CompTIA is launching a new certification exam, CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71), designed to validate the skills of entry-level IT professionals. It’s an updated version of the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (Exam FC0-U61) certification, with some key differences.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons to pursue or forego the CompTIA Tech+ certification. This certification opens up a wide range of job opportunities in the industry and significantly boosts your earning potential. Moreover, it equips you with the necessary skills to excel in the ever-evolving IT landscape. Let’s dive in and discover how this certification can transform your career!
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What is CompTIA Tech+
CompTIA Tech+ is a pre-professional certification for candidates seeking a career in IT. The Tech+ exam certifies that you have what it takes to tackle the fundamentals of computing, IT infrastructure, applications, software development, databases, and security. You must prove that you can handle peripherals, web browsers, and wireless networks. The exam also tests your troubleshooting skills and ability to spot security risks. It might be the perfect stepping stone for newcomers who want to dive deeper into IT and maybe even pursue certifications like A+ down the line.
Who Should Consider CompTIA Tech+ Certification?
Thinking about a career in IT? Not sure where to start? This entry-level cert could be your ticket. It’s great for students and anyone new to tech who wants a solid foundation. Even if you’re already working in tech, it can help you sharpen your skills and stay on top of things. And if you’re a tech-adjacent worker who needs tech literacy to enhance job performance, this cert’s for you!
However, if you have a solid understanding of IT or are already working in an IT job, Tech+ might not be for you.
Exam Overview
The CompTIA Tech+ FC0-U71 Certification Exam is a thorough assessment designed for students or people who are trying to get into IT. It tests your understanding of computing fundamentals, IT infrastructure, software development, databases, and security. You’ll also need to show you can set up a network, install software, and troubleshoot issues. Plus, they’ll assess your knowledge of cybersecurity risks. It can be a challenging exam if you are new to IT, but passing it validates your technical expertise and opens doors to a career in IT. Here’s a table summarizing the six domains covered in the CompTIA Tech+ FC0-U71 Certification Exam:
| Domain Name | Percentage of Examination |
|---|---|
| IT Concepts and Terminology | 13% |
| Infrastructure | 24% |
| Applications and Software | 18% |
| Software Development Concepts | 13% |
| Data and Database Fundamentals | 13% |
| Security | 19% |
CompTIA has yet to announce the types of questions, the length of the test, the passing score, or if the Tech+ certification will ever expire. We will let you know as soon as these details are released. You can keep your eye on this link for any updated information: https://www.comptia.org/certifications/tech
What Sets CompTIA Tech+ Apart from ITF+?
The CompTIA Tech+ certification represents a significant evolution from the IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+), designed to better equip IT professionals for a rapidly advancing tech landscape. The CompTIA Tech+ certification will be fully available by August 28, 2024, and the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) will retire in the summer of 2025.
So, what’s the difference between the two? Let’s take a look:
Enhanced Focus on Hardware: Tech+ goes deeper into hardware compared to ITF+. It covers how to install and configure peripheral devices, understand the mechanics of computing components, and differentiate between types of storage.
Cloud Computing and Virtualization: Tech+ brings cloud computing and virtualization into the mix, areas not covered by ITF+. With the rise of cloud services in business infrastructures, understanding these concepts is essential for any IT professional.
Advanced Networking: Tech+ explores networking more extensively than ITF+. It looks at different internet service types, network communication basics, and setting up small wireless networks, highlighting the essential role that networking plays in the IT field.
Cutting-Edge Technologies(like AI): The certification now includes emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Robust Security Training: Both certifications touch on security, but Tech+ does a deeper dive. It tackles encryption, wireless network security, and password management, among other topics, reflecting the heightened focus on security in our increasingly digital world.
ITF+ received relatively little attention from both job seekers and employers. With these changes, we can hope to see a shift for Tech+. These updates should make Tech+ a more comprehensive and practical certification, ensuring that IT professionals are well-equipped to meet the challenges of the modern tech landscape and advance in their careers.
