There are four specialist areas of training in a full CompTIA A+ program; you're thought of as A+ competent when you've passed the test for 2 out of 4 subjects. For this reason, most colleges only have two of the courses on their syllabus. The truth is it's necessary to have the information on each subject as many positions will demand the skills and knowledge of all four areas. It's not essential to qualify in them all, but we would recommend you at least have a working knowledge of every area.

In addition to learning how to build and fix computers, students on an A+ training course will have instruction on how to operate in antistatic conditions, how to fault find, to diagnose and to remotely access problems. If your ambition is taking care of computer networks, you should add Network+ to the CompTIA A+ training you're doing. Taking this course as well will prepare you to get a higher paid position. Alternatively, you may prefer the route to networking via Microsoft, in the form of MCP's, MCSA or the full MCSE.

Validated simulation materials and exam preparation packages are vital - and should definitely be offered by your training supplier. Don't go for training programs relying on non-accredited preparation materials for exams. The way they're phrased is sometimes startlingly different - and often this creates real issues when it comes to taking the real exam. A way to build self-confidence is if you check your depth of understanding by doing quizzes and simulated exams before you take the real thing.

Many people question why qualifications from colleges and universities are now falling behind more qualifications from the commercial sector? Key company training (as it's known in the industry) is far more specialised and product-specific. Industry has acknowledged that such specialised knowledge is essential to service the demands of an acceleratingly technical marketplace. Microsoft, CompTIA, CISCO and Adobe are the key players in this arena. Obviously, an appropriate degree of associated information must be covered, but essential specialisation in the required areas gives a commercially educated person a massive advantage.

If an employer understands what areas they need covered, then all it takes is an advert for someone with a specific qualification. Syllabuses are all based on the same criteria and do not vary between trainers (as academic syllabuses often do).

IT has become one of the more exciting and ground-breaking industries you could be involved with. Being a member of a team working on breakthroughs in technology is to be a part of the massive changes that will impact the whole world for generations to come. We're only just starting to get a handle on how all this will mould and change our lives. The way we interrelate with the rest of the world will be significantly affected by technology and the internet.

And don't forget salaries moreover - the average salary over this country as a whole for the usual person working in IT is a lot greater than remuneration packages in other sectors. Chances are that you'll earn a much greater package than you'd typically expect to bring in elsewhere. The search for certified IT specialists is guaranteed for a good while yet, because of the ongoing growth in IT dependency in commerce and the huge skills gap still in existence.

If an advisor doesn't question you thoroughly - chances are they're just trying to sell you something. If they wade straight in with a specific product before understanding your background and experience, then it's definitely the case. Occasionally, the starting point of study for someone with experience is substantially dissimilar to the student with no experience. It's wise to consider some basic PC skills training first. It can brush up on your current abilities and make your learning curve a less steep.