CompTIA A+ Training & Certification

If you are looking to break into IT, our CompTIA A+ training and certification is your gateway to a range of diverse, exciting, and lucrative career paths in Maryland, Virginia, and DC.

Whether you want a career in cybersecurity, programming, systems administration, hardware configuration, or any of the other branches of the IT industry, CompTIA A+ training and certification ensures you have the foundational knowledge and skills you need to get started.

In this class, you will learn the essential skills of installing, configuring, and managing digital devices and basic network administration.

If you are pursuing a career working in the US military or for a military contractor, CompTIA A+ is a basic requirement of Directive DoD 8570 IAT Level I , meaning you will need this qualification to work on IT projects within your chosen organization.

Top tip! - More often than not, employers are looking for people with both CompTIA A+ Certification and Network+ Certification for entry-level jobs. TrainACE offers a combined course for these two certifications, which will get you where you need to be faster and more cost-effectively. Check out our combined A+ and Network+ training .

Our A+ class includes access to iLabs, provided by InfoSec Learning LLC

Enroll today, by selecting a class' date, to the right

Learn More About CompTIA A+

This CompTIA A+ training near Washington DC is part of the Operate and Maintain NICE Cybersecurity Workforce category. It will help prepare you to work in the customer service and technical support, knowledge management, network services, or systems analysis NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework specialty area.

Can I Get Started in IT With CompTIA A+?

In short, yes! Information Technology has become a huge and diverse industry with a variety of different career paths. Each of these career paths has different goals and different requirements in terms of skills and knowledge, but they all share the need to understand IT fundamentals.

Whether you are fixing a personal computer in a computer network, programming a new game, or securing a government server, understanding the fundamentals of computer architecture and networking is incredibly helpful, if not essential, to your success.

You can learn about computers and networking as a hobby, using self-guided techniques, and many beginners start out this way. But if you want to turn your hobby into a career, you will find that most recruiters want to know that you have mastered all the fundamentals, so they rely on certifications to filter out folk who are not ready for a professional role.

This is where certifications like CompTIA A+ come in. While A+ is not the only entry-level certification you can pursue, most of the IT industry uses A+ as a baseline for its entry-level IT job applications. It is also the best certification to go for if you are starting with little or no IT experience. If you have this qualification under your belt, it shows an employer that you are ready to take on a professional IT support style role.

Why Take CompTIA A+ Training in DC?

If you are looking to start a new career, information technology is a great place to look. With a wide range of career paths in every industry you can think of, there is sure to be something that will excite you, and at which you can excel.

The good news is that these days, recruiters rely more on job candidates having specific certifications like CompTIA A+ rather than four-year degrees. So, if you lack the resources to attend college, with a high school diploma you still have a great chance to build an exciting and potentially lucrative career in IT.

CompTIA A+ certification is the foundation for your IT career. This course provides the skills and training you need to troubleshoot technology problems across a wide range of networks, operating systems, and device types. With a focus on supporting and troubleshooting PC and mobile operating systems, configuring networks with internet access, and client device networking, this is a vendor-neutral certification making your knowledge applicable everywhere.

Successful candidates learn the skills and knowledge to take customer requirements and assemble components, install, configure and maintain devices and software for end-users. Our hands-on approach will give you the confidence to handle basic networking and security/forensics. It will also teach you to properly safely diagnose, resolve and document common hardware and software issues. Key to roles utilizing the A+ certification is the ability to troubleshoot issues, provide appropriate help-desk support, and comprehend the fundamentals of virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment, all of which we teach in-class in a convenient location to you, whether in Maryland, Virginia or DC.

In job opportunities that the A+ course prepares you for, it is essential that you have the confidence to handle real-world situations. TrainACE's uniquely hands-on approach prepares you for those practical, real-world situations, as well as how to pass the certification exams.

Who Should Take CompTIA A+ Certification Training in Maryland?

