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Is CompTIA A+ Hard? Complete Difficulty Guide 2026
The CompTIA A+ certification is widely considered the gold standard entry-level IT credential, but that doesn't mean it's easy. Whether you're a complete beginner or someone with casual tech experience, understanding the real difficulty level helps you plan effectively. This guide breaks down pass rates, domain difficulty, study timelines, and proven strategies to make the A+ exam feel manageable.
Plan your next step
CompTIA A+ is moderately challenging but very achievable for dedicated learners. The certification consists of two exams (Core 1 and Core 2) testing broad IT fundamentals. A 3–6 month schedule is one planning option; readiness depends on your background and progress. The difficulty comes from breadth—covering hardware, networking, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting—rather than deep complexity in any single area. CompTIA does not publish pass rates. Use the official objectives and your own practice results to plan preparation.
The question "Is CompTIA A+ hard?" is one of the most common questions from aspiring IT professionals considering the certification. The honest answer: A+ is challenging enough to require genuine preparation, but achievable for anyone willing to invest the time and effort.
This comprehensive analysis examines the specific factors that make A+ difficult, compares it to other certifications, breaks down what determines success or failure, and provides actionable strategies for passing on your first attempt. Whether you're a complete IT beginner or have some technical background, understanding A+ difficulty helps you prepare effectively.
Current A+ exam and policy guidance
A+ V15 uses 220-1201 and 220-1202. Both exams must be from the same version. Each allows up to 90 questions in 90 minutes; Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. Study schedules and preparation budgets on this page are planning examples, not guaranteed outcomes or current price quotes.
There is no required waiting period between the first and second attempts at the same exam. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt. Each new attempt requires payment or an applicable prepaid retake voucher.
Checked September 8, 2026: Core 1 · Core 2 · Retake policy · Scoring policy · Renewal fees.
What Makes CompTIA A+ Challenging?
CompTIA A+ is classified as a beginner certification, but "beginner" doesn't mean "easy." The exam tests a remarkably wide range of IT knowledge across hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting. Here are the primary factors that make it challenging for many candidates:
- Breadth of content: The A+ exam covers 9 domains across two separate exams — from mobile devices and hardware to cloud computing and operational procedures. No single study resource covers everything.
- Performance-based questions (PBQs): These interactive, scenario-based questions require you to solve problems in simulated environments. You can't guess your way through them, and they carry significant weight in your final score.
- Two separate exams required: Unlike most certifications that require a single exam, A+ demands you pass both Core 1 and Core 2. Each has different content focus and a separate exam fee.
- Time pressure: With up to 90 questions in 90 minutes per exam, you have roughly one minute per question. PBQs can consume 5-10 minutes each, compressing time for multiple-choice questions.
- Memorization requirements: You need to memorize specific port numbers, cable types, connector specifications, and troubleshooting methodologies — details that require dedicated flashcard practice.
What Makes CompTIA A+ Challenging
The A+ certification's difficulty stems from several specific factors that candidates must understand to prepare effectively.
Exam Breadth (Primary Challenge) A+ covers an exceptionally wide range of IT topics across two separate exams. Core 1 addresses mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, and cloud computing. Core 2 covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Unlike specialized certifications that go deep into one area, A+ requires competence across nine major domains.
Two Separate Exams Passing A+ requires passing both Core 1 and Core 2—each with its own study requirements and exam fee. This doubles the preparation effort compared to single-exam certifications. Many candidates take the exams weeks apart, extending their study timeline.
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) A+ includes PBQs that require hands-on problem-solving in simulated environments. You might configure network settings, interpret command-line output, or troubleshoot a simulated computer issue. Candidates who only study theory often struggle with PBQs.
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
Rapidly Evolving Content CompTIA updates A+ every three years to reflect current technology. The current exams include cloud computing, remote work technologies, and modern security concepts that didn't appear in previous versions.
Prior Experience Impact
Your existing IT knowledge dramatically affects A+ difficulty. Help desk professionals with 6-12 months experience often find A+ manageable. Complete IT beginners may struggle initially with concepts that experienced technicians take for granted. Self-assess honestly: if you've never opened a computer or configured network settings, expect a steeper learning curve.
