Mastering The Fundamentals: Software

In the fast-paced realm of IT, building a strong foundation is indispensable. The CompTIA A+, an integral part of the famed "trifecta" alongside Network+ and Security+, acts as a cornerstone for individuals entering the IT field. Divided into two core exams, this blog post focuses on the second segment, Core 2, exploring its domains, target audience, benefits, and career prospects.

My Journey with Core 2

Similar to Core 1, Core 2 starts from familiar ground, making it accessible for anyone who has used a computer or smart phone before. This time with operating systems including Windows, MacOS, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, and iOS.

While Core 1 introduced cables, connectors, ports, and protocols, Core 2 takes a step further, delving into topics such as security protocols, operating systems, and software troubleshooting. The learning curve is steeper, but the knowledge gained is invaluable for anyone pursuing a career in IT.

I've heard many people say that the core 1 exam is harder than core 2. In fact, WGU actually recommends taking core 2 before core 1 because it is easier for beginners to build momentum. For me, Core 2 was more difficult. Not because it is overly complex, it was just the amount of information covered by the exam. It was a bit overwhelming in the beginning.

But the difficulty presented by the vast amount of knowledge led me solidify a study method that I had stumbled into while studying for the core 1 exam.

My 3 Phase Study Approach

1. Build Familiarity. Is this phase, the goal is not to take notes or memorize anything and retention will be low, but that's ok. The only goal is to get exposure and build familiarity with the material. For me, I put in my ear buds and listened to Jason Dion's lectures like a podcast at work. Completed the entire 36 hour course in one week. At the end of phase one, take a practice test. my first one was 61%. Cool... a baseline to measure progress. This took me one week.

2. Study with intent. Here is where you go back through the material with purpose. Go slow, take notes, do labs, and focus on really understanding the material. I would study for a couple hours a day, then do a lab simulation about what I had just learned. At the end of each week, take a practice test and review the incorrect answers. Being a student at WGU, I looked forward to my weekly meetings with my instructor. This took me about 4 weeks.

3. Review. Now, go over the stuff that's just m=not sticking. Find additional resources, ask an instructor or a Facebook/Discord group and get clear on the more difficult topics. This took me about 1 week.

Who Should Take the Core 2 Exam?

CompTIA A+ Core 2 is tailored for IT professionals seeking to validate and enhance their foundational skills. It is also a natural progression for those who have successfully completed Core 1, acting as a bridge to more advanced certifications. The certification is designed for individuals aiming to solidify their expertise in IT and open doors to a broader range of opportunities.

Benefits of CompTIA A+ Core 2 Certification

• Industry Recognition: A CompTIA A+ Core 2 certification showcases proficiency in fundamental IT concepts, elevating your status in the industry.

• Entry Level Careers: Successfully passing Core 2 opens the spectrum of job opportunities, spanning roles like IT support, system administration, and technical specialist positions.

• Continued Advancement: Core 2 acts as a steppingstone for those eyeing specialized IT certifications, providing a pathway for continuous professional growth.

• Demonstrated Expertise: Employers recognize Core 2 certification as evidence of an individual's competence in essential IT areas, setting you apart in the job market.

Exam Overview - Core 2

1. Operating Systems (31%): Covers various operating systems, emphasizing installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.

2. Security (25%): Focuses on security protocols, threat detection, and best practices to safeguard systems and data.

3. Software Troubleshooting (22%): Evaluates candidates on their ability to troubleshoot software-related issues efficiently.

4. Operational Procedures (22%): Encompasses IT professionalism, communication, and industry best practices.

Job Opportunities

Earning CompTIA A+ Core 2 certification unlocks doors to diverse IT roles, including:

• IT Support Specialist

• Technical Support Specialist

• Field Service Technician

• IT Operations Technician

The Exam Experience

The Core 2 exam consists of up to 90 questions to be completed within 90 minutes. Usually, there are 70-80 multiple choice and 2-5 PBQs (Performance Based Questions). These PBQs can be a bit tricking, so it is worth putting in some extra effort to prepare for them.

 The exam is available both in-person at testing centers and online through PearsonVue.

Resources

• A+ Core 2 Exam Objectives: an outline of topics covered by the exam.

• Professor Messer has a Free Video Course on YouTube as well as his Success Bundle at professormesser.com

• Jason Dion has a Udemy Video Course as well as a Full course which includes the video course plus labs at diontraining.com. Also, if you sign up for the exam through Dion Training, you can get a 10% discount on the exam voucher.

• CompTIA also offers its own Training material called Certmaster. There are several options for Certmaster. Learn includes written study material, quizzes, memory games, a practice test, and practices PBQs. From my experience the practice PBQs is a highly valuable resource because it is a part of the exam that often gives people the most trouble. Certmaster also has a Lab feature that can be purchased separately or combined with Learn.

• Additional Resources: you may discover along the way are: Percipio, Pluralsight, CBT Nuggets, IT ProTV, and more YouTubers than I could list. One of my personal favorites though is NetworkChuck.

As technology advances, CompTIA A+ Core 2 remains a beacon guiding individuals through the intricate landscape of IT, providing the knowledge and skills needed for a successful and fulfilling career.

Could you Pass the CompTIA A+ Core 2 exam? Take this quick 10 question quiz and see.