Should I get A+ Certified?

[123456]

You guys know how much time I spend tinkering around with computers and various OS'es... I figure taking the test and getting certified over the summer couldn't hurt, right? I know lots about hardware and how to install/troubleshoot problems on Windows and OS X, especially older versions of Windows. Of course, I'll buy books and stuff if I really think it's worth it to take the exam. Thanks

[jlreich]

It never hurts to have a piece of paper that says you know what you are doing. ;)

I say have at it. It should be a breeze for you to pass it. :)

The only bummer these days is you have to renew every three years now. But in three years I would guess you would full well know if it is something you will want to keep pursuing or not.

[123456]

It's like medicine... you gotta renew your boards every x amount of years (I believe it's 8-10 for that). Do you have any recommendations for what book(s) to buy or online resources?

[LochLomonder]

123456,

I know this book (http://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Complete-Study-Guide-Application/dp/047048649X/ref=dp_ob_title_bk/180-2718183-9444902) was recommended on another thread for study purposes, so it might be worthwhile looking into that.

I certainly don't think there's anything wrong with going for A+ certification, and it's certainly nice to have on your résumé. I know a lot of old hands who have a wealth of knowledge based upon learning on the job, and they don't have any certifications. Plus, there are others I know who collect certifications like baseball card collections, but their diagnostic skills aren't too hot.

Nevertheless, if you're going to seek employment where certification credentials are a plus, especially if the potential employer has no real knowledge of your skill sets other than that, it's nice to have A+ in your back pocket.

[jlreich]

My last few cert study books have been from Sybex like the one Loch linked to and they have all been good. :)

[topitexams]

CompTIA Certification provides confirmation of the capability of an individual to handle particular IT operations. Surveys have repeatedly shown that IT professionals with certifications earn more money than those without them, although there are, of course, exceptions. You can read more about the compTIA A+ certification [URL=spam.

[topitexams]

And there are some CompTIA A+ demo [URL=spam

[Whyzman]

Your user name suggests that you have a financial relationship with the links provided. Advertising on the PC Guide Forums requires permission by the owner. If the links return you will be banned.

[jeepnut]

I belive that I'm grandfathered in with my A+ Cert since I took the test back when they were good for a lifetime. I should'nt have to renew every three years. Although it is prolly a good thing to do just to keep updated on things for those that don't.

[AlienBZ]

And don't forget the A+ Cert for Dummies

A+ Cert For Dummies (http://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Certification-All---One-Dummies/dp/0470487380/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1304648562&sr=8-2)

and A+ cert Workbok for dummies, also

A+ Cert Workbook for Dummies (http://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Certification-Workbook-Dummies-Computers/dp/0470133953/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304648871&sr=8-1)

These books may be kind of outdated, but I'm sure they'll give you the basic ideas that you'll need to pass the exams and succeed.

[LochLomonder]

Mods informed :rolleyes: