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Official-policy-first prep, setup, readiness, and test-day guidance built for this exam.
CompTIA A+ Core 1 guide for the current V15 220-1201 exam, with legacy 220-1101 transition notes, domains, PBQs, Pearson VUE/OnVUE rules, scoring, retakes, study plans, and Core 1/Core 2 version strategy.
Use this section for the shortest path through the guide before you dig into the full workflow below.
CompTIA A+ Core 1 guide for the current V15 220-1201 exam, with legacy 220-1101 transition notes, domains, PBQs, Pearson VUE/OnVUE rules, scoring, retakes, study plans, and Core 1/Core 2 version strategy.
CompTIA / Pearson VUE rules can change by delivery mode. Verify the official handbook and scheduler page before test day.
Use the guide below to map blueprint coverage, pacing checkpoints, and the operational issues that can derail an otherwise ready candidate.
Re-check dates, IDs, accommodations, devices, and reschedule rules shortly before the exam if any of those items are handled by a third party.
Get online exam help from coordinators who map official requirements, flag scheduling conflicts, and build a readiness timeline around your target date.
Help with online exam logistics including practice environment setup, proctoring dry-runs, and day-of contingency planning so nothing is left to chance.
Use this CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201 current / 220-1101 legacy) exam help page for exam-specific context, then compare the broader online exam help services page or contact HiraEdu if you need a direct handoff. This page stays focused on CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201 current / 220-1101 legacy) while the linked service pages cover broader exam support options.
| Topic | Current answer | Primary source |
|---|---|---|
| Current exam code | 220-1201, A+ Core 1 V15. | CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15 page |
| Legacy exam code | 220-1101, A+ Core 1 V14; English delivery ended September 25, 2025 according to CompTIA’s retiring-version page. | CompTIA A+ V14 retiring page |
| Certification rule | A+ requires Core 1 and Core 2 from the same version; no mixing. | CompTIA A+ V15 page |
| Delivery | Pearson VUE test center or OnVUE online proctoring, depending on location and availability. | CompTIA/Pearson policies |
| Score | Core 1 passing score is 675 on a 100-900 scale. | CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15 page |
This page keeps the legacy 220-1101 slug because many learners still search for the old Core 1 code, but the current exam path in 2026 is CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15, exam code 220-1201. If you are starting now, study for 220-1201 and pair it with Core 2 220-1202. If you already passed 220-1101 before retirement, verify your CompTIA transcript and whether you also completed the matching 220-1102 before that series closed.
CompTIA A+ Core 1 focuses on hardware, mobile devices, networking, virtualization/cloud, and troubleshooting. Core 2 covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. You earn A+ only after passing both matching-version exams.
| Requirement | CompTIA / Pearson rule | What to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Prerequisites | CompTIA lists recommended experience, not a formal prerequisite. | Whether your employer/school requires coursework first. |
| Experience | Recommended 12 months of hands-on IT support experience for A+ V15. | Whether you can substitute labs, homelab, or help desk practice. |
| ID | CompTIA/Pearson require accepted identification; online testing has extra ID restrictions. | Name match, ID type, country rules, and OnVUE restrictions. |
| Version | Core 1 and Core 2 must be the same A+ version. | Do not pair 220-1101 with 220-1202. |
| Delivery | Test center or OnVUE online testing. | Workspace, system test, webcam, internet, privacy, and local availability. |
CompTIA and Pearson VUE strictly enforce ID. CompTIA’s ID guidance lists primary IDs such as passport, driver’s license, military ID, and national/state/province identity card, plus secondary ID options. For OnVUE, certain IDs that cannot be captured on camera, including U.S. military-issued IDs, are not accepted under Pearson’s online process. Always verify the current Candidate ID Policy and Pearson ID policy for your country before scheduling.
Accommodations are handled through the testing provider process before the exam date. If you need extra time, screen reader support, medical-device permission, breaks, or other access support, begin before buying a date. Online and test-center accommodations can differ.
| Current V15 220-1201 domain | Weight | What it means in practice |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile devices | 13% | Laptop hardware, mobile accessories, wireless/cellular setup, mobile troubleshooting. |
| Networking | 23% | Ports/protocols, SOHO networks, wireless, IP basics, cables, tools, network troubleshooting. |
| Hardware | 25% | Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, storage, power, displays, printers, peripherals, connectors. |
| Virtualization and cloud computing | 11% | VM concepts, hypervisors, cloud models, cloud characteristics, resource requirements. |
| Hardware and network troubleshooting | 28% | Diagnose, test, replace, document, and verify fixes for hardware/connectivity failures. |
Legacy 220-1101 domain weights were close but not identical: mobile devices 15%, networking 20%, hardware 25%, virtualization/cloud 11%, and hardware/network troubleshooting 29%. The safest 2026 strategy is to download the current 220-1201 objectives and use them as a checklist.
