'CompTIA' (Computing Technology Industry Association) is a not for profit enterprise formed in 1982. They have built over time to become the leader in vendor-neutral I.T. certification. This means they are able to provide & oversee independent industry-recognised IT examinations & qualifications that do not reflect any one organisation's interests above another. With the current move towards 'inter-connectivity' & systems convergence, this is a great step for the IT trainee, because it provides cross-platform learning & a knowledge of integration. 'CompTIA' brings together different business & learned industry groups when building or upgrading an exam, to make sure that all sides are thought about & the most industry related syllabuses are created.

In 2009 both programs underwent up-grades, & new examinations are now in existence for each of them. A+ examinations that began using the prefix 600 (i.e. the 2006-2007 edition) are being phased-out globally. Come the end of August 2010, the examinations will be retired in Great Britain. As 2009 exams (version 700) are already offered at test-centres across the country, these newer learning programs are probably a more practical preference for someone just about to start. A+ '09 is now offered as '220/701' 'CompTIA' A+ Essentials and 220/702 'CompTIA' A+ Practical Application. The principle changes were a complete re-structuring of the past 4 examinations into only two exams, and the addition of some coverage on more recent technologies. The previous structure was one compulsory Essentials examination & 3 electives, of which just one needed to be sat. Over the last 4 years, the market has evolved to the stage where all 4 examinations have become regarded as necessary - hence the reformatting in to 2 essential examinations. Those who have previously passed the 600 examination can bring their accreditation up to date by taking an upgrade examination : BR/003. Successfully passing the up-grade exam will generally need additional study, but it ought not to be too onerous for those who originally studied all four. The extra subjects will naturally require some fresh study.

These certifications & positions are in many cases taken en-route to a senior I.T. job. Before you go for a training course, keep in mind exactly where you would like your ultimate destination to be. This means talking to a skilled IT training expert to make sure that the route you decide on is right and cost-effective. It's often a good idea to consider customised career-training bundles that feature the 'A+' & 'Network+' programs. 'Bundling' various program materials together is often quite financially attractive.

As for the '2009' edition of the Network+ - 'N10-004' is currently the exam reference number. As well as retaining it's attention on network management & infrastructure, the up-graded 2009 examination places an increased emphasis on security, wireless-networking skills and network-design standards.

Any individual looking to establish themselves in IT will benefit from training & certifications produced by 'CompTIA'. Trainees wanting to get into networks & support, or servers, security & systems will most often begin with 'CompTIA', although it is reasonable to say that 'CompTIA' qualifications will improve any Resume geared for the IT sector. There is also now a push at CompTIA to supply their starter-level 'STRATA' programs to those individuals who don't actually work within IT, but would reap some benefits from a comprehension of basic IT & just how it influences their career.

If you are interested in any of these roles, the 'A+' will definitely work well - I.T. Administrator, P.C. Technician, Field Service Technician, Remote Support Technician, Call Centre and Depot Technician & Help Desk Technician. With 'CompTIA' 'Network+' also, you're able to consider becoming an IT Cable Installer, a Network Installer, a Network Administrator or a Network Technician .

The most well-known of all the 'CompTIA' certifications are undoubtedly the 'A+' & the Network+. An extremely important pair taken as a bundle, they're the kick off point for many excellent career-tracks. Individuals get to grips with a good deal of basic computer principles with A+ , such as maintenance, support, repair, security, installation & fault-finding. So that you can establish yourself in the IT marketplace, the 'A+' also addresses several communication and personal skillsets. 'Network+' takes things further, by working on a more in-depth understanding of how networks operate and connect with one another. Both Security & 'Wi-Fi' are covered to a certain extent. Both certifications complement each other well, and together form a good starting platform for further exam packages, or a solid career in I.T. support.

Microsoft Operating Systems Support Online Courses >>