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Studying for the CompTIA exams requires a systematic approach to cover the exam objectives and gain a solid understanding of the concepts and skills tested.

Check out Steve Nicholson’s study tips in the video below and follow our eleven-step study plan for certification success. Prepare to pass your certification exams with our study materials described at the bottom of this blog.

I’ve always said you should learn from the experts. Steve Nicholson, my A+ video co-trainer and A+ guru in his own right, has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the IT field. Like me, Steve has a deep understanding of the CompTIA certification process and a passion for helping others succeed.

Click below to watch Steve amaze and inspire you with his best study tips!

Follow our plan to help you pass the CompTIA exams:

1. Understand the exam objectives:

Visit the official CompTIA certification website to review the exam objectives. Familiarize yourself with the topics and skills in the objectives.

2. Gather study resources:

Obtain study materials such as textbooks, online courses, practice exams, and video tutorials. Total Seminars has videos and we also have eBook, practice tests, online lab simulations and even discount exam vouchers.

3. Create a study plan:

Break down the exam objectives into manageable study sessions. Allocate time for each topic based on its importance and your proficiency level. Set specific goals and deadlines to stay organized and motivated.

4. Start with the basics:

Begin your studies by focusing on fundamental concepts like computer hardware, operating systems, networking, and troubleshooting. Establish a strong foundation before delving into more complex topics. All of Total Seminars materials follow a building block approach starting with the basics.

5. Study each exam objective:

Dive deeper into each objective, one at a time. Read the relevant chapters in your study materials, watch instructional videos, and take notes to reinforce your understanding. Make use of diagrams, flowcharts, and mnemonic devices to aid memorization.

6. Hands-on practice:

CompTIA exams test practical skills, so it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience. Set up a lab environment with a computer or use virtual machines to simulate real-world scenarios. Practice tasks like assembling/disassembling hardware, configuring operating systems, troubleshooting issues, and managing network settings.

7. Take practice exams:

Use practice exams to assess your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the exam format. They can help identify areas where you need more focus and build confidence by simulating the test environment. Review the explanations for incorrect answers to build a comprehensive understanding of the concepts.

8. Join study groups or forums:

Engage with others who are studying for the same exam. Participate in online communities, forums, or study groups to ask questions, share insights, and learn from their experiences. Collaboration can enhance your understanding and could unlock a wealth of additional resources for you. The Total Seminars Discord Server is a great place to start. Visit our Discord Server any time.

9. Review and reinforce:

Regularly review the topics you’ve covered to reinforce your knowledge. Use flashcards, mind maps, or summary sheets to consolidate key points. Focus on areas of weakness to ensure a balanced understanding of all exam objectives. Create a summary of your notes from step 5. Summarizing your notes will help you remember key points. The process of taking and rewriting a summary of your notes makes the concepts stick in your mind.

10. Exam readiness:

When you feel confident in your knowledge and have completed your study plan, it’s time to assess your readiness. Take a few more practice tests to gauge your knowledge and identify any remaining knowledge gaps. Review the exam objectives once more to ensure you haven’t missed any crucial topics.

11. Exam day preparation:

Prioritize a good night’s sleep before the exam. On the exam day, arrive early at the test center, bring the necessary identification documents, and maintain a calm and focused mindset. Read each question carefully, manage your time effectively, and review your answers before submitting. To help you in your time management, skip the Performance Based Questions (PBQs) and do the multiple-choice questions first. Come back to the PBQs last. This will avoid getting “stuck” on the PBQs and running out of time to finish the multiple-choice questions.

Remember to consult the CompTIA certification website and official documentation for the most up-to-date information regarding the exams, registration process, and any changes to the exam objectives or policies. Good luck with your studies and the CompTIA exams!

Live 8-week CompTIA Security+ training for only $500!

 US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Interactive simulations: TotalSims for A+, Network+, and Security+, hundreds of online simulated labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn technical concepts covered on the exams.

E-books are available: Check out our e-book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub

Did you know the CompTIA Security+ is well-known in the cyber industry, including accepted by the U.S. DoD for government and military positions, and is vendor-neutral (not tied to a specific technology)? 

What that means is the Sec+ credential is viewed by employers as one requirement to enter certain cyber career paths, such as on the Blue Team as a Cybersecurity Analyst, the foundational role in a Security Operations Center (SOC). 

