CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002) Exam Cram

David L. Prowse is the author of more than a dozen computer training books and video products. He has worked in the computer field for 25 years and loves to share his experience through teaching and writing. He runs the website https://dprocomputer.com, where he gladly answers questions from readers and students.

Introduction

PART I: INTRODUCTION TO CORE 1 (220-1001)

Core 1 (220-1001) Domain 1.0: Mobile Devices

Chapter 1 Laptops, Part 1

1.1 — Given a scenario, install and configure laptop hardware and components

Keyboards

Touchpad

Hard Drives

Memory

Smart Card Readers

Optical Drives

Communications

Video

Power

Speaker

System Board and CPU

Fans

Chapter 2 Laptops, Part 2

1.2 — Given a scenario, install components within the display of a laptop

Display Types

Inverter and Backlight

Digitizers and Touchscreens

Webcam and Microphone

Wi-Fi Antenna Connector and Placement

1.3 — Given a scenario, use appropriate laptop features

Special Function Keys

External Monitors

Docking Stations and Port Replicators

Rotating and Removable Screens

Securing Laptops with Cable Locks

Chapter 