In more CompTIA news, the vendor announced recently that it's offering a new computing fundamentals certification, Strata, that will be below A+ and focus on these areas:

• Green IT.
• Security (risks and prevention).
• Computer hardware and technology basics.
• Common errors and compatibility problems.
• Software functions and installation.

The proposed continuum of certifications is that Strata, which focuses on basic PC functions and maintenance, will lead to A+, which focuses on PC repair and support -- and then on to higher-level certifications, such as Network+. Not currently available in the United States, the two exams (Fundamentals of IT Technology and Fundamentals of IT Technology Sales) are expected to be released in October and closely mirror two similar exams currently available in the U.K.