Here’s an extra special treat only for those serious about putting Security+ certification to work in this high-paying cyber role: SOC Deep-Dive Private Virtual Tour 

Click here to take a SOC Deep Dive Pivate Virtual Tour: 

Passcode: 4theCNLs0c#23! 

To learn how to claim your FREE Sec+ Training Bundle, attend a free live cyber career info session, hosted by National Cyber Group’s CEO, Gabe Schrade. Gabe explains how you can put your IT certifications to work, faster, with hands-on training that answers prospective employers’ other must-have requirement – do you have experience? You’ll receive the code to use when applying for the training program to get your Sec+ bonus. 

Tell ‘em Mike sent ya! 

Tues, June 13, 7pm EDT (New York time) – last info session before the next 20-week training starts on June 17!  RSVP here>

Sat, June 17, 11am EDT (New York time) – class started today – you can still get in!!! RSVP here> 

Total Seminars has resources to help you study for your CompTIA Certifications

Total Seminars E-books are now available: Check out all of our E-Book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub.

Practice Tests: TotalTester has hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take exams in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode to see if you are ready for the real exams. Complete explanations for each question.

Lab Simulations: TotalSims for A+ and Network+ have hundreds of online labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Python is widely regarded as the language of choice in cybersecurity for several reasons:

1. Ease of Use: Python has a simple and intuitive syntax, making it relatively easy to learn and use, even for individuals with limited programming experience. Its readability and clean structure allow for faster development and debugging, saving time and effort in the cybersecurity workflow. 2.
2. Rich Library Ecosystem: Python has an extensive collection of libraries and frameworks specifically designed for cybersecurity tasks. Libraries like Scapy, Nmap, and Requests provide powerful functionalities for network scanning, packet manipulation, and web requests. Additionally, frameworks like Django and Flask enable the development of robust and secure web applications.
3. Versatility: Python is a versatile language that can be used for various cybersecurity tasks, including network scanning, vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, malware analysis, and automation of security-related processes. Its flexibility allows cybersecurity professionals to adapt and build custom tools and scripts tailored to their specific needs. 
4. Rapid Prototyping: Python’s simplicity and concise syntax enable rapid prototyping of cybersecurity tools and concepts. This is particularly useful in a fast-paced field like cybersecurity, where quick iterations and experimentation are often required to develop effective defenses or exploit vulnerabilities. 
5. Integration Capabilities: Python facilitates seamless integration with existing cybersecurity tools and technologies. It can easily interface with other languages and systems through its extensive support for APIs and libraries. This interoperability enables the development of comprehensive solutions that leverage the capabilities of multiple tools and platforms. 
6. Community and Support: Python has a large and active community of developers, including those specifically focused on cybersecurity. This community provides extensive documentation, tutorials, and open-source projects, making it easier to learn, collaborate, and solve problems in the cybersecurity domain. 
7. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Python is a cross-platform language, meaning that Python scripts can run on various operating systems without significant modifications. This cross-platform compatibility allows cybersecurity professionals to work with different systems and environments seamlessly. 

Overall, Python’s simplicity, versatility, extensive library ecosystem, and supportive community make it an asset in the field of cybersecurity, enabling professionals to perform a wide range of tasks efficiently and effectively. 

Info Session Attendance BONUS – $500 VALUE

FREE Intro to Python Course

Claim your Free Intro to Python course ($500 value), designed specifically for those new to cyber by our awesome instructor, Dartanion Williams. Attend a CyberNowLabs free live cyber career info session to learn more. 

Tues, May 30, 7pm ET: Register here 

Sat, Jun 3, 11am ET:  Register here 

Security+ Certified?  
This is the last chance to save $100 on the next Hands-on Cyber Course, starting June 10.  
Attend an information session to secure your Python bonus –or– talk to admissions now at enrollment@cybernowlabs.com or +1 (571) 771-1354! 

Total Seminars has resources to help you study for your CompTIA Certifications

Total Seminars E-books are now available: Check out all of our E-Book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub.

Practice Tests: TotalTester has hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take exams in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode to see if you are ready for the real exams. Complete explanations for each question.