Domain-by-Domain Difficulty Breakdown
Not all A+ domains are equally difficult. Understanding where candidates typically struggle helps you allocate study time wisely.
| Domain | Exam | Weight | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Devices | Core 1 | 15% | ⭐⭐ Easy |
| Networking | Core 1 | 20% | ⭐⭐⭐ Medium |
| Hardware | Core 1 | 25% | ⭐⭐ Easy-Medium |
| Virtualization & Cloud | Core 1 | 11% | ⭐⭐⭐ Medium |
| Troubleshooting | Core 1 | 28% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hard |
| Operating Systems | Core 2 | 22% | ⭐⭐⭐ Medium |
| Security | Core 2 | 24% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hard |
| Software Troubleshooting | Core 2 | 22% | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hard |
| Operational Procedures | Core 2 | 18% | ⭐⭐ Easy |
Troubleshooting and Security are consistently the most difficult domains. Candidates with hands-on experience find Hardware and Mobile Devices significantly easier, while those studying purely from books often struggle with scenario-based troubleshooting questions.
Hardest A+ Topics for Most Candidates
Based on candidate feedback and exam performance data, certain A+ topics consistently challenge test-takers:
Core 1 Challenging Topics: 1. Networking concepts: TCP/IP, ports, and protocols are abstract for beginners 2. Mobile device connectivity: MDM, synchronization, and mobile security 3. Virtualization/cloud computing: Hypervisors, cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) 4. Printer troubleshooting: Legacy topic that many candidates underestimate
Core 2 Challenging Topics: 1. Windows command-line tools: PowerShell, cmd commands, and their outputs 2. Security concepts: Malware types, attack vectors, mitigation strategies 3. Linux/macOS basics: Terminal commands, file systems, feature differences 4. Change management and documentation: Process-oriented content that feels abstract
PBQ Challenges: Performance-Based Questions trip up candidates who studied theory without hands-on practice. Common PBQ scenarios include:
- Configuring wireless network settings
- Partitioning and formatting drives
- Interpreting command-line output
- Troubleshooting connectivity issues
How A+ Difficulty Compares to Other Certifications
Understanding where A+ sits in the broader certification landscape helps set realistic expectations. Here's an honest comparison with popular alternatives:
| Certification | Difficulty | Study Time | Compared to A+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google IT Support | Easy | 3-6 months | Easier (coursework, no proctored exam) |
| CompTIA ITF+ | Very Easy | 2-4 weeks | Much easier (foundational concepts only) |
| CompTIA Network+ | Intermediate | 2-4 months | Harder (deeper networking focus) |
| CompTIA Security+ | Intermediate | 2-4 months | Harder (abstract security concepts) |
| Cisco CCNA | Intermediate-Hard | 3-6 months | Much harder (vendor-specific, deep routing/switching) |
| AWS Cloud Practitioner | Easy-Intermediate | 2-4 weeks | Easier (narrower scope, no PBQs) |
A+ Difficulty Compared to Other Certifications
Understanding where A+ fits in the certification difficulty spectrum helps set appropriate expectations.
Easier Than A+:
- Vendor introductory certs (Microsoft Fundamentals, AWS Cloud Practitioner)
- Basic IT literacy certifications
- Single-topic focused credentials
Similar Difficulty:
- CompTIA ITF+ (IT Fundamentals)
- Basic ITIL Foundation
- Entry-level vendor certifications
Harder Than A+:
- CompTIA Network+ (narrower but deeper content)
- CompTIA Security+ (more conceptual, assumes networking knowledge)
- CCNA (significantly deeper technical content)
- Cloud certifications (AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator)
The A+ Advantage: A+ is designed as an entry point. While challenging enough to be meaningful, it's intentionally accessible to candidates without extensive IT backgrounds. The certification proves you can learn IT fundamentals, making it appropriate for career starters.
Realistic Study Timeline by Experience Level
Your background significantly affects how long you'll need to prepare. Here's what real candidates report:
- Complete beginner (no IT background): 3-4 months studying 1-2 hours daily. You'll need extra time for hands-on labs and building foundational knowledge. Budget 250-350 total study hours across both exams.
