Is CompTIA Server+ Certification a Valuable Investment? An In-Depth Guide for IT Pros

When it comes to advancing your IT career, choosing the right certification can be a game-changer. While certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ often take the spotlight, another certification that deserves attention is the CompTIA Server+. This certification is especially beneficial for IT professionals with one to four years of experience, making it an ideal choice for those just starting in the field or looking to deepen their server administration skills.

Despite not being as widely known as some of CompTIA’s other certifications, Server+ remains a valuable credential. It equips IT professionals with core skills necessary for managing and maintaining both physical and virtual server environments. This makes it particularly relevant for those working in data centers, handling both on-premise and hybrid server infrastructures. So, is CompTIA Server+ worth it? The answer is yes, especially for early-career professionals, system administrators, and server support technicians.

What is the CompTIA Server+ Certification?

CompTIA Server+ is a globally recognized, vendor-neutral certification designed to validate the skills and knowledge needed to manage, maintain, and troubleshoot servers in a variety of IT environments. Unlike certifications that focus on proprietary technologies, CompTIA Server+ provides a broad, platform-independent foundation in server management. This makes it an excellent choice for IT professionals who want to develop expertise in server technologies without being tied to a specific vendor or operating system.

The certification was first introduced in 2015 to address the increasing demand for skilled professionals who can manage the backbone infrastructure of modern organizations. Initially, the focus of the Server+ certification was heavily on physical data center management, hardware installation, and server components. However, as the IT landscape has evolved, so has the certification.

In today’s digital world, where virtualized environments and hybrid cloud models are commonplace, the Server+ certification has adapted to cover new technologies. Now, it not only includes traditional server administration tasks but also delves into concepts such as virtual machine deployment, cloud integration, and remote server management. These topics are highly relevant to professionals working in dynamic, modern IT infrastructures.

Designed for Intermediate-Level IT Professionals

Server+ is positioned as an intermediate-level certification. It is specifically designed for individuals who have a foundational understanding of IT systems and networks. While it is not considered an advanced certification, it is ideal for those with some hands-on experience in technical support or systems administration. The certification is a logical next step for IT professionals who have already earned foundational certifications, such as CompTIA A+ or Network+, or have equivalent real-world experience.

CompTIA recommends that candidates have between 18 to 24 months of hands-on experience in IT roles that involve working with server hardware and software. This experience is important because the Server+ exam is scenario-based, testing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Unlike entry-level exams that focus primarily on memorization, Server+ evaluates real-world problem-solving and decision-making abilities, making it a great option for professionals looking to showcase their expertise in server environments.

What Does the CompTIA Server+ Test Cover?

The CompTIA Server+ exam is designed to validate the skills needed for managing servers in a variety of environments, both physical and virtual. The exam is divided into four main areas, each representing core competencies required for working in IT infrastructure and data center management. These areas are:

1. Server Hardware Installation and Management (18%)

2. Server Administration (30%)

3. Security and Disaster Recovery (24%)

4. Troubleshooting (28%)

Each of these domains reflects real-world job roles and responsibilities that IT professionals face in server management. Understanding these domains will help candidates prepare for the exam and gain the necessary skills to work effectively in a server-related role.

Server Hardware Installation and Management

This section of the exam focuses on the installation, configuration, and maintenance of physical server components. This includes essential hardware such as CPUs, memory modules, storage drives, and power supplies. A solid understanding of these components and how to manage them over the server’s lifecycle is crucial for IT professionals in both small businesses and enterprise data center environments.

Server hardware management also covers RAID configurations, storage management, and the setup of server racks and cabling. Candidates will be tested on their ability to implement and troubleshoot different RAID levels and other storage solutions, such as HDDs and SSDs, which are vital for ensuring data integrity and system performance.

Additionally, candidates must understand the importance of preventative maintenance, firmware updates, and hardware diagnostics. This knowledge is especially valuable in data center environments where minimizing downtime and maximizing hardware lifespan are top priorities.

Server Administration

The largest portion of the CompTIA Server+ exam (30%) focuses on server administration, including the installation and configuration of server operating systems, resource management, and server roles. Candidates will be tested on their ability to configure both Windows and Linux server environments, a skill that is essential in most IT organizations.