This CompTIA A+ certification training course is designed for individuals who are looking to start a career in the IT industry or those who are looking to change careers by moving into an IT career path. The course will teach you the fundamentals of computer technology, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting. CompTIA A Plus training is a must for anyone who is preparing to take the certification exam.

The class is ideal for people who are interested in working with computers but have little or no computer experience. If you are looking for better pay and a career that is full of variety and challenges, this is an opportunity to test the digital waters and see if you can turn your interest into a fulfilling career.

CompTIA A+ is also ideal for anyone looking to change careers from one industry to another. Our career-change students come from a variety of industries. Being close to Washington DC, we see a lot of military veterans and folks transitioning from healthcare into IT . Additionally, people move into IT from foodservice and construction/house maintenance, to name a few.

What Jobs Can You get with CompTIA A Plus Certification in DC?

Obtaining a CompTIA A+ certification demonstrates to prospective employers that you are prepared to work in various IT service positions. It proves your competency, knowledge, and skill levels associated with the objectives of the certification.

The CompTIA A+ certification is a beginner-level credential that will prepare you for various entry-level IT positions. Some of those roles include IT Support Specialist, Service Desk Technician, Help Desk Technician, IT Operations Technician, Desktop Support Technician, PC, and Hardware Repair Technician. Often, entry-level IT jobs will require that you have other certifications in addition to A+, typically Network+.

The positions that are available for individuals with only the CompTIA A+ certification are typically considered stepping stones to more advanced roles within the IT environment. The job you get with this certification will prepare you to make an educated decision about your future career path.

Who needs A+ Certification?

Job titles that CompTIA A+ will prepare you for:

• IT Support Specialist
• Service Desk Technician
• Help Desk Technician
• IT Operations Technician
• Desktop Support Technician
• PC and Hardware Repair
• Field Service Technician

How Much Can You Make with a CompTIA A+ Certification in DC?

IT professionals who have earned their CompTIA A+ certification are frequently paid up to 15 percent more than their non-certified counterparts. Some of the most common entry-level IT positions and their corresponding average annual salaries are:

• IT Support Specialist – $47,854
• Service Desk Technician – $39,250
• Help Desk Technician – $34,340
• IT Operations Technician – $40,747
• Desktop Support Technician – $40,684
• PC and Hardware Repair Technician – $34,306
• Field Service Technician - $36,350

How Long is TrainACE's A Plus Training Class?

TrainACE's A+ training class runs for 56 hours (7 full days) of in-class learning, which makes it a little longer than most of our boot camp-style classes. Over the years we have been running this class we have found that the additional teaching time works much better for students who are often starting with little previous computer experience. It also allows more time for the hands-on virtual learning tools of the class. The boot camp approach offers more individualized in-person attention than typical online courses.

Classes are scheduled to run during the working week, at weekends, or in the evenings. So there are plenty of options to fit the classes into your schedule.

Study Groups - Additional Support for Students

In addition to the regular 56 hours of instructor-led training, we offer free A+/Network+ study groups to any students who have enrolled in one of our training classes. These Study Groups are live, open-forum sessions hosted by one of our instructors, where students can ask questions about areas of study they are having issues with.

A+ Exam and Certification Requirements:

To become A+ Certified, you must pass two exams: 1001 and 1002. Upon successful course completion, students will be prepared for both current exams (numbers 220-1001 and 220-1002).

• Maximum of 90 questions per Exam
• Time Length 90 minutes per Exam
• Passing Score 1001 675 and 1002 700
• Format Multiple Choice and Performance-Based Questions

What you need to know before taking CompTIA A+ training

CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification that provides a great starting point for a career in IT. There are no prerequisites for taking the CompTIA A+ certification exam.

Folk with some basic computer knowledge and skills will find this course a little easier than those with none. The course is not a walk in the park, but with commitment and determination, you will be successful, even if you are new to the industry.

Is Obtaining a CompTIA A+ Certification in DC Worth It?

