Comptia A+ Messer

Comptia A+ Messer refers to Professor Mike Meyers’ CompTIA A+ certification training courses offered through Messer Media, a leading provider of IT certification education. Known for his engaging teaching style and real-world insights, Mike Meyers has become synonymous with high-quality, accessible CompTIA A+ training—especially for beginners entering the IT field. His courses, particularly the "CompTIA A+ (220-1101 & 220-1102)" series, are widely used by students preparing for one of the most foundational IT certifications in the industry. With comprehensive video instruction, hands-on labs, and exam-aligned content, the CompTIA A+ Messer program delivers an effective, self-paced path to certification. This article explores the structure, value, and career impact of Meyers’ A+ training, helping aspiring IT professionals decide if this course is the right fit for their goals.

What Is CompTIA A+ and Why Mike Meyers?

The CompTIA A+ certification is a vendor-neutral credential that validates foundational IT skills, including hardware, networking, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. It is widely recognized as the entry point into IT careers and is often a prerequisite for roles such as help desk technician, desktop support, and IT support specialist. The current version, CompTIA A+ (220-1101 and 220-1102), covers 90 exam objectives across two exams, both required for full certification. Mike Meyers, often referred to as "Messer" in online learning circles, is one of the most respected educators in IT certification training. His CompTIA A+ courses—available through platforms like Total Seminars and Udemy—combine clear explanations, visual demonstrations, and practical examples that demystify complex topics. Meyers’ teaching approach is especially effective for visual and auditory learners, making him a top choice for students new to IT. His courses align directly with CompTIA’s exam objectives and include full coverage of both 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2). What sets Meyers apart is his ability to break down technical jargon into digestible concepts, often using real-world analogies and troubleshooting scenarios. For many students, Meyers’ voice and teaching style become a familiar guide throughout their certification journey.

Course Structure and Learning Format

The CompTIA A+ Messer course is structured into two main parts: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102), each consisting of approximately 20–25 hours of video content. The full course totals around 45–50 hours of instruction, depending on the platform and edition. Students gain access to over 300 video lectures, downloadable study guides, practice exams, and lab simulations. The course is delivered in a modular format, with each section corresponding to a specific exam domain. For example: - 220-1101 covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, and troubleshooting. - 220-1102 focuses on operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Meyers uses a combination of whiteboard-style teaching, live demonstrations, and on-screen annotations to explain concepts. His videos often include real hardware setups, OS walkthroughs, and simulated command-line interactions. The course also includes access to practice questions and flashcards, many of which mirror the style and difficulty of the actual CompTIA exam. One of the standout features is the inclusion of “Mike’s Tips”—short segments where Meyers shares exam strategies, common pitfalls, and memory aids. These tips are particularly valuable for test-takers who struggle with retention or time management during exams.

Pricing and Access Options

The CompTIA A+ Messer course is available through multiple platforms, each with different pricing models. On Udemy, the most common access point, the course typically retails for $129.99 but is frequently discounted to $12.99–$19.99 during promotions. This makes it one of the most affordable high-quality A+ training options available. Alternatively, students can purchase the course directly from Total Seminars (Mike Meyers’ company) at totalsem.com. Here, the complete A+ bundle is priced at $349.99 and includes: - Full video course (Core 1 and Core 2) - Practice exams with performance tracking - Hands-on lab access (via simulated environments) - Study guides and eBooks - One-year access to course updates While the Total Seminars version is more expensive, it offers a more structured learning path and direct support from the provider. Some students prefer this option for its professional presentation and additional resources. It’s important to note that course access does not include the actual CompTIA certification exam vouchers. Those must be purchased separately through CompTIA’s website or authorized partners at a cost of approximately $246 per exam (or $232 for students). However, the course itself provides all the knowledge needed to pass both exams.

Duration and Study Time Commitment

The CompTIA A+ Messer course is designed for self-paced learning, making it ideal for working professionals and full-time students. Most learners complete the full course in 8 to 12 weeks with a study schedule of 6–8 hours per week. However, students with prior IT experience may finish in as little as 4–6 weeks. Each video lecture ranges from 5 to 20 minutes, allowing for flexible study sessions. The platform supports mobile and offline viewing, so students can study during commutes or lunch breaks. Progress tracking tools help users monitor completion rates and identify weak areas. Meyers recommends a three-phase approach: 1. Learn – Watch all videos and take notes. 2. Review – Revisit challenging topics and use flashcards. 3. Practice – Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions. Students should plan for at least 100–120 total study hours when including reading, labs, and practice tests. While the course videos total around 50 hours, mastery requires additional time for reinforcement and hands-on application.

