10 CompTIA A+ Interview Questions and Tips for Success

As a highly respected certification in information technology, a CompTIA A+ certification can help you find opportunities in a wide range of areas. You can become an IT specialist, business analyst, technical support specialist, field service technician, or one of many other entry-level positions. After earning a CompTIA A+ certification and developing skills in operating systems, hardware, cloud computing, networking, and more, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test in a CompTIA A+ interview.

10 CompTIA A+ interview questions

When preparing for your job interview, reviewing the questions you may face will be helpful. This allows you to establish a plan for answering certain questions while reviewing the material. Review the following questions to prepare for your interview.

1. What are the components of a personal computer (PC)?

What they’re really asking: Do you understand hardware components and how they connect devices? How to respond: The various components of a personal computer include the CPU, RAM, hard drive, motherboard, power supply, and cooling fan, among others. When answering this question, it’s important to not only name the components but also understand and be able to explain the role each plays. Other forms this question might take:

• What is a CPU?

• What is a motherboard?

2. What is your experience with operating systems, and which ones?

What they’re really asking: Are you capable of working with various operating systems?

How to respond: This question is an opportunity to showcase your experience with multiple operating systems. Highlighting some of your work with each will help prove your proficiency, so point out different features of the operating systems you’re experienced with. Other forms this question might take: 

• What are the differences between Linux, Mac, and Windows?

• How many operating systems do you know?

3. What are the different ways that you can install an operating system?

What they’re really asking: Do you know how to support the end user by helping them install an operating system?

How to respond: Several methods are available for installing an operating system. Be prepared to explain boot media, drive imaging, remote installation options such as network installation methods, and boot media alternatives, including USBs. Other forms this question might take: 

• How can you automate operating system installations?

• How do you remotely install an operating system?

4. How would you rate your comfort level and proficiency in communicating with end users?

What they’re really asking: Can you effectively solve problems for end users?

How to respond: When answering this question, highlight your technical areas and experiences and how to solve problems. Put your confidence on display here and highlight the communication methods that you use. Other forms this question might take:

• How do you handle problems experienced by the end user?

• Describe IT-related problems you've solved.

5. How do you anticipate using your CompTIA A+ certification in this role? 

What they’re really asking: Do you understand the full scope of the CompTIA A+ certification and how it will impact your work?

How to respond: It’s important that you go into your interview well-informed about the role, so be sure to do your research beforehand. By understanding the position's responsibilities and looking closely at the knowledge and skills gained from the certification, you can draw relevant conclusions about how the two are related. Other forms this question might take:

• What do you know about the position you are interviewing for?

• Why did you earn a CompTIA+ certification?

6. Explain the differences between software and hardware components of a computer system. 

What they’re really asking: Do you understand how software and hardware components work together?

How to respond: Software describes the applications and programs that computers run, while the hardware describes the physical components of a computer system on which the software runs. You will need to identify different hardware components and troubleshoot software. Other forms this question might take:

• What are examples of software?

• What are examples of hardware?

7. What is your approach to troubleshooting software or hardware problems on a computer?

What they’re really asking: Are you capable of solving problems related to operating systems, security issues, and hardware components?

How to respond: You should be able to follow the CompTIA methodology for troubleshooting. The seven-step process begins with identifying the problem and possible causes, determining the cause, and finding a solution. Then, you get the system back up and running while implementing preventative measures and documenting your findings.

Other forms this question might take:

• What is the CompTIA troubleshooting methodology?

• Tell us about a time you solved a problem on a mobile device or personal computer.

8. What is RAID, and can you explain the different levels of RAID?

What they’re really asking: Do you understand how to optimize data storage?

How to respond: A redundant array of independent disks (RAID) takes hardware disks and improves their performance and data reliability by combining them into a virtualized logical unit. While many RAID levels exist, the most common levels of RAID are one, three, and five. The different levels of RAID provide price, performance, and reliability options. For example, level zero is best when speed is the top priority.

Other forms this question might take:

• How do you determine the optimal RAID level?

• What’s the difference between hardware RAID and software RAID?

9. What experience do you have with installing and maintaining varying types of printers?

What they’re really asking: Do you know how to keep critical office devices running?

How to respond: When answering this question, focus on detailing the steps involved to show your expertise, including how to connect printers to the network, configure the settings, perform maintenance tasks such as cleaning, and update firmware.

Other forms this question might take:

• How do you identify common issues with printers?

• How do you manage a printer's network settings?

10. How do you plan to stay current with new technologies and up to date on your technical skills?

What they’re really asking: How will you keep up with the regular evolution of the tech industry?

How to respond: Several options exist for learning and growing your knowledge base and skill set in information technology, but you should have a specific plan. Your plan can include methods such as certifications and online courses, reading tech publications, listening to podcasts, or attending conferences.

Other forms this question might take: 

• What certifications do you plan on pursuing in the future?

• What resources do you use to learn about advancements in the industry?

Tips for a successful interview 

To stand out during your next interview, take the proper preparation steps. This includes researching both the organization and the position you’re interviewing for, practicing potential questions, and making sure you arrive on time in the proper attire. If you want to take your preparation one step further, consider the following.

Review your CompTIA A+ exam and study materials before the interview.

Go into your job interview with a strong understanding of the material from your CompTIA A+ certification exam. Take the time to review the material to make sure you know how to answer the technical questions you could face.

Infuse personal experiences in your responses. 

Use the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method to demonstrate personal examples of your experience when answering interview questions. To do so, first explain the situation to provide context, then talk about the goal of your work, the actions you took to get there, and the results of your work.

Ask your own questions and show interest in the position. 

Come prepared for the interview with a few questions to ask the interviewer. This helps to show your interest in the position and that you did your research. The questions can entail things such as the organization's culture or what a typical day will look like in that role.

By studying common CompTIA A+ interview questions and answers and following these tips for a successful interview, you can walk into your next interview feeling confident, knowing you’re well prepared.

Get started with Coursera.

By reviewing relevant CompTIA A+ interview questions, you can prepare to show your expertise and knowledge to potential employers during your next job interview. Explore information technology courses on Coursera to further boost your skills and showcase skills on your resume. Information Technology (IT) Fundamentals for Everyone from IBM covers many core concepts, including operating systems, software, hardware, cybersecurity, and much more.

Information Systems Specialization from the University of Minnesota is another great option where you can learn to develop an organization's IT infrastructure to meet business requirements and develop your understanding of enterprise systems.