Question archetypes include port/protocol identification, Wi-Fi configuration, printer symptom diagnosis, laptop component replacement, display connector selection, storage interface reasoning, RAID choice, virtualization scenario, cloud-service model, mobile synchronization, SOHO router setup, cable/tool matching, and troubleshooting sequence. Performance-based questions may ask you to configure, match, drag, interpret, or troubleshoot in a simulated environment.
| Format item | Current A+ Core 1 V15 detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Exam code | 220-1201 | CompTIA |
| Questions | Maximum of 90 | CompTIA |
| Question types | Multiple choice single/multiple response, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions | CompTIA |
| Time | 90 minutes | CompTIA |
| Passing score | 675 on a 100-900 scale | CompTIA |
| Languages | English, German, Japanese for Core 1 V15 page | CompTIA |
Pearson VUE test center flow: arrive early, present accepted ID, store personal items, follow check-in procedures, sit for a single-session exam, receive a score report after completion, and leave without discussing content. OnVUE flow: run the system test on the same device/network, check in with ID, complete room/workspace checks, keep your face visible, avoid prohibited items, and use the proctor/contact option for technical issues.
CompTIA candidate policies state exams taken at test centers or via OnVUE are structured as a single session without scheduled breaks, unless accommodations apply. Plan hydration, restroom, and focus accordingly.
| Score issue | Practical meaning | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | CompTIA uses a scaled score, not a raw percentage. | CompTIA scoring article |
| Passing | Core 1 requires 675 on a 100-900 scale. | CompTIA A+ V15 page |
| Wrong count | CompTIA does not disclose number of questions required to pass or number incorrect. | CompTIA scoring article |
| Score report | Score report lists objectives tied to missed questions, not exact missed items. | CompTIA scoring article |
| Retake after pass | You cannot retake the same passed exam code without CompTIA consent. | CompTIA retake policy |
Do not ask “How many can I miss?” The scoring model is scaled and may include different item weights and forms. Use practice tests to diagnose domains, but use the official objectives to decide coverage. A pass is a credential milestone; a fail is a study map.
| Step | Action | Mistake to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Decide current version: A+ V15 220-1201 and 220-1202. | Studying retired 220-1101 materials as the main source. |
| 2 | Create/login to CompTIA and Pearson VUE accounts. | Mismatched name or email. |
| 3 | Choose test center or OnVUE. | Picking OnVUE without meeting workspace/system rules. |
| 4 | Buy voucher or schedule directly. | Buying a product version and forgetting the exam code. |
| 5 | Select 220-1201 Core 1. | Accidentally selecting the wrong exam. |
| 6 | Verify ID and appointment confirmation. | Discovering ID mismatch on exam day. |
| 7 | Download current objectives and build a study calendar. | Studying from videos without objective tracking. |
CompTIA’s exam-code guidance warns that the store may show product versions such as A+ Version 15, but Pearson scheduling still uses exam codes such as 220-1201. Treat version labels and exam codes as related but not interchangeable.
| Cost category | What to budget | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exam voucher | Core 1 voucher price varies by country, discounts, bundles, academic store, and reseller. | Verify in CompTIA store or Pearson checkout. |
| Retake | CompTIA does not offer free retakes by default; each attempt requires payment unless you bought a bundle with retake. | Retake policy |
| Study tools | Objectives, course, labs, practice tests, hardware kit, used laptop/router/printer access. | Hands-on practice matters. |
| Delivery | Travel to test center or stable home testing setup. | OnVUE failure can cost time and fees. |
| Opportunity | Study time, missed work, childcare, internet, quiet room. | Plan before booking. |
Budget template: voucher + official/objective-aligned course + practice exams + at least one hands-on lab environment + emergency retake reserve + travel or OnVUE readiness. If money is tight, prioritize the official objectives, free documentation, used hardware, networking practice, and one high-quality practice test over a pile of duplicate courses.