- Some tech experience (hobby/self-taught): 2-3 months studying 1-2 hours daily. You likely already understand hardware basics and OS navigation, cutting your study time for those domains. Budget 150-250 hours total.
- Help desk or IT support experience: 4-8 weeks of focused review. Your daily work covers many exam objectives. Focus on PBQ practice and filling knowledge gaps in less-familiar domains. Budget 80-150 hours total.
- IT professional studying for credential: 2-4 weeks of targeted review. Focus almost entirely on practice exams and PBQ simulations. Budget 40-80 hours total.
Top 5 Reasons Candidates Fail CompTIA A+
Understanding why people fail helps you avoid the same mistakes. These are the most common pitfalls reported by unsuccessful candidates:
- Underestimating PBQs: Many candidates spend all their time on multiple-choice prep and are blindsided by performance-based questions. PBQs require you to configure settings, troubleshoot in simulated environments, and demonstrate practical competence — not just recognition of correct answers.
- Not covering all exam objectives: CompTIA publishes detailed exam objectives for a reason. Every listed objective is fair game. Candidates who skip "minor" topics like printer troubleshooting or change management often lose critical points.
- Relying on a single study resource: No single book, video course, or practice test covers everything perfectly. Successful candidates use 2-3 complementary resources — typically a video course, a textbook, and practice exams.
- Poor time management during the exam: Spending too long on PBQs at the beginning leaves insufficient time for multiple-choice questions. The recommended strategy is to flag PBQs, complete all MC questions first, then return to PBQs with remaining time.
- Not enough practice exams: Candidates who score below 85% on practice tests consistently and still sit for the real exam are significantly more likely to fail. Aim for 85%+ on at least three different practice exams before scheduling.
What Determines A+ Exam Success
Analyzing successful candidates reveals consistent patterns:
Factors That Predict Success: 1. Structured study approach: Following organized curricula (Messer, Meyers, Dion) rather than random YouTube videos 2. Hands-on practice: Building PCs, configuring VMs, troubleshooting real issues 3. Practice exam commitment: Completing 500+ practice questions per exam 4. Score readiness: Consistently scoring 85%+ on practice tests before scheduling exams 5. PBQ preparation: Practicing with simulation-based questions, not just multiple choice
Factors That Predict Failure: 1. Rushing preparation: Attempting exams after only 2-4 weeks of study 2. Passive learning: Watching videos without active note-taking or practice 3. Skipping practice tests: Or only completing a few dozen questions 4. Ignoring weak areas: Not addressing topics where practice scores are low 5. Outdated materials: Using 1001/1002 resources for the current 1101/1102 exams
The 85% Rule: Most successful candidates follow this guidance: don't schedule your exam until you consistently score 85%+ on full practice exams from reputable sources. This buffer accounts for exam-day pressure and question variation.
Proven Strategies to Make CompTIA A+ Easier
While A+ requires genuine effort, these strategies dramatically improve your pass probability:
- Build a home lab: An old desktop computer is your best study tool. Practice assembling components, installing operating systems, configuring networks, and troubleshooting real problems. Hands-on experience converts abstract knowledge into intuition.
- Use spaced repetition for memorization: Ports, protocols, cable types, and connector specifications require rote memorization. Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition algorithms to efficiently commit these to long-term memory.
- Study Core 1 and Core 2 sequentially: Don't try to study both exams simultaneously. Complete Core 1 study, pass the exam, then move to Core 2. The networking and hardware knowledge from Core 1 provides essential foundation for Core 2's security and troubleshooting content.
- Take timed practice exams weekly: Simulate real exam conditions — 90 questions in 90 minutes with no breaks or references. This builds time management skills and identifies weak areas while they're still fixable.
- Join study communities: Reddit's r/CompTIA, Discord study groups, and online forums provide exam tips, study resources, and motivation from people on the same journey. Many members share which topics appeared heavily on their recent exams.
