How to Become an A+ Computer Technician: Your Complete Guide to Mastering Computer Repair and IT Support

When Sarah, a 28-year-old barista, fixed her friend’s laptop after watching a few YouTube tutorials, she didn’t expect it to spark a new career. Frustrated with long hours and little growth in her job, she decided to pursue her newfound love for tech. Six months later, she earned her CompTIA A+ certification and landed a job as an A+ Computer Technician at a local repair shop, doubling her income and solving real-world problems every day. Sarah’s story isn’t unique—becoming an A+ Computer Technician is a rewarding, in-demand career path for anyone who loves tech and helping people. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to follow in her footsteps, whether you’re a beginner, a career-switcher, or a tech enthusiast.

What Does an A+ Computer Technician Do?

An A+ Computer Technician is the go-to person for fixing computers and keeping tech running smoothly. Think of them as the mechanics of the digital world, diagnosing and repairing hardware (like hard drives or motherboards), troubleshooting software issues (like viruses or crashes), and providing customer support. On any given day, an A+ Computer Technician might:

The role is hands-on and varied, blending technical know-how with problem-solving and people skills. According to industry insights, over 80% of A+ Computer Technicians report high job satisfaction because they get to tackle real challenges and make a tangible difference.

Getting the CompTIA A+ Certification: Your First Step

The CompTIA A+ certification is the gold standard for becoming an A+ Computer Technician. It’s recognized worldwide and proves you have the skills to handle hardware, software, and IT support. Here’s what you need to know:

The Exams

The certification requires passing two exams:

Each exam has about 90 questions (multiple-choice and performance-based) and costs around $246, so the total is roughly $492. You can take them at a Pearson VUE testing center or online.

How to Prepare

Studying for the A+ exams can feel daunting, but with the right plan, it’s manageable. Most people need 3–6 months of study, depending on their tech background. Here’s a simple approach:

Pro Tip from an A+ Computer Technician: “I studied 1 hour a day, focusing on one topic—like networking or Windows—each week,” says Jake, a technician in Chicago. “Taking notes by hand helped me remember tricky terms.”

Essential Skills for an A+ Computer Technician

While the certification proves your knowledge, real-world skills make you a great A+ Computer Technician. Here are the must-haves, plus a practical example to bring it to life:

Key Skills

Example: Fixing a Computer That Won’t Boot

Imagine a client’s PC won’t start—it’s just a black screen. Here’s how an A+ Computer Technician might solve it:

This step-by-step approach builds confidence and shows clients you know your stuff.

Career Paths for an A+ Computer Technician

Once you’re certified, the A+ opens doors to diverse roles. Here are a few paths and how to stand out:

To shine as an A+ Computer Technician, stay curious—follow tech blogs like Ars Technica or watch YouTube channels like Linus Tech Tips to keep up with trends. Also, practice soft skills: a technician who listens and explains clearly is worth their weight in gold.

A Day in the Life of an A+ Computer Technician

Wonder what it’s really like? Meet Maria, an A+ Computer Technician at a repair shop in Austin. Her day might look like this:

Maria’s Take: “Some days are hectic, but I love the moment a client’s face lights up when their computer works again. It’s like solving a puzzle they couldn’t crack.”

Challenges include cranky clients or tricky issues that take hours to diagnose, but the reward is knowing you’ve helped someone keep their digital life on track.

Why Being an A+ Computer Technician Is More Than Tech

Here’s the unique angle: becoming an A+ Computer Technician doesn’t just teach you about computers—it builds life skills. The logical thinking do you use to diagnose a blue screen error? That helps you solve problems in everyday life, from budgeting to planning. The patience you develop in explaining tech to a frustrated client? That makes you a better communicator in any field. These skills make the journey worthwhile, even if you later pivot to another career.

Your Next Steps

Ready to become an A+ Computer Technician? Start small but start now:

As a bonus, download our free to stay organized. It includes a 12-week study schedule and tips for exam day.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Let’s Get Started

Becoming an A+ Computer Technician is a journey, but it pays off with a fulfilling career and skills you’ll use for life. Whether you’re like Sarah, starting from scratch, or already tinkering with tech, the path is clear. Take the first step today—research a study resource, join a tech forum, or share your goals in the comments below. We’d love to hear your story and answer any questions as you work toward becoming an A+ Computer Technician!