subject: It Network Security Online Certification Training - Updated [print this page] CompTIA A+ computer training comprises of 2 specialised sectors - you'll need exam certification in both of these areas to be competent in A+.
A+ computer training courses cover fault-finding and diagnostics - via hands on and remote access, alongside building computers and repairing them and understanding antistatic conditions.
If your ambition is looking after computer networks, add the very comprehensive Network+ to your A+ course. This qualification will mean you can apply for more interesting jobs. You may also want to consider the route to networking via Microsoft, in the form of MCP's, MCSA or the full MCSE.
The way a programme is physically sent to you isn't always given the appropriate level of importance. How many parts is the training broken down into? What is the specific order and what control do you have at what pace it arrives?
Most companies will sell you a program spread over 1-3 years, and drop-ship the materials to you piecemeal as you get to the end of each exam. On the surface this seems reasonable - until you consider the following:
With thought, many trainees understand that their providers standard order of study isn't ideal for them. You may find that varying the order of study will be far more suitable. Could it cause problems if you don't get everything done inside of the expected timescales?
The very best situation would see you getting all the training materials packed off to your home before you even start; the entire package! This way, nothing can happen down the line which could affect the reaching of your goals.
Including examinations up-front and presenting it as a guarantee for your exams is a popular marketing tool with a good many training companies. Consider the facts:
Certainly it isn't free - you're still footing the bill for it - the cost has just been rolled into the whole training package.
Evidence shows that when students fund each progressive exam, one by one, the chances are they're going to pass every time - because they are conscious of the cost and therefore will put more effort into their preparation.
Go for the best offer you can find when you're ready, and keep hold of your own money. In addition, it's then your choice where to do your exams - which means you can stay local.
A lot of extra profit is made by many companies who get money for exam fees in advance. A number of students don't take them for various reasons but the company keeps the money. Astoundingly enough, there are companies around who actually rely on students not sitting all the exams - as that's how they make a lot of their profit.
Remember, with most 'Exam Guarantees' - you are not in control of when you are allowed to do a re-take. Subsequent exam attempts are only authorised at the company's say so.
Splashing out often many hundreds of pounds extra on an 'Exam Guarantee' is naive - when a commitment to studying and the use of authorised exam preparation tools is what will really guarantee success.
A study programme should always lead to a fully recognised major qualification as an end-goal - not some little 'in-house' diploma - fit only for filing away and forgetting.
Unless the accreditation comes from a company like Microsoft, Adobe, Cisco or CompTIA, then you'll probably find it will be commercially useless - as no-one will have heard of it.
Many people question why academic qualifications are less in demand than the more commercially accredited qualifications?
The IT sector now recognises that for an understanding of the relevant skills, proper accreditation from companies such as CISCO, Adobe, Microsoft and CompTIA is closer to the mark commercially - at a far reduced cost both money and time wise.
In essence, the learning just focuses on what's actually required. It isn't quite as lean as that might sound, but principally the objective has to be to cover the precise skills needed (with some necessary background) - without trying to cram in every other area (as academia often does).
In simple terms: Accredited IT qualifications provide exactly what an employer needs - everything they need to know is in the title: as an example - I am a 'Microsoft Certified Professional' in 'Managing and Maintaining Windows Server 2003'. So companies can look at their needs and what certifications are required to perform the job.
