A+ first if you are new to IT, Security+ first if you already work in IT support or administration. A+ teaches how computers, operating systems and networks behave; Security+ assumes you know that and asks how to protect them.
Both include security, at very different depths. A+ has a Security domain aimed at the help desk, such as securing endpoints, accounts and wireless networks, while Security+ makes security its whole subject, from threats and architecture to operations and governance.
A+ proves you can support usersA+ spans nine domains across Core 1 and Core 2: hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization and cloud, operating systems, security, troubleshooting and operational procedures. It is the usual baseline for help desk and desktop support work.
Security+ is one exam, A+ is twoA+ needs two exams, Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202), each up to 90 questions in 90 minutes, with pass marks of 675 and 700. Security+ (SY0-701) is a single sitting of up to 90 questions in 90 minutes with a pass mark of 750.
Security+ assumes what A+ teachesSecurity+ questions take operating systems, networking and everyday hardware for granted. Without that background, much of your Security+ study time goes on fundamentals the exam never explains.
They open different doorsA+ is the common entry ticket for support roles. Security+ is the credential that appears in security job requirements and in some compliance baselines, so it carries more weight once you move toward security work.
Which order
Taking them in sequence
The common path is A+, then Network+, then Security+. Skipping A+ is reasonable if you already handle operating systems and hardware at work. Skipping both A+ and Network+ only works if your networking is solid, because Security+ relies on it throughout.
Try three questions. Understand every answer.
Original English practice examples, with answers and explanations available here. No account required. These are independent teaching examples, not official exam questions or exam dumps.
Question 1 of 3 · A+ · Mobile devices and computer hardware
Answer and explanation
Best answer: Use a supported dock or power arrangement with sufficient delivered wattage
The measured power shortfall explains discharge under load even though data and video work. Use a supported arrangement that meets the laptop power requirement.
Why the other choices fit less well
Battery replacement is premature when the measured charging input is insufficient. Stable video does not indicate a graphics-driver fault; reducing refresh rate without checking the required and delivered wattage does not establish a supported charging arrangement.
Question 2 of 3 · Security+ · Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations
Answer and explanation
Best answer: Validate and apply the workaround, monitor it, and track the pending patch
A validated compensating control can reduce exposure while the permanent fix is pending. Retain the vulnerability record, residual risk, and a plan to apply and verify the patch.
Why the other choices fit less well
Waiting leaves exposure unchanged, and a hostname change does not block the flaw. A workaround reduces risk without necessarily removing the vulnerability, so closing it as permanently fixed overstates the evidence.
Best answer: Back up the required files and verify that the backup can be read
Preserve the required data and verify the backup before a destructive operation. Confirm the destination and that the files open; an unverified backup is an assumption.
Why the other choices fit less well
A reset can remove data before recovery is possible. A renamed folder remains on the same drive. Cloud sync must be checked rather than presumed to cover local files.
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