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CompTIA · COMPTIA-ACORE1 · Beginner

CompTIA A+ Core 1

Validates foundational IT skills covering mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing, and hardware/network troubleshooting. 90+ AI-generated practice questions with explanations. Free trial, pass guarantee.

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90 Questions
90min Time Limit
675/ 900 Pass Score
$358 USD Exam Fee

Overview

About the exam

The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) is the first of two exams required to earn the CompTIA A+ certification, the industry-standard credential for launching an IT career. Core 1 focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, cloud computing, and troubleshooting — the hands-on technical skills needed for help desk and desktop support roles.

The A+ is the most widely recognized entry-level IT certification globally, required or preferred by organizations including the U.S. Department of Defense. The 2025 update (V15) adds coverage of modern hardware, enhanced cloud concepts, and updated troubleshooting scenarios.

Exam Domains

What's on the exam

The exam includes up to 90 questions mixing multiple choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). PBQs simulate real IT scenarios where you configure settings, drag components, or troubleshoot issues in a simulated environment. PBQs appear first — many test-takers skip them initially and return after completing the multiple choice section.

Mobile Devices 15%
Networking 20%
Hardware 25%
Virtualization and Cloud Computing 11%
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting 29%

Format

What to expect

multiple choice
65%
drag drop
15%
command
10%
multiple response
10%

Watch out

Where candidates struggle

Core 1 is heavily hands-on. Candidates who only study theory without touching real hardware or running network commands often struggle with PBQs.

  1. 01
    PBQ Time Management — Performance-based questions take longer — skip them first and return after multiple choice
  2. 02
    Port Numbers — Memorize common ports (80, 443, 22, 23, 25, 110, 143, 3389, 445) — they appear frequently
  3. 03
    Connector Types — Confusing USB types, display connectors (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI) and network cables
  4. 04
    Wireless Standards — Mixing up Wi-Fi standards (802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax) and their frequencies and speeds

Details

Exam logistics

Delivered through Pearson VUE online or at testing centers worldwide. The A+ requires passing both Core 1 and Core 2 — order doesn't matter.

Delivery Online-proctored (Pearson VUE) or onsite at testing centers
Retake policy No waiting period for first retake. 14-day wait for subsequent retakes.
Validity 3 years
CE credits 20
Career outcomes Help desk technician, desktop support analyst, field service technician, IT support specialist. Average salary $45-55K for entry-level roles.
Renewal Valid for 3 years. Renew through continuing education (CE) — 20 CEUs in 3 years or pass a higher-level CompTIA cert.
Study time ~80 hours
Official guide View on vendor site

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