CompTIA ('Computing Technology Industry Association') is a not for profit company formed in the early 1980's. They've grown step by step and right now lead the world in I.T. accreditations that are vendor neutral. Which means they're able to freely produce and monitor a whole range of IT industry examinations & issue their very own certifications which don't just apply to one specific vendor's solutions. With the current move to 'inter-connectivity' and systems 'convergence', this is a welcome step for the I.T. student, as it provides cross-platform learning & an understanding of 'integration'. Whenever new syllabuses are created, 'CompTIA' invites several educational and industrial organisations to join them and verify that every aspect has been considered equally, and the programs are appropriate from a commercial perspective.

New starters in the I.T. sector can turn to CompTIA for quite a number of their initial training programs. Usually, individuals who are aiming for careers in Networking, Systems, Security, Servers, Support & Communications should probably begin with 'CompTIA', but in fact trainees in any IT sector could find a CompTIA certification a worthwhile component of their Resume. 'CompTIA' are also now producing STRATA qualifications - they're not designed for individuals working in the IT sector, but for people whose roles require a fundamental understanding of computing.

If you are thinking about any of the following jobs, the 'A+' will work well - Call Centre Technician, Depot Technician, PC Technician, Help Desk Technician, Field Services Technician, IT Administrator, and Remote Support Technician. 'CompTIA' Network+ opens up possibilities for Network Administrators & Technicians, Network Installers and IT Cable Installers.

The A+ training and the 'Network+' program are 'CompTIA's' flagship qualifications. Both of them, as a set, create the building blocks of many modern IT career-tracks - and justly so . Trainees get to grips with many important computer principles with 'A+' , including support, repair, maintenance security, installation and fault-finding. Additionally, the A+ covers several relationship building skill-sets to assist you to communicate much better with other people. 'Network+' takes things further, by building in a more significant understanding of how networks function and connect with each other. 'Security' is of course vital, & wireless-technology is dealt with to a certain degree. 'CompTIA' 'A+' and 'Network+' will give you a solid foundation for a systems career in IT, and also an excellent platform for other more advanced qualification programs.

In line with their ISO standardisation move, 'CompTIA' have updated both 'A+' & N+ examinations to '2009' versions. The earlier 'A+' (edition 2006/2007) examinations which were categorised using the '600' prefix are being retired worldwide during 2010. After the 31st August '10 they will not be obtainable in Britain. As '2009' examinations (version 700) are already offered at test-centres across the country, the newer study programs would be a more sensible option for anyone who is just getting started. 'CompTIA' A+ Essentials & 'CompTIA' 'A+' Practical Application are the new exam titles (220-701 & 220/702 respectively). The 4 original examinations have been stream-lined in to 2 brand new exams, and some further updated material has been added. Originally, the 'A+' was broken into four examinations: 1 essential and 3 elective specialisations. But as the market has moved on, the expertise from all 4 exams is currently regarded as essential, and consequently has been condensed in to two required assessments. Anybody who has formerly passed the 600 exam is allowed to bring their accreditation up-to-date by taking a bridging examination : 'BR-003'. Successfully passing the bridging exam will in most cases take additional study, although it ought not to be especially onerous for those who originally studied all 4. Clearly though the newer technological topics must be learned about.

These accreditations & employment options are often done enroute to a senior IT position. Before you get started on a training program, bear in mind where you intend your ultimate destination to be. This means actually talking to an experienced IT training expert to make sure that the path you decide on is suitable & cost effective. it is often a good idea to think about personalised career training products that include the A+ and Network+ courses. Bundling various program materials together is usually very financially attractive.

On to the '2009' version of the Network+ - 'N10-004' has become the examination number. As well as keeping its teaching on network infrastructure & management, the upgraded '2009' exam points to a greater emphasis on Security, wireless networking abilities and network design standards.

Standard learning time for these exams are judged to be around 100-150 hours for the 'A+' , and 75-100 hours for the Network+ . This makes accomplishing them both inside of 6 months part time study entirely possible, as long as good quality multi-media training products utilised, together with decent examination preparation software.

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