CompTIA Training Courses & Qualifications Explained 1.01

8/3/2019 CompTIA Training Courses & Qualifications Explained 1.01

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Focus on Training Tel: 0845 450 6120 Web: www.focus-on-training.co.uk

2010 Focus on Training

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CompTIA QualificationsExplainedLeading Qualifications and Training for those Building a Career in IT


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CCoommppTTIIAA QQuuaalliiffiiccaattiioonnss EExxppllaaiinneeddThe CompTIA range of certifications provides an ideal route for those looking to establishcareers in the IT sector.

The certifications and associated training are practical and non vendor specific. Theyprovide knowledge which is immediately applicable to a wide range of business situations.

As well as the widely recognised A+ certification for desktop support technicians there isgrowing interest in the other CompTIA qualifications including Networking, Security andInstructor Skills.

The certifications are well recognised by employers in both the UK and around the world.Moreover, leading suppliers of IT solutions such as Microsoft, Cisco and Novell specifyCompTIA certifications as an entry point to their own education schemes.

This document summarises the more popular CompTIA certifications available andexplains what training options are available.

The final section takes a broader look at how new entrants to IT can get started.

Prepared by:

Rex GibsonDevelopment Director

Version 1.01 November 2010

About:

Focus on Training specialises in provision of Best Practice training within the fields ofIT and Project Management. A comprehensive range of CompTIA, ITIL, ISEB,Microsoft, PRINCE2, and other training courses from leading accredited trainingorganisations can be booked at its website:www.focus-on-training.co.uk

Rex Gibson leads the IT and Service Management team at Focus. He has successfullyexecuted major business change and IT projects, and has managed internationalengineering companies with significant IT [email protected]


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CCoonntteennttss

1. What is CompTIA?

1.1 The Organisation

1.2 The Certifications

2. Training and Exams

2.1.Training Options

2.2.Finding & Booking Your Course

2.3.Exams2.4.Re-certification

3. CompTIA A+

3.1.Overview

3.2.What will I Learn?

3.3.Exams

4. CompTIA Network+

4.1.Overview


4.3.Exams

5. CompTIA Security+

5.1.Overview


5.3.Exams

6. CompTIA CTT+

6.1.Overview


6.3.Exams

7. FAQs

8. Getting Started in IT


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11..WWhhaatt iiss CCoommppTTIIAA??

1.1 The Organisation

CompTIA is a leading international provider of professional certifications for theInformation Technology industry. The name is an abbreviation of its full title, theComputing Technology Industry Association. Its a not for profit organisation whichstarted out in 1982. The organisation is based in the US but is growing fast around theworld and has offices in 9 other countries including the UK.

Provision of industry standard certifications is the central activity of CompTia with over230,000 awarded in 2009. Of these the most popular remains the flagship A+

qualification which is the entry point for many starting out in an IT support role. As wellas certifications, CompTIA seeks to provide a forum for organisations and individuals toaddress issues and opportunities facing the IT sector.

1.2 The Certifications

Features of CompTIA certifications are that they are:

- Not aligned to specific hardware or software solutions

- Regularly updated to maintain relevance

- Flexible, with few pre-requisites

- Practical, emphasising job specific skills not theory

Leading CompTIA certifications have received recognition by the American NationalStandards Institute and the ISO further consolidating their reputation.

A+ Basic skills for Computer Support technicians in areas such as installation,maintenance, networking, security and troubleshooting

Network+ Competency in managing, maintaining, troubleshooting, installing andconfiguring basic network infrastructure

Security+ Competency in system security, network infrastructure, access control andorganisational security

Server+ Knowledge and skills to build, maintain, troubleshoot and support serverhardware and software including virtualisation & disaster recovery

CTT+ Core instructor skills, including presentation, communication, facilitation andevaluation in both a classroom and virtual classroom environment

Other Less widely adopted certifications: CDIA+ (document imaging); Linux+(Linux operating systems); Project+ (project management); RFID+ (RFIDtechnology); CTP+ (convergence technologies); PDI+ (printing & imaging)


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22..TTrraaiinniinngg aanndd EExxaammss2.1 Training Options

CompTIA operates a network of approved training organisations (Authorised Partners)and endorses training materials including books and online learning products which meettheir quality requirements.

Focus recommends instructor led training classes since these offer greater opportunity tocover the more practical elements of the course content.

Focus training courses are always delivered by approved trainers and utilise endorsedtraining materials.

It is not mandated that candidates use either classroom or online training but you shouldbe aware that pass rates for those who have not made use of these resources aresignificantly lower.

2.2 Finding & Booking Your Course

Focus provides the UK database for accredited CompTIA classroom courses.www.focus-on-training.co.uk

You can search for courses by date and location to find the course which is most suitablefor you. Having done so you can either reserve a place or book and pay online.

