Thinking about diving into the IT world, but not sure if the CompTIA ITF+ cert is the right move? Well, you’re not the only one! The CompTIA ITF+ certification is designed to help you explore the entry-level IT Job market and determine if it fits you. This entry-level certification covers all the basic IT knowledge and skills you need to know, from setting up your computer to understanding software development and cybersecurity.
Whether you’re a student, career changer, or professional in a field that uses technology, the CompTIA ITF+ could be your starting point for a rewarding tech career. But is it the right choice for your goals, considering your educational background and experience? Let’s find out.
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What Is CompTIA ITF+ Certification?
This is a pre-professional certification for candidates seeking a career in IT. The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification is an introductory credential that can help you determine if a career in IT is the right choice for you. This certification provides learners with essential IT skills and knowledge, covering topics from setting up computers to understanding software development and cybersecurity.
By getting the ITF+ cert gives you a solid base in tech, makes you a more valuable employee, and opens up a whole range of IT career options. As technology plays a crucial role in business objectives, fundamental IT skills are becoming increasingly essential across industries. This certification can serve as a valuable starting point for anyone considering a future in the expanding field of IT.
Who Should Consider CompTIA ITF+ Certification?
If you’re just starting your IT journey – maybe you’re a student, or you’re changing careers – the CompTIA ITF+ is a great way to kick things off. It gives you the basic know-how to get going. But it’s not just for beginners – even if you work in marketing, sales, or operations, knowing about IT can make you better at your job. It makes you familiar with tech, more independent, and less reliant on the IT department.
Does CompTIA ITF+ Require Prior Experience?
No, You don’t need any prior experience for CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification. It is designed as an introductory certification that helps individuals decide if a career in IT is right for them. The ITF+ exam covers basic IT knowledge and skills, making it accessible for people with little to no IT background.
CompTIA ITF+ Certification Exam Overview
The CompTIA ITF+ exam covers the essential knowledge and skills in computing, IT infrastructure, applications and software, software development, database fundamentals, and security. The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) FC0-U61 exam will certify the successful candidate has the knowledge and skills required to identify and explain the basics of:
- Set up a Windows computer workstation and use basic software applications.
- Understand the functions and types of devices used in a computer system.
- Apply essential computer maintenance and support principles.
- Learn the basics of software and database development.
- Connect computers and mobile devices to home networks and the internet.
- Identify and address security issues related to computer and network use.
Further, this exam will assess the candidate’s knowledge of troubleshooting theory and preventive device maintenance. It is intended for advanced end users who are considering a career in IT and are interested in pursuing professional-level certifications, such as A+.
Exam Objectives (Domains):
The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented.
| Domain | Percentage of Examination |
|---|---|
| 1.0 IT Concepts and Terminology | 17% |
| 2.0 Infrastructure | 22% |
| 3.0 Applications and Software | 18% |
| 4.0 Software Development | 12% |
| 5.0 Database Fundamentals | 11% |
| 6.0 Security | 20% |
| Total | 100% |
Exam Details
| Exam Codes | Exam FC0-U61 |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | 4-Sep-18 |
| Exam Details | The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) exam focuses on the knowledge and skills required to identify and explain the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, software development and database use. |
| Number of Questions | Maximum of 75 questions per exam |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice |
| Length of Test | 60 Minutes |
| Passing Score | 650 (on a scale of 900) |
| Recommended Experience | No prior experience necessary |
| Languages | English |
| Retirement | Usually three years after launch |
How Much Does CompTIA ITF+ Exam Cost?
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ costs $138 in the USA as of May 2024. For the updated price, you can check this link: CompTIA Exam Prices.
| Country | Currency | Price |
|---|---|---|
| USA | USD | 138 |
| Emerging Market | USDe | 77 |
| Great Britain | GBP | 81 |
| EURO | EURO | 125 |
| Japan | JPY | 10,129 |
| Australia | AUD | 186 |
| South Africa | ZAR | 1,061 |
How Long Will It Take You to Prepare for the ITF+ Certification?
The preparation time for the CompTIA ITF+ exam can vary greatly depending on your prior IT knowledge and the time you can dedicate to studying.
Here’s a summary of the timeframes:
- 2-4 Weeks: If you have a basic understanding of IT concepts, you might be able to pass the exam after studying for a 2-4 weekend.
- Couple of Months: If you have no prior experience or IT knowledge then the period to prepare might take a couple of months.
