The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams, released in 2025, replace the older 1101 and 1102 versions with updated content that reflects current IT trends. Key changes include a greater focus on cybersecurity, new topics like AI fundamentals, Zero Trust security, and deeper coverage of Windows 11, Linux, and virtualization. Networking content has been expanded, and outdated technologies have been removed. These updates signal a shift toward preparing IT professionals for modern, cloud-based, and security-driven environments, making the A+ certification more relevant for today’s entry-level tech roles.
The CompTIA A+ certification is designed to validate foundational IT skills across various domains, including hardware, networking, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. To achieve certification, candidates must pass two exams: Core 1 and Core 2.
- CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1): Focused on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and cloud computing.
- CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (Core 2): Covered operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.
The updated exams, 220-1201 and 220-1202, maintain this structure but introduce new content to align with current industry standards and technologies.
Key Changes in the 220-1201 (Core 1) Exam
The 220-1201 exam continues to assess knowledge in hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and cloud computing. However, it introduces several updates to reflect modern technological advancements.
Domain Weight Adjustments
- Mobile Devices: Reduced from 15% to 13%.
- Networking: Increased from 20% to 23%.
- Hardware: Remains at 25%.
- Virtualization and Cloud Computing: Remains at 11%.
- Hardware and Network Troubleshooting: Slight decrease from 29% to 28%.
New Topics Introduced
- Display Technologies: Inclusion of mini-LEDs, refresh rates, pixel density, and color gamut.
- Wireless Technologies: Coverage now includes 6 GHz Wi-Fi, long-range wireless, and software-defined networking (SDN).
- Virtualization Concepts: Expanded emphasis on virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), Type I/II hypervisors, and containers.
- Printer Maintenance: Enhanced focus on 3D printing and device calibration.
Removed or Streamlined Content
- Troubleshooting Methodology: No longer a standalone topic; integrated throughout relevant sections.
- Cable and Printer Consumables: Topics have been merged for clarity and brevity.
Key Changes in the 220-1202 (Core 2) Exam
The 220-1202 exam continues to cover operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures, with updates to address current IT challenges.
Domain Weight Adjustments
- Operating Systems: Decreased from 31% to 28%.
- Security: Increased from 25% to 28%.
- Software Troubleshooting: Slight increase from 22% to 23%.
- Operational Procedures: Slight decrease from 22% to 21%.
New Topics Introduced
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Fundamentals: Introduction to AI basics, including bias, hallucinations, plagiarism concerns, and public vs. private AI use.
- Security Tools and Practices: Inclusion of Zero Trust, Extended Detection and Response (XDR), Managed Detection and Response (MDR), Privileged Access Management (PAM), and Data Loss Prevention (DLP).
- Operating System Enhancements: Coverage of Windows 11 features such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM), Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), and Windows Hello.
- Linux/macOS Deep Dives: Focused content on file systems, configuration files, kernel modules, and system tools.
Removed or Streamlined Content
- Command Line Tools: Some command-line options like xcopy, copy, and shutdown have been removed.
- Obsolete Technologies: Topics like ext3 file system, optical media, and certain Linux features have been dropped.
- Operational Procedures: Removal of topics such as network topology diagrams and Microsoft Remote Assistance.
Implications for IT Professionals
The updates in the 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams reflect the shifting landscape of IT, emphasizing the importance of staying current with emerging technologies and practices.
- Enhanced Security Focus: The increased weight on security topics underscores the growing need for IT professionals to be adept in safeguarding systems and data.
- Modernized Content: Inclusion of AI fundamentals and updated operating system features ensures that certified professionals are prepared for contemporary IT environments.
- Practical Application: The integration of troubleshooting methodologies throughout the exams promotes a more holistic understanding of problem-solving in real-world scenarios.
Preparing for the Updated Exams
For those planning to take the updated exams, it’s crucial to utilize study materials that align with the 220-1201 and 220-1202 objectives. Resources such as Professor Messer’s training courses and CompTIA’s official materials can provide comprehensive preparation.
- Study Resources: Utilize updated textbooks, online courses, and practice exams tailored to the new objectives.
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in practical labs and simulations to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check CompTIA’s official website for any updates or changes to exam objectives.
Conclusion
The transition from the 220-1101/1102 to the 220-1201/1202 version of the CompTIA A+ certification isn’t just a refresh—it’s a response to how dramatically the IT landscape has evolved in the past few years. These changes reflect a more security-conscious, cloud-centric, and automation-aware IT environment. The inclusion of topics like AI fundamentals, Zero Trust security models, and modern OS features such as TPM and UEFI shows that CompTIA is no longer just testing for basic desktop support knowledge. Instead, it’s expecting A+ certified professionals to be ready for the demands of hybrid work environments, remote troubleshooting, and managing diverse operating systems and cloud-based services.
In practical terms, this means IT newcomers need to prepare not just for what’s common in traditional office IT setups, but also for the complexities of today’s decentralized digital workplace.
Summary of Key Differences Between 1101/1102 and 1201/1202
| Area | 220-1101/1102 | 220-1201/1202 |
|---|---|---|
| Security Focus | Basic security concepts, firewalls, access controls | Advanced security concepts like XDR, DLP, Zero Trust, PAM |
| AI and Emerging Tech | No coverage | Introduced AI fundamentals and ethical considerations |
| Operating Systems | Focus on Windows 10, some Linux/macOS | More on Windows 11, TPM, UEFI, deeper Linux/macOS file systems |
| Networking | Traditional wired/wireless networking | Includes SDN, long-range wireless, and 6 GHz Wi-Fi |
| Cloud and Virtualization | Basics of virtualization/cloud | Emphasis on hypervisors, containers, VDI |
| Mobile/Hardware | Printers, mobile OS, cabling | Updated printer tech (3D), refined mobile display technologies |
| Troubleshooting | Segmented approach | Troubleshooting embedded throughout for real-world workflow alignment |
Strategic Takeaways for Test-Takers
Here are some tactical insights for candidates preparing for the 1201/1202 exams:
- Don’t Underestimate Security and AI
- The new security section is more comprehensive. You’ll need to understand advanced tools and security frameworks.
- AI isn’t deeply technical yet, but you’re expected to grasp its implications—ethical, functional, and practical.
- Get Comfortable with Windows 11 and Modern OS Environments
- Expect more about system requirements for TPM and Secure Boot.
- You’ll also need basic troubleshooting knowledge for Linux/macOS environments, not just Windows.
- Practice with Virtualization Tools
- Use tools like VirtualBox or VMware to understand hypervisors and containers hands-on.
- Keep Up with Networking Trends
- Learn about SDN, and review wireless standards including the newer 6 GHz spectrum (Wi-Fi 6E).
- Don’t just memorize ports and protocols—understand how they relate to cloud services and remote access.
- Focus on Real-World Scenarios
- The 120x exams focus more on applying knowledge in realistic situations—less rote memorization, more application.
Final Thoughts
The 220-1201 and 220-1202 exams show that CompTIA is raising the bar. The organization recognizes that even entry-level tech roles now demand familiarity with cloud environments, better security hygiene, and awareness of how AI and automation impact everyday workflows.
If you’re entering the IT field, this shift might seem overwhelming—but it’s also an opportunity. Learning these new concepts now puts you ahead of the curve. Certifications like the A+ are no longer just about “help desk” skills—they’re a foundational step into roles involving cybersecurity, systems administration, cloud support, and more.
So whether you’re studying to earn your first IT credential or you’re recertifying to stay relevant, approach the new A+ with a mindset focused on practical skills, security-first thinking, and continuous learning. That’s not just how you pass the test—it’s how you build a real career in tech.