The not-for-profit institution 'CompTIA' - Computing Technology Industry Association - was formed in the early 1980's. They have developed step by step and now are world leaders in I.T. qualifications that are vendor neutral. This basically means they are free to independently produce & monitor exams and accreditations which are required by the I.T. sector, regardless of a particular company's commercial interests. This is excellent for trainees, as they can learn about different platforms & how they 'inter-connect' and 'integrate' with one another - a common situation today. Every time a new syllabus is produced, 'CompTIA' invites a number of academic & commercial organisations to come together & verify that every area has been thought about equally, and the programs are appropriate from a commercial perspective.

Standard learning time for these examinations are judged to be about 100-150 hrs for the 'A+' , & 75 to 100 hrs for the 'Network+' . Using the best multi-media training that's backed up by accredited exam practice software, the two accreditations could very well be accomplished inside six months for the individual who's studying whilst holding down a job.

The 'CompTIA' A+ examinations are predominantly aimed at anyone looking to begin work in any of these roles: Call Centre Technician, Remote Support Technician, Depot Technician, Field Service Technician, Help Desk Technician, PC Technician & IT Administrator. With CompTIA 'Network+' also, you can think about becoming a Network Installer, an IT Cable Installer, a Network Technician or a Network Administrator.

The actual Network+ 2009 exam is now referred to as 'N10-004', replacing the earlier N10-003. A larger emphasis is focused on security in the '09 N+ examination, along with network design & wireless networking. This of course is in addition to the key aspects of network management and infrastructure.

In 2009 both programmes under-went updates, & new examinations are actually in existence for each of them. The former A+ (version 2006/2007) exams that were categorised using the 600 prefix are now being retired worldwide during 2010. In Britain, they discontinue on 31st August 2010. As '2009' exams ('700') are already available at test-centres across the country, these newer learning programs are probably a more valuable choice for anyone just about to start. 'CompTIA' 'A+' Essentials & CompTIA 'A+' Practical Application are the new exam titles (220/701 & 220/702 respectively). The four earlier exams have been re-structured into 2 brand new examinations, and some further updated material has been introduced. Although the old 'A+' had 4 exams within the total program, just two were needed for the certification. As the market has progressed, the expertise from all four exams is now regarded as necessary, and so has been condensed into 2 required assessments. A bridging examination has been produced by 'CompTIA' for anybody who have the old accreditation. BR-003 is the reference number. Passing the up-grade exam will normally demand further study, although this ought not to be especially onerous for people who formerly studied all electives. Enough study time should be allowed for the new aspects however.

The A+ program & the 'Network+' training are CompTIA's flagship qualifications. Collectively they encompass the basis of many career-paths in I.T., & as a result are leaders within their field. 'A+' training teaches all the fundamental basics of Computer maintenance, fault-finding and repair; including security, installation and support. It also addresses several personal & communication skillsets required to get into I.T.. Network+ takes things further, by working on a more in depth understanding of how networks function & connect with one another. 'Security' is of course vital, & wireless technology is discussed to a certain degree. Both qualifications go with each other well, & together provide a very good starting platform for other examination programs, or a solid career in I.T. support.

For the new entrant to I.T., 'CompTIA' offers the preliminary foundation training courses in a number of sectors. Usually, students who are interested in careers in Networking, Security, Servers, Systems, Communications and Support should probably begin with 'CompTIA', but in fact students in any sector would likely find a CompTIA accreditation a helpful component of their CV. There's now also a push at CompTIA to provide their beginner level 'STRATA' courses to those individuals who do not actually work within IT, but would reap some benefits from an understanding of basic IT & how it affects their job.

These accreditations and job roles are often taken enroute to a advanced I.T. job. Before you opt for a particular training course, bear in mind just where you want your final destination to be. This requires a discussion with a professional industry expert to make sure that the course you select is right and cost-effective. Many organisations offer 'packaged' career tracks which can include these qualifications, and so investing in a career bundle can give you considerable cost-savings.

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