A+ and Network+

**yayupp** · 07-20-09, 11:11 PM

I'm in the process of getting certified in the above fields. Anyone here got those certifications? Any suggestions to what to expect on the exams?

**scoot** · 07-20-09, 11:13 PM

I'm in the process of studying for the A+ atm. It would be very helpful to get some input on it.

**Phyrelight** · 07-21-09, 10:07 AM

I have the study guides for A+ on my desk. I haven't bothered with it since I am almost done with my Computer Information Systems degree from ASU and in my field a 4 year degree trumps A+ anyday. MSCE is a nice one but pricey and has to be renewed every 3 years I think. Anyway back to the point, judging from the A+ study material here it looks REALLY easy. It actually starts out "this is a mouse". Gets into basic hardware, upgrading memory and graphics cards etc. Talks about the different kinds of technology and what is an is not compatible and why. I have been working in the field for years so maybe it just seems like common sense to me but I am sure you will do fine.

**JBMCW2010** · 07-21-09, 10:12 AM

Network+ is/was a joke. I took a course this past spring, waste of a course only thing I learned was how to mathmetically calculate an IP from network mask and or broadcast or a combination.

It barely touched XP was mostly 98/2000/ME, but I hear they are revamping the test after this August to be more useful.

**DeusInnomen** · 07-21-09, 10:17 AM

The A+ is dead simple, provided you know the basics on the anatomy of a PC and Windows troubleshooting. I think they gave me 90 minutes for each of the two tests, and I finished the first test (Hardware) in 15 minutes and the second (Software) in 18 minutes. They didn't believe me that I was done until they looked at the results. :P

I haven't taken the Network+, but I imagine it's pretty much just as simple once you know the basics of networking infrastructure and configuration.

**WileECyte** · 07-21-09, 06:45 PM

The + certifications don't hold a whole lot of prestige, but they might get you in the door with a place like Geek Squad. Most places want Cisco or Microsoft certs when it comes to computer and network knowledge.

I got my A+ and Network+ 8 years ago or so... I didn't do a lot of studying. I bought a couple of study guides that I flipped through... the sample exams included with them were actually more useful than the books themselves. At any rate, I flew through both exams with flying colors.

**QuickLightning** · 07-21-09, 06:48 PM

I went through and got my A+ back something like 5 or 6 years ago.

I think we even had windows 3.1 junk in there... Honestly, just being on the TTP forums could put you ahead of the game with the A+ crowd.

**yayupp** · 07-21-09, 08:23 PM

Thanks for all the info guys. I was asking because there are a lot of stuff about printer technologies and like little stuff that I wouldn't think would be all that important. I mean, I know how to fix computers, but do I really need to know the voltage on the laser printer? Just seems like there is stuff you wouldn't use everyday as a technician that they test you on.

**Muqtar SGT_Clintok** · 07-24-09, 08:40 PM

If you have started on the path, and feel its relevant, keep going. You may want to consider Security + as a starter. Its relatively easy to pass, and has some lasting value for the level of test

What you want to do with yourself will dictate what certs you should go after.

I have my Security + and MCSE 2003. I am starting up my ITIL V3 reading now, hoping to get certified prior to my wife having out baby in January. I have been drifting away from direct involvement to management and training of jr engineers.

I started to pursue the MCITP, but have spent no time on 2008 and dont want to be a paper champion. I'll do it after I work with it some.

Whatever paper you pursue, it needs to be blended with experience outside the lab.

**yayupp** · 07-26-09, 12:59 AM

Well I really love the actual building of the computer more then anything. My neighbors come to me when their pc is messed up. Most the time it's been an easy fix. I went through an online class through the local community college here (NCTC) for A+, Network+, and SQL. I have a bunch of books on them, alond with practice test software. But, I want to see if there is a possible internship somewhere that I can get some real world experience on, to see what kind of jobs come in.