This domain also covers key server functions such as Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and file/print services. Knowledge of how to manage and configure these roles is crucial for maintaining a smooth and efficient network infrastructure.

Furthermore, server administration includes virtualization basics. The exam evaluates your understanding of hypervisors, virtual machines, and resource allocation in virtualized environments. As businesses increasingly adopt virtualized and cloud-based infrastructures, these skills are becoming essential for IT professionals.

Security and Disaster Recovery

The security and disaster recovery domain (24%) evaluates candidates’ ability to secure server environments and ensure business continuity in the event of a failure. Candidates will need to demonstrate knowledge of disaster recovery plans, backup strategies, and high-availability configurations.

Security topics include access control methods, encryption, and physical security measures to protect server hardware. Additionally, candidates will be expected to understand how to implement backup policies and use redundancy strategies, such as server clustering, to minimize downtime and data loss.

As server environments become more complex and vulnerable to threats, expertise in security and disaster recovery is crucial for IT professionals. Server+ ensures that candidates are prepared to handle these challenges effectively.

Troubleshooting

The troubleshooting domain (28%) is one of the most critical parts of the Server+ exam. It tests a candidate’s ability to diagnose and resolve real-world server issues. This section requires a practical understanding of how to identify and fix problems related to server hardware, software, networking, storage, and security.

Candidates will need to demonstrate how to troubleshoot issues with RAID configurations, network connectivity, operating system failures, and more. The ability to apply structured troubleshooting methodologies is essential for resolving complex technical problems efficiently.

Is the CompTIA Server+ Certification Worth It

In the first part, we discussed the basics of the CompTIA Server+ certification, its target audience, and the key areas covered in the exam. In this section, we’ll dive deeper into each of the four main domains tested in the Server+ certification exam. Understanding the scope and details of each domain will help you not only prepare for the exam but also gain the practical skills necessary to excel in server administration roles.

Server Hardware Installation and Management

The Server Hardware Installation and Management domain makes up 18% of the total CompTIA Server+ exam. This section focuses on the installation, configuration, and management of server hardware components. A strong foundation in this domain is crucial for anyone working with physical servers, as it forms the backbone of server infrastructure in both small businesses and large data centers.

Key Topics in Server Hardware Installation and Management

• Server Components: You’ll be tested on your ability to identify and understand the roles of critical server components, including motherboards, CPUs, memory (RAM), storage drives, and power supplies. Each component is essential for ensuring the server’s performance, reliability, and scalability.

• Storage Management: One of the key components of this domain is RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configurations. You’ll need to understand how to implement and troubleshoot different RAID levels (e.g., RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5, and RAID 10), which are widely used for data redundancy and performance optimization. In addition, you should be comfortable working with different storage devices, such as HDDs, SSDs, and SAN (Storage Area Network) or NAS (Network-Attached Storage) systems.

• Server Rack and Cabling: Organizing and maintaining a server rack is vital for data center management. You’ll need to demonstrate knowledge of best practices for cable management and rack setups, which contribute to both server performance and operational efficiency. Proper organization of cables, power distribution units (PDUs), and server placement ensures a stable and reliable infrastructure.

• Preventative Maintenance: Preventative maintenance is critical in server environments to reduce downtime and extend the life of server hardware. This includes performing routine diagnostics, firmware updates, and system checks to prevent failures. A comprehensive understanding of how to diagnose hardware issues and replace defective components is essential for minimizing disruption in production environments.

This domain not only tests your knowledge of server hardware but also your ability to implement best practices for managing and maintaining physical systems. Given that many organizations rely on physical servers to support their critical operations, this is a core competency for anyone in a server administration role.

Server Administration

Server Administration makes up the largest portion of the CompTIA Server+ exam, accounting for 30% of the total test content. This domain covers a wide range of tasks that are essential to managing and maintaining server environments, particularly the operating systems and services that support organizational infrastructure. Whether you are working with Windows or Linux servers, knowledge of these fundamental server administration tasks is indispensable for any server administrator.

Key Topics in Server Administration

• Operating System Installation and Configuration: A critical part of server administration is the installation and configuration of server operating systems, including both Windows and Linux. You’ll need to demonstrate the ability to set up servers, create partitions, and configure boot options. Understanding how to apply patches, updates, and maintain server security is also covered in this section.

