CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Real Exam Questions [Jan 2026 Update]

What is CompTIA 220-1101?

The CompTIA 220-1101 exam, also known as A+ Core 1, is one of two required exams for earning the CompTIA A+ certification (the other is 220-1102). It validates entry-level IT skills needed to support, troubleshoot, and manage modern technologies. This exam focuses heavily on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and cloud computing.

Think of it as the foundational IT certification that proves you can handle real-world support issues, whether it’s fixing laptops, configuring Wi-Fi, or troubleshooting a cloud-based app.

Who Should Take This Exam?

The 220-1101 exam is ideal for individuals starting or advancing in IT support roles. Typical candidates include:

• Aspiring IT Professionals: People looking to land their first IT job.
• Entry-level Technicians: Already working in helpdesk or support and want to validate skills.
• Career Changers: Professionals from other fields who want to move into IT.
• Students/Graduates: Those in tech programs who want to boost employability.

Prerequisites and Recommendations

• Official Prerequisites: None. CompTIA does not require prior certifications or experience.
• Practical Recommendations:
  • 6–12 months of hands-on experience in IT support or labs.
  • Familiarity with basic computer hardware, OS installation, and troubleshooting.
  • Prior exposure to networking fundamentals (IP addresses, Wi-Fi setup).
  • Having CompTIA ITF+ (Fundamentals+) is a good stepping stone for true beginners.

Exam Objectives and Domains

The 220-1101 exam is divided into five weighted domains:

1. Mobile Devices – 15%
2. Networking – 20%
3. Hardware – 25%
4. Virtualization and Cloud Computing – 11%
5. Hardware and Network Troubleshooting – 29%

Objective Details by Domain

Mobile Devices (15%)

• Install and configure laptops and mobile devices.
• Understand mobile device displays, features, and accessories.
• Set up mobile device synchronization (email, cloud storage).

Networking (20%)

• Compare wired and wireless networking technologies.
• Install/configure SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) networks.
• Explain IP addressing concepts (IPv4, IPv6, subnetting).
• Understand common networking hardware (routers, switches, firewalls).

Hardware (25%)

• Identify and use common hardware components (RAM, CPU, storage).
• Install and configure motherboards, BIOS, and peripherals.
• Differentiate connectors, cables, and adapters.
• Manage printers and multi-function devices.

Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%)

• Compare cloud service types (SaaS, PaaS, IaaS).
• Understand client-side virtualization.
• Deploy basic cloud resources and concepts.

Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (29%)

• Diagnose and fix problems with PCs, laptops, and printers.
• Troubleshoot wired/wireless networks.
• Apply a structured methodology for resolving IT issues.

What Changed in This Version (vs 220-1001)?

• New Topics Added:
  • More focus on virtualization and cloud computing.
  • Coverage of modern hardware (e.g., USB-C, NVMe, tablets, smartphones).
  • Stronger emphasis on security practices during troubleshooting.
• Removed/Reduced Topics:
  • Older technologies (legacy BIOS settings, obsolete ports) reduced.
  • Some printer technologies trimmed down.
• Weight Shifts:
  • Troubleshooting got increased weight (29%).
  • More balance between networking and mobile devices.

Registration and Scheduling

• Register through Pearson VUE (CompTIA’s testing partner).
• Choose between in-person testing center or online proctored exam.
• Exams are available year-round.
• You’ll need to create a CompTIA account to schedule.

Pricing and Vouchers

• Base Price: Around $246 USD per exam (subject to region).
• Discounts Available:
  • Students (via CompTIA Academic Store).
  • Military and veterans (through CompTIA and Pearson VUE programs).
  • Corporate bundles for employers.
• Voucher Programs: You can purchase from CompTIA’s store or authorized resellers to save on bundles (exam + retake + training).

Policies You Should Know

• Valid government-issued ID required.
• Rescheduling allowed (but fees may apply if less than 24 hours’ notice).
• If you fail, you can retake immediately once, but after two failures, a 14-day waiting period applies.
• Exams are subject to CompTIA’s Candidate Agreement and retake policies.