| Timeline | Best for | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| 2 weeks | Experienced support tech refreshing | Objective checklist, daily mixed sets, PBQ practice, ports/connectors/printers, one mock. |
| 4 weeks | Some hands-on exposure | Week 1 mobile/hardware, week 2 networking, week 3 cloud/troubleshooting, week 4 mocks and repair. |
| 8 weeks | Typical beginner | Learn objectives, build labs, weekly practice exams, domain error log, final mixed review. |
| 12+ weeks | No IT background | Fundamentals, hardware handling, home network labs, printer concepts, structured course, repeated review. |
Diagnostic approach: take a low-stakes baseline after reading the objectives. Sort mistakes by domain and cause: unfamiliar term, wrong standard, weak troubleshooting order, memorized port confusion, no hands-on context, or rushing. For PBQs, practice slowly first, then timed.
Daily templates: 30 minutes means one objective cluster plus 10 questions. 60 minutes means 25 questions, review, and one mini-lab. 120 minutes means content lesson, hands-on practice, 40 questions, and error-log repair.
| Domain | High-ROI moves |
|---|---|
| Mobile devices | Know laptop parts, Wi-Fi/cellular/Bluetooth/NFC, synchronization, accessories, and common symptoms. |
| Networking | Memorize ports by service, subnet basics, SOHO setup, Wi-Fi standards, cable types, and troubleshooting tools. |
| Hardware | Build a component map: motherboard, CPU, RAM, storage, power, cooling, displays, printers, connectors. |
| Virtualization/cloud | Distinguish IaaS/PaaS/SaaS, VM resource needs, hypervisors, shared resources, and cloud characteristics. |
| Troubleshooting | Use a repeatable process: identify, theory, test, plan, implement, verify, document. |
Top 25 mistakes: studying 220-1101 when starting in 2026; mixing Core 1/Core 2 versions; ignoring PBQs; memorizing ports without scenarios; skipping printers; avoiding subnet/IP basics; not touching real hardware; not practicing Wi-Fi router settings; confusing USB/Thunderbolt/display connectors; ignoring mobile device sync; treating cloud as vocabulary only; skipping troubleshooting methodology; using old dumps or copied questions; not reading ID rules; choosing OnVUE with a poor room; not running system test; waiting until voucher expiration; taking Core 2 from the wrong version; assuming scaled score is percent; not reviewing score report objectives after a fail; retesting immediately after a big fail; overbuying courses; underdoing labs; and never timing 90-minute practice.
| Resource | Use it for | Freshness check |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15 page | Current exam code, domains, score, time, languages, recommended experience | Confirm 220-1201 |
| CompTIA A+ Core 1 & 2 V15 page | Version pairing and full certification details | Confirm no mixing |
| CompTIA exam-code support article | Understand version vs exam code | Use before scheduling |
| CompTIA scoring article | Scaled score and score report interpretation | Current help article |
| CompTIA retake policy | Waiting periods and retake payment | Current policy |
| Pearson/OnVUE rules | Online testing system, room, ID, and technical requirements | Run system test before booking |
High-quality prep maps every lesson to objectives, includes PBQs or labs, updates for 220-1201, explains why answers are wrong, and teaches troubleshooting. Red flags include “220-1101 current” claims in 2026, exam dumps, guaranteed passes, no PBQs, no labs, no version pairing guidance, or outdated port/hardware coverage.
| Phase | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Day before | Verify ID, appointment, route or OnVUE system test, workspace, and allowed items. | Prevents administrative failure. |
| Check-in | Follow Pearson prompts exactly and stay calm if extra verification is requested. | Security rules are strict. |
| PBQs | Consider scanning PBQs first, then return after warming up if your timing plan allows. | PBQs can consume time early. |
| MCQs | Eliminate, choose, flag, move. | Prevents time collapse. |
| Finish | Answer every question and review flagged items if time remains. | Blank answers cannot help. |
Anxiety plan: use a pacing checkpoint every 30 minutes. If a PBQ looks unfamiliar, gather clues from labels, devices, and objectives. For port questions, map service to use case. For troubleshooting, choose the next reasonable technician step, not the most dramatic fix.
| Outcome | Next move | Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Pass | Schedule Core 2 from the same V15 series, 220-1202. | Do not lose momentum. |
| Fail by small margin | Review score report objectives, repair weak domains, retake after targeted practice. | No waiting period between first and second attempt. |
| Fail by large margin | Rebuild fundamentals and labs before paying again. | Third attempt and later require 14-day waits. |
| Passed legacy 220-1101 | Verify whether matching 220-1102 was passed before retirement. | Version mixing does not earn A+. |
| Employer deadline | Choose date only when practice scores and PBQs are stable. | A rushed fail costs money. |
Retake framework: if you failed by a little and know exactly why, a quick retake can work. If you failed because entire domains were unfamiliar, slow down. CompTIA requires no wait after the first failed attempt, but requires at least 14 calendar days before the third and subsequent attempts.
| # | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Is 220-1101 still current? | No for English candidates in 2026; current Core 1 is 220-1201 V15. |
| 2 | Why does this page mention 220-1101? | Many learners still search the retired code; the guide explains the current replacement path. |
| 3 | What is current A+ Core 1? | CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15, exam code 220-1201. |
| 4 | What is current Core 2? | 220-1202. |
| 5 | Can I mix 220-1101 and 220-1202? | No. Core 1 and Core 2 must be the same A+ version. |
| 6 | How many exams earn A+? | Two: Core 1 and Core 2. |
| 7 | Can I take Core 2 first? | Usually yes, but most beginners take Core 1 first because it covers hardware/networking foundations. |
| 8 | How many questions are on Core 1? | Maximum of 90. |
| 9 | How long is Core 1? | 90 minutes. |
| 10 | What score passes Core 1? | 675 on a 100-900 scale. |
| 11 | Is 675 a percentage? | No. CompTIA uses scaled scoring. |
| 12 | How many questions can I miss? | CompTIA does not disclose the number required to pass or number incorrect. |
| 13 | What question types appear? | Multiple choice, multiple response, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions. |
| 14 | What are PBQs? | Performance-based questions simulate tasks such as configuration, matching, troubleshooting, or interpretation. |
| 15 | Is there a formal prerequisite? | CompTIA lists recommended experience, not a formal prerequisite. |
| 16 | What experience is recommended? | 12 months of hands-on IT support specialist experience. |
| 17 | Can a beginner pass? | Yes, with structured study and hands-on practice. |
| 18 | What domains are on 220-1201? | Mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization/cloud, and hardware/network troubleshooting. |
| 19 | Which domain is largest? | Hardware/network troubleshooting at 28% on V15 Core 1. |
| 20 | Are ports still important? | Yes, especially in networking and troubleshooting scenarios. |
| 21 | Are printers still tested? | Yes, hardware and troubleshooting include printer concepts. |
| 22 | Does Core 1 include security? | Basic security may appear through networking/devices, but Core 2 carries more explicit security content. |
| 23 | Does Core 1 include Windows? | Core 1 is more hardware/networking; operating systems are mainly Core 2. |
| 24 | Should I buy a lab kit? | Not mandatory, but hands-on hardware and router practice helps. |
| 25 | Is OnVUE available? | Often yes, depending on location and program availability. Verify in Pearson scheduling. |
| 26 | Is test center better than online? | Test centers reduce home-workspace risk; OnVUE saves travel but has strict room and system rules. |
| 27 | What ID do I need? | Accepted ID depends on CompTIA/Pearson rules and country; verify before scheduling. |
| 28 | Can I use a U.S. military ID for OnVUE? | CompTIA notes U.S. military-issued IDs cannot be used for Pearson OnVUE identity verification. |
| 29 | Should I run the OnVUE system test? | Yes, on the same device and network you will use. |
| 30 | Are breaks allowed? | CompTIA exams are single-session without scheduled breaks unless accommodations apply. |
| 31 | How soon can I retake after failing once? | CompTIA requires no waiting period between first and second attempt. |
| 32 | What about a third attempt? | At least 14 calendar days after the last attempt. |
| 33 | Do retakes cost money? | Yes, each attempt requires payment unless you purchased a valid retake bundle. |
| 34 | Can I retake after passing? | Not without CompTIA consent for the same exam code. |
| 35 | Does A+ expire? | A+ is part of CompTIA’s continuing education program; verify current CE rules. |
| 36 | What should I study first? | Download the official 220-1201 objectives and start with hardware and networking basics. |
| 37 | How many practice exams should I take? | Enough to show stable passing performance and domain coverage; quality review matters more than count. |
| 38 | Are exam dumps safe? | No. Use objective-aligned training and labs, not copied secure exam content. |
| 39 | What is the best free resource? | The official exam objectives plus vendor documentation and hands-on practice. |
| 40 | What if I already studied 220-1101? | Map your knowledge to 220-1201 objectives and fill updated gaps. |
| 41 | Is V15 harder than V14? | Difficulty is subjective; V15 updates current technologies and objective weights. |
| 42 | What changed from 1101 to 1201? | Current domains remain similar but weights and modern device/networking coverage changed. Use the V15 objectives. |
