A+ noob

[Ransoft]

Ok I recently applied for a job as a CompUSA tech. I was told I need this A+ to work for them.

I've been to the CompTIA site, but didnt find it useful.. I have massive experience with computers and can do everything I saw in the course outline...but I don't what the best way to go about it is.

Classes physical? Online classes? From home? Can I just go take the test without any classes?

I would really appreciate it if someone could just be a n00b along with me and explain it out.

Thank you.

 

[Tragdor]

What kind of experience do you have? You say you have a lot, so I would just get a book. You'll be bored in a class but if you do go that route, at least you'll bone up on the basics.

 

[CharlieJax]

Got 6 months of experence?

Know your ports?

Go take the test. CJ
- If chickens could fly would they egg ugly people?

 

[Ransoft]

I'm a Junior in college and I was applying part-time. I'm the webmaster for a couple of sites.

http://www.fsubcm.org

and

http://www.goransoft.com

- nothing too fancy... the code is trickier than the graphic design LOL... familiar in ASP and VB and SQL I've been building my own computers since I was 11, programming and using since I was 8. I've worked as a Network Technician on campus doing PC support, drive imaging, department websites, IP addressing. I'm familiar with the windows registry and gpedit.msc. I run a network for my roommates, etc.

The CompUSA guy just threw me for a loop. I was like what the... I was just wondering if you can sign up to take the test only. Where is the best place to do that at? Can I take it online? I know I am sounding naive about certifications, but they are just now becoming a requirement in my life if you know what I mean.

I appreciate any and all help.

 

[Tragdor]

go to

http://www.vue.com

or

http://www.2test.com

They issue the tests at tons of locations all over the country.

 

[gwinn7]

First, take practice exams to assess your own knowledge. If you consistently get 85% or better in every category of the A+, you are ready to take the test.

Personally, I think classes are pretty much a waste of time, unless you are a true beginner. You can certainly achieve more learning by self-study and practice at home. Why? Because of the added pressure on yourself to know enough to pass the test. In my opinion, your personal experience and study will get you further rather than taking a cookie-cutter instructor based approach.

When I studied for the A+, I found severe gaps in my PC knowledge by taking the practice exams. After reviewing those areas, I was ready and then passed the tests.

BTW, I found the A+ exam to be rather easy. I was very surprised to see how simplistic the questions were. You shouldn't have a problem.

Hope that helps,
Gary
gwinn7
A+, Network+

 

[schase]

Yea I agree,

I *Thought* I knew a pretty good amount - at least enough to pass.

But I had only really learned what I used or fixed.

Know I/O Addresses for com ports, lpt, etc, and your IRQ's, not to mention which pin goes for what (and I mean pin numbers in what arrangement)

Try some practice tests first like the guys mentioned. and good luck! "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!"

-Adm. James Farragut

Stuart

 

[JockVSJock]

I'm in your situation too, I've taken tons of classes at the college level in IT, almost have two degrees, worked in IT as a trainer/project manager and want to get to the next level, and keep running into problems with folks saying that I don't have a cert.

So I looked around at the college that I go to and I am goin to take the A+ exam.

Here is a website with more info about the test:

http://www.comptia.org/

-Chris