Roughly every three years, CompTIA updates the content of their certification exams to reflect the most modern technology and methodologies in the field. This makes it no surprise that the CompTIA A+ exam is do for an overhaul. What does that mean for you?
The changes between exam versions are rarely massive. This is good news if you’ve started preparing for the current version but don’t expect to be ready by the retirement date. In this article, we are listing the expected exam changes so you can prepare yourself for success.
So, without any further delay, let’s review the 2025 CompTIA A+ update and compare 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202.
Why the Update?
One of the reasons CompTIA certifications are so respected is that they always reflect the latest important information a professional is expected to know. If you hold a CompTIA credential, employers and professionals are aware that your knowledge isn’t outdated, as you’ve either recently passed a relevant and modern exam or have maintained your certification through continued study and earning further (and more advanced) certifications.
The world changes dramatically from year to year, and technology is changing at a much faster rate. Three years ago, it would have been hard to imagine the influence AI has had on our daily lives, for example.
While the updates can be frustrating if you’re battling the clock and trying to prepare in time for the exam version that is approaching retirement, we can all agree that a certification that hasn’t changed in the last nine years is hardly of value.
Important Notice
CompTIA has not yet made an official definitive announcement regarding the 2025 A+ update. The information presented here is based on draft exam objectives that appeared on CompTIA’s website. While this information provides valuable insight into the upcoming changes, some details may change before the official release in Spring 2025.
Recommendations For CompTIA A+ Exam Takers
For Current A+ Students
- If you’re currently studying for the 1101/1102 exams, continue your preparation
- Aim to complete your certification within the next six to seven months if possible
- The current exam will likely be writable for several months after the new version’s release (historically, CompTIA has run both the retiring and new exam versions at the same time to allow students to choose their preferred version during the transition period)
- Your A+ certification will be valid for three years regardless of which version you earn
For Prospective A+ Students
- If you’re just starting your A+ journey and won’t be ready to test for six or more months, consider waiting for the 2025 version
- Core IT concepts remain largely the same between versions, so you can start studying with current materials
- Focus on understanding fundamental concepts rather than memorizing specific technical details, which may change between exam versions
- Consider that training materials for the new version may not be immediately available at launch
Core Exam Structure
- Both versions maintain the two-exam structure, passing both is required to obtain the CompTIA A+ certification
- Current: 220-1101 and 220-1102
- New: 220-1201 and 220-1202
- Expected release: Spring 2025
A+ Core 1 Exam Changes: 220-1101 vs 220-1201
The A+ Core 1 exam has always primarily focused on hardware, networking, and troubleshooting physical devices. From a high level, this remains unchanged. Let’s review the details.
Domain Weight Changes
- Networking received a 3% increase in importance
- Other domains maintained similar weightings
Key Updates
Mobile Devices:
- Enhanced focus on Mobile Device Management (MDM)
- Added emphasis on BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies
- Expanded coverage of NFC and biometrics
Networking:
- Increased focus on IPv6
- Added coverage of APIPA
- Enhanced security-related networking concepts
Hardware:
- Increased emphasis on USB-C
- Reduced focus on legacy connections (VGA)
- Decreased emphasis on older USB standards
Cloud Computing:
- Added multi-tenancy concepts
- Enhanced focus on multi-cloud environments
A+ Core 2 Exam Changes: 220-1102 vs 220-1202
As before, Core 2 focuses on operating systems, security, and troubleshooting software issues. Here are the expected changes.
Domain Weight Changes
- Operating Systems: Decreased by 3%
- Security: Increased by 3%
- Software Troubleshooting: Increased by 1%
- Operational Procedures: Decreased slightly
Key Updates
Operating Systems:
- Windows 11 is now the primary focus
- Added new file systems (ReFS and XFS)
- Enhanced Mac OS security coverage (Rapid Security Response)
- Expanded Linux command coverage
- Added Nano text editor coverage
Security:
- Added Zero Trust model
- Introduced Privileged Access Management
- New attack vectors:
- QR code phishing
- Business Email Compromise (BEC)
- Supply chain attacks
- Enhanced coverage of Time-based One-Time Passwords (TOTP)
Operational Procedures:
- Added Artificial Intelligence concepts:
- Public vs. private AI
- Data security and privacy
- AI bias and hallucinations
- Appropriate use and plagiarism
- AI accuracy considerations
General Notes on CompTIA A+ Update: 220-1101/1102 vs 220-1201/1202
- Core IT concepts remain largely unchanged
- Updated to reflect current technology trends
- Enhanced focus on security across all domains
- More emphasis on modern troubleshooting scenarios
- Expected cost: Likely similar to the current version ($250 per exam)
- The retirement date for the current version has not yet been announced
Does CompTIA A+ Still Hold Value?
The CompTIA A+ certification, whichever version you pursue, remains a valuable credential if you are looking to break into IT and cyber security (particularly help desk and other entry-level positions). It provides a broad foundation for multiple IT domains, covering everything from hardware and networking to security and troubleshooting.
With regularly updated content, the CompTIA A+ stays relevant in the industry and proves to employers that you have the skills they seek. Its validity for three years makes it a solid investment for kickstarting your career in information technology.
Conclusion
The A+ updates have not been finalized as of yet, but CompTIA has been gracious enough to provide insight into what they have planned for the new version of the exams. This gives you the opportunity to plan your studying and scheduling accordingly.
If you have the ability to complete the exams before the expiry, take advantage of the great resources available. If not, use this information to tailor your preparations while you await the final updates and the latest courses and practice tests.
Whatever you choose, consider a StationX Membership and gain access to over 1,000 courses and labs to help you prepare for this and many other certifications you intend to pursue. You can see some of our course offerings below.
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