What is CompTIA A+ Core 2?
Core 2 (220-1202) is one of the two exams for the CompTIA A+ certification, the entry credential for IT support specialists, help desk and desktop support. It covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures.
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 2 on its own is not a certification.
Can I take Core 2 before Core 1?
Yes. You can take the two exams in any order, as long as both are from the same version (V15).
Can I pair 220-1202 with the old 220-1101?
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 2?
People starting out in IT support, such as help desk and desktop support staff 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.
How many questions are on the 220-1202 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 2 exam?
90 minutes, in one sitting with no scheduled breaks.
What score do I need to pass Core 2?
700 on a scale of 100 to 900. That is higher than Core 1's 675.
Is 700 a percentage?
No. The score is scaled and set statistically, and CompTIA does not publish how raw answers convert to it, so 700 cannot be turned into a percentage of questions you must get right.
What types of questions are on Core 2?
Multiple-choice (single and multiple response), drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions.
What are performance-based questions (PBQs) on Core 2?
Simulations of a task, for example a clickable 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.
Which domains are the biggest on Core 2?
Operating Systems and Security, at 28% each. They are followed by Software Troubleshooting (23%) and Operational Procedures (21%).
Which operating systems are on Core 2?
Mostly Windows 10 and 11, including the differences between editions, Windows tools and command-line tools. macOS and Linux are covered too, along with mobile operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS and Android.
Which Windows commands do I need to know?
The ones in objective 1.5, including cd, dir, ipconfig, ping, netstat, nslookup, net use, tracert, pathping, chkdsk, format, diskpart, md, rmdir, robocopy, hostname, net user, winver, whoami, gpupdate, gpresult and sfc.
Is there scripting on Core 2?
Only the basics. Objective 4.8 covers script file types (.bat, .ps1, .vbs, .sh, .js and .py), what scripts are used for, and the risks of running them. You are not asked to write code.
Does Core 2 cover AI?
Yes, at a basic level. Objective 4.10 covers appropriate use and plagiarism policies, limitations such as bias and hallucinations, and the data privacy differences between private and public AI tools.
Is there a troubleshooting methodology on Core 2?
No. The only fixed sequence in the Core 2 objectives is the ten-step malware removal procedure in objective 2.6.
What changed from 220-1102 to 220-1202?
The domain weights moved, and the command list changed: xcopy, copy and shutdown were removed and whoami was added.
Is there maths on Core 2?
No. Core 2 has no arithmetic, and CompTIA makes no official statement about calculators.
Can I take Core 2 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 2 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 2?
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 220-1202 retire?
It launched on 25 March 2025, and 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.
Where can I find the official exam objectives?
On CompTIA's A+ pages, where the 220-1202 exam objectives can be downloaded for free. CompTIA also publishes a free set of Core 2 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.
