The New CompTIA A+ 220-1201 & 220-1202: Everything You Need to Know

The IT industry continues to evolve, and so does the certification that launches thousands of technology careers every year. The new CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2) exams represent the latest version of the world’s most recognized entry-level IT certification.

If you are planning to start a career in IT support, help desk, or technical services, understanding this updated version is critical to your success.

At ASM Educational Center, we are fully aligned with the newest exam objectives and have developed updated training materials specifically for this exam series.

What Is CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202?

CompTIA A+ validates the foundational skills required for modern IT support roles. To earn the certification, candidates must pass two exams:

220-1201 (Core 1)
220-1202 (Core 2)

Together, these exams confirm that you have the hands-on troubleshooting skills and technical knowledge employers expect from entry-level IT professionals.

Unlike certifications that focus on a single specialty, A+ covers a broad range of technologies, making it one of the most versatile credentials in the IT industry.

What’s Covered in 220-1201 (Core 1)?

Core 1 focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, and emerging technologies.

Mobile Devices

Install, configure, and troubleshoot laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This is especially important in remote and hybrid work environments.

Networking

Understand foundational networking concepts including:

• TCP/IP fundamentals

• Wi-Fi standards

• Routers and switches

• Basic network troubleshooting

Hardware

Gain practical knowledge of:

• PC components

• Storage devices such as SSDs and HDDs

• Motherboards, RAM, and CPUs

• Printers and peripherals

Virtualization and Cloud Computing

Modern IT support requires familiarity with:

• Cloud computing concepts

• Virtual machines

• SaaS, IaaS, and PaaS models

Core 1 ensures you can build, configure, and support the physical and network infrastructure businesses rely on daily.

What’s Covered in 220-1202 (Core 2)?

Core 2 shifts focus to operating systems, security, and professional IT practices.

Operating Systems

Work with:

• Windows installation and configuration

• macOS fundamentals

• Linux basics

• Mobile OS management

Security

Cybersecurity awareness is essential in every IT role. Core 2 covers:

• Malware identification and removal

• Security best practices

• Access control concepts

• Data protection strategies

Software Troubleshooting

Diagnose and resolve:

• Application crashes

• Boot errors

• Operating system failures

• Performance issues

Operational Procedures

Develop professional IT standards including:

• Documentation

• Change management

• Safety procedures

• Communication skills for IT professionals

Core 2 ensures you can secure, maintain, and professionally support IT systems in real-world environments.

What’s New in the 220-1200 Series?

The updated 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams reflect modern IT trends, including:

• Increased emphasis on remote troubleshooting

• Expanded cloud and virtualization coverage

• Stronger security integration across objectives

• Updated operating system environments

• More realistic performance-based scenarios

The focus is not just theoretical knowledge. It is about proving you can think critically and solve real technical problems.

ASM’s Updated Course and Exam Guide for 220-1201 and 220-1202

To ensure students are fully prepared for the latest exam version, ASM Educational Center has developed a new course curriculum and exam preparation guide specifically for the 220-1201 and 220-1202 series.

Our updated materials include:

• A structured course guide aligned directly to the latest CompTIA objectives

• Updated hands-on lab exercises reflecting modern IT environments

• Practice exams built around the new exam format

• Performance-based question simulations

• Step-by-step troubleshooting frameworks

We did not simply revise slides. We rebuilt the course to match the structure, depth, and real-world focus of the new Core exams.

This ensures you are studying exactly what you need to pass the exam and succeed on the job.

What Jobs Can You Get After Certification?

With CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202, you can pursue roles such as:

• IT Support Specialist

• Help Desk Technician

• Field Service Technician

• Desktop Support Administrator

• Technical Support Analyst

For many employers, CompTIA A+ remains the baseline certification required for entry-level IT positions.