The CompTIA A+ certification is definitely worth obtaining for anyone entering the IT industry. With the certification, you are able to begin building a career that offers better benefits and pay. It's a great way to get your foot in the door of the IT industry and grow your career. Here are some of the benefits of obtaining your CompTIA A+ certification:

• Makes an IT Career More Accessible – More and more employers are looking for certifications rather than traditional IT Computer degrees when making hiring decisions. A+ training and certification can help you get started in IT faster and for a lot less money than going through a four-year degree.
• Global Recognition – CompTIA certifications, including the A+, are recognized worldwide by all types of organizations including the U.S. Department of Defense.
• Demonstrates Dedication – Obtaining your CompTIA A+ certification shows that you are serious about your career and dedicated to keeping up with the newest developments in the IT industry.
• Validation of Fundamental Skills – CompTIA A+ certified individuals are well-versed in the troubleshooting, security, and networking skills that prepare them for many IT professions.
• Trusted by Hiring Employers – Employers of all types need IT, professionals, within their organizations, and they trust CompTIA A+ certified professionals to maintain the operation of their computer systems.
• Increased Earning Potential – Jobs in the IT industry are some of the best-paying positions you'll find, and they are abundant. Having the CompTIA A+ certification will help put you on a career path that offers many lucrative jobs with excellent job security. For example, Baltimore County residents who are A+ certified can expect to earn between $41,500 and $49,918, which is higher than the national average salary of $39,979.

A+ Skills and Concepts You Will Learn

Module 1 / Peripheral Devices

Motherboard Components

• System Case Types
• Disassembling personal computers
• Motherboard Layout and Sizes
• Bus Architecture
• Motherboard Components
• Expansion Slots
• Labs - Identifying PC Components

Connection Interfaces

• I/O Ports and Cables
• USB Ports
• Other Port Types
• Wireless Ports
• Expansion Cards
• Input Devices
• Installing and Configuring Peripherals

Display Devices

• Display Device Types
• Comparing Display Devices
• Modern Display Connectors
• Other Display Connectors
• Video Cards
• Touchscreens and Digitizers
• Troubleshooting Display Problems

Audio and Multimedia Devices

• Audio Devices
• Imaging Devices
• Multimedia Devices
• Labs - Identifying PC Ports, Connecting Peripheral Devices, Upgrading the Graphics Adapter

Removable Storage Devices

• Storage Devices
• Storage Adapters and Cables
• Installing Storage Devices
• Optical Disc Drives
• Flash Drives
• Tape Drives

Module 2 / System Components

Mass Storage Devices

• Hard Drives
• Solid State Drives
• Troubleshooting Hard Drives
• Installing RAID Arrays
• Troubleshooting RAID
• Labs - Adding Storage Devices

System Memory

• Random Access Memory (RAM) Types
• RAM Configurations
• Installing and Upgrading Memory
• Labs - Upgrading Memory

Processors

• Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• CPU Architectures
• Other CPU Features
• CPU Packaging
• Cooling Systems
• Installing and Upgrading CPUs

BIOS and UEFI

• BIOS and UEFI System Firmware
• Configuring Component Properties
• Configuring Devices and Boot Properties
• Diagnostics and Monitoring
• Configuring BIOS Security
• Upgrading Firmware
• Labs - System Setup

Power Supplies

• Electrical Circuits
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Connector Types and Voltages
• Installing a Power Supply Unit

Custom Configuration

• Configuring Computers for Business
• Configuring Computers for Home Use

Module 3 / Troubleshooting and Mobile Devices

Troubleshooting System Components

• Troubleshooting Basic Hardware Problems
• Troubleshooting Power Problems
• Troubleshooting POST
• Troubleshooting Motherboard Components
• Labs - Removing and Installing FRUs, Testing Hardware Components, Diagnosing System Errors

Laptops

• Laptop Types
• Laptop Features
• Laptop Expansion Options
• Laptop Power Supplies

