CompTIA, or the Computing Technology Industry Association, started in the early 1980's as a means of setting public policy, creating industry standards, and certifying individuals who acquire skills in the computer field. The organization grew rapidly throughout the 1990's, and expanded the types of certifications that individuals can receive.

Computer structure was standardized in the 1990's with the entrance of industry giant, IBM, into the personal computing field. Computer suppliers produced clones of the IBM computer, with similar architecture and software systems. It was the equal of having only style of automobile in the nation. All the various components were similar, no matter who made them. In order to fix a computer, one had to learn the same basic skills. These skills could then be applied toward fixing anyone's computer.

Besides nearly identical computer hardware, Microsoft had introduced one ubiquitous operating program that nearly every computer manufacturer used. As technology progressed, and other gadgets were being linked to computers, this operating system had to run all of them. For better or worse, the Microsoft had to grow itself into an all-accommodating platform for all other hardware and software. The strengths of the operating system became apparent, as did the weaknesses.

The personal computer eventually grew to be used in computer networks and businesses, as well. Rules for administrating the network revolved around this same single manufacturer of software. Eventually, the weaknesses of this particular program caused other software companies to compete for market share in this growing field. Many of the standards that had been established, whether they worked well or not, were found everywhere do to the large growth in computer use.

Due to the fact that early computing centered on only one major hardware architecture, and one major software provider, the huge growth in the use of computers was strongly influenced by a very few participants. Small inefficiencies grew into large-scale difficulties for companies with thousands of computers.

Large-scale problems gave rise to an opportunity for computer trouble-shooters. In fact, it takes nearly as many people fixing computer problems as it does people to create computers. The underlying building blocks of the program were never designed to grow as large as they did. Besides that, the software, itself, permits computer users to do destructive things to their own computers, and to other computers on the network.

During this time, standards for training computer technicians came into being. The CompTia organization set standards for training for both hardware and software technicians. Those receiving certification have to obtain a basic level of knowledge of computer circuitry, and operating-system knowledge. By setting standards, they created the ability for those seeking career in computer repair to be considered a reliable resource to businesses.