There are actually 2 different sectors in the overall A+ programme, of which you'll need certification in both subjects to gain A+ competency. CompTIA A+ training programs cover fault-finding and diagnostics - via hands on and remote access, as well as building computers and repairing them and operating in antistatic conditions. Were you to add Network+ to your A+ course, you will additionally be able to assist with or manage networks of computers, giving you the facility to command a higher salary.

A lot of men and women are under the impression that the traditional school, college or university route is the way they should go. So why then are commercially accredited qualifications becoming more popular with employers? Corporate based study (to use industry-speak) is most often much more specialised. The IT sector has realised that this level of specialised understanding is vital to service the demands of an increasingly more technical marketplace. Adobe, Microsoft, CISCO and CompTIA dominate in this arena. In a nutshell, only that which is required is learned. It isn't quite as lean as that might sound, but principally the objective has to be to concentrate on the fundamentally important skill-sets (along with a certain amount of crucial background) - without trying to cram in everything else (as universities often do).

In simple terms: Commercial IT certifications give employers exactly what they're looking for - it says what you do in the title: as an example - I am a 'Microsoft Certified Professional' in 'Planning and Maintaining a Windows 2003 Infrastructure'. Therefore employers can identify just what their needs are and which qualifications will be suitable to deal with those needs.

It's so important to understand this key point: You have to get round-the-clock 24x7 instructor and mentor support. You'll definitely experience problems if you let this one slide. Locate training schools with proper support available at all hours of the day and night (no matter if it's in the middle of the night on a weekend!) You'll need direct-access to qualified mentors and tutors, and not simply some messaging service that means you're waiting for tutors to call you back during office hours.

The best training colleges utilise an online access round-the-clock system utilising a variety of support centres across the globe. You get an easy to use interface that switches seamlessly to the best choice of centres at any time of day or night: Support when you need it. Don't ever make the mistake of taking second best when it comes to your support. The vast majority of trainees who throw in the towel, are in that situation because of support (or the lack of).

One interesting way that colleges make more money is by charging for exams up-front and offering an exam guarantee. It looks like a good deal, but let's just examine it more closely:

These days, we're a tad more knowledgeable about sales gimmicks - and generally we know that for sure we're actually paying for it - it's not because they're so generous they want to give something away! Students who take each progressive exam, paying for them just before taking them are in a much stronger position to qualify at the first attempt. They're aware of their spending and prepare more appropriately to be ready for the task.

Look for the very best offer you can when you take the exam, and hang on to your cash. You also get more choice of where you sit the exam - so you can choose somewhere closer to home. Is there a good reason to pay interest on a bigger loan than is necessary because you've paid early for exam fees when there's absolutely nothing that says you have to? Big margins are made because training colleges are charging upfront for all their exams - and then cashing in when they're not all taken. Most companies will insist that you take mock exams first and not allow you to re-take an exam until you've demonstrated an excellent ability to pass - making an 'exam guarantee' just about worthless.

Prometric and VUE exams are around 112 pounds in Great Britain. What's the point of paying huge 'Exam Guarantee' costs (usually wrapped up in the course package price) - when a quality course, support and study, commitment and preparing with good quality mock and practice exams is what will really guarantee success.

C-Sharp Programming CBT Multimedia Home-Study Training Courses >>