Considering your 9-5 schedule:
It’s best to be realistic and allocate at least 3 to 4 weeks for preparation, depending on your needs and knowledge. This will allow you to study consistently without feeling overwhelmed. You can start by assessing your existing knowledge and focusing on areas where you need improvement. Utilize online resources, study guides, and practice tests to solidify your understanding. Everyone learns at a different pace, so adjust the timeframe based on your needs and progress.
Is CompTIA ITF+ Hard?
The difficulty of the CompTIA ITF+ certification exam can vary depending on your background and preparation. If you’re well-prepared and familiar with the material, you’ll likely find the exam manageable. However, be aware that CompTIA’s wording can be tricky, which might make the test seem harder than expected.
CompTIA has a knack for tricky wording on their exams. Be prepared to tackle topics like databases and programming, as these tend to trip some people up. With thorough study and practice, especially using materials like study guides and practice tests, you should be well-equipped to succeed. I found some users on Reddit who have failed on their first try, while others achieved good scores on their first attempt. Remember, the ITF+ is designed to test foundational IT knowledge, so with the right preparation, you can do well.
Should I Take ITF+ Before A+?
The CompTIA ITF+ exam’s difficulty varies by background and preparation. If you’re new to IT, the ITF+ provides a solid foundation. However, if you have basic IT knowledge, you might skip ITF+ and go straight to A+. To get the proper answer, ask yourself these questions.
Am I New to IT? Then you can start with ITF+ to learn the basics. If your ultimate goal is A+, you can use the free resources available for CompTIA ITF+ to fill knowledge gaps without taking the exam. Then, you can confidently pursue your A+ certification.
Do you have some IT knowledge and want a career in IT? If your answer is yes, then go straight to A+. It’s more challenging but more valuable for your job prospects.
Here’s the deal: ITF+ is like your IT 101 course, while A+ is the key to getting your foot in the door. Pick the path that’s right for you, based on where you’re at and where you want to go.
Jobs You Can Get with CompTIA ITF+
Earning a CompTIA ITF+ certification is a great starting point for entering the IT field. The CompTIA ITF+ exam is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing professional-level certifications like CompTIA A+, which can lead to roles in technical support and IT operations. While an ITF+ certification may not guarantee your first job, it provides a solid foundation for your IT career. With an ITF+ 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 ITF+ Salaries: What to Expect?
With an ITF+ certification, you can earn an average hourly wage of $27 in the United States. According to ZipRecruiter, salaries typically range from $21,000 to $95,000 annually, with an average of $56,151 per year. Remember, the ITF+ is a starting point, and your earning potential increases as you gain experience and pursue higher-level certifications like CompTIA A+. Salaries vary based on skill level, location, and experience.
Is CompTIA ITF+ Worth It?
If you’re entirely new to IT and want to grasp the basics, the ITF+ certification is a great starting point. Before you decide, here are some things to consider to help you choose the best path for you:
Your Current Knowledge:
If you’re a beginner in IT with no prior experience, the ITF+ certification is a great starting point. However, if you already know the basics of computers and technology, you can skip the ITF+ and jump straight to the A+ certification, as it might be a more efficient use of your time.
Career Goals:
The ITF+ is not widely recognized in the job market. Most employers look for the A+ certification for entry-level IT roles. Focusing on the A+ might be more advantageous if your goal is to enter the IT workforce quickly.
But ITF+ can still be valuable if you’re planning a gradual transition into IT and want to build confidence and foundational knowledge before tackling more challenging certifications.
Cost and Time Investment:
The ITF+ is less expensive and requires less study time than the A+. However, the A+ certification has a higher return on investment due to its broader recognition and applicability in job markets.
ITF+ Retirement:
ITF+ certification will retire in the Summer of 2025. ITF+ will be renamed to Tech+ with some major modifications. Tech+ Certification will be available on Aug. 28, 2024. You might want to wait for a couple of months to avail of this new certification.
Job Market Value:
The ITF+ is rarely listed as a requirement for IT jobs, whereas the A+ certification is commonly required for many entry-level IT positions. Investing time and money in the A+ certification is generally more beneficial for job prospects.
Let’s wrap this up: ITF+ is awesome if you’re starting from scratch, but if you have your sights set on a serious IT career, A+ is the gold standard for entry-level gigs. It’s a bigger investment, but it pays off in the long run.