Difficulty Level and Who Should Take It

The CompTIA A+ Messer course is designed for beginners with little to no IT experience. However, it covers a broad range of technical topics, so some foundational computer literacy is helpful. The course assumes no prior knowledge of networking, hardware, or operating systems, making it accessible to career changers and recent high school graduates. That said, the depth of content can be challenging for absolute beginners. Topics like subnetting, command-line scripting, and security protocols require focused study. Meyers does an excellent job of scaffolding knowledge, but students should be prepared to invest time in repetition and practice. Ideal candidates for the CompTIA A+ Messer course include: - Aspiring IT support technicians - Career changers entering tech - Military veterans using GI Bill benefits - College students pursuing IT degrees - Help desk professionals seeking formal certification The course is especially effective for learners who prefer structured video instruction over reading textbooks. Meyers’ engaging delivery helps maintain motivation, which is critical for long-term success.

Career Outcomes and Job Opportunities

Earning the CompTIA A+ certification after completing the Messer course opens the door to numerous entry-level IT roles. According to CompTIA, A+ holders are hired for positions such as: - Help Desk Technician - Desktop Support Analyst - IT Support Specialist - Field Service Technician - Technical Support Associate These roles are available across industries, including healthcare, education, government, and private sector IT departments. Many organizations, including the U.S. Department of Defense, recognize CompTIA A+ as a baseline requirement for IT positions. According to PayScale, the average salary for A+ certified professionals in the U.S. is $57,000 per year, with entry-level roles starting around $42,000 and experienced technicians earning over $70,000. Geographic location, industry, and additional certifications can influence earnings. The certification also serves as a foundation for advanced credentials. Many students use A+ as a stepping stone to CompTIA Network+, Security+, or even vendor-specific paths like Microsoft MD-100 or Cisco CCNA. Employers value A+ because it demonstrates a broad understanding of IT fundamentals. When combined with hands-on experience—such as internships or personal projects—the certification significantly boosts employability.

Return on Investment (ROI) Analysis

The CompTIA A+ Messer course offers one of the highest returns on investment in IT education. At under $20 on sale (or $350 for the premium bundle), the cost is minimal compared to traditional college courses or bootcamps. Consider the financial math: - Course cost: $13–$350 - Exam vouchers: $246 x 2 = $492 - Total certification cost: ~$500–$850 - Average salary increase: $10,000–$15,000 above non-certified peers - Payback period: Often less than one year For students using financial aid or employer reimbursement programs, the out-of-pocket cost can be zero. Many community colleges and workforce programs subsidize A+ training, including access to Meyers’ materials. Additionally, the certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education, making it a long-term career asset. When compared to the average $30,000+ cost of a two-year IT degree, the A+ + Messer course path is a cost-effective, time-efficient alternative. The soft skills gained—such as problem-solving, customer communication, and documentation—are also transferable across roles and industries, further increasing long-term value.

Online Learning Advantages with CompTIA A+ Messer

One of the biggest strengths of the CompTIA A+ Messer course is its online delivery. As a fully digital program, it offers unmatched flexibility and accessibility. Students can learn from anywhere, at any time, using a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Key online learning benefits include: - Self-paced progress with no rigid deadlines - Lifetime access to course updates (on some platforms) - Closed captions and subtitles for accessibility - Offline viewing for travel or low-connectivity areas - Integration with learning management systems (LMS) The course is also mobile-optimized, allowing users to study during short breaks. This flexibility is ideal for non-traditional learners, such as parents, shift workers, or those in rural areas without access to in-person training. Additionally, online forums and community groups—like the Total Seminars Discord or Reddit’s r/CompTIA—provide peer support. While Meyers doesn’t offer live office hours, students can engage with thousands of other learners worldwide, sharing study tips and troubleshooting advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mike Meyers’ CompTIA A+ course enough to pass the exam?

Yes, for most students, Mike Meyers’ course is sufficient to pass both the 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams. The content is comprehensive, exam-aligned, and includes practice questions. However, supplementing with additional practice tests (such as those from CompTIA or ExamCompass) is recommended for mastery.

Do I need prior IT experience to take the Messer A+ course?

No. The course is designed for beginners. Mike Meyers starts from the basics and builds knowledge progressively. Familiarity with computers helps, but it’s not required.

How long is the course valid after purchase?

On Udemy, access is lifetime. On Total Seminars, access lasts one year but can be extended. Course updates are provided during the access period.

Does the course include practice exams?

Yes. Both the Udemy and Total Seminars versions include practice exams. The premium bundle offers more detailed feedback and performance analytics.

Can I use this course for CompTIA A+ 1000 series (220-1001/1002)?

No. The current Messer course is for the 1100 series (220-1101/1102), launched in 2023. Older versions are no longer valid for certification. Always ensure you’re studying the current exam objectives.

Is the CompTIA A+ certification worth it in 2024?

Absolutely. A+ remains the most recognized entry-level IT certification. It’s required or preferred by thousands of employers and is part of many federal and state IT training programs.

How do I schedule the CompTIA A+ exam after completing the course?

After finishing the course, purchase exam vouchers from CompTIA’s website or Pearson VUE. Schedule your test at an authorized testing center or via remote proctoring.

Does Mike Meyers offer a Security+ or Network+ course?

Yes. Mike Meyers also offers highly-rated CompTIA Network+ and Security+ courses through the same platforms. These are ideal next steps after earning A+.