CompTIA A+ 1201 vs 1101: Key Changes and Exam Updates

If you’re aiming for the CompTIA A+ certification at this time, you’ll likely face a choice between the older 1101 exam and the newer 1201 version. Since both remain acceptable during a transition period, it’s important to understand the updates. By comparing CompTIA A+ 1201 vs 1101, you’ll see what has changed, what has stayed the same, and how these updates impact your study approach. Knowing both versions helps you decide not only which version best matches your timeline and learning resources but also how to adjust your study approach and choose the right materials.

What is covered in the CompTIA A+ 1101?

What is covered in the CompTIA A+ 1101?

The CompTIA A+ 220-1101, released in April 2022, focuses on foundational IT skills needed for support and help desk roles. The 1101 exam tests 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions with a passing score of 675 out of 900. Below is a breakdown of each domain:

1. Mobile Devices (15%)

• Installing and configuring laptop hardware such as batteries, keyboards, RAM, and storage.
• Differences between mobile device types (laptops, tablets, smartphones).
• Display components (LCD, OLED, touchscreens) and maintenance.
• Mobile accessories (docking stations, expansion cards, adapters).
• Features of mobile operating systems, wireless connectivity, and synchronization with desktops or cloud services.
• Troubleshooting issues like battery failures, overheating, or unresponsive touchscreens.

2. Networking (20%)

• Networking concepts: LAN, WAN, MAN, PAN, and wireless standards (802.11).
• TCP/IP fundamentals, including IPv4, IPv6, ports, protocols (DNS, DHCP, SMTP, HTTPS, etc.).
• Router, switch, and access point setup and configuration.
• Cabling types (Ethernet, fiber, coaxial), connectors (RJ-45, RJ-11), and cable testing tools.
• Wireless networking security (WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA3).
• Common problems like slow speeds, IP conflicts, limited connectivity, or interference.

3. Hardware (25%)

• Motherboards, chipsets, CPUs, RAM types, and storage technologies (HDD, SSD, NVMe, RAID).
• Power supplies, cooling methods, and form factors (ATX, ITX).
• Peripheral devices: printers, scanners, webcams, and external drives.
• Input/output interfaces such as USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt.
• Installation and configuration of system components, BIOS/UEFI settings, and firmware upgrades.
• Printer technologies (laser, inkjet, thermal, impact), consumables, and maintenance.

4. Virtualization & Cloud Computing (11%)

• Setting up and managing client-side virtual machines.
• Hypervisors (Type 1 vs Type 2).
• Cloud models: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, and deployment types (public, private, hybrid).
• Cloud-based applications and storage synchronization.
• Benefits and limitations of virtualization for IT support.

5. Hardware & Network Troubleshooting (29%)

• Structured troubleshooting methodology (identify, test, establish cause, implement fix, verify, document).
• Diagnosing boot problems, system errors, overheating, or power supply issues.
• Fixing common peripheral and printer problems (paper jams, driver errors).
• Network troubleshooting: cable faults, Wi-Fi interference, slow throughput, DNS issues, and limited connectivity.
• Using tools like ping, tracert, ipconfig, multimeters, and loopback plugs.

To reinforce your skills and increase your chances of passing, consider using our CompTIA A+ 220-1101 practice test to simulate real exam scenarios and identify areas for improvement.

What is covered in the CompTIA A+ 1201?

What is covered in the CompTIA A+ 1201?

The CompTIA A+ 220-1201, released in March 2025, represents the latest update to the certification. Like every refresh, it aligns the exam with emerging technologies and workplace needs. The domains for 1201 are:

1. Mobile Devices (13%)

• Set up and configure laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
• Compare features of mobile device displays, storage, and accessories.
• Use mobile device synchronization methods (cloud, local, corporate email).
• Troubleshoot common issues like battery failure, wireless connectivity, and app crashes.

2. Networking (23%)

• Understand basic networking concepts: IP addressing, subnetting, and ports.
• Differentiate between network types (LAN, WAN, PAN, MAN) and topologies.
• Configure SOHO (small office/home office) routers and wireless settings.
• Recognize protocols (TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, FTP, SSH, HTTPS).
• Troubleshoot connectivity issues using tools like ping, tracert, and ipconfig.

