A+ Certification Question

[jhorton]

I am looking into getting my A+ certification. I have seen a couple different courses I could take. Would it be better to take a course to prepare for writing the test or just go and find a book and read it on my own? Is the testing very hard? Is it even worthwhile to have A+ certification? All help would be appreciated.

[Bluvertigo]

CompTIA
http://www.comptia.org/certification/a/default.aspx

[Dr.Dan]

Unless you have 'hands on' experiance with computers, I'd highly recommend you take the courses.

If you know what you're doing, the tests (there are 2 tests) are easy and will only take a few minutes to do.
I've seen some that were not prepared and they spent the full alloted time and didn't pass...

[Berserko]

How much experience do you have with computers? The A+ tests are extremely easy if you at least opened up your computer, installed an OS and know a wee bit about networking and printers. I'd say the networking and printers are the hardest part of the test, but it's all multiple choice, so if you are at least familiar with the material, you'll do fine.

[jhorton]

I'd like to think I am fairly familiar with computers. Yes I have opened my computer uninstalled and installed things. Installed and removed my OS a couple times. Is there any type of practise tests anywhere online or can someone recommend a book or two that might help?

[Bogie]

Takes a little more knowledge than having worked on a computer a few times. Brush up on your networking and technologies a bit.

SimulationExams.com (http://www.simulationexams.com/certification-exams/a+-certification.htm)
Gives a good overview of what you need to need to know

Exam Prep (http://www.ce.com/education/A-Certification-Exam-Preparation-10109627.htm)

[Bogie]

What do you want the A+ for? Just passing the exam "by the seat of your pants" will be exposed very quickly "on the job". The reason for A+ certification is to qualify your knowledge to a potential employer, or validate your knowledge in computer repair and maintenance in self-employment.

[jhorton]

I want to get my A+ as I am unemployed right now and trying to get into a computer repair type position. I am continuously being told in interviews that if I had A+ it would make a big difference.

[Bogie]

I want to get my A+ as I am unemployed right now and trying to get into a computer repair type position. I am continuously being told in interviews that if I had A+ it would make a big difference. In that case, do the course properly. You will learn a lot in the process. Apply for assistance through Employment Insurance, if you are eligible. There are other programs out there also that help fund education like this. Best place to find out would be the adult education institutes that offer A+ and similar tech courses. They want your money, directly from you or through a gov't agency/dept.

Nothing beats "hands-on" to learn the skills, and proper mentoring/instruction.

[Dr.Dan]

Actually, EI will refer you to HRDC... They are the ones that fork out the cash for things like this...
But there are qualifications before they'll support you... If you're currently drawing from EI, you should qualify :)

[Ottawaman]

yes see Ei/hrdc to get permission


http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/gateways/nav/left_nav/faq.shtml

http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/asp/gateway.asp?hr=en/ei/information/training.shtml&hs=tyt

http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/asp/gateway.asp?hr=/en/epb/sid/cia/grants/skills-deve/desc_skills.shtml&hs=tyt

[jhorton]

Thanks for all the info guys. I am trying to get funding through HRDC. I qualify since I have/had unemployment in the past three years.
One part of it is I have to interview or ask some questions to three employers and three employees who are already doing the type of work (computer repair/support) I am interested in. I am hoping I might be able to find someone(s) on the board here doing this type of work or have there A+ certification to answer the list of questions I have to ask.
I guess I may have to start a new post for that.