CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) CertMaster Study

ISBN: 978-1-64274-593-1

Your IT career starts here. Really. 🚀

Every IT professional — every network engineer, every cybersecurity analyst, every cloud architect — started somewhere. For over 1.3 million certified professionals worldwide, that starting point was CompTIA A+.

A+ is the industry-recognized entry-level certification that launches tech careers. It appears in more IT support job postings than any other certification. Companies like Intel, Dell, HP, and the US Department of Defense look for this qualification when hiring. And it all begins with Core 1.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 is the first of two exams required to earn the A+ certification. It focuses on fundamental skills every IT professional needs from day one — hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, cloud computing, and troubleshooting. Pass Core 1 and Core 2, and you'll earn the certification that opens doors to further career steps.

CertMaster Study for A+ Core 1 (220-1201) covers 100% of the V15 exam objectives — structured, official, and designed to guide you from your current level to confident certification.

What you get with CertMaster Study 📚

Complete exam coverage — no guesswork.
All topics from the A+ Core 1 V15 blueprint are covered: mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, and hardware/network troubleshooting. No gaps. No surprises on exam day.

Learn at your own pace.
Text lessons and video content explain complex topics step by step — from installing CPUs and configuring RAM to setting up SOHO networks and understanding cloud service models.

Study the way that works best for you.
Bookmark pages, search content, use the integrated glossary, or download PDFs for offline learning.

12 months access.
Your access code activates a full year of training — enough time to learn at your own pace and confidently prepare for the exam. Redeemable within 12 months of purchase via CompTIA Central.

Provided through CompTIA's CertMaster platform via CompTIA Central — with seamless navigation, centralized resources, and powerful management functions for classes or groups.

A+ Core 1 V15 Exam Content

Mobile Devices (13%)

Hardware setup (e.g., batteries, cameras, Wi-Fi antennas)
Accessory configuration (USB, Bluetooth, NFC, docking stations)
Network setup (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular data)
Troubleshooting mobile devices

Networking (23%)

Protocols and ports
SOHO networks (IP addressing, VPNs)
Network tools (crimping tools, cable testers, Wi-Fi analyzers)

Hardware (25%)

Installation of RAM, CPUs, storage devices
Cables and connectors (HDMI, Ethernet, USB)
Peripherals (printers, scanners)
Motherboards, power supplies, and cooling solutions

Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%)

Virtual machines and hypervisors
Cloud models (IaaS, SaaS, PaaS)

Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (28%)

Diagnosis of hardware and network problems
Use of multimeters, cable testers, and loopback plugs

Exam Details

Exam code: 220-1201
Exam version: V15 (Launch: March 25, 2025)
Passing score: 675 / 900
Question types: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, performance-based
Max. 90 questions
Duration: 90 minutes
Test options: Pearson VUE test center or online exam
Prerequisites: None (9–12 months practical experience recommended)
Validity: 3 years

Important: Both exams required

For the A+ certification, two exams of the same version must be passed:

Core 1 (220-1201): Hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization/cloud, troubleshooting
Core 2 (220-1202): Operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, operational procedures

Both exams are required.

Is A+ right for you?

A+ is aimed at individuals starting their IT career. No formal prerequisites.

Suitable for:

• Entry-level IT professionals

• Career changers

• Students

• Military personnel and veterans

• Anyone seeking a structured entry into IT

Why A+ is the standard

Most globally recognized entry-level IT certification
ISO 17024 compliant and recognized by the US Department of Defense
Practice-oriented performance-based tasks
Vendor-neutral

After A+ – what's next?

CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Cloud+
CompTIA Linux+

Preparation options

CertMaster Study
CertMaster Learn
CertMaster Labs
CertMaster Practice
Complete Bundle
CompTIA Partner Training

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