Lab Simulations: TotalSims for A+ and Network+ have hundreds of online labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Python is a popular, open-source programming language that is used for data analytics, web and software development, and design. Total Seminars has partnered with Dartanion Williams to teach you the basics in this Intro to Python course.

Dart has over fifteen years of experience in product development and data analysis. He has worked in industries such as EdTech, transportation and logistics, public safety, and non-profit management. His engaging teaching style cuts through the fluff and teaches you what you need to know to use Python. This course covers the basics including variables, data types, conditional statements, and loops. You’ll learn how to interact with databases, analyze APIs, and even visualize data in your code with pandas. You’ll also use your new skills in a real-world scenario to build an ATM machine, helping to solidify everything you’ve learned throughout the course.

Don’t just hear it from us, click to hear it from Dart!

Total Seminars has resources to help you study for your CompTIA Certifications

Total Seminars E-books are now available: Check out all of our E-Book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub.

Practice Tests: TotalTester has hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take exams in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode to see if you are ready for the real exams. Complete explanations for each question.

Lab Simulations: TotalSims for A+ and Network+ have hundreds of online labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

+ 1 Free Python Course ($500 Value) 

As one half of the 2 Bald Nerds, I wanted to spotlight for you the most asked technical interview questions to help you go from Security+ certified to high-paying cyber career. 

Richard (CyberNow Labs Program Director and the other half of the 2 Bald Nerds) and I give context to these top 5 questions. And by the way, the most powerful thing is: it’s acceptable to say “I don’t know, but I know how to find out.”  

TECH Q#1 – what is the CIA Triad?
It’s more than understanding the acronym Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability; people forget this is essence of why the security teams exist. 

TECH Q#2 – what are the port numbers? 
If you’re just interested in memorizing and not living and loving it, you’re in the wrong industry. 

TECH Q#3 – TCP vs UDP?
98% of all internet traffic is TCP, but you’ll to understand packets and connection-oriented vs connectionless. Star Trek comes into play…😉 

TECH Q#4 – Explain the 3-way handshake. 

SYN-SYNAC-ACK, and how TCP makes something connection-oriented. 

TECH Q#5 – How does DNS work? 

For an entry-level, you should at least be clear on why it exists (to serve human beings, who need it served up simply.) Conceptually, you should know what forward lookup and reverse lookup zones and the DNS hierarchy. 

Watch and get info-tained with me and Richard 😊 

But to really be able to walk the talk, you need hands-on experience. 

I recommend you attend a free live cyber info session to see if this hands-on training is right for you to accelerate entry into a high-paying cyber career. I promise, one hour is worth your time! 

AND you’ll learn about a free Python course by attending a session. 

TUES, May 16, 7pm ET: Register to join 

SAT, May 20, 11 am ET: Register to join 

TUES, May 23, 7pm ET: Register to join

Total Seminars has resources to help you study for your CompTIA Certifications

Total Seminars E-books are now available: Check out all of our E-Book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub.

Practice Tests: TotalTester has hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take exams in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode to see if you are ready for the real exams. Complete explanations for each question.

Lab Simulations: TotalSims for A+ and Network+ have hundreds of online labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Passing on something important I learned: there is a “through the front door” path to cash in your A+/Net+/Sec+ certifications for a high-paying Cybersecurity Career. I’m sure you’ve read the headlines about the number of unfilled cyber positions, there are hundreds of thousands and growing, yet you have also likely heard about how challenging it is to break in. 

There is a “Front Door” that can provide the training you need and also provide the hands-on experience employers want. Watch my video about how to open that front door.

Here are examples of real people going from 0 to 60 in cyber. I talk to these folks to hear for myself how they are making this career change, and I’ve got to say, my pals at CyberNow Labs are doing something unique to help people of any background make this pivot.  

 In an exciting career …that’s growing …that’s recession-resistant …that pays a lot and work from home is possible! 

What to do next? Attend one of our live info sessions

that’s where you’ll learn how to claim your free Python course, authored and instructed by my pal, Dartanion Williams – who does an amazing job helping people understand the power of Python! 
 Oh, and they’re offering $500 in tuition savings right now and that ends May 5. 