How to Make A+ Easier: Preparation Strategy
Proper preparation dramatically reduces A+ difficulty. Follow this proven approach:
Phase 1: Foundation (Weeks 1-4)
- Watch comprehensive video courses covering all objectives
- Take notes actively—don't just passively watch
- Set up a home lab with virtual machines for hands-on practice
- Complete objective-based practice questions after each topic
Phase 2: Deep Study (Weeks 5-8)
- Review weak areas identified in practice questions
- Complete hands-on labs for PBQ preparation
- Work through practice questions by domain
- Focus on understanding "why" not just "what"
Phase 3: Exam Prep (Weeks 9-12)
- Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions
- Review every wrong answer thoroughly
- Identify patterns in mistakes
- Schedule exam when consistently scoring 85%+
Resource Recommendations:
- Free: Professor Messer's A+ video course (comprehensive, follows objectives)
- Paid Videos: Mike Meyers Udemy courses (engaging, detailed explanations)
- Practice Tests: Jason Dion practice exams (realistic, PBQ simulations)
- Hands-on: VirtualBox + Windows/Linux VMs for lab practice
Ready to Test Your Knowledge?
Our Smart Practice practice tests simulate real A+ exam conditions with performance-based questions, detailed explanations, and score tracking across all domains.
Start Free A+ Practice Test →Facts and planning estimates
- Pass Rate
- Not published
- Study Time
- 3-6 months
- Number of Exams
- 2 exams
- Questions
- 90 per exam
Readiness factors: beyond pass-rate estimates
CompTIA does not publish passing rates. Unsupported survey percentages are not a reliable measure of your readiness. This number requires context:
Why the Pass Rate Appears Low:
- Includes unprepared candidates who underestimate the exam
- Includes candidates using outdated study materials
- Includes candidates who don't complete practice tests
Why preparation matters: Work through all official objectives, practise hands-on tasks, and review incorrect practice answers. A practice target such as 85% is a study aid, not an official pass prediction.
Comparing preparation time: A+ can use a 3–6 month plan, Network+ a 2–3 month plan, Security+ a 2–4 month plan, and CCNA a 4–6 month plan. These are illustrative study schedules, not measured candidate averages. Providers do not publish comparable pass-rate data for this table; compare topic scope and your starting skills instead.
CompTIA does not publish passing rates, so pass-rate comparisons cannot establish relative difficulty.
Study tips
Start with a diagnostic practice test before studying—this reveals your baseline and identifies priority areas.
Create a dedicated study schedule with specific daily/weekly goals rather than vague "I'll study when I have time" approaches.
Build or upgrade a physical computer during your study period—hands-on hardware experience cements conceptual learning.
Join study communities (r/CompTIA, Discord groups) for motivation, question answers, and shared experiences.
Take Core 1 first (hardware focus), then Core 2 (OS/security focus)—most candidates find this order logical.
Schedule your exam date early in your study process—having a deadline prevents indefinite postponement.
Common mistakes to avoid
Underestimating the exam breadth—A+ covers more topics than many candidates expect.
Using outdated study materials from previous exam versions (1001/1002 instead of 1101/1102).
Skipping hands-on practice and relying only on videos and reading.
Not completing enough practice questions (aim for 500+ per exam).
Taking the exam before reaching 85%+ on practice tests consistently.
Cramming instead of spreading study over 3-6 months for better retention.
Study perspective
Use a steady study routine and practical exercises. The candidates who struggle are almost always those who underestimate the exam or skip practice tests. A+ is not easy, but it is fair—the questions test practical knowledge that you can learn. Consistent study, good materials, and hands-on practice can improve readiness; no schedule guarantees a pass.
Ready to Test Your A+ Knowledge?
Practice with unlimited adaptive questions covering all exam objectives. Identify weak areas and build confidence before your exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CompTIA A+ hard for beginners?
A+ is designed for beginners but still requires dedication. Complete beginners typically need 2-3 months of study. The challenge is the breadth of topics (hardware, networking, OS, security) rather than depth. Performance-based questions add difficulty, but structured study with practice exams and hands-on labs makes it very achievable for anyone willing to put in consistent effort.
What is the CompTIA A+ pass rate?