• Managing Server Roles: Server+ candidates must be familiar with core server roles such as DNS (Domain Name System), DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), and file/print services. These roles are essential for ensuring proper communication between devices within a network, so a solid understanding of their configuration and management is a must.

• Virtualization: As virtualization becomes an integral part of modern IT environments, understanding how to manage virtualized systems is critical. You’ll need to demonstrate knowledge of hypervisors (both Type 1 and Type 2), as well as the creation, configuration, and management of virtual machines (VMs). Additionally, you will need to understand resource allocation for virtual environments and be able to configure virtual networks.

• Scripting and Automation: Server administrators often rely on scripting languages such as PowerShell (for Windows environments) or Bash (for Linux environments) to automate repetitive tasks. This skill is essential for streamlining server management processes, improving efficiency, and reducing human error. The Server+ exam will test your ability to write and execute basic scripts for system administration tasks.

Server Administration is a comprehensive domain that tests your understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of managing servers. It is one of the most crucial areas for IT professionals working in any server-related role, as it covers the day-to-day operations of maintaining both physical and virtualized systems.

Security and Disaster Recovery

The Security and Disaster Recovery domain accounts for 24% of the Server+ exam, and its importance cannot be overstated. In today’s increasingly complex IT environments, ensuring the security of server infrastructure and planning for disaster recovery are vital to maintaining business continuity.

Key Topics in Security and Disaster Recovery

• Identity and Access Management (IAM): IAM is a core aspect of server security, focusing on controlling access to systems and resources. You’ll need to understand how to implement role-based access control (RBAC), manage user permissions, and configure authentication mechanisms such as multi-factor authentication (MFA). Ensuring that only authorized users can access critical systems is essential for preventing data breaches and maintaining system integrity.

• Data Security: Securing sensitive data is a top priority for any server administrator. The Server+ exam will test your knowledge of encryption methods, secure storage protocols, and data masking techniques. You will need to understand how to protect data both at rest and in transit, especially in environments that handle large volumes of sensitive information.

• Disaster Recovery Planning: Effective disaster recovery is essential for ensuring business continuity in the event of a catastrophic failure. This includes developing backup strategies (full, incremental, and differential backups), testing restore procedures, and ensuring that backup data is securely stored. Candidates will need to demonstrate their understanding of how to create and implement a disaster recovery plan that minimizes downtime and data loss.

• Redundancy and High Availability: Server administrators must be able to configure redundancy solutions to ensure high availability. This includes implementing RAID for data redundancy, setting up server clustering for failover capabilities, and designing systems that can continue functioning even in the event of hardware or software failure.

This domain is a critical component of the Server+ exam because it ensures that IT professionals are equipped to secure server environments and ensure business continuity. With the growing threat landscape and the increasing reliance on technology for business operations, professionals who can secure and recover server infrastructure are highly valuable to employers.

Troubleshooting

The Troubleshooting domain makes up 28% of the CompTIA Server+ exam, and it is arguably one of the most important aspects of server administration. As a server administrator, the ability to diagnose and resolve issues quickly and efficiently is crucial to maintaining uptime and ensuring that systems remain operational.

Key Topics in Troubleshooting

• Hardware Issues: The first step in troubleshooting server problems is identifying hardware failures, such as malfunctioning memory, overheating CPUs, or faulty storage devices. Candidates will need to demonstrate their ability to diagnose these issues using hardware monitoring tools, error logs, and system diagnostics. Recognizing POST codes, system beeps, and other error messages will be essential to pinpointing problems and applying solutions.

• Storage Troubleshooting: Issues with storage devices, such as RAID configurations, drive recognition errors, and performance bottlenecks, are common in server environments. You’ll need to understand how to resolve problems related to degraded RAID arrays, troubleshoot disk failures, and identify causes of I/O bottlenecks.

• Network Troubleshooting: Network connectivity issues can severely impact server operations, and knowing how to resolve them is an essential skill. You will need to demonstrate your ability to diagnose network issues such as IP conflicts, DNS failures, and connectivity problems. Familiarity with tools like ping, traceroute, and netstat will help in troubleshooting network-related problems.

