Established 28 years ago, the 'Computing Technology Industry Association' (or CompTIA for short) is a not for profit organisation. They have built over the years to become the number one in vendor-neutral IT certification. Which means they're able to freely create and control a whole collection of I.T. industry examinations and produce their own qualifications that don't apply to just one particular vendor's goods. With today's move towards inter connectivity and systems 'convergence', this is a welcome move for the IT student, as it gives cross platform learning and a knowledge of 'integration'. Every time a new examination is being put together (or an earlier one up-dated), 'CompTIA' consults with top associates of the commercial & educational world to create balanced and extremely relevant content.

As for the '2009' version of the Network+ - N10-004 is currently the exam number. As well as retaining it's focus on network management & infrastructure, the upgraded '2009' exam points to a wider importance on security, wireless-networking abilities and network-design concepts.

Any individual starting in I.T. will profit from training & certifications developed by CompTIA. Wherever a trainee opts to work in I.T., there are various 'CompTIA' certifications that will increase their abilities. Those who are specifically thinking about Networks, Systems, Support, Security, Servers & Communications are particularly well served. A new set of starter level programs called 'STRATA' have been created by CompTIA. These are for people who could do with a better idea of basic I.T. information, but don't essentially work with IT themselves.

The two examinations have quite recently undergone a 2009 update in-line with the company's work towards ISO standardisation. The previous A+ (edition 2006-2007) exams that were classified with the 600 prefix are being phased out worldwide throughout 2010. After August 31st '10 they will not be available in the United Kingdom. As both the '600', and the recently released '700' exams at the moment are allowed to be taken in 'prometric' and Vue test centres, it's sensible to study the 700 examinations now, & not have to certify again later. The individual A+ 2009 exams are now: CompTIA 'A+' Essentials (examination 220-701) and 'CompTIA' 'A+' Practical Application (examination 220/702.) As well as some extra subject matter on newer technologies, there are now two exams that cover components of all four of the past exams. Even though the old A+ had four exams within the total program, only 2 were necessary for the accreditation. As the market has moved on, the expertise from all 4 exams is now regarded as crucial, & consequently has been fine-tuned in to two required exams. Those who have formerly taken the '600' exam can bring their accreditation up-to-date by taking an up-grade examination : BR/003. Additional training will undoubtedly end up being needed, particularly for many who just initially worked on two of the 4 'electives'. Obviously though the new technology topics will have to be learned about.

If you are interested in any of these work opportunities, the A+ would certainly serve you well : Depot Technician, Call Centre Technician, PC Technician, Help Desk Technician, Field Services Technician, IT Administrator, and Remote Support Technician. 'CompTIA' Network+ opens up possibilities for Network Administrators & Technicians, Network Installers & IT Cable Installers.

Needless to say these careers frequently lead to far more advanced jobs if the relevant accreditations are in place. That's why it's imperative to examine your long term options prior to deciding on your career training path. The best way to maximise your career path the most is to receive guidance from an I.T. specialist ahead of starting on your training course. IT Training companies can often develop a personalised training path by co-ordinating a combination of programs that will get the student from wherever they are now to where they would like to go.

For the 'A+' examinations set aside for yourself more or less 100 to 150 hours to train and prepare, & slightly less for the 'Network+' examinations (maybe around 75 to 100 hours). With the correct multi-media training that's backed up by authorised examination preparation software, both accreditations could be accomplished in half a year for the student who is learning around employment.

The A+ program & the Network+ training are 'CompTIA's' flagship qualifications. Collectively they encompass the basis of many career-paths in I.T., & as such are leaders in their field. The 'CompTIA' A+ certification teaches the basics of computer maintenance, support, security, installation, fault finding and repair. Additionally, the A+ covers specific relationship building skillsets that may help you communicate much better with others. Advancing this awareness, the 'Network+' certification examines networks, (including routers & servers) & explains exactly how they inter-connect. Both Security & wireless technology are discussed to a certain extent. Getting these two certifications will provide a good platform for anyone looking to get into the 'systems' area of the IT marketplace, along with a platform of knowledge for further accreditation.

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