You will find full course details on the Focus website. If you have any questions or needassistance with booking then our experienced training advisors will be pleased to help.

Email [email protected] 0845 450 6120

2.3 Exams

Exams are not taken as part of a training course.

Exams are available at times and locations to suit candidates through either Prometric orPearson Vue Testing Centres.

http://www.prometric.com/CompTIA/http://www.pearsonvue.com/comptia/


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At time of writing, the exam fees in the UK were:

A+ 114Network+ 169Security+ 191

Exams follow a closed book, multiple choice format. Marks are normalised and resultsgiven on a range of 100 to 900. Pass marks vary between certifications and are subject toadjustment over time.

2.4 Re-Certification

With effect from January 2011 A+, Network+ and Security+ certifications have a validity

of 3 years from date of issue.

To maintain the qualification you need either to re-take the latest version of the exam, orto have completed the designated Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for a givencertificate:CompTIA A+ 20 CEUsCompTIA Network+ 30 CEUsCompTIA Security+ 50 CEUs

CEUs are awarded for a variety of professional development activities including trainingcourse attendance and the writing of blogs or articles. Refer to the CompTIA website fordetails.

33.. CCoommppTTIIAA AA++

3.1 Overview

CompTIA A+ training and certification is the industry standard for computer supporttechnicians. The international, vendor-neutral qualification proves competence in areassuch as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security and troubleshooting.

CompTIA A+ is part of the certification track for corporations such as Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Cisco and Novell. Other technology companies, including Ricoh, have madeCompTIA A+ certification mandatory for their service technicians.

More than 700,000 people worldwide have become CompTIA A+ certified since it waslaunched in 1993.

There are no pre-requisites though it is recommended that students should haveexperience of using a PC, Windows and browsing the Web.

There are two elements to the qualification: Essentials - Basic technical knowledge Practical Application - Troubleshooting and use of tools


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You can take separate 5 day training courses for these or just one fast track 5 daycourse.

The fast track course requires a greater element of self study and allows less time forhands on practical work; it is more suitable for those who have at least 6 monthsexperience in an IT support role rather than the complete novice.

3.2 What Will I Learn?

By the end of the training you should be able to:

- Identify types and characteristics of PC components, including motherboard, CPU, memory,and storage, input, and output devices

- Install and configure peripheral devices

- Identify types and characteristics of portable computers

- Install and configure Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, Vista and Windows7

- Perform basic PC maintenance and troubleshooting

- Understand fundamental principles of securing IT systems and working safely

- Communicate effectively with customers

- Understand fundamental principles of implementing LANs and internet access

- Manage and optimise Windows using command line tools, administrative consoles, andRemote Desktop

- Manage and optimise disks and volumes using command line tools and administrativeconsoles

- Diagnose and resolve Windows troubleshooting scenarios

- Use anti-virus tools to prevent and recover from malware infections

- Configure and troubleshoot local network and wireless connections and client applications

- Configure and manage users, groups, and shared resources

- Configure and troubleshoot access control measures, such as BIOS security, authentication,encryption, and firewalls

- Perform preventive maintenance using approved tools and products

- Assemble, disassemble, and upgrade PC and notebook components

- Configure and update BIOS/CMOS


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- Troubleshoot, optimise, and upgrade hardware

- Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain printers

3.3 Exams

Two exams are necessary to be certified:CompTIA A+ Essentials, exam code 220-701CompTIA A+ Practical Application, exam code 220-702.

Number of questions: 100 for each exam

Length of test: 90 minutes each

Passing score: 675 for CompTIA A+ Essentials; 700 for CompTIA A+ PracticalApplication on a scale of 100-900

44..CCoommppTTIIAA NNeettwwoorrkk++

4.1 Overview

CompTIA Network+ certification indicates competency in managing, maintaining,troubleshooting, installing and configuring basic network infrastructure.

The course will particularly benefit students pursuing a career in network administration,as a Network Support Technician, Network Engineer, Network Administrator, or in ServiceDesk support.

Since its introduction in 1999, more than 235,000 people have become CompTIANetwork+ certified. The qualification is endorsed by Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, Compaq,and Lotus, among other leading vendors.

This qualification is particularly recommended for students who wish to progress to theCisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Microsoft MCSE / MCSA / MCITP

qualifications.

Although not a prerequisite, it is recommended that CompTIA Network+ candidates haveat least nine months of experience in network support, or administration or academictraining, along with a CompTIA A+ certification.

The 5 day training course covers the Network+ syllabus and prepares delegates for theexam.


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- Describe the features of different network protocols and products for LANs, WANs, and

wireless networks

- Understand the functions and features of TCP/IP addressing and protocols

- Identify threats to network resources and appropriate security countermeasures

- Install and configure network cabling and appliances

- Manage, monitor, and troubleshoot networks.