| 43 | What is the biggest Core 1 trap? | Memorizing terms without troubleshooting practice. |
| 44 | Should I memorize every acronym? | Learn common acronyms in context, especially ports, hardware, cloud, and networking terms. |
| 45 | How do I handle PBQs? | Practice configuration and troubleshooting tasks, not only flashcards. |
| 46 | Should I skip PBQs first? | Some candidates do if they are time sinks; decide during timed practice. |
| 47 | What if I fail close to 675? | Review score report objectives and do targeted retake prep. |
| 48 | What if I fail far below 675? | Rebuild fundamentals and labs before repaying. |
| 49 | Does the score report show exact missed questions? | No. It lists objectives associated with missed questions. |
| 50 | Can an employer verify my certification? | Certification verification follows CompTIA processes and sharing permissions. |
| 51 | Is A+ useful for help desk? | Yes, it is designed for entry-level IT support roles. |
| 52 | Does A+ help with Network+? | Yes, Core 1 networking provides a foundation. |
| 53 | Does A+ help with Security+? | Yes, especially through troubleshooting, devices, and basic support workflows. |
| 54 | Should I schedule before finishing study? | Schedule only when practice performance and PBQ readiness are stable. |
| 55 | What should I bring to a test center? | Accepted ID and appointment confirmation; avoid prohibited personal items. |
| 56 | What if OnVUE disconnects? | Use contact/proctor support immediately and document the issue. |
| 57 | Are vouchers refundable? | Voucher terms vary. Check CompTIA voucher terms before buying. |
| 58 | Can I use a school voucher? | Yes if valid for the current exam/version and not expired. |
| 59 | What is the safest 2026 path? | Study 220-1201 and 220-1202 V15 together. |
| 60 | What matters most? | Current objectives, same-version pairing, hands-on troubleshooting, PBQ practice, ID readiness, and timed execution. |
| Information to collect | Why it changes the plan |
|---|---|
| Country/state | Voucher price, ID policy, language availability, and OnVUE rules vary. |
| Exam version | Determines objectives and whether Core 1/Core 2 pair correctly. |
| Delivery mode | Test center vs OnVUE changes ID, workspace, and tech checks. |
| Baseline | Beginner, hobbyist, help desk worker, or career changer changes timeline. |
| Deadline | Employer, school, military, or voucher expiration can affect scheduling. |
| Target role | Help desk, field tech, desktop support, or network path changes lab emphasis. |
Verification checklist: open the official CompTIA A+ V15 page; confirm exam code 220-1201; confirm Core 2 will be 220-1202; download current objectives; verify ID rules; choose test center or OnVUE; run system test if online; check voucher terms; build a domain-by-domain study plan; and schedule only when practice performance is stable.
Official pages to verify: CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15 at https://www.comptia.org/en-us/certifications/a/core-1-v15/; CompTIA A+ Core 1 & 2 V15 at https://www.comptia.org/en-us/certifications/a/core-1-and-2-v15/; CompTIA exam codes vs product versions at https://help.comptia.org/hc/en-us/articles/37775451891092-Understanding-Exam-Codes-vs-Product-Versions; CompTIA scoring at https://help.comptia.org/hc/en-us/articles/11186025660308-How-Are-CompTIA-Exams-Scored; CompTIA retake policy at https://www.comptia.org/en-us/resources/test-policies/comptia-certification-retake-policy/; CompTIA ID requirements at https://help.comptia.org/hc/en-us/articles/11187173177748-What-Are-the-Identification-Requirements-for-Taking-an-Exam; and CompTIA online proctored guidelines at https://www.comptia.org/en-us/resources/test-policies/online-proctored-exam-guidelines/.
Confirm the current handbook, scheduler rules, and ID requirements before you commit to a study or booking plan.
Use the official blueprint and a timed baseline to decide what needs review, drilling, or remediation first.
Run timed sets or full-length practice under the same delivery conditions you expect on exam day whenever possible.
Decide whether to sit CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201 current / 220-1101 legacy) now, delay briefly, or rebuild fundamentals based on measurable readiness instead of hope.
Use the guide to self-serve, or talk to a coordinator if you need help mapping timelines, official requirements, or troubleshooting day-of logistics.
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