What is the difference between A+ 1102 and 1202?

The difference between A+ 1102 and 1202 refers to versions of the CompTIA A+ certification exams, with 220-1102 (V14) being the older, retired version and 220-1202 (V15) being the current version, updated in March 2025 to focus more on cloud, SaaS, remote support, and basic AI, while the 1102 version focused on hardware, operating systems, and traditional support. You must pass Core 1 and Core 2 of the same series (either 1101/1102 or 1201/1202) to get certified, so the 1202 is now the standard for new candidates.

What is the difference between CompTIA A+ 1102 and 1202?

Increased Focus on the Cloud and Basics of AI

The 220-1202 exam adds topics like cloud-based productivity tools and basics of artificial intelligence, which are not mentioned in the A+ 220-1102 overview.

Is A+ 1201 harder than 1101?

Are the New CompTIA A+ Exams Harder? The new CompTIA A+ exams 220-1201 and 220-1202 aren't significantly more difficult than their earlier versions, but that doesn't mean they're easy.

What are the objectives of a+ 1202?

About the CompTIA A+ 220-1202 Certification Exam

Install, configure, and maintain computer equipment, mobile devices, and software for end users. Service components based on customer requirements. Understand networking basics and apply basic cybersecurity methods to mitigate threats.

Can you take CompTIA A+ 1101 and 1202?

Can I complete A+ Core 1 1101 and move on to Core 2 1202? No. CompTIA state that to gain the official A+ certification you cannot mix versions. However, if you were to pass 1101 and then later pass 1202 you would have two separate certificates that an employer would recognise as having equivalence to the A+.

CompTIA A+ 2025 Update: EVERYTHING You Need to Know (1201/1202 vs 1101/1102) | Major Changes!

Which CompTIA exam is the hardest?

There's no single "hardest" CompTIA exam, as it depends on your background, but Security+, Linux+, and CASP+ are frequently cited as very challenging due to their broad, deep, or advanced technical concepts and scenario-based questions. Security+ is tough for its breadth of cybersecurity knowledge, Linux+ for its deep OS commands, and CASP+ for its high-level enterprise security focus, making them harder than entry-level A+ or Network+ for many. 

Is CompTIA A+ hard to pass?

The CompTIA A+ is moderately difficult, challenging but achievable, especially for beginners, due to its broad scope covering hardware, networking, security, and troubleshooting across two exams with tricky performance-based questions, requiring hands-on practice and dedicated study to master the extensive material and time pressure. It's not overwhelmingly hard but requires understanding concepts and applying knowledge, not just memorization.
 

What is the difference between CompTIA A+ 1100 and 1200?

The main differences are in the details: The A+ 1100 series reflects technology and best practices of its time. The A+ 1200 series updates the content with a stronger focus on security and modern troubleshooting methods.

Can I get a job with just ITF+?

The ITF+ is 'valid' to get a job with, but no one will hire you because of it. It's not a cert that any employers recognize because it is the most basic foundational cert you can possibly get. You are better off just attempting to get a job based on your credentials (degree) than that.

Is CompTIA A+ hard in 2025?

This is a common question asked by aspiring IT professionals. CompTIA A+ Certification covers various topics, including hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting. While the difficulty level of the exam can vary depending on your prior knowledge and experience, it is generally considered a challenging exam.

What is the difference between 1101 and 1201?

1101 Series: Touched on basic security practices for devices and networks. 1201 Series: Places greater emphasis on cybersecurity, covering endpoint security, threat detection, and tools to secure modern IT environments.

What jobs can I get with S+?

These include positions such as:

• Cybersecurity analyst.
• Security engineer.
• Penetration tester.
• Information assurance technician.
• IT auditor, and more.

Is Security+ worth IT in 2025?

And is CompTIA Security+ worth it in 2025? Absolutely. From government compliance to private-sector demand, its career value is stronger than ever. If you're planning to take Security+, start with a clear schedule and trustworthy practice resources.

Can I get a job with just network+?

Yes, the CompTIA Network+ certification absolutely helps you get an IT job, validating foundational skills for roles like Network Technician, Help Desk Specialist, IT Support, and Network Administrator, serving as a strong starting point or complement to hands-on experience, and proving competency to employers for various entry-level to advanced positions in networking and telecommunications. 

What is the most valuable CompTIA certification?

CASP, or CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner, is one of the most sought-after certifications and many IT professionals aspire to have it in their toolbox. It covers the following security certification areas: Managing risk and forecasting. Enterprise security.

Is CompTIA still relevant in 2025?

Yes, CompTIA certifications remain highly relevant in 2025, especially for foundational IT roles like Help Desk (A+), Networking (Network+), and Security (Security+), acting as crucial entry points and building blocks for broader IT careers, with updates like the A+ launch in March 2025 ensuring they cover evolving tech, although some argue for more advanced certs for senior roles. 

Is network+ better than a+?

While CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ are both entry-level certifications, if you plan on pursuing a networking position, you can gain more advanced knowledge of networking concepts with CompTIA Network+. This certification helps prepare you for a future working on any platform, regardless of the vendor.

How to put A+ on a resume?

Your certification is integral to optimizing your CompTIA A+ resume and needs highlighting. Include it in your summary and cover it in your skills section. Use a dedicated certifications section where you list your certifications and any relevant details about what you covered.

Which core of A+ is harder?

Both exams are comparable in difficulty. If you're strong in hardware and networking, you might find Core 1 easier; Core 2 might be a breeze in software and operating systems. Can I take CompTIA A+ Core 2 before Core 1? Yes, you may schedule the Core 2 exam before Core 1.

Do employers care about CompTIA A+?

Many companies recognize CompTIA A+ as a baseline certification for entry-level IT jobs, and some even require it for these positions. However, it's essential to consider that while CompTIA A+ can help you get your foot in the door, gaining experience and continuing education will be crucial for career growth.

How many people fail the CompTIA A+ exam?

Understanding CompTIA Pass Rates

The success rate for CompTIA tests changes based on which exam you're taking and how well you prepare. From what students and teachers share, about 70-80% of people pass their CompTIA A+ exam on the first try. This means roughly 20-30% of test-takers need to try again.

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Yes, earning $200,000 a year in cybersecurity is absolutely achievable, especially in senior, specialized, or high-demand roles like CISO, Security Architect, Lead Security Engineer, Cloud Security Engineer, Sales Engineer, or penetration testers in large companies or high-cost-of-living areas, often requiring significant experience, advanced skills (coding, cloud, leadership), and sometimes certifications, with top earners exceeding this significantly. 

What is the 80 20 rule in cyber security?

The 80/20 rule in cybersecurity, or the Pareto Principle, suggests that 80% of security risks come from 20% of causes, prompting focus on high-impact areas like user training (phishing) or critical vulnerabilities for maximum risk reduction with limited resources. While effective for prioritizing, some argue it's outdated as modern, sophisticated threats demand a 100% coverage mindset for all digital assets, especially with AI and IoT. The principle helps identify critical controls, but ignoring the other 20% can leave significant gaps, so it's used as a guide for prioritization, not neglect.
 

Which certification has the highest salary?

The highest paying certifications are often in tech (cloud, cybersecurity) like AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional, Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect, CISM, CISSP, and PMP for project management, alongside specialized healthcare roles such as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C), with options like Six Sigma Black Belt also offering significant earning potential.