• The A+ certification sets candidates apart from noncertified job applicants.computer image by peter Hires Images from Fotolia.com
  
  To receive the CompTIA A+ certification, candidates must pass two exams: 220-701 and 220-702. The 701 exam, "A+ Essentials," tests for fundamental knowledge of concepts related to computing technologies, divided into six objective categories. The 702 exam, "A+ Practical Application," tests a candidate's ability to apply her knowledge in real-world scenarios; this exam is divided into four objective categories.
  
  

Hardware

• This objective tests a candidate's knowledge of the physical devices used in computing, including being able to identify and categorize the various internal parts of a computer, as well as external peripherals. For example, a candidate should be able to explain the uses and differences between various storage media such as hard drives, floppy drives, optical drives and removable media. He should also be able to explain the different types of motherboards, including their components and features. This objective category covers everything from CPUs and memory to printers and monitors.
  
  

Troubleshooting, Repair & Maintenance

• This objective covers a candidate's ability to follow a logical troubleshooting procedure where a problem is identified, diagnosed and resolved. Computer hardware issues, operating system errors and printer problems are all covered in this section. This objective also contains questions pertaining to scheduled and preventative maintenance measures, including topics such as system backups, cleaning procedures, system and software updates, and environmental factors.
  
  

Operating System and Software

• The A+ certification tests cover only currently supported Microsoft desktop operating systems. As of 2010, the desktop version of Windows 2000, the various versions of Windows XP and the various versions of Windows Vista were covered by this objective. A candidate's ability to compare and contrast the features of the different operating systems is tested here. Additionally, the candidate's understanding of the different interfaces and tools available with each operating system is also measured. The last part of this objective covers the procedure to install and configure various Windows operating systems.
  
  

Networking

• The candidate's understanding of basic networking fundamentals is covered by this objective. The candidate should be able to identify the different types of cabling and how they're used to connect devices. This section also tests a candidate's ability to identify and explain various network devices, network protocols and related networking technologies. She should be able to explain and differentiate the following network types and their related subtypes: broadband, dial-up, wireless, Bluetooth and cellular.
  
  

Security

• Passing this section requires an understanding of fundamental security concepts. Password usage, malicious software protection and data encryption methods are included in this objective. Also covered are basic firewall concepts.
  
  

Operational Procedure

• The final objective covers a candidate's ability to identify procedural best practices. This area covers various safety procedures to minimize risk to technician and equipment. Communication skills and professionalism are the other key concepts covered in this section.