How do I go about getting an A+ certifications?

[dino8031]

I'm not sure where to post this, but this seemed like a reasonable starting point.

I'm interested in getting a couple of different A+ certifications. I've looked at a few sample tests and they seem realitively simple for the most part.

My question is, what is a good source for information on prepping for the exams and where and how are the tests administered?
Thanks.

 

[nweaver]

www.examcram.com is good (or was, when I took the test).

For testing sites, I think the comptia webpage lists testing centers. Most of those testing centers will also offer classes for study.

 

[dino8031]

Thanks for the CompTIA link. It's an excellent start.

One more question. How difficult are the exams? I have a fairly good hands-on knowledge of desktop pc troubleshooting and small scale workgroup networking. I've been your basic self-taught IT go-to-guy in a fairly small engineering and production facility for the last few years. Do I need to take some sort of prep course to pass the exams or should I walk in cold and give it a shot?

I recently got the boot in a company layoff and I'm looking to improve my skills and marketability.

 

[nweaver]

I don't know, I took the old exam, it was pretty easy, other then poorly worded questions.

 

[bluestrobe]

I have a study book for the A+. I really don't see how knowing the parts of a laser printer will affect my future but ohh well. Someone who took the test told me to memorize your IRQ's and DOS stuff.

 

[nweaver]

I know that you needed the dos and IRQ stuff for the old, but I thought they had revamped it, and put linux stuff in too. The laser printer stuff....well, IT gets that job often I guess.