Are you interested in a career in information technology? The career path of an IT professional is as multifaceted as the possibilities available in modern computing. The sheer scope of the IT profession makes it an attractive career. However, this can also confuse IT students just starting out. How can I prepare to become an IT professional?
IT professionals have a unique role in the information technology industry. Many professionals working in IT have a singular focus. For example, a network administrator will primarily focus on network infrastructure. On the other hand, a computer support specialist needs to work within multiple disciplines. So, computer support specialists must have a solid grasp of IT fundamentals. To prove this proficiency in IT there are different certifications professionals can earn, such as the CompTIA certification exams.
What is CompTIA?
CompTIA (The Computing Technology Industry Association) is a vendor-neutral certification for IT professionals. It is a non-profit organization that tests and certifies IT professionals’ mastery of various entry-level, IT-related subjects. The organization is well known for the strictness and comprehensiveness of their certification exams. The certification exams prove computer support, networking, security, open-source development, cloud, and mobility proficiency.
CompTIA certification demonstrates that the IT professional has mastered the fundamentals of information technology, and this makes CompTIA certifications an essential tool for employers. When employers see an applicant with a CompTIA certification, it’s clear that they have the skills needed to succeed in IT. It is also essential for job applicants to distinguish themselves from the competition.
What is the CompTIA A+ Certification?
CompTIA A+ certification is a foundational certification provided by CompTIA. It covers the basic elements of IT. This includes desktop, server, and mobile devices. The A+ certification also covers fundamental aspects of networking and network security. Information technology professionals often consider it a foundational certification for the IT industry. The CompTIA A+ certification covers the primary areas of IT at a level appropriate for entry-level IT professionals. Those interested in more specialized areas of IT take the A+ certification as a prerequisite before moving to a certification path specializing in networking or security.
CompTIA A+ certification is a combination of two exams for IT professionals to validate skills needed for entry-level IT jobs. The CompTIA A+ Exam includes the following topics:
Hardware: identify, use, and connect hardware components and devices.
Operating Systems: install and support Windows OS, and configure and troubleshoot Mac OS, Chrome OS, Android, and Linux OS.
Software Troubleshooting: troubleshoot PC and mobile devices.
Networking: explain networks and their connections.
Troubleshooting: troubleshoot devices and network issues
Security: identify and protect against security vulnerabilities
Mobile Devices: install and configure computers and mobile devices to ensure connectivity
Virtualization & Cloud Computing: understand cloud concepts and set up client-side virtualization
Operational Procedures: follow best practices for safety, the environment, and communication
Why Is CompTIA Certification Important?
Are employers actively looking for professionals who’ve passed the CompTIA A+ certification exam? The short answer is yes; many professionals find that A+ certification helps them with their career path.
The testing methodology is one of the most significant factors that makes the CompTIA’s exams vital. CompTIA’s are considered tough but fair. They are designed to be tough and cover an enormous scope of information. The CompTIA exams are also difficult because they cover complex subject matter. However, when you’ve mastered the knowledge on the A+ certification exam, you can expect to do well.
What Can I Do with a CompTIA A+ Certification?
After passing the CompTIA A+ certification, you can start looking for a role in information technology. There are many roles in IT that you can begin with at an entry level. They include:
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists assist users with technical help and maintenance of computer networks. They test and evaluate network systems, perform regular maintenance, and troubleshoot networks like local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN).
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer systems analysts improve on current computer systems, procedures, and designs. They identify the right mix of technology for organization efficiency, enhance the functionality of current computer systems, design new systems to add functionality, install and configure new computer systems, test systems, and write instruction manuals to help train computer users.
Help Desk Support
Help desk support services help external customers and internal employees needing technical support. They are the first line of defense and a single point of contact for computer problems. The help desk troubleshoots computers, peripherals, and security and grants access to new systems.
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks. They create plans and layout networks, present designs for approval, deploy planned networks and ensure they work correctly, upgrade hardware, research, and recommend new network technologies to improve performance.
Network Security Specialist
Network security specialists are responsible for acquiring, setting up, and maintaining hardware and software systems. They maintain security systems, ensure up-to-date hardware and software, source solutions with external suppliers, generate performance reports, and communicate with all stakeholders to promote security protocols.
How Do You Prepare for the CompTIA A+ Certification?
Anyone can sign up to take the CompTIA exams, but self-learners may need help passing the exams. While passing with self-study is technically possible, there are more efficient ways to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification. Formal education is an easier and more efficient path to CompTIA certifications.
A great way to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification is by attending the Information Technology program offered at Interactive College of Technology. In addition to classroom lectures, you will work with industry-standard hardware and software. You will troubleshoot real-world scenarios and get 135 hours of work experience in a real-life setting through their externship program. They also offer lifetime employment assistance to help you find a job in IT after graduation and whenever you need job assistance during your career.
Formal education can guide you through the learning process. This not only prepares you to become an IT professional but also prepares you for the CompTIA A+ certification exams to prove your mastery of IT skills to employers.
Want to Learn More?
At Interactive College of Technology, our information technology training program offers two different paths — an in-depth Associate of Science degree in Information Technology and a streamlined diploma program to help you get to work faster.
We’ll help you decide which path is right for you, but both information technology training programs include industry-recognized certifications employers are looking for from CompTIA and Microsoft.
Plus, after you graduate college, our Lifetime Career Placement Support program will help you find work whenever needed.
So, let’s take the first step together! Contact us now to learn more.