How Long Might It Take You to Prepare for the CompTIA Tech+ Certification?
How long it takes to prep for the CompTIA Tech+ exam depends on your IT background and how much time you can study. Here’s a quick breakdown:
2-4 Weeks: If you have a basic grasp of IT, you might be ready to ace the exam after a few weekends of studying.
Couple of Months: If you are starting from scratch, it might take a couple of months to get up to speed.
If you’re juggling a 9-5 job, aim to set aside 3 to 4 weeks for studying. This schedule helps you learn without burning out. Start by figuring out what you already know and focus on areas that need work. Use online resources, study guides, and practice tests to improve your skills. Remember, everyone’s learning speed is different, so tweak your study time as needed based on how you’re doing.
Is CompTIA Tech+ Hard?
The difficulty of the CompTIA Tech+ certification exam can vary greatly depending on your prior experience and how well you prepare. If you’re familiar with the material and have prepared thoroughly, you’ll likely find the exam manageable. However, CompTIA is known for using tricky wording in their exams, so be sure to study carefully. Topics like databases and programming tend to be more challenging for some test-takers, so focus on those areas. As the certification is yet to launch, it’s hard to predict how difficult the Tech+ exam will be.
Is It Better to Skip Tech+ and Start with CompTIA A+?
Well, whether you should skip Tech+ and go straight for A+ really depends on your background and preparation. Remember, Tech+ is a pre-professional certification and not mandatory. If you’re new to IT, Tech+ can lay a solid foundation. However, if you already have a basic understanding of IT, you might consider skipping Tech+ and starting with A+. To find the right answer for yourself, reflect on these questions: Are you confident that you don’t have any knowledge gaps? If so, there might be no need to spend time and money on Tech+.
Jobs You Can Get with CompTIA Tech+
The CompTIA Tech+ exam is ideal for individuals pursuing professional-level certifications like CompTIA A+, which can lead to technical support and IT operations roles. While a Tech+ certification may not guarantee your first job, it provides a solid foundation for your IT career. With a Tech+ certification, you can pursue entry-level IT roles such as:
- Service and user help desk support
- Technical support specialist
- Associate network engineer
- Data support technician
- Desktop support administrator
- Help desk technician
- System support specialist.
CompTIA Tech+ Salaries: What to Expect?
I can’t tell you definitively how much you can earn with the CompTIA Tech+ certification yet, as it hasn’t launched and there isn’t enough data available. However, to give you a general idea, we can look at ITF+ earnings. According to ZipRecruiter, ITF+ certificate holders in the USA earn between $21,000 and $95,000 annually, with an average of $56,151. You might expect a similar salary range with Tech+, as it builds upon the ITF+ foundation.
Is CompTIA Tech+ Worth It?
If you’re new to IT and looking to understand the basics, the Tech+ certification could be a good starting point. However, consider these factors before deciding:
Current Knowledge: If you have no prior IT experience, Tech+ is an excellent introduction. However, if you’re already familiar with the basics of computers and technology, you might consider skipping Tech+ and opting for the A+ certification to save time.
Career Goals: It’s uncertain how much employers will recognize Tech+ compared to A+. For entry-level IT roles, employers typically prefer the A+ certification. A+ is likely the better choice if you’re aiming to quickly enter the IT workforce. However, if you’re transitioning gradually into IT, Tech+ can provide a solid foundation and boost your confidence.
Cost and Time Investment: Tech+ is expected to be less expensive and requires less study time than A+, but A+ offers a higher return on investment due to its broad recognition and relevance in the job market.
Job Market Value: ITF+ is rarely a job requirement, and it’s unclear what the case will be for Tech+. However, A+ is often essential for many entry-level IT positions. Investing in A+ is generally more beneficial for your career prospects.
In summary, while Tech+ is excellent for absolute beginners, A+ is the standard for those serious about starting a career in IT. It requires more investment but offers greater long-term rewards.