• Operating System and Software Issues: Finally, troubleshooting server software and operating system issues is a significant part of this domain. This could include diagnosing problems with system updates, misconfigured services or roles, and resolving issues with server scripts.

The ability to effectively troubleshoot and resolve problems is essential for any IT professional, and this domain ensures that you are prepared to handle real-world server issues as they arise. We explored the core domains covered in the CompTIA Server+ exam and discussed how they align with real-world server administration tasks. Now, let’s take a closer look at the practical aspects of pursuing the CompTIA Server+ certification. This section will address the costs associated with obtaining the certification, the experience needed to succeed, and the potential career benefits it can provide.

How Much Does the CompTIA Server+ Cost?

One of the first questions many IT professionals ask when considering a certification is, “What’s the cost?” The price of the CompTIA Server+ exam can vary depending on the resources and study materials you choose to invest in. As of now, the standard exam voucher for CompTIA Server+ costs $338. This is the fee you’ll need to pay to take the exam, and once you’ve passed, the certification is yours for life.

In addition to the cost of the exam itself, CompTIA offers various study materials and bundles designed to help candidates prepare for the test. These bundles typically range from $449 to $559, and they include resources such as study guides, practice labs, video courses, and a second exam voucher in case you need to retake the test. While these bundles can be an additional expense, they are designed to provide candidates with comprehensive support and hands-on practice, which can be incredibly beneficial in preparing for the exam.

It’s important to note that, compared to other IT certifications, CompTIA Server+ is relatively affordable. Many higher-level certifications require expensive training and recertification fees. On the other hand, Server+ offers a one-time fee for lifetime certification. Furthermore, once you earn Server+, it also serves to renew other lower-tier CompTIA certifications, such as A+ and Network+, if those certifications were earned within the continuing education window.

For those on a budget, CompTIA also provides free resources on their website, including exam objectives and sample questions. Additionally, many third-party providers offer free or low-cost study guides, practice exams, and virtual labs to help candidates prepare without spending too much.

What Experience Do You Need?

CompTIA does not have any formal prerequisites for taking the Server+ exam, which makes it accessible to many individuals. However, it is recommended that candidates have 18 to 24 months of hands-on IT experience, particularly in environments where server hardware and software are integral to daily operations. This experience is essential because the Server+ exam is scenario-based, requiring candidates to apply practical knowledge and troubleshooting techniques in real-world situations.

While formal certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+ are not required to take the Server+ exam, they can provide a solid foundation and make it easier for candidates to understand the more complex topics covered in Server+. For those who have already earned these certifications or have equivalent experience in IT support, systems administration, or network operations, Server+ is an excellent next step.

Candidates should be comfortable with basic IT concepts and terminology, especially those related to server hardware, operating systems, and networking. Familiarity with server operating systems, such as Windows Server and Linux, will also be helpful, as these are core topics covered in the exam.

If you’re just starting in IT, it might be beneficial to gain hands-on experience by working in entry-level IT support roles. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the components and tasks associated with server administration, helping you build the practical experience needed to succeed on the exam.

Who Should Take the CompTIA Server+ Certification?

The CompTIA Server+ certification is especially valuable for professionals who are early in their careers or looking to transition into server administration roles. Here are some of the key roles and individuals who should consider pursuing this certification:

1) Server Administrators

Server administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining server environments, including both hardware and software. If you’re just starting your career in server administration, Server+ can provide a strong foundation. The certification covers essential concepts and skills that will help you build your expertise, and it can serve as a stepping stone toward more advanced certifications down the line.

Server+ also provides a vendor-neutral perspective, which allows professionals to gain a broad understanding of server technologies that apply to multiple platforms. This versatility is essential for IT professionals working in diverse environments or organizations that use a mix of hardware and operating systems.

2) Server Support Technicians

Many of the tasks performed by server support technicians align closely with the objectives of the Server+ certification. If your role involves troubleshooting server hardware, assisting with system upgrades, or managing server infrastructure, earning this certification can validate your expertise and help distinguish you in the job market.

Server support technicians often work closely with server administrators, so having a deep understanding of server concepts will enable you to work more efficiently and make a greater impact in your organization.

3) IT Technicians

Even if your current role doesn’t directly involve server administration, gaining a solid understanding of server environments can be beneficial. IT technicians working in help desk support, network operations, or cybersecurity will find that many of the skills covered in Server+ apply to their day-to-day responsibilities.

