The non profit organisation 'CompTIA' - Computing Technology Industry Association - was formed in the early 1980's. They have developed step by step and right now are world leaders in IT qualifications that are vendor-neutral. This basically means they're free to independently generate and monitor exams and accreditations that are needed by the IT sector, irrespective of a particular company's commercial interests. This is very good for students, because they can be taught about different platforms and how they 'inter-connect' and 'integrate' with each other - a common circumstance now in industry. Every time a new exam is being developed (or a previous one up-graded), 'CompTIA' discusses the content with leading associates of the professional and academic world to provide balanced & very relevant content.

The Network+ 2009 examination has been referred to as 'N10-004', replacing the previous 'N10-003'. As well as the strong element of managing and running networks & their infrastructures, the new examination focuses heavily on security, design and wireless-skills.

New starters in the I.T. industry can turn to 'CompTIA' for many of their preliminary training programs. In general, trainees who are interested in employment opportunities within Networking, Security, Servers, Systems, Communications and Support will start out with CompTIA, however trainees in any sector could find a CompTIA certification a helpful component of their Resume. CompTIA are now also offering 'STRATA' certifications : these are not necessarily for men and women employed in the I.T. industry, but for people whose roles need a fundamental understanding of computers.

The CompTIA A+ exams are for the most part designed for anybody interested to start a job in any of the following roles: I.T. Administrator, P.C. Technician, Field Service Technician, Remote Support Technician, Call Centre and Depot Technician & Help Desk Technician. With the CompTIA 'Network+' as well, you're able to consider becoming a Network Installer, an IT Cable Installer, a Network Administrator or a Network Technician .

Both exams have recently undergone a 2009 upgrade in line with CompTIA's work towards 'ISO' standardisation. The former 'A+' (edition 2006-2007) exams that were categorised with the '600' pre-fix are being retired worldwide through 2010. In Great Britain, they discontinue on August 31st 2010. As 2009 examinations (version 700) are currently available at test centres across the country, the newer study programs would be a more sensible choice for anyone just getting started. The individual A+ 2009 examinations are now: 'CompTIA' 'A+' Essentials (examination 220/701) & CompTIA 'A+' Practical Application (examination 220/702.) The 4 earlier examinations have been streamlined into 2 new examinations, and some more updated information has been introduced. Initially, the 'A+' was split into 4 examinations: 1 essential & 3 'elective' specialisations. Over the last four years, the industry has progressed to the point where all 4 examinations are now thought to be essential - hence the re-formatting in to two essential exams. An up-grade examination has been produced by CompTIA for everyone with the previous qualification. BR/003 is the exam number. Additional training will undoubtedly be necessary, particularly for those who only originally studied for 2 of the four electives. Adequate training hours must be factored in for the new technology aspects however.

Average study times for these exams are thought to be in the region of 100 to 150 hrs for the 'A+' , and 75-100 hrs for the 'Network+' . Learning part time, this could be done over a half year period if you pick out the right quality of training matter & first-rate examination prep products.

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