Need some advice on Certification Path / Questing if I need A+

Little bit of background. Associates in network security. ~4 years IT experience, haven't worked in IT field in ~3 years.

I've been studying for the A+ test for about a week and a half. I've been doing practice tests & feel confident I can pass it. I have some doubt's about getting the A+ cert though. To me it kind of feels like the A+ is to entry level of a cert.I'm not sure that it would really add anything to the certs I plan on obtaining next; CCNA & Linux+.

I have background in Linux & networking, it was mainly in school & just labs I ran at home. I think I could have the Linux+ in a month & with another month of studying have my CCNA. I'm not really looking for a job right now - If I was A+ would probably make more sense to me.

I just don't know if it would be worth the $376 cost and the yearly cost of $29 of continuation education to keep it up to date. The one thing that kind of kills me is I spent all the time reading & preparing for the test. If I don't take it it'll mostly be for nothing... It was a nice refresher though.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!

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Comments

Jon_Cisco

I'm still just figuring all of this out myself. However I would do a couple of job searches. It sounds to me like the things that fit your interest will not require A+. If not I would focus on requirements that they are asking for.

With that said if you feel you need it then do it now while the information has be refreshed already.

rowelld

You may find that employers may want Windows certifications vs A+ but that depends on the jobs available in your area. Look for a positions you'd interview for in the near future and take a look at their requirements.

ajs1976

with an associates in network security and 4 yrs of experience, I would skip the A+. What do you want to do?

Dakinggamer87

I would skip the A+ at this point considering your experience.

JaneDoe

I did the A+ first and it helped me get familiar with the certification process and land a great internship. I'd recommend starting with a relatively easy exam like the A+ or maybe the network+ if that's what you're interested in.