The CompTIA A+ training program covers four areas of training; you're seen as an A+ achiever when you've passed the test for two of the four areas. This is the reason that the majority of training establishments only teach 2 specialised areas. You'll find that it's necessary to have the information on each subject as many positions will demand an understanding of each specialist area. You don't have to pass exams in all of them, although it would seem prudent that you take tutorials in all 4 subjects.

Qualifying in CompTIA A+ in isolation will mean that you're able to mend and maintain laptops, Macs and PC's; ones which are usually not part of a network - which is for the most part the home market. If you aspire to being responsible for networks of computers, add the excellent Network+ to your training package. Taking this course as well will put you in a position to get a higher paid position. Also look at the networking qualifications from Microsoft, i.e. MCP, MCSA MCSE.

We're often asked why traditional degrees are being overtaken by more commercially accredited qualifications? Industry now acknowledges that to learn the appropriate commercial skills, proper accreditation from the likes of Adobe, Microsoft, CISCO and CompTIA often is more effective in the commercial field - for much less time and money. They do this by concentrating on the actual skills required (alongside a proportionate degree of related knowledge,) instead of going into the heightened depths of background 'padding' that computer Science Degrees can get bogged down in (because the syllabus is so wide).

It's a bit like the TV advert: 'It does what it says on the tin'. All an employer has to do is know what they need doing, and then match up the appropriate exam numbers as a requirement. That way they can be sure they're interviewing applicants who can do the job.

The area most overlooked by potential students weighing up a particular programme is that of 'training segmentation'. This is essentially the breakdown of the materials for delivery to you, which can make a dramatic difference to how you end up. Many companies enrol you into a 2 or 3 year study programme, and courier the materials in pieces as you get to the end of each exam. If you think this sound logical, then consider this: How would they react if you didn't complete each element at the speed they required? Often the prescribed exam order doesn't work as well as an alternative path could be.

An ideal situation would be to have all your study materials sent to your address right at the beginning; every single thing! Thus avoiding any future problems that could impede your capability of finishing.

Only consider learning paths which will lead to commercially approved certifications. There are far too many small companies proposing 'in-house' certificates which are worthless when it comes to finding a job. All the major IT organisations such as Microsoft, Adobe, CompTIA or Cisco have internationally approved proficiency programs. These big-hitters will make your CV stand-out.