3. Hardware (25%)

• Identify PC components: motherboards, CPUs, RAM, power supplies, storage, and GPUs.
• Install and configure peripherals (printers, scanners, external drives).
• Compare different storage devices: HDDs, SSDs, NVMe, and RAID setups.
• Understand connector types: USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt.
• Apply proper installation and maintenance procedures.

4. Virtualization & Cloud Computing (11%)

• Compare types of cloud models: IaaS, SaaS, PaaS, and hybrid/public/private.
• Understand common cloud services like file storage, hosting, and VMs.
• Set up and configure client-side virtualization.
• Recognize the benefits and limitations of cloud computing.

5. Hardware & Network Troubleshooting (28%)

• Diagnose and repair PC hardware issues (power supply, storage, overheating).
• Troubleshoot display and peripheral failures.
• Identify and resolve network connectivity problems.
• Use structured troubleshooting methods (identify, test, verify, document).
• Apply appropriate tools (multimeter, loopback plug, network tester).

To prepare efficiently for the updated exam, a CompTIA A+ 220-1201 practice test helps you identify weak areas and practice realistic scenarios aligned with current objectives.

What is the difference between CompTIA A+ 1201 vs 1101?

The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 exam updates the previous 220-1101 exam to reflect modern IT technologies and workplace practices. While the domain weightings remain mostly similar, the content within each domain has changed, highlighting the shift in emphasis for today’s IT support roles. The table below shows how it changes: 

How to adapt your learning for CompTIA A+ 220-1201?

How to adapt your learning for CompTIA A+ 220-1201?

If you are preparing for the A+ 220-1201 exam, here are some strategies to align your study plan with the updated exam objectives:

Focus on new topics

Prioritize new topics like Wi-Fi 6 GHz, containers, eSIM, and Mobile Device Management (MDM). These subjects reflect current industry practices and are likely to carry weight on the exam. At the same time, avoid spending time on legacy areas such as SCSI, PATA, or GSM/CDMA, since these topics are no longer included in the 220-1201 objectives.

Leverage updated resources

Choose study guides, practice exams, and video courses specifically designed for 220-1201 rather than older materials. Using updated resources ensures you are studying relevant content, practicing realistic exam scenarios, and gaining skills that reflect current IT practices.

Use practice tests effectively

A full-length practice test not only checks your knowledge but also helps identify weak areas in the newly introduced topics, enabling you to focus your study where it matters most. By adapting your preparation to the revised objectives, you increase your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt while gaining skills that are directly relevant to today’s IT roles.

FAQs

1. Can I still take A+ 1101?

Yes, you can still take the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) exam at this time. However, please note that the English-language version of the 220-1101 exam is scheduled to retire on September 25, 2025. For non-English languages, the retirement date is set for December 18, 2025. After these dates, the 220-1101 exam will no longer be available.

If you’re planning to take the 220-1101 exam, it’s advisable to schedule your exam before these retirement dates to ensure you can complete the certification process. Remember, both Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams must be taken from the same version to earn the CompTIA A+ certification.

2. What are CompTIA A+ 220 1201 and 220 1202?

The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams are the latest versions of the A+ certification, released on March 25, 2025. These exams supersede the previous 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams. Both of them are required to earn the full CompTIA A+ certification:

• CompTIA A+ 220 1201 (Core 1) focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, cloud computing, and troubleshooting. It tests your ability to set up, maintain, and troubleshoot modern IT systems, including laptops, desktops, peripherals, and small office/home office networks. 
• CompTIA A+ 220 1202 (Core 2) covers operating systems, software troubleshooting, security, IT operational procedures, and professional best practices. It evaluates your ability to support end users, manage operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), secure devices and data, and follow IT industry-standard procedures.

Final thoughts

Comparing CompTIA A+ 1201 vs 1101 clearly shows that while domain weightings remain similar, the content updates reflect modern IT practices, from Wi-Fi 6E and MDM to cloud containers and mini LED displays. Candidates preparing for 1201 should prioritize new topics, leverage updated study resources, and practice real-world troubleshooting scenarios. By aligning your study plan with the latest objectives, you not only increase your chances of passing on the first attempt but also gain skills directly applicable to today’s IT support roles.