For example, knowledge of server architecture, virtualization, and disaster recovery is becoming increasingly important for IT technicians, particularly those working in hybrid environments. Server+ can also help broaden your career options and make you a more well-rounded IT professional, providing the foundation for a potential career shift into system administration or other server-related roles.

Is the CompTIA Server+ Certification Worth It?

If you’re wondering whether the CompTIA Server+ certification is worth your time and money, consider this: IT professionals who hold this certification often enjoy a competitive advantage in the job market. According to recent salary surveys, the average salary for someone with the CompTIA Server+ certification is approximately $83,000 per year in the United States. While salary figures vary based on experience, location, and job role, this figure demonstrates the value and market demand for server administrators.

Server+ is a vendor-neutral certification, which is one of its key advantages. It gives professionals the flexibility to work across different server platforms, including both physical and virtualized environments. Employers today often look for professionals who have a broad range of skills and are adaptable to various technologies. The ability to work with both on-premise systems and cloud-based infrastructures is a critical asset for IT professionals, and Server+ equips you with the necessary knowledge.

In addition to salary benefits, earning the Server+ certification can help you advance in your current role, transition to a new job, or pursue a more technical career path. The certification can also open the door to other advanced certifications, such as vendor-specific certifications or higher-level infrastructure roles, providing opportunities for career growth.

Another reason why Server+ is considered a valuable certification is its long-term relevance. Once you pass the exam, your certification is valid for life, unlike many other certifications that require renewal every few years. This means that you don’t need to worry about continuing education or recertification fees, which is a significant advantage in terms of both cost and time savings.

Using CompTIA Server+ to Learn and Validate Skills

Even if you’re not currently working directly with servers, obtaining the CompTIA Server+ certification is an excellent strategy to expand your technical knowledge. The certification provides a solid understanding of server architectures, storage solutions, virtualization, and disaster recovery—skills that are increasingly valuable in today’s IT landscape.

Server+ is particularly valuable for IT professionals working in fields such as IT support, networking, and cybersecurity. If you’re looking to move into a more technical role or explore new career opportunities, this certification can help you gain the necessary skills and credentials to do so. Additionally, if you’re interested in system administration or data center roles, Server+ serves as an excellent foundational certification that will help you progress in these areas. We’ve covered the core aspects of the CompTIA Server+ certification, including the topics it covers, the costs involved, and the benefits it offers for IT professionals. Now, in the final part of our breakdown, we will focus on how to best prepare for the CompTIA Server+ exam. Whether you are just starting to study or looking for ways to improve your chances of success, this guide will provide you with strategies and resources to help you succeed on your certification journey.

Exam Preparation Strategy

The key to success in any certification exam is a well-structured study plan. For the CompTIA Server+ exam, this plan should include a mix of study materials, hands-on practice, and review. Here are some practical steps to help you prepare:

1) Understand the Exam Objectives

The first step in your preparation is to familiarize yourself with the exam objectives. CompTIA provides a detailed exam outline, which covers all the domains that will be tested in the Server+ exam. By reviewing the exam objectives, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the topics and skills that will be assessed. This will allow you to focus your study efforts on the areas that matter most.

The four main domains in the Server+ exam are:

• Server Hardware Installation and Management (18%)

• Server Administration (30%)

• Security and Disaster Recovery (24%)

• Troubleshooting (28%)

Make sure to thoroughly understand the content of each domain. Break down each domain into its topics and create a study plan that covers each area. As you study, check off each objective to ensure that you’re covering all necessary content.

2) Choose the Right Study Materials

Once you have a clear understanding of the exam objectives, the next step is to choose your study materials. Here are some options to consider:

• Official CompTIA Resources: CompTIA offers official study guides and exam preparation materials that are tailored to the Server+ exam. These resources are highly recommended because they align closely with the exam objectives. You can find study guides, practice exams, and virtual labs on the CompTIA website.

• Third-Party Books and Study Guides: Many respected publishers offer in-depth study guides for the CompTIA Server+ exam. These books often include practice questions, review chapters, and detailed explanations of key concepts. Look for books that are regularly updated to ensure the content is relevant to the current version of the exam.