The course covers the following topics:

- Network Topologies and the OSI Model

- LAN and WLAN Technologies

- Cabling and Connectors

- WAN Technologies

- Addressing

- Routing Protocols

- Transport Protocols

- Application Protocols

- Security Threats and Countermeasures

- Network Security Appliances

- Network Access Security and Authentication

- Installing Network Infrastructure

- Installing Wireless and Remote Networks

- Advanced Network Infrastructure

- Configuration Management

- Monitoring

- Troubleshooting


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4.3 Exams

One exam is necessary to be certified.

Exam code: N10-004

Number of questions: 100

Length of test: 90 minutes

Passing score: 720 on a scale of 100-900

55..CCoommppTTIIAA SSeeccuurriittyy++

5.1 Overview

CompTIA Security+certification demonstrates competency in system security, networkinfrastructure, access control and organisational security.

Although not a prerequisite, it is recommended that CompTIA Security+ candidates haveat least two years of technical networking experience, with an emphasis on security. The

CompTIA Network+ certification is also recommended.

There is a 5 day training course to provide candidates with the knowledge needed to passthe exam.



- Identify network attack strategies and defences

- Understand the principles of organisational security and the elements of effective security

policies

- Know the technologies and uses of encryption standards and products

- Identify network- and host-based security technologies and practices

- Describe how remote access security is enforced

- Describe the standards and products used to enforce security on web and communications

technologies

- Identify strategies for ensuring business continuity, fault tolerance, and disaster recovery.


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The course covers the following topics:

- Network Topologies and the OSI Model

- Security Concepts

- Threats

- Operational Security

- Cryptography

- Public Key Infrastructure

- Site Security

- Network Security

- Wireless Access Security

- Operating System Security

- Application Security

- Auditing and Intrusion Detection Systems

- Remote Access Security

- Securing Email and Messaging Communications

- Securing Web Services

- Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

5.3 Exams

One exam is necessary to be certified.

Exam code: SY0-201





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66..CCoommppTTIIAA CCTTTT++6.1 Overview

The CompTIA Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) certification identifies competent ITindustry instructors.

CompTIA CTT+ training covers core instructor skills, including preparation, presentation,communication, facilitation and evaluation in both a classroom and virtual classroomenvironment. Adobe, Dell, and Microsoft recommend that their trainers be CTT+ certified.

All candidates must take the CompTIA CTT+ Essentials exam, and at least one of the twospecialisms - Classroom Trainer or Virtual Classroom Trainer. Candidates will need to

supply a video or recording of their classroom or virtual classroom sessions.

The course is applicable to anyone that needs to deliver technical training and education.Some experience in classroom facilitation would be helpful though this is not an absoluterequirement. CTT+ certification provides a springboard for any technical trainer.

There is a 3 day training course with 4-8 hours preparation required. The course includesthe production of the 'Performance Assessment' video which is produced during thecourse to the criteria stipulated in CompTIA's documentation.



- Understand and Apply the CTT+ Certification Domain Model

- Facilitate Technical Training Courses

- Provide a 'Performance Assessment' (Video) Submission to CompTIA

6.3 Exams

Two exams are necessary to be certified.

Exam code: CompTIA CTT+ Essentials - TK0-201




AND Either

CompTIA CTT+ Classroom Trainer - TK0-202 OR

CompTIA CTT+ Virtual Classroom Trainer - TK0-203


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77..FFAAQQssAm I ready to take CompTIA A+ training and exams?There are no absolute pre-requisites, but we would recommend that you start withaverage to advanced PC skills. You dont need previous technical skills but you should becomfortable with standard PC applications such as Microsoft Office, and be familiar withusing the internet.

Where can I find accredited training course?Focus offers CompTIA courses in more than 12 UK cities including London, Birmingham,Manchester, Leeds, Wokingham and Newcastle.

How do I book my Exam?

You need to book your exam directly with either Prometric or Pearson Vue. They havetest centres across the country. Website details can be found in section 2.3.

What is the pass rate for A+?The pass rates are not published but average pass rates are approx 30%. This includesmany individuals who attempt the exams without taking accredited training usingunreliable materials available on the internet. The first time pass rate for those who haveundertaken accredited classroom training is in excess of 80%.

Will CompTIA A+ certification guarantee me a job?No but it will definitely strengthen your CV and increase your chances. It is the mostwidely recognised entry level qualification in the UK and internationally. Employers of

course will also be interested in experience and other relevant skills you may have. Focusis not able to help with job placements but we can point you to specialist recruitmentagencies.

Do I need a PC for my training?No. You will be provided with a PC and any other equipment you need for use during thecourse

Will I need to Re-certify for both A+ and Network+?The requirement for re-certification started in January 2011. If you gained yourcertificate before then it retains lifetime validity. If you take both A+ and Network+ after

January 2011 they will both require re-certification after 3 years. However, if you aredoing so through continuing professional development then you only need to meet the

CEU requirement of the higher qualification.


