A+, N+, etc....

Does anyone know where the cheapest/best resources are for these cert exams?

 

In my head, I know everything! Seriously, I have the following CompTIA certs: Network+, A+, Server+, Security+, Project+, and i-Net+ and used the ExamCram books. In order of difficulty I would rate them from hard to easy as -
Project+
Security+
A+
Network+
i-Net+
Server+

A+ was the first CompTIA exam I took so it was not easy for me due to limited experience

 

I'll give ExamCram a try. Maybe Ebay will have some.

 

For some reason I felt that the Network+ was harder than the A+, but then I failed the software portion of the A+ the first time out.

I'm still waiting on the Project+ beta voucher, but if I don't get it soon I may just bite the bullet and do it on my own as a warm up to the PMP.

 

You can do a search for comptia voucher - there are sites around that offer them. Sometimes ebay is your best bet if you're ready to go...exam vouchers on ebay often expired with < 30 days left in the voucher so the sellers are trying to unload them.

A great site for these types of examinations (MS, CompTIA, Cisco...) is www.techexams.net

 

I barely passed the A+ exams (each part) but already had an MCSE. About two years later I had a lot more experience and took the N+ and passed with ease. I got a free N+ class from New Horizons due to the countless scheduling issues for my last MCSA class. I took the test before the class was even over and corrected the instructor several times. I guess every test is easy if you know the material.

The PMP is on my list after I finish my PhD.

 

I could take the Sec+ but can't justify spending the money for the exam since it doesn't apply to my current job...*shrug* at some point I'll do it, alongside the PMP..

 

You can get your BS in IT from WGU with all these certs.


http://www.wgu.edu/online_it_degrees/information_technology_degree

 

What do you envision the PMP will do for you?

 

There are many PM jobs that require PMP.

I strongly recommend this credential to professionals in many walks of life.
As more and more jobs go overseas some has to manage this projects.

So you project management experience and experience in you field or career
Plus PMP will provide grater job security and better path for advancement in the PMO organization.

I'm currently taking PM classes via the Boston University.
Their diploma in Project management and PMI PMP cert will be nice addition to my arsenal.

 

I do mostly project management and manage employees. It will look good, make me look smart, and take up all that spare time I have I think it will just add to my marketability.

 

Ditto what HwyRogue said. When I took on of my A+ exams, I got a good price on one that was about to expire at http://advanced-technology-group-atg.stores.yahoo.net/itpractesand.html . I see they have Linux+ for pretty cheap right now. hmmm.....

 

I need to look into PMP, especially if it has instructional marketability.

 

Just spend the 2 hours it take to prepare and take it. It may not apply to your current job but what about what you may want in the future?

 

I know you haven't undertaken the PMP as yet...how long do you think that one will take in preparation?

 

I am going to set my sights at 3 months. Maybe someone with a PMP can weigh in.

 

The "cheapest/best" resource I know for cert exams is ProProfs.com. It's a large online community and has everything you need to pass any exam. It's also FREE.

 

Thanks for the lead, Tech Guy! I am registered and will start poking around!

 

Great tip - thanks!

 

Interesting website with A+ & N+ videos

I have begun watching these videos and making notes. It can't hurt...just passing along info to those who might be interested.

http://www.professormesser.com/main

When I was in the Army, I had access to the free SmartForce training (and didn't take advantage of it...). Is that stuff still being offered to soldiers?