• Online Video Courses: Video courses can be an excellent way to reinforce your knowledge. Platforms like Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and others offer comprehensive video tutorials covering the entire Server+ exam syllabus. Video courses often include explanations from instructors, real-world examples, and practice exams.

• Practice Exams: Practice exams are one of the best ways to prepare for the actual test. These exams simulate real test conditions, allowing you to assess your readiness and pinpoint areas where you need improvement. Taking practice exams also helps you get comfortable with the format of the exam, so you won’t be surprised by the types of questions.

• Interactive Labs: Server+ covers a variety of practical, hands-on skills, so it’s important to gain experience working with server hardware and software. Virtual labs are a great way to practice without needing access to physical hardware. Many online platforms offer virtual labs where you can perform tasks like setting up RAID arrays, configuring servers, and troubleshooting network issues.

3) Create a Study Schedule

Consistency is key when preparing for any certification exam. Create a study schedule that fits your daily routine and gives you enough time to cover all exam domains. Make sure to allocate more time to the domains you find more challenging. For example, if you feel less confident in troubleshooting or security, dedicate extra time to reviewing those areas.

It’s also important to stick to a study schedule and avoid procrastination. Set weekly goals and track your progress to stay on track. Aim to dedicate a set number of hours each day or week to study, ensuring you stay consistent and cover all topics before the exam date.

4) Hands-On Practice

Server+ is a practical exam, so hands-on practice is crucial to your preparation. Whether you’re working with physical hardware or using virtual environments, you need to be comfortable working with servers in a real-world context. Here are a few ways to get practical experience:

• Set Up a Home Lab: One of the most effective ways to gain hands-on experience is by building your home lab. If you have access to old hardware or virtual machines, you can practice installing server operating systems, setting up RAID configurations, and performing basic administrative tasks. This will help you understand how server environments function and allow you to practice troubleshooting in a controlled setting.

• Cloud Platforms: If setting up a physical home lab is not an option, consider using cloud-based platforms to practice. Services like AWS (Amazon Web Services), Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure allow you to set up virtual machines and server environments. While these platforms can incur some cost, they are often affordable for learning purposes and provide a real-world environment for practicing server administration.

• Virtual Labs: Many online learning platforms offer virtual labs that allow you to practice specific server-related tasks. These labs simulate real-world environments and can help you hone your troubleshooting, hardware management, and server administration skills.

5) Review and Reinforce Knowledge

As you approach the exam date, it’s important to spend time reviewing and reinforcing the knowledge you’ve gained. Here are a few strategies to help with your review:

• Use Flashcards: Flashcards are a great tool for reviewing key concepts, terminology, and definitions. Whether you create your own or use an online flashcard tool, these can help you quickly recall important information.

• Take Practice Tests: Practice tests are an essential part of your review process. They not only help you assess your readiness but also familiarize you with the types of questions you will face on the actual exam. Aim to take multiple practice exams to identify areas where you need further study.

• Review Mistakes: After taking practice exams or quizzes, go over the questions you got wrong and understand why you made those mistakes. Reviewing incorrect answers helps reinforce the material and prevents similar mistakes during the actual exam.

6) Stay Calm and Confident

On exam day, it’s important to stay calm and confident. Don’t panic if you encounter questions that you find challenging. Trust your preparation and approach each question methodically. Remember that the Server+ exam is designed to test your practical skills, so take your time to think through each scenario-based question carefully.

Additional Tips for Success

• Understand the Exam Format: The Server+ exam consists of up to 100 multiple-choice questions, which you must complete within a 90-minute time frame. Some of the questions are scenario-based, requiring you to apply your knowledge to real-world situations. Familiarizing yourself with the exam format will help you manage your time and approach questions more effectively.

• Focus on Scenario-Based Questions: Many of the questions on the exam will require you to apply practical knowledge to solve real-world problems. Practice working through scenarios to strengthen your problem-solving skills. The more experience you have with troubleshooting and managing servers in different environments, the better equipped you’ll be to answer these questions.

• Take Breaks During Study: Studying for long hours without taking breaks can lead to burnout. Make sure to take short breaks during study sessions to refresh your mind. A 10-minute break every hour or so can help you maintain focus and stay productive.