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
CompTIA does not publish pass rates. Structured study, hands-on work, and review of practice results help assess readiness; a practice percentage cannot predict your exam result.
Which A+ exam is harder — Core 1 or Core 2?
Most candidates find Core 2 slightly harder due to software troubleshooting scenarios and security concepts. Core 1 is more hands-on with hardware, which some find easier to visualize. The different scaled thresholds do not establish relative difficulty. Study both thoroughly regardless of perceived difficulty.
How many times do people fail the A+ exam?
CompTIA does not publish the proportion of unsuccessful attempts. Common reasons include insufficient hands-on practice, not covering all exam objectives, and underestimating the PBQs. Focused review of missed objectives can help prepare for another attempt. No waiting period is required after the first failure. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt.
Can I pass CompTIA A+ without IT experience?
Yes, thousands of people pass A+ with zero IT experience every year. CompTIA designed A+ as an entry-level certification. You will need extra study time (3-4 months instead of 2) and should supplement book learning with virtual labs and hands-on practice. Building a home lab with an old desktop computer is one of the best investments you can make.
Is CompTIA A+ harder than the Google IT Support Certificate?
Yes, A+ is significantly harder than the Google IT Support Professional Certificate. A+ has a timed proctored exam with performance-based questions, while Google's program uses coursework-based assessments with no high-stakes exam. However, A+ carries more industry recognition and is often required for government and DoD positions, making the extra difficulty worthwhile for career advancement.
Is A+ harder than Security+ or Network+?
A+ is generally considered easier than Security+ and Network+ because it covers foundational content rather than specialized topics. However, A+ requires passing two exams while Security+ and Network+ are single exams. For complete beginners, A+ is the appropriate starting point.
Can I pass A+ without IT experience?
Yes, many self-taught candidates pass A+ without prior IT work experience. However, hands-on practice is essential—build computers, configure virtual machines, and troubleshoot real issues during your study period. The exam tests practical skills that require practice, not just reading.
Which A+ exam is harder—Core 1 or Core 2?
Opinions vary based on background. Core 1 (hardware/networking) is harder for candidates without hands-on experience. Core 2 (OS/security) is harder for those unfamiliar with Windows administration. Most candidates find them equally challenging for different reasons.
How many hours of study does A+ require?
Most candidates need 150-300 hours of total study time across both exams. This translates to 10-15 hours per week over 3-6 months. Candidates with IT experience may need less (100-150 hours), while complete beginners may need more (250-350 hours).
What happens if I fail one A+ exam?
No waiting period is required after the first failure. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt. Each retake requires payment or an applicable prepaid retake voucher. There is no limit on retake attempts. If you pass one exam but fail the other, you only need to retake the failed exam.
Is A+ worth taking if it's hard?
Yes—the difficulty makes the certification meaningful. Easy certifications don't impress employers. A+ difficulty is appropriate for validating entry-level IT competence, and the career benefits (job access, salary improvement, skill development) justify the preparation effort.
What score do I need to pass A+ exams?
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
Practice & quick reference
- A+ Practice Questions Gauge difficulty with actual questions
- Free CompTIA A+ Practice Test 2026: 90+ Questions with Explanations Free practice test
- Cheat Sheet
Study tools & plans
- For Beginners
- Study Time
- What is A+?
- Study Guide
- Exam Tips
- How to Pass
- 30-Day Plan
- A+ Exam Objectives Explained See the real scope before you judge difficultyExam objectives
- CompTIA A+ Weekend Study Plan: Certification for Busy Professionals 2026 Study plan
- Jobs
Exam facts & renewal
- CompTIA A+ Renewal: CEUs, Costs & Deadlines (2026) Renewal & CE
- A+ Exam: Up to 90 per exam Questions (2026) How many questions
- Does A+ Expire? 2026 Renewal Guide Does it expire?
Career & comparisons
- No Experience?
- Is CompTIA A+ Worth It? ROI analysis and career benefits.Worth it?
- CompTIA Certification Path Complete certification roadmap.
- A+ Without Experience: 2026 Guide Without experience
- Salary Guide
- A+ vs Network+