CompTIA A+ consists of 2 training sections; you're qualified as A+ competent when you've gained exams for both of them. As well as learning how to build and fix computers, trainees on an A+ training course will be shown how to operate in antistatic conditions, as well as diagnostics, fault-finding and remote access. If you're considering being the person who is a member of a large organisation - in network support, you'll need to add CompTIA Network+, or alternatively look at doing an MCSA or MCSE with Microsoft in order to have a wider knowledge of how networks function.

The right sort of training course package will incorporate accredited exam preparation packages. As most examination boards in IT are from the USA, you need to become familiar with their phraseology. You can't practice properly by just answering any old technical questions - they must be in an exam format that exactly replicates the real thing. You should make sure you analyse your depth of understanding by doing quizzes and practice in simulated exam environments to prepare you for taking the real deal.

Of all the important things to consider, one of the most essential is always proper direct-access 24x7 support with dedicated instructors and mentors. So many companies we come across only seem to want to help while they're in the office (9am till 6pm, Monday till Friday usually) and nothing at the weekends. Try and find training with proper support available at any time of the day or night (even 1am on Sunday morning!) Ensure you get direct access to tutors, and not a call-centre that will take messages so you're waiting for tutors to call you back at a convenient time for them.

Keep your eyes open for study programmes that use several support centres from around the world. All of them should be combined to give a single entry point and also 24 hours-a-day access, when it's convenient for you, with the minimum of hassle. Seek out an educator that offers this level of study support. Only true live 24x7 round-the-clock support delivers what is required.

Without a doubt: There really is pretty much no personal job security anymore; there's really only industry and business security - companies can just let anyone go if it suits the company's commercial requirements. We could however discover market-level security, by looking for areas that have high demand, tied with a shortage of skilled staff.

The most recent UK e-Skills study brought to light that more than 26 percent of all IT positions available are unfilled mainly due to a chronic shortage of trained staff. To put it another way, this means that the UK can only find three properly accredited workers for each four job positions that are available at the moment. Highly trained and commercially educated new employees are thus at an absolute premium, and it looks like they will be for much longer. Quite simply, gaining new qualifications in IT over the next few years is most likely the finest career move you'll ever make.

Trainees looking at this market are usually quite practically-minded, and won't enjoy sitting at a desk in class, and slogging through piles of books. If this is putting you off studying, go for more modern interactive training, with on-screen demonstrations and labs. Many years of research has constantly shown that an 'involved' approach to study, where we utilise all our senses, is much more conducive to long-term memory.

Study programs now come via DVD-ROM discs, where everything is taught on your PC. Utilising the latest video technology, you will be able to see the instructor presenting exactly how to do something, and then have a go at it yourself - via the interactive virtual lab's. You must ensure that you see examples of the study materials provided by each company you're contemplating. They have to utilise video demo's and interactive elements such as practice lab's.

Avoiding training that is delivered purely online is generally a good idea. You want physical CD/DVD ROM course materials where available, so that you have access at all times - it's not wise to be held hostage to your internet connection always being 'up' and available.

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