Mobile Devices

• Mobile Device Types
• Mobile Accessories and Ports

Troubleshooting Mobile Devices

• Laptop and Mobile Disassembly
• Upgrading Laptop FRUs
• Upgrading Laptop System Components
• Troubleshooting Mobile Displays
• Troubleshooting Mobile Connectivity Issues
• Troubleshooting Laptop Power Troubleshooting Other Mobile Issues
• Labs - Removing and Installing Laptop FRUs

Module 4 / Printer and Network Hardware

Printers

• Printer Types
• Laser Printers
• Inkjet Printers
• Impact Printers
• Thermal Transfer Printers

Configuring Printers

• Installing Printers
• Configuring Printers
• Sharing and Networking Printers
• Labs - Installing a Printer

Troubleshooting Printers

• Routine Printer Maintenance
• Maintaining Laser Printers
• Maintaining Other Printer Types
• Troubleshooting Print Errors
• Troubleshooting Print Defects
• Labs - Printer Maintenance

Network Architectures

• Basic Network Concepts
• Network Topologies
• The OSI Model
• Types of Network

Ethernet Networks

• OSI Model Physical Layer
• Twisted Pair Cabling and Connectors
• Installing and Testing Network Cables
• Fiber Optic Cabling and Connectors
• Coaxial Cabling and Connectors
• OSI Model Data Link Layer
• Network Cards
• Hubs, Bridges, and Switches
• Troubleshooting Wired Links
• Ethernet over Power
• Labs - Connecting to a Switch

Module 5 / Networks

Wireless Networks

• Wireless Network Devices
• Wi-Fi Standards
• Wireless Network Security
• Configuring a SOHO Access Point
• Troubleshooting Wireless Links

Internet Connections

• Internet Connection Types
• Legacy Internet Access Methods
• Broadband Internet Access Methods
• Wireless Internet Access Methods
• Labs - Connecting to an Access Point

Internet Protocol

• OSI Model Network Layer
• The TCP/IP Suite
• Internet Protocol and IP Addressing
• Subnet Masks
• Configuring IP
• Classless Addressing
• Troubleshooting IP
• IP Version 6

Routers and Firewalls

• IP Routing Basics
• TCP and UDP Ports
• Configuring a SOHO Router Firewall

Troubleshooting Networks

• Domain Name System (DNS)
• Internet Application Services
• File and Printer Sharing Services
• Remote Terminals and Network Management
• Network Connectivity Issues
• Labs - Troubleshooting a Network

Module 1 / Supporting Windows (1)

Windows Operating System

• What is an Operating System?
• Microsoft Windows 7
• Microsoft Windows 8
• Microsoft Windows Vista
• Windows System Requirements
• Windows Upgrade Paths
• Labs - The Windows Desktop (Windows 8.1 / Windows 10), Hyper-V, Virtual Machines, and Windows 7

Administration Tools

• Control Panel and System Properties
• User Account Control
• Administrative Tools
• Command Prompt and Text Editors
• File Explorer
• Shut Down
• Windows Registry
• Labs - System Administration Tools

Managing Storage

• Disk Partitions
• File Systems
• Disk Management Tool
• Adding Arrays (Dynamic Storage)
• Drive Status
• Command Line Disk Management
• Mount Points and Disk Images
• Labs - Disk Management

Managing Files

• File Explorer
• OneDrive
• Navigating Directories using a Command Prompt
• File Management using a Command Prompt
• Labs - File Management

Managing Applications

• Managing Software
• Managing Services
• Msconfig
• Task Manager
• Windows 8 Task Manager
• Labs - Application Management

Module 2 / Supporting Windows (2)

Managing Devices

• Configuring Hardware
• Device Manager
• Display and Sound Settings
• Power Options
• Labs - Device Management

Managing Performance

• Viewing System Information
• Performance Monitor
• Advanced System Properties
• Labs - System Management and Performance