Tues, May 2, 7pm ET (New York time): Register here 

Fri, Cinco de Mayo, 12pm ET (New York time): Register here 

Take a peek inside the CyberNow Labs SOC (where analysts do their magic investigating and responding to incidents) and come back and let me what you think. Impressive, right?  

It’s got the Mike stamp of approval. Hope to see you in the next class starting June 10 if you’re already Sec+ certified or June 17 if not. (Yes, I do make appearances in the classes!)  

Total Seminars has resources to help you study for your CompTIA Certifications

Total Seminars E-books are now available: Check out all of our E-Book titles. Available 24/7 for immediate access on the Total Seminars Training Hub.

Practice Tests: TotalTester has hundreds of questions in a pool that allows you to create custom exams by exam domain or by chapter. Take exams in Practice mode with assistance (hints and explanations) or in Final mode to see if you are ready for the real exams. Complete explanations for each question.

Lab Simulations: TotalSims for A+ and Network+ have hundreds of online labs. Prepare for CompTIA’s performance-based questions and learn more about technical concepts covered on the exams.

US and International Discount Exam Vouchers: Purchase a CompTIA voucher and save on the cost of your exams.

Watch Mike Meyers with Gemini Sandford, Director of Student Operations, talk about how to get the job you want, leveraging tools you may have forgotten about or never used. 

They talk about the “The 3 Foot Rule”; Best answer to the dreaded interview question “Tell me about yourself; a free browser extension tool called Jobalytics that helps you modify your resume to the job description, and more! 

BONUS RESOURCE: Trying to break into a high-paying cyber career and hitting the wall of “must have hands-on experience”? 

Grab your free ticket to an online cyber career session and learn why I recommend CyberNow Labs – a one-of-a-kind, live, online instructor-led cyber training school (that you attend virtually, part-time so you can keep working). This hands-on solution accelerates results (Jobs!)  Why?  

Because you train like a cybersecurity analyst to become one on real networks, real technologies with real attacks. You just can’t get this level of hands-on experience anywhere else. Tell ‘em Mike sent ya – and another bonus, you’ll get to meet Gemini! 

 LIVE, Saturday, April 15, 11 am New York Time – Get your free online seat here 

 LIVE, Tuesday, April 15, 7pm New York Time – Get your free online seat here 

LIVE, Saturday, April 22, 11 am New York Time – Get your free online seat here 

 NOTE: The next 12-week class for already Security+ certified starts June 10, 2023.
The next 20-week class for not already Security+ certified starts June 17, 2023. 

Can’t make any of these career session dates? Check for more dates here.  

Or email: enrollment@cybernowlabs.com 

(Mis)information abounds about how to advance your knowledge, skills, and abilities and it typically depends on where you want to take your career.

The simple truth: you have to know what works for you and what’s required by the industry.

Some people learn better by being with an instructor; some people learn better by in-person vs. online. And IT certifications are always a good investment because these credentials are valued in job requirements.

With that in mind, we’re introducing you to a new way to learn Security+ content, live, online with a real-world instructor. A lot of people say “Mike, why can’t you teach me.” The answer is that I’ve found you something even better because you’ll get more than just the content and certification; you’ll also get the networking and learning with others experience. Plus, you’ll learn about how to advance into a hands-on program if you want to accelerate into cybersecurity.

Note: you’ve probably heard by now, CyberNow Labs is the sister company to Total Seminars and under the umbrella company of which I am a co-founder, National Cyber Group.

What you’ll get with the CyberNow Labs Security+ ILT Training – for just $500

(and that’s a steal in the ILT industry!)

• 8-Week, Instructor-Led, CompTIA Security+ Bootcamp (95% exam first time pass rate)
• 109 hours of cyber practitioner-led live online training, including optional cyber labs
• One-time $500 payment (up-front) with a 14-Day 100% Money Back Guarantee!

Watch this video and tell ‘em Mike sent ya!

Ready to take action?  Apply to CyberNow Labs here and select the 8-Week CompTIA Security+ Training as shown.  Questions?  Call the enrollment team at 1+ (571) 771-1354 or email: enrollment@cybernowlabs.com

If you’re ready to roll into a cyber career, check out free live cyber info sessions to learn how you can accelerate now – with classes starting April 8 (for not already Security+ certified) and June 10 (for already Security+ certified).