Scoring and Results

• Number of Questions: 90 (max).
• Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, performance-based questions.
• Time Limit: 90 minutes.
• Scoring Scale: 100–900.
• Passing Score: 675 (for 220-1101).
• Partial Credit: Not officially confirmed, but some performance-based questions may allow it
• Results: Delivered immediately after the exam, with a printed/digital score report.

Exam Day and Test Experience

• On-site Testing: Bring ID, arrive early, go through security checks.
• Online Proctoring: Requires webcam, quiet space, and room scan.
• Allowed Items: No personal items (phones, watches, notes).
• Breaks: No scheduled breaks for this exam.
• Interface Tips:
  • Flag difficult questions for review.
  • Use elimination to narrow multiple-choice options.
  • Manage time: about 1 minute per question.

Study Plan and Resources

Beginner-Friendly 12-Week Plan

• Weeks 1–2: Learn computer hardware basics (RAM, CPU, storage).
• Weeks 3–4: Networking fundamentals (IP addresses, Wi-Fi setup).
• Weeks 5–6: Mobile devices and printers.
• Weeks 7–8: Virtualization, cloud, and security basics.
• Weeks 9–10: Troubleshooting methodology.
• Week 11: Practice exams, review weak areas.
• Week 12: Light revision + exam scheduling.

Experienced Candidate 6-Week Plan

• Weeks 1–2: Skim hardware/networking, focus on new topics (cloud, virtualization).
• Weeks 3–4: Take multiple practice tests, review mistakes.
• Week 5: Focus on troubleshooting and performance-based questions.
• Week 6: Final revision + schedule exam.

Resources

• CompTIA A+ Official Study Guide.
• Professor Messer (free YouTube lessons).
• Exam practice tests and dumps (for familiarity, not memorization).
• Virtual labs (CompTIA Labs, or set up your own VMs).

Certification Validity and Renewal

• Validity: 3 years from date of certification.
• Renewal Options:
  • Earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through training or work experience.
  • Take a higher-level CompTIA exam (e.g., Network+, Security+).
  • Renew via CertMaster CE (an online course)

Career Outcomes

Common Job Titles

• IT Support Specialist
• Field Service Technician
• Help Desk Technician
• Desktop Support Administrator

Job Roles and Salary Ranges for CompTIA A+ Certified Professionals

Related or Next-Step Certifications

• CompTIA Network+: Next step for networking-focused roles.
• CompTIA Security+: For moving into cybersecurity.
• Microsoft or Cisco certifications: Specialize in vendor technologies after A+.

How This Exam Compares to Similar Certifications

• Cisco CCNA: More advanced, focused on networking. A+ is broader and entry-level.
• Microsoft Fundamentals (e.g., AZ-900): Cloud-focused, but A+ covers hardware and troubleshooting more deeply.
• A+ is the best all-around entry certification, while others are more specialized.

Why Practice Exam Questions Are Essential for Passing CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Exam in 2026?

Passing the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 certification isn’t about memorizing random facts or device names, it’s about building the real-world skills required of an IT support specialist. Packed with in-depth explanations and practical reasoning, Cert Empire’s CompTIA 220-1101 Exam Questions are designed to help you think like an actual IT technician. These questions follow the official CompTIA exam pattern, guiding you through everything you need to confidently pass the A+ Core 1 exam on your first attempt.

Prepare Smarter with Exam-Familiar Quizzes

The 220-1101 exam tests your understanding of hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting, all crucial in today’s IT environments. Practicing realistic, scenario-based questions helps you improve your speed, sharpen your analytical thinking, and reduce exam-day anxiety. 

Over time, you’ll become familiar with the question patterns, so instead of second-guessing, you’ll approach each question with confidence and precision.

