The not-for-profit institution CompTIA - Computing Technology Industry Association - was formed in the early 1980's. The company produces vendor neutral certifications that have made it a world leader in it's industry. This basically means they are absolutely free to independently create and monitor exams and accreditations that are needed by the IT industry, regardless of a particular company's commercial interests. This really is very good for IT students, as they can learn about different platforms & how they inter-connect & integrate with each other - a common situation now in industry. CompTIA gathers together different business and learned industry organisations when creating or up-dating an exam, to ensure all things are considered and the very best industry relevant syllabuses are crafted.

CompTIA A+ and 'Network+' are certainly the most widely accepted of their accreditations. An extremely useful group taken as a package, they're the starting place for many thriving career-tracks. 'A+' training teaches all of the basics of Computer maintenance, fault-finding & repair; including installation, security and support. It also handles various personal and communication skill-sets required to get into IT. Expanding on this awareness, the N+ certification examines networks, (including routers and servers) & shows exactly how they inter-connect. Security is needless to say vital, and wireless-technology is dealt with to some extent. Acquiring both of these accreditations will provide a good platform for anyone considering getting into the 'systems' area of the I.T. market, along with a foundation of knowledge for further certification.

For the new trainee to I.T., 'CompTIA' provides the initial foundation training programs in various areas. Wherever an individual decides to build a career in IT, there are various 'CompTIA' accreditations that will enhance their skills. Those who are particularly interested in Networks, Systems, Support, Security, Servers & Communications are particularly well-served. 'CompTIA' are also now marketing STRATA certifications - these are not especially for individuals working in the I.T. sector, but for people whose careers require a fundamental understanding of computers.

As for the '2009' edition of the Network+ : 'N10-004' has become the exam reference number. Along with retaining it's focus on network management and infrastructure, the updated '2009' exam places a greater importance on Security, wireless-networking skills & network design standards.

In 2009 each program under-went upgrades, and new examinations are now to be found for them both. Internationally the 2006-2007 versions of 'A+' (those with examination prefix 600) will be phased-out over the coming year. In Britain, they cease being offered on 31st August 2010. Since both these, and the new '700' examinations at the moment are available to sit in 'prometric' & Vue test centres, it's sensible to study the 700 exams now, and avoid having to certify again later. 'CompTIA' A+ Essentials and CompTIA 'A+' Practical Application are the new exam titles (220/701 and 220-702 respectively). The 4 previous exams have been stream-lined into 2 new examinations, and some more up-dated information has been introduced. The previous structure was one compulsory 'essentials' exam & three 'electives', of which only one was required to be sat. Right now the sector needs workers with expertise that used to be in all of the past exams. Trainees will get that subject matter from the two '2009' compulsory A+ programs. An up-grade exam has been produced by CompTIA for those with the older accreditation. 'BR-003' is the exam number. Supplemental training will almost certainly be needed, especially for those who only originally worked on 2 of the four electives. Sufficient training time must be allowed for the new aspects though.

Be expecting to allow close to a hundred to one hundred & fifty hours studying time for the A+ exams, and for the Network+ close to seventy five to a hundred hours. Studying part time, this could be accomplished over a 6 month period if you pick out the right quality of training matter and superior examination preparation products.

The 'CompTIA' 'A+' examinations are mainly suitable for anybody looking to start work in any of the following areas: Call Centre Technician, Remote Support Technician, Depot Technician, Field Service Technician, Help Desk Technician, PC Technician & IT Administrator. 'CompTIA' 'Network+' unwraps opportunities for Network Administrators & Technicians, IT Cable Installers and Network Installers.

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