Set up 28 years ago, the 'Computing Technology Industry Association' (or CompTIA in short) is a not-for-profit organisation. They have grown progressively and now are world leaders in I.T. qualifications that are vendor-neutral. This basically means they're free to independently deliver and monitor examinations & qualifications which are required by the I.T. market, regardless of a specific company's commercial interests. With today's move to 'inter-connectivity' & systems convergence, this is seen as a great move for the I.T. student, because it gives cross-platform learning and a knowledge of integration. 'CompTIA' brings together different commercial and academic industry organisations when designing or up-dating an exam, to make sure that all sides are considered & the very best industry related syllabuses are crafted.

For the A+ exams set aside for yourself approximately 100-150 hrs to study and prepare, & a bit less for the Network+ examinations (maybe around 75 to 100 hrs). Studying part-time, this can be done over a six month time period if you go for the right quality of training matter and first-rate examination prep products.

On to the 2009 edition of the Network+ : 'N10-004' is currently the examination reference number. In addition to keeping its teaching on network management and infrastructure, the up-graded 2009 examination points to an increased emphasis on security, wireless-networking abilities and network-design standards.

New entrants into the I.T. sector can turn to 'CompTIA' for many of their preliminary study programs. In general, trainees who are aiming for careers in Networking, Security, Servers, Systems, Communications and Support can start out with CompTIA, although in fact students in any sector could find a 'CompTIA' certification a worthwhile component of their Resume. A new package of beginner level courses named STRATA have been created by CompTIA. These are designed for those who need a greater idea of fundamental IT knowledge, but don't specifically work in I.T. themselves.

'CompTIA' A+ & Network+ are certainly the most extensively accepted of their certifications. An exceptionally beneficial pair considered as a bundle, they're the starting point for a lot of productive career-tracks. Individuals get to grips with a good deal of essential computer concepts with A+ , such as maintenance, support, repair, security, installation & fault-finding. So that you can establish yourself within the I.T. industry, the A+ also addresses a number of communication & personal skillsets. Network+ takes the subject further, by developing a more significant knowledge of how networks function and connect with one another. Both 'Security' & Wi-Fi are discussed to a certain level. 'CompTIA' A+ and Network+ provide a firm basis for a systems career in I.T., and also a very good platform for various other more senior qualification programs.

Not surprisingly these roles frequently lead on to far more senior assignments if the correct certifications have been put in place. That is why it is very important to examine your long term ideas before selecting your personal career training path. Take time to go through everything with a training program and IT professional - it will help safeguard you against set-backs down the road. It's often a good idea to think about customised career-training bundles that feature the 'A+' & Network+ programs. Bundling several course materials together is often very cost effective.

If you're interested in any of the following work opportunities, the 'A+' will work for you : Call Centre Technician, Depot Technician, Help Desk Technician, Field Service Technician, PC Technician, Remote Support Technician and IT Administrator. With the CompTIA 'Network+' as well, you're able to look at becoming a Network Installer, an IT Cable Installer, a Network Technician or a Network Administrator.

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