Master Every Domain with Real Exam Logic

Our CompTIA A+ 220-1101 practice questions cover every official exam domain in the correct ratio, ensuring full coverage and balanced preparation:

• Mobile Devices
• Networking
• Hardware
• Virtualization and Cloud Computing
• Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

Each question is carefully crafted to reflect real-world IT support situations, giving you the problem-solving skills needed to excel not only in the exam but also in your career.

What’s Included in Our 220-1101 Exam Prep Material

It’s not just another question bank, it’s a complete learning experience that transforms your exam preparation from basic to professional. Here’s what’s included:

PDF Exam Questions

• Instant Access: Start studying immediately with instant download right after your purchase.
• Study Anywhere: Access the soft copy from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone, and study anytime, anywhere.
• Printable Format: Prefer studying offline? Print your PDF for hands-on note-taking and focused revision.

Interactive Practice Simulator

• Question Simulation: The online 220-1101 simulator replicates the real CompTIA exam interface, helping you practice interactively with show/hide answers and instant feedback.
• Flashcard-like Practice: Save tricky questions, revisit them later, and master every domain with spaced repetition.
• Progress Tracking: Track your performance, see your improvement, and resume your practice right where you left off.

3 Months of Unlimited Access

Get unlimited access for 3 months, plenty of time to practice, review, and retake mock exams until you feel fully prepared for the real CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam.

Regular Updates

Technology evolves fast and so do CompTIA exams. The Cert Empire content team, led by CompTIA-certified professionals, keeps the 220-1101 exam questions updated regularly to align with the latest CompTIA A+ objectives and content updates. You’ll always be practicing with the most current and accurate material available.

Free Practice Tests

Not sure yet? Try before you buy! We offer a free CompTIA 220-1101 practice test so you can experience our question quality and explanations firsthand. Visit our website, check the right sidebar, and click on the Free Practice Test button to access a sample of CompTIA 220-1101 exam questions right away.

Free Exam Guides

Cert Empire also provides free CompTIA A+ exam study guides to help candidates prepare effectively. Explore our blog section for a variety of helpful resources such as:

• Structured A+ 220-1101 study plans
• Hardware and network troubleshooting tips
• Exam strategies and success checklists

And best of all, these guides are completely free and open to everyone.

Looking for other CompTIA certifications? Visit our CompTIA Certification page or browse all our practice exam collections to continue your IT certification journey with confidence.

Get Ready to Pass Your CompTIA 220-1101 Exam

Preparing for CompTIA A+ can feel overwhelming, but the right resources make all the difference. If you want to build confidence, practice with real exam-style questions, and boost your chances of passing on your first attempt, trusted study materials are the key.

Check out these resources to supercharge your preparation:

• CompTIA 220-1102 PDF Exam Questions (Updated Questions)
• Free CompTIA 220-1102 Core 2 Practice Exam

With these, you’ll gain hands-on practice, sharpen your troubleshooting skills, and walk into the exam with confidence. Don’t just study hard, study smart and take the next step toward your IT career.

Important Note

Our CompTIA 220-1101 Exam Questions are updated regularly to reflect the latest version of the official exam.

✔ Every question includes clear, detailed explanations for both correct and incorrect answers to strengthen your understanding.
✔ Each solution is supported by official CompTIA documentation or trusted IT references, ensuring authenticity.
✔ Mobile-Compatible – Both the PDF and simulator are fully optimized for use on phones, tablets, and computers for flexible studying.

The CompTIA A+ certification remains one of the most respected entry-level IT credentials, proving your skills in hardware, networking, mobile devices, and cloud technologies, the foundation of every successful IT career.

Is this Exam Dump for CompTIA 220-1101?

No, Cert Empire does not provide exam dumps. Our 220-1101 materials are intended solely for legitimate exam preparation and practice.

All questions are expertly designed and verified to reflect real exam scenarios and logic, not leaked content. While you may find similar question patterns in the actual exam, we make no guarantees about exact matches.

Our goal is to help you prepare effectively, understand deeply, and pass ethically, not to promote shortcuts or cheating.