How Hard Is the CompTIA A+ Exam? Tips to Make It Easier

If you’re considering a career in IT, the CompTIA A+ certification is often your first big step. But just how hard is the CompTIA A+ exam? While it’s labeled as an entry-level certification, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. With two separate exams (Core 1 and Core 2) covering everything from hardware and networking to security and troubleshooting, it requires serious preparation and hands-on practice. In this guide, we’ll break down its difficulty, the most challenging topics, and offer practical strategies to help you succeed.

How hard is the CompTIA A+ exam?

How hard is the CompTIA A+?

The CompTIA A+ exam is not too hard, but not easy either. It’s an entry-level certification designed for aspiring IT professionals, but it still demands serious preparation.

Factors contributing to CompTIA A+ difficulty

Level of prior knowledge required

The CompTIA A+ certification is designed for individuals with approximately 9–12 months of hands-on experience in IT support or equivalent education. Therefore, beginners with no IT background may find the exam moderately to significantly challenging.

Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)

PBQs are interactive scenarios that test your ability to apply knowledge in a simulated environment. These are not multiple-choice questions; instead, they may involve drag-and-drop activities, system configuration tasks, or troubleshooting workflows.

Volume of coverage knowledge

The A+ exam spans a broad and diverse range of content, including:

• Core 1: 
  • Mobile devices
  • Networking
  • Hardware
  • Virtualization and Cloud Computing
  • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
• Core 2
  • Operating Systems
  • Security
  • Software Troubleshooting
  • Operational Procedures

Managing this breadth of material can overwhelm candidates who study without a structured approach.

Real-world application

The exam places strong emphasis on real-world diagnostic scenarios. You are not simply tested on definitions or terms but on your ability to assess symptoms, identify root causes, and implement appropriate solutions.

Comparison to other entry-level certifications

To gain a clearer perspective on the difficulty level of the CompTIA A+ exam, it’s useful to compare it with other entry-level IT certifications.

• CompTIA A+ vs CompTIA ITF+: A+ is significantly more challenging as A+ covers deeper, real-world IT tasks; ITF+ focuses on basic concepts.
• CompTIA A+ vs CompTIA Network+: A+ is generally considered easier and is typically pursued first, covering foundational IT support skills, while Network+ is more advanced, focusing on networking concepts and security.
• CompTIA A+ vs AZ-900: A+ is more technical and hands-on, while AZ-900 focuses on cloud concepts and is easier for non-technical learners.

Hardest parts of the CompTIA A+

The CompTIA A+ exam is split into two parts: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). Each exam covers a distinct set of domains. Some areas are notably more difficult than others.

1. Networking and Security (Medium to High Difficulty)

Networking concepts (such as IP addressing, port numbers, and wireless encryption standards) require not only memorization but conceptual understanding. Security topics (firewalls, malware, access controls) can also pose difficulties for those unfamiliar with modern cybersecurity practices.

2. Hardware and Operating Systems (Medium Difficulty)

While many individuals are familiar with hardware components or have experience using Windows OS, the exam requires a technical level of understanding, such as BIOS configuration, driver installation, disk partitioning, and command-line troubleshooting.

3. Troubleshooting (High Difficulty)

This is arguably the most challenging area. Candidates must use logic and critical thinking to solve performance-based scenarios. These questions may involve multi-step problem-solving, requiring accurate diagnosis and methodical resolution.

How to make the CompTIA A+ exam easier?

How to make the CompTIA A+ exam easier?

The best way to make the CompTIA A+ exam feel easier is to master the material thoroughly. When you have a deep understanding of the core concepts, hands-on experience, and strong troubleshooting skills, the exam becomes far less intimidating. Confidence comes from preparation. Below are key strategies to make your preparation more effective.

1. Set a clear study schedule

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the exam is to build a CompTIA A+ study schedule that matches your personal pace and daily routine. Determine how many hours you can commit each day, choose specific topics to focus on, and follow your plan closely. Staying consistent over time is the key to success.

2. Combine a variety of study materials

Knowledge is vast, and there are many ways to absorb it effectively. To prepare well for the CompTIA A+ exam, it’s important to combine multiple learning resources rather than rely on just one.

• Exam objectives and study guides: Start with CompTIA A+ exam objectives to understand the full scope of both Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). Pair this with a trusted study guide to stay focused and avoid wasting time on off-topic content.
• Practice tests: Use practice tests regularly, such as free CompTIA A+ practice tests, to simulate the real exam environment. These help you reinforce your knowledge and highlight areas that need more attention. Be sure to review all incorrect answers carefully.
• Video lessons: For visual learners, video tutorials are a powerful tool. You can choose some video courses that align closely with the official exam objectives, making even complex topics easier to grasp.

3. Master time management and test-taking skills

Improving your time management and test-taking skills is key to performing well on exam day. Take full-length mock exams to help you get used to the pacing of a timed test, build focus, and reduce stress. Practice now:

• CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) Test
• CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (Core 2) Test

4. Practice Hands-On Labs and PBQs

PBQ questions of CompTIA A+ are a key part of the exam and often more challenging than multiple-choice questions. These Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) test your ability to apply knowledge in real-world, simulated environments.

To prepare, practice hands-on labs using either real hardware or virtual lab platforms. Focus on tasks like troubleshooting hardware issues, installing operating systems, configuring networks, and applying security settings. The more you practice these tasks, the more confident and prepared you’ll be when facing PBQs in the actual exam.

FAQs

1. What is the pass rate for the CompTIA A+ exam?

The CompTIA A+ exam doesn’t have an official published pass rate, but independent data and user reports suggest a strong trend that about 70–80% of test-takers pass the A+ exam on their first attempt.

2. How to be well-prepared for the CompTIA A+ exam?

To increase your chances of success, consider following this preparation strategy:

• Build a structured study plan that fits your daily schedule and learning pace.
• Use the CompTIA A+ exam objectives to stay focused on what matters.
• Combine various study methods:
  • Study guides and books.
  • Video lessons.
  • Practice tests and quizzes.
  • Hands-on labs or virtual simulations.
• Develop real-world troubleshooting skills.
• Take full-length mock exams to improve time management and exam stamina.
• Review mistakes regularly and adjust your study strategy accordingly.

Final thoughts

So, how hard is the CompTIA A+ exam? It depends on your background and how well you prepare. While it is considered entry-level, the exam still covers a wide range of technical topics from networking and hardware to security and troubleshooting.

If you go in without a clear plan or hands-on experience, it can feel overwhelming. But with structured study, varied learning resources, and consistent practice, especially with PBQs and mock exams, you will be well on your way to passing the exam with confidence. The key is to start early, stay disciplined, and practice smart.