Skip to main content

V15

A+ Core 1 V15 (New Version)

CompTIA A+ Core 1 is the first of two exams required to earn the industry-standard A+ certification, designed to launch your tech career. This exam focuses on foundational skills in hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. Passing Core 1 and Core 2 prepares you for roles like IT support specialist and help desk technician while building the knowledge needed to pursue advanced certifications like Network+ and Security+.

Plus A+ Certification

A+ Core 1 (V15) exam objectives

Mobile devices (13%) 

  • Hardware setup: installing components like batteries, cameras, and Wi-Fi antennas.
  • Accessory options: configuring USB, Bluetooth, NFC, and docking stations.
  • Network setup: configuring Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular data, and synchronization settings.
  • Troubleshooting: identifying and fixing hardware and connectivity issues.

Networking (23%) 

  • Protocols and ports: learning about networking protocols, ports, and wireless technologies.
  • SOHO networks: setting up small office/home office networks, including IP addressing and VPNs.
  • Networking tools: troubleshooting with crimpers, cable testers, and Wi-Fi analyzers.

Hardware (25%) 

  • Component installation: setting up RAM, CPUs, and storage devices.
  • Cables and connectors: working with HDMI, Ethernet, and USB cables.
  • Peripheral devices: installing and maintaining printers, scanners, and other peripherals.
  • Motherboards and power: configuring motherboards, power supplies, and cooling solutions.

Virtualization and cloud computing (11%) 

  • Virtualization concepts: understanding virtual machines, hypervisors, and desktop virtualization.
  • Cloud models: learning about IaaS, SaaS, and PaaS.

Hardware and network troubleshooting (28%) 

  • Diagnosing issues: identifying and fixing hardware, network, and connectivity problems.
  • Troubleshooting tools: using multimeters, cable testers, and loopback plugs.

Exam details

  • Exam version: V15; Core 1 and Core 2 exams must be taken from the same version, no mixing allowed

  • Exam series code: 220-1201 (Core 1)

  • Launch date: March 25, 2025

  • Number of questions: Maximum of 90 per exam, including multiple-choice (single and multiple response), drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions

  • Length of test: 90 minutes

  • Passing score: A+ Core 1: 675 (on a scale of 900)

  • Recommended experience: 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support specialist job role

  • Languages: English

  • Retirement: Usually three years after launch (estimated 2028)

  • DoD 8140 approved work roles: Technical support specialist, system administrator, and cyber defense infrastructure support specialist

Skills learned

  • Install, configure, and maintain hardware components and mobile devices.

  • Troubleshoot hardware, network, and connectivity issues.

  • Understand networking basics and configure SOHO networks.

  • Explain virtualization and cloud computing concepts.

  • Use troubleshooting tools to diagnose and resolve technical problems.

Stay informed

Advance with confidence

Get updates, insights, and exclusive offers to support your learning journey and career growth.