What is CompTIA A+ Core 1?
Core 1 (220-1201) is one of the two exams for the CompTIA A+ certification, the entry credential for IT support specialists, help desk and field technicians. It covers mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, and hardware and network troubleshooting.
Do I need to pass both Core 1 and Core 2?
Yes. You earn A+ only after passing both Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). Core 1 on its own is not a certification.
Which should I take first, Core 1 or Core 2?
Either. You can take the two exams in any order, as long as both are from the same version (V15).
Can I pair 220-1201 with the old 220-1102?
No. The older 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams retired in September 2025 and cannot be combined with the V15 exams. Both of your exams must be V15: 220-1201 and 220-1202.
What is the difference between Core 1 and Core 2?
Core 1 covers hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization and cloud, and troubleshooting hardware and networks. Core 2 covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures.
Who should take A+ Core 1?
People starting out in IT support, such as help desk staff, field technicians and career changers. CompTIA recommends 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support role, but there are no prerequisites and anyone can book the exam.
Is A+ accepted for DoD jobs?
Yes. A+ is an approved foundational qualification for several US Department of Defense work roles under DoD 8140, including technical support specialist and system administrator.
How many questions are on the 220-1201 exam?
A maximum of 90. CompTIA does not publish how many questions come from each domain or how many are unscored.
How long is the Core 1 exam?
90 minutes, in one sitting with no scheduled breaks.
What score do I need to pass Core 1?
675 on a scale of 100 to 900.
Is 675 a percentage?
No. The score is scaled and set statistically, and CompTIA does not publish how raw answers convert to it, so 675 cannot be turned into a percentage of questions you must get right.
What types of questions are on Core 1?
Multiple-choice (single and multiple response), drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions.
What are performance-based questions (PBQs) on Core 1?
Simulations of a task, for example a clickable network diagram, a restricted command prompt or a configuration table. You can skip one and return to it, your work is saved when you move on, and the Reset button clears only that question. More than one way of solving it can be accepted.
Do PBQs give partial credit?
They may. CompTIA says partial credit may be given, but how PBQs are scored is confidential.
How many PBQs are on the exam?
CompTIA does not publish the number, where they appear or how much they are worth. Candidates commonly report a handful, usually at the start of the exam.
Which domain is the biggest on Core 1?
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting, at 28%. It is followed by Hardware (25%), Networking (23%), Mobile Devices (13%) and Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%).
Is the troubleshooting methodology tested?
Not as something to recite or put in order. The exam objectives say the methodology itself will not be tested. You apply it inside scenarios, for example by choosing the next step.
Which ports do I need to know for Core 1?
The ones listed in objective 2.1: 20-21 (FTP), 22 (SSH), 23 (Telnet), 25 (SMTP), 53 (DNS), 67/68 (DHCP), 80 (HTTP), 110 (POP3), 143 (IMAP), 137-139 (NetBIOS/NetBT), 389 (LDAP), 443 (HTTPS), 445 (SMB/CIFS) and 3389 (RDP), plus the difference between TCP and UDP.
What changed from 220-1101 to 220-1201?
The domain weights moved, and several topics were removed, including SNMP ports, hubs, software-defined networking, named cable categories such as Cat 5e and Cat 6, SCSI and IDE, the laser printer imaging process and parts, and 3-D printers.
Do I need a calculator?
CompTIA makes no official statement either way, and the Core 1 objectives do not call for one.
Can I take Core 1 online?
Yes. You can sit it at a Pearson VUE test center or online through OnVUE. Online you get one display and a built-in digital whiteboard, and physical notes are not allowed.
How much does the Core 1 exam cost?
Each Core is priced separately, and the price varies by country and changes over time, so check the current price with CompTIA before you book. Every attempt is charged at the full price.
What happens if I fail Core 1?
You can book a second attempt straight away. Before your third and every later attempt you must wait at least 14 days. Each attempt costs the full exam price.
Does CompTIA publish the A+ pass rate?
No. CompTIA does not publish pass rates.
When does 220-1201 retire?
It launched on 25 March 2025. CompTIA says exams usually retire about three years after launch, so retirement is estimated for 2028. No date has been announced.
How long is A+ valid?
Three years. You renew through CompTIA's Continuing Education program, and a renewal fee applies.
How long does it take to study for Core 1?
It depends on your background. Common study plans budget roughly 60 to 120 hours for Core 1, and more if you have no IT experience.
Where can I find the official exam objectives?
On the A+ Core 1 page of CompTIA's website, where the 220-1201 exam objectives can be downloaded for free. CompTIA also publishes a free set of Core 1 practice questions there.
Can I use exam dumps?
No. Using braindumps or other unauthorised materials breaks CompTIA's policies, and CompTIA can revoke your certification.
