New CompTIA A+ certification exam — What’s changing?

The massively popular CompTIA A+ certification exam is changing in January 2019. The certification’s two exams, 220-901 and 220-902, are set to be updated in line with modern technology and new regulations. They will get new names too: 220-1001 and 220-1002.

CompTIA A+ is a well-known industry certification that proves you understand the cutting-edge fundamentals of computer hardware and software. 

At Firebrand, we are proud to be a CompTIA Platinum Partner; as such, we are among the first to see the new A+ exam objectives. We’ve worked with Firebrand’s CompTIA instructor, Jeremy Green, to bring you a first look at what to expect in the new A+ exams.

1. CompTIA A+ 220-1001

The first of two exams that students must pass to gain the A+ covers PC hardware and peripherals, networking, troubleshooting, and more.

In January 2019, the A+ 220-1001 will become 220-1001 as the exam is updated to test knowledge of current hardware and emerging technologies.

This update includes a greater focus on system memory and storage devices like SSDs and an emphasis on computer gaming systems. The new exam will also test knowledge across 3D printing.

“The 220-1001 is being improved rather than rewritten. Students should not expect a vast amount of change overall – it’s more of a tweak to bring the exam up-to-date,” Jeremy told us.

2. CompTIA A+ 220-1002

The new 220-1002 exam contains updates to operating system topics covering Windows 7, 8 & 10 – this also includes end-of-life and update limitations for older systems.

Also featured on the new exam are updates to security topics, giving students the opportunity to prove their knowledge of the modern cyber threat landscape.

“There are also two entirely new topics that students will be tested on,” says Jeremy. “The first tests knowledge of operational procedures and regulatory compliance, covering the likes of GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and incident response.

“The second new section covers script basics for Batch, Python, Java and Visual Basic and requires students to study strings, loops, strings and integers. This is valuable knowledge for anyone aiming to move into developer roles.”

Get CompTIA certified with Firebrand

For the past twelve years in a row, we’ve been named one of the Top 20 IT Training Companies in the World. We offer accelerated courses, Apprenticeships, and Skills Bootcamps that allow you to return to work certified in half the time. Perhaps one of them is right for you? See all our CompTIA courses.