Going back to do A+ AFTER completing Net+ and Security+?

Sort of a dumb question, but it's been on my mind. Does anyone think it would be worth the cost to do A+ if you're already Net+ and Security+ certified? I understand A+ is the the basic entry level cert...in terms of DOD contracting do you think they would hold not having A+ against me? I don't really have any experience with hardware (I intend on specializing in security) and planned on jumping into SSCP next followed by the CASP..then eventually to the CISSP. I'm just not sure at this point if it's worth the cost..or if it would actually mean something to DOD contracting. Thanks for your input!

-Travis

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H3||scr3am

I'd say it wouldn't hurt but likely isn't necessary, it runs about $300 because it's two parts. Also I'd do the CASP, consider GSEC?(bit pricey), then SSCP/CISSP.

Plantwiz

Up to you.

I would not get the A+ if I have moved beyond the skill set of the A+ in my career...and would only do it if required.

Overall, A+ certification is fine for those without any certs, and you sound early enough in your career that it will not be a bad investment, but it is a pricy investment. If you will be handling hardware and basic OS stuff, sure get it. If you have moved past that and are Networking or doing any security items, I would probably skip it an focus on certs I work with.

orlandofl

I'd say it wouldn't hurt but likely isn't necessary, it runs about $300 because it's two parts. Also I'd do the CASP, consider GSEC?(bit pricey), then SSCP/CISSP.

I probably won't do the A+..considering the money involved that can be spent else where. I suppose it just felt odd skipping it, though I do have 3 years of experience in telecommunications/networking.

So question about the order of security certs you mentioned. You said Security+, CASP, THEN SSCP and eventually CISSP. (GSEC is completely out of the question for me, it's still only level II which I will have with Security+ on DOD 8570 but at $1,099 it just wouldn't make sense in my situation) CASP before SSCP is something I've not thought about. The readings I've stumbled across (Darril Gibson's Blog) indicated the SSCP is a step below the CASP. On the other hand I could see how doing the SSCP then the CISSP would make some sense as well given the overlap in domains. CompTIA's website makes mention that the CASP is to 'follow' Security+'. I wonder if this could actually be done in a month's time of studying? After Security+ I have one more month (one more cert) before I gotta get back to work...CASP would count toward IAT III and give me more of an edge in the DOD market here in Orlando...I'm just wondering if the 30 day study time frame after Security+ would make this feasible? (I've heard it's a fairly technical exam) Any thoughts?

Thanks!

-Travis

H3||scr3am

I cannot say that I have done it, I plan to save it a few years so that when I get it near my other CE certs expiration date, it'll keep them valid for another 3 years

But yes, I stated that route for a few reasons.

A) they're both CompTIA exams, which you'll be comfortable with in format, testing centre, question wording, etc.

they'll likely have more in common with one another then SSCP and CASP as they'll build on top of what they already have.

and Yes, same goes with the SSCP then CISSP idea, they build on one another, one gets you a years experience requirement removed from the next, and they are sibling certs. The testing formats will be similar, question styles, etc.

techfiend

I think the A+ is only great for getting the first it job and is required for many. If you already have experience I'd skip it. Build a few computers and troubleshoot them would be a better hardware learning experience.

AverageJoe

I got my A+ after already having Net+, Sec+, CISM, and CISSP. For me it wasn't about getting a job, though. I have a lot of IT techs who work for me, and I thought it important to know what they went through getting the cert. I think it builds some credibility with them too. Plus, I just flat out learned quite a bit by preparing for the A+ exams.

ssnyderu2

I have my A+ and will keep it current just because I see a lot of job listings that require it. Its odd. i have seen jobs require the A+, but they dont require hands on computer work in the job posting. I would think they would require the Network+ or Security+ over the A+.

binarysoul

orlandofl wrote: »

(I intend on specializing in security) and planned on jumping into SSCP next followed by the CASP..then eventually to the CISSP.
-Travis

LOL, interestingly that's the exact path I'm planning to take to reach CISSP and make my my mark in security! Good luck!

I would say go for A+ for sure; it increases your chances of employment and strengthens your resume.

moe12

If you already have your Net+ and Sec+ no need for A+...IMO

Armitron77

orlandofl,

If I were you, I would go for the A+ certification. I have a friend who already has his Network +, Security +, and B.S. in Computer Science. When he applied for a job with a company that deals with IT distribution outsourcing, they asked him does he have his A+. Of course he replied no. The hiring manager would not hire him because he did not have his A+ certification, despite already having the Net +, Security +, and a B.S. in Computer Science with about 10 plus years of experience in troubleshooting, building, and maintaining PC's and Servers. The company that he applied at values the A+ certification more than any other cert (even over a college degree) because it is an entry level cert. He is just now finally studying for the A+. Therefore, to cover all of your bases, obtain that A+ certification for good measure. Plus, it will look very good on your resume. I'm just about there in terms of getting the A+. I recently passed the 801 exam and will be taking the 802 exam at the end of the month. Anyway, good luck.

fuz1on

Armitron77 wrote: »

The hiring manager would not hire him because he did not have his A+ certification, despite already having the Net +, Security +, and a B.S. in Computer Science with about 10 plus years of experience in troubleshooting, building, and maintaining PC's and Servers. The company that he applied at values the A+ certification more than any other cert (even over a college degree) because it is an entry level cert.

Wow! That's kinda crazy!

IMHO, once you're above and beyond there is no need for a lower cert unless your company pays for it.

Armitron77

It's a shame, but true.

burfect

I have been debating this as well. Once moving beyond the getting your "foot in the door" I feel as though the Net/Sec/Linux trifecta would be more valuable than the A/Net/Sec trifecta.

DoubleNNs

I agree. I think the only reason to get the A+ is if you haven't been able to land your 1st IT gig yet. Once you're in IT, it's most likely best to skip the cert.

ssnyderu2

@OP - If you have to pay out of pocket for the A+, I would skip it unless you have to have it. However if you work somewhere that does tuition reimbursement, they might pay for it. Check with you boss/HR and see if it is an option.

Where I work they will pay up to $2500.00 a year for education. This includes certs. For example I am going to go for my CCENT. They will pay for the training and the cost of the exam. I have to pay first, but if I pass, they reimburse me the cost.

orlandofl

So..just to bring this thread to life...it looks as though i may have to get my A+ certification. I intended on going back to work and working on the Linux certification path. As stated previously my experiences consist of a year as a communications tech with an internet service provider, a year as a PC tech (mostly software and home networking) work for my own small company I had a few years ago, and as an RF Network Operations Technician for Ericsson supporting Sprint's nationwide network.

I've applied left and right to help desk positions...and can't get anyone to call me back. My wife and I are moving apartments soon, and we have another little one on the way. I honestly don't have time to screw around anymore, and need to get back to work. I wasn't looking for anything grand, just a run of the mill 15 dollar an hour help desk/desktop support gig to have "real" enterprise IT experience on my resume while I'm getting my Linux certs done with the overall goal of becoming a Linux Sys Admin.

I don't feel like A+ is beneath me....but I'm also not happy about shelling out damn near $400.00 for the test either after already completing Network+ and Security+. I'm HDI Desktop Support Technician certified, I thought that might have counted for something when applying to end-user support jobs.

If I could get some honest opinions, what do you think? Best way to land the first "real" IT job, is A+ the ticket? Or should i just continue on with advanced certs? Orlando is a decent tech town..quite a bit of help-desk/technical support/desktop support roles floating around on indeed, CareerBuilder, and Monster...just no interviews yet...

Thanks!

Travis