Troubleshooting Windows

• Troubleshooting Models
• Troubleshooting Procedures
• Event Viewer
• Windows Troubleshooting Tools
• Troubleshooting Windows Errors
• Troubleshooting Application Errors
• Labs - Event Viewer

Managing Users

• User and Group Accounts
• Managing User Accounts

Installing Windows

• Windows Installation Overview
• Installation Boot Methods
• Preparing the Hard Disk
• Completing an Attended Installation
• Options for Deploying Windows
• Labs - Installing Windows 8, Installing Windows Vista

Module 3 / Supporting Windows (3)

Troubleshooting Boot Problems

• BIOS and UEFI
• Troubleshooting Boot Problems
• System Restore
• Advanced Boot Options Menu
• System Repair and Reinstallation
• Labs - Boot Troubleshooting, Advanced Recovery Options

Maintenance and Backup

• Disk Maintenance Utilities
• Task Scheduler
• Patch Management
• Data Backup
• Restoring User Profiles
• Labs - Windows Maintenance Tasks

Threats and Vulnerabilities

• Security Fundamentals
• Security Policies
• Social Engineering
• Network Footprinting and Fingerprinting
• Network Attack Strategies
• Vulnerabilities and Zero-day Attacks
• Password Attacks

Viruses and Malware

• Types of Malware
• Anti-Virus Software
• Malware Symptoms
• Researching Malware
• Quarantine and Remediation
• Preventing Malware Infections
• Security Center and Windows Defender
• Labs - Anti-Virus Software

Securing Workstations

• Digital Security
• Authentication
• Password and Account Policies
• Workstation Security
• Physical Security
• Labs - Account and Password Policies

Securing Data

• Data Policies
• Corporate Security Policy
• Incident Response Policies
• Data Encryption
• Data Disposal Methods

Module 4 / Supporting Windows Networks

Configuring Network Connections

• Network Card Properties
• Establishing Networking Connections
• Configuring Internet Protocol (IP)
• Establishing Internet Connections
• Remote Access Utilities

Securing Network Connections

• Configuring the Browser
• Network and Host Firewalls
• Windows Firewall
• Securing SOHO Networks
• Labs - Network Connections and Windows Firewall

Configuring Shared Resources

• Domains
• Workgroups and Homegroups
• Configuring File and Folder Sharing
• NTFS File and Folder Permissions
• Labs - Windows Homegroup Networking

Virtualization and Services

• Virtualization Basics
• Purposes of Virtual Machines
• Security Requirements
• Cloud Concepts
• Networked Host Services
• Labs - Windows Domain Networking

Module 5 / Linux, OS X, and Mobile OS

Linux Operating System

• Linux Distros and Shells
• Linux Disk and File Management
• Securing a Linux File System
• Managing Linux User Accounts
• Linux Software and Patch Management
• Troubleshooting Linux OS
• Labs - Installing and Configuring Linux

OS X

• Apple Macs and OS X
• OS X File Management
• OS X Users and Passwords
• OS X Software Management
• OS X Networking
• OS X Diagnostic Utilities
• OS X Troubleshooting

Mobile Operating Systems

• Android, iOS, and Windows Mobile
• Features of Mobile Operating Systems
• Cellular Data Networks
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Networks
• Mobile Device Synchronization

Mobile OS Security and Troubleshooting

• Mobile OS Security
• Mobile OS Access Control
• Mobile OS Policies
• Mobile OS Troubleshooting Tools
• Troubleshooting Mobile OS Issues
• Troubleshooting Mobile Wireless Issues
• Troubleshooting Mobile Security Issues

Safety and Environmental Procedures

• Local Government Regulations
• Electrical Safety
• Cable Management and Lifting Techniques
• Component Handling
• Environmental Controls
• Power Problems
• Disposal and Recycling
• Labs - Implementing an Anti-ESD Service Kit, Cleaning and Preventive Maintenance