In total, there are 4 A+ examinations and specialised sectors, but you only have to get certified in 2 to be thought of as qualified. This is why the majority of training providers simply offer two. But allowing you to learn about all 4 options will provide you with a far deeper level of understanding of it all, something you’ll discover is vital in professional employment.
Once on the CompTIA A+, you’ll become familiar with how to build and repair PC’s and operate in antistatic conditions. Fault finding and diagnostic techniques through hands on and remote access are also covered. If you feel it appropriate to add Network+ to your CompTIA A+ training course, you’ll additionally be equipped to look after networks, meaning you’re in a position to expect a better remuneration package.
Incorporating exams up-front and offering an ‘Exam Guarantee’ is a common method with a good many training companies. But look at the facts:
We all know that we’re still paying for it – it’s not so hard to see that it’s already been included in the full cost of the package supplied by the course provider. It’s certainly not free – don’t think these companies are so generous with their money! Should you seriously need to pass first time, evidence suggests you must fund each exam as you take it, prioritise it appropriately and be ready for the task.
Isn’t it outrageous to have to pay your training course provider in advance for exams? Find the best exam deal or offer when you take the exam, rather than pay marked up fees – and take it closer to home – rather than possibly hours away from your area. Paying upfront for examinations (and interest charges if you’re borrowing money) is insane. It’s not your job to boost the training company’s account with extra money of yours just to give them a good cash-flow! There are those who hope that you won’t get round to taking them – then they’ll keep the extra money. Re-takes of previously unsuccessful exams via training companies with an ‘Exam Guarantee’ inevitably are heavily regulated. They’ll insist that you take mock exams first so you can prove to them you have a good chance of passing.
Exams taken at VUE and Prometric centres are currently clocking in at an average of 112 pounds in the United Kingdom today. Why spend so much more on charges for ‘Exam Guarantees’ (most often hidden in the package) – when a quality course, support and study, commitment and preparing with good quality mock and practice exams is what will really guarantee success.
Being a part of the cutting-edge of new technology really is electrifying. You personally play your part in defining the world to come. Computing technology and communication via the internet will dramatically change the direction of our lives over the coming years; to a vast degree.
Should lifestyle be high on your goal sheet, then you’ll welcome the news that the income on average for a typical IT worker is significantly better than with most other jobs or industries. Because the IT market sector is still increasing nationally and internationally, one can predict that the search for certified IT professionals will remain buoyant for the significant future.
One thing you must always insist on is 24×7 round-the-clock support from dedicated instructors and mentors. So many companies we come across only seem to want to help while they’re in the office (9am till 6pm, Monday till Friday usually) and nothing at the weekends. Try and find training with proper support available at all hours of the day and night (even if it’s early hours on Sunday morning!) Ensure you get access directly to professional tutors, and not a call-centre that will take messages so you’re constantly waiting for a call-back during office hours.
The very best programs opt for an online 24×7 package involving many support centres from around the world. You will be provided with an interface that seamlessly selects the best facility available no matter what time of day it is: Support when you need it. Never make the mistake of compromise where support is concerned. Most trainees who throw in the towel, are in that situation because of support (or the lack of).
If you’re like many of the students we talk to then you’re quite practically minded – a ‘hands-on’ individual. If you’re anything like us, the unfortunate chore of reading reference guides is something you’ll force on yourself if you absolutely have to, but it doesn’t suit your way of doing things. You should use video and multimedia based materials if learning from books is not your thing. Recent studies into the way we learn shows that we remember much more when we receive multi-sensorial input, and we get physically involved with the study process.
Find a course where you’ll receive a library of CD and DVD ROM’s – you’ll start with videos of instructor demonstrations, with the facility to use virtual lab’s to practice your new skills. You really need to look at some example materials from each company you’re contemplating. Be sure that they contain instructor-led video demonstrations with virtual practice-lab’s.
It’s usually bad advice to select online only courseware. With highly variable reliability and quality from your average broadband company, you should always obtain actual CD or DVD ROM’s.
All programs you’re considering should always lead to a nationally accepted certification at the end – and not some unimportant ‘in-house’ printed certificate to hang in your hallway. The top IT companies like Microsoft, Cisco, Adobe or CompTIA each have internationally acknowledged proficiency programs. Huge conglomerates such as these will make sure you’re employable.
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