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88..GGeettttiinngg SSttaarrtteedd iinn IITTAs organisations become increasingly reliant on IT so demand for competent IT staffcontinues to grow. There are ups and downs as technology advances and as individualcompanies modify the ways in which they deliver their IT services but the overalldirection is positive. This makes it an attractive sector for younger people looking tobuild careers with significant upward potential.

As an IT training specialist Focus is regularly asked for advice on IT career paths. Wewould be pleased to provide individual recommendations but the following general pointsmay help.

Establish and develop your expertise

- You need to acquire IT skills above and beyond those familiar to the averageemployee. For instance, this might relate to specific software, to methodologiessuch as software testing, or to the administration of computer systems

- Because IT is moving so fast you cannot afford to stand still. What you learnt 5years ago will probably be largely obsolete. You need to be devoting time andenergy to updating your skills on a continuous basis

- The more differentiated and in demand your skills, the more you will earn. Youprobably need to establish yourself in broad area such as Support Technician orWeb designer but adding specialist skills which are aligned with current trends isthe way to really create opportunity.

Certifications Matter

- The IT industry has far more certifications associated with it than any othersector. This reflects the fast changing nature of the technology, and the need foremployers to have reliable means to assess the suitability of job applicants orcontractors to undertake business critical tasks.

- Certifications matter but they are not the only recruitment criteria. The idealscenario is to combine certified skill sets with proven experience of applying thoseskills to deliver positive impact on a business

- IT Certifications are more widely recognised across all types of organisation, andinternationally, than any other professional qualifications. This means you areacquiring transferable skills with widespread applicability.

Where do you want to specialise?

Newcomers to IT often fail to appreciate how diverse the job roles within it can be. Agood start point is to research the options and see how they fit with your capabilities and

preferences.

IT Support

- Job roles include PC Technician, IT Technician, Enterprise Technician, SupportDesk Technician, Field Technician, PC Support Specialist


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- Working with end users resolving problems, troubleshooting, supporting operating

systems and desktops.

- Salaries in the range 15,000 to 30,000

- Key Certifications:CompTIA A+MCITP: Enterprise Desktop Support Technician

Database Administration

- Job roles include Database Administrator, Support Analyst, Database Developer

- Working with end users resolving more complex issues, supporting operating

systems and desktops; administration, support and maintenance of databases;ensuring the integrity and security of the database; controlling access andensuring data flow within the business


- Key Certifications:CompTIA A+MCTS - Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: SQL Server 2005 (Microsoft)MCITP - Microsoft Certified IT Professional: Database Administrator (Microsoft)

Networking

- Job roles include Systems Engineer, Network Engineer, Network Administrator,Systems Analyst, Network Analyst, Network Architect

- Administration and maintenance of networks; strategic management anddevelopment of networks and security; technology management, technical andinfrastructure operations and security across businesses


- Key Certifications:CompTIA Network+CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate (Cisco)

Programming

- Job roles include Programmer, Application Developer, Web Application Developer

- Working as a member of a team involved in developing software solutions


- Key Certifications:MCTS: .NET Framework 3.5, ASP.NET Applications (Microsoft)MCPD: ASP.NET Developer 3.5 (Microsoft)


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Software Testing

- Job roles include Test Analyst, Test Engineer, Test Manager

- Undertaking systematic testing of software solutions to ensure compliance withspecifications


- Key Certifications:ISEB/ISTQB Foundation Software TestingISEB/ISTQB Advanced Test Analyst, Test Manager, or Technical Test Analyst

More than just Technical Skills

- With the possible exception of certain specialist programming roles, success in IT jobs requires a good understanding of the business environment in which youoperate, and an ability to work effectively with colleagues and customers.

- Find opportunities to broaden your skill base through both experience andtraining. This may include interpersonal skills such as presentation techniques

just as much as more IT specific activities.

- Good examples which will help relate IT skills to business objectives are IT ServiceManagement (ITIL), Business Analysis (ISEB Diploma) and Project Management(PRINCE2, DSDM or Scrum).

Further Information

CompTIA Certificationshttp://www.comptia.org/

Microsoft Certificationshttp://www.microsoft.com/learning/

Cisco Certificationshttp://www.cisco.com/web/learning/le3/learning_certification_overview.html

IT Salaries & Job Trendshttp://www.itjobswatch.co.uk/

IT Jobs Graduateshttp://www.itjobsforgraduates.com/

IT Jobs Generalhttp://www.computingcareers.co.uk/

BCS/ISEB British Computer Societyhttp://www.bcs.org/

CompTIA Training Courses & Qualifications Explained 1.01

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