals. The examination is designed to test knowledge and skills that should be possessed by an individual with approximately one year of on-the-job training. For a person with little hands-on computer experience or training, completion of a training course in computers and computer technology is usually necessary to pass the test. Several companies offer training materials and practice tests to help a prospective test-taker prepare for the A+ examination.
These training materials can be in the form of a textbook, training manual or online course and are purchased for independent study at the direction of the prospective test-taker. An individual must successfully complete both portions of the examination to achieve A+ certification. Each section consists of 90 questions and must be completed in 90 minutes. The examination does not focus on the products of any specific company or manufacturer but is instead designed to test general, broad-based knowledge. The A+ examination must be scheduled in advance and administered at an approved testing location under the supervision of a proctor. Approved CompTIA testing sites are located throughout the country and in many overseas locations.
What Are The Benefits Of Earning A+ Certification?
Although some employers do not require professional certification, many do place importance on being professionally certified in IT. Several computer manufacturers, including Dell, Intel and Lenovo, require all IT service professionals who work for their companies to be A+ certified as a condition of employment. Many other employers, including the United States Department of Defense, do not specifically require an A+ certification but do recognize its importance and can use certification as a basis for employee selection or promotion. In almost every case, an employer is likely to choose a candidate for employment with proven, demonstrated knowledge in a particular skill set over a potential employee with no certification or credentials.
A professional certification is more than just another line to put on a resume; it is a way to prove knowledge and skills to prospective employers. Earning a professional credential can be critical to finding a great IT job or getting a promotion. Achieving A+ certification, or any of the many IT certifications offered by CompTIA, can help give a computer professional a much-needed edge in this highly competitive field.
Why is An A+ Practice Test an Ideal Exam Preparation?
[Posted 25 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]
The A+ certification is often considered to be a stepping stone certification in the IT industry. This is a certification that is obtained by industry professionals who want to prove their knowledge of fundamental concepts and core subjects. Because this is a fundamental certification, many who pass the A+ test and earn the certification will later move on to take more advanced certification courses to further advance their career. While the A+ test is a fundamental IT exam, it can be challenging to pass. Many people find that studying the right materials can help them to pass the exam on the first attempt. Using an A+ practice test is one of the best exam preparation steps that you can take if your goal is to get certified.
The Types of Questions
One of the important reasons why you should use an A+ practice test from Total Seminar to study for the A+ exam is because it can give you realistic insight to the types of questions that will be answered. By researching the exam in more detail, you may learn about some of the general topics that are covered by the exam. However, when you take the A+ practice test, you will be able to gauge the level of knowledge that you need to have for each topic. In addition, you will be able to see how difficult or easy the questions are for you.
Areas to Study
In addition to providing you with more information about the general topics that you will need to study, the A+ practice test from Total Seminar will also provide you with more information about the specific areas of each subject that you should study. The practice tests include answers to each question, so you will be able to determine which questions you missed. Furthermore, explanations for all of the answers are provided. Because of this, the tests are more than simply a question and answer resource that you can use to gauge your knowledge. Instead, they also can be used to enhance your knowledge and expand on areas that you are fuzzy about.
Building Confidence
When you take a certification test for the IT industry like the A+ exam, it is understandable that you may feel stressed and anxious about it. This is a certification that can help you to get a good job in your field, and it can also help you increase your income and obtain a solid knowledge base that can be used as a stepping stone for other certifications. While you may feel nervous about the exam, taking a practice test from Total Seminars can help you to build confidence. You may take your first practice exam and realize that you need to study up on a few key areas. However, you may take another practice exam after studying these areas to see how significantly your knowledge of the material has improved. Once you have passed a practice exam a few times, you will have confidence walking into the testing center on exam day.
An A+ practice test from Total Seminar is an excellent resource that you can use to study for your real exam. These practice tests are designed to be used as study aids, and they are based on actual questions that were in the latest version of the A+ test. If you have been looking for the best resource to use to study for the A+ exam, take time to review the practice exams available through Total Seminar.
What Will A Network+ Exam Test You On?
[Posted 18 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]
The Network+ CompTIA certification exam is a comprehensive test that leads to certification in the network computing field. A person holding the Network+ CompTIA certification is marked out as a qualified networking professional who understands the latest in computer network technology and procedure.
What Does The Network+ CompTIA Certification Cover?
The Network+ CompTIA certification covers a variety of network technologies and procedures. The current exam contains items pertaining to:
Network Technologies
The test contains questions about the basics of network technologies: how networks are set up, how they work with the Internet and other networks, and how code controls the performance of a network. Most of the questions on the test will deal in some way with the most common network technologies of the past few years. Therefore, it is important for candidates to be abreast of the latest technological developments.
Installation and Configuration
The test also contains questions on the installation and configuration of networks. Candidates are asked basic questions about the roles administrators play in configuring networks for various uses. Performance-based questions may ask candidates to hypothetically configure a basic network and describe the steps used to do so.
Media and Topologies
Candidates are questioned about the media used by computer networks as well as the topology or how computers are connected to a hub. Commonly-used setups and programs are the subject of most questions, although there may be questions about more remote media. There are also questions about virtual setups on the new version of the exam.
Management
Candidates also find questions on the management of a network and how network administrators should make various decisions about the setup and operation of network services. Management questions are given on the test even if the candidate is pursuing only an entry-level networking position.
Security
Finally, candidates are questioned about keeping networks secure as well as how to identify and handle potential network threats. Special attention is paid to the security of virtual networks in the new version of the test.
Who Benefits from the Network+ CompTIA Certification?
Candidates who are seeking jobs as network administrators or technicians, network installers, help desk technicians and IT cable installers may all benefit from the information contained in the Network+ CompTIA preparation materials.
Currently, several major companies require Network+ CompTIA certification, including Dell, HP, Ricoh, Sharp and Xerox. IT technicians at Apple are strongly recommended to have Network+ CompTIA certification, and it is also recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense.
How Is the Network+ CompTIA Certification Test Structured?
The Network+ CompTIA Certification exam has a maximum of 100 multiple-choice and performance-based questions. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the test. Passing scores are 720 and above on a scale of 100 to 900. This equates to a “grade” of 80 in order to pass.
Candidates can prepare for the Network+ CompTIA Certification test in several ways. Many candidates work at entry-level networking jobs for a few years before attempting to take the test. Others study with a guide based on the test content to concentrate their efforts on the material needed to pass the exam. Some candidates combine book study with hands-on experience in order to get the most out of their study time.
Exploring the ‘Computing Fundamentals’ Section of the IC3 Certification Exam
[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.
Fields That Need A+ Certification: There Are More Than You Think
[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.
How Will a Network+ Prepare Me for the Workforce?
[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.
A Network+ Practice Test is Essential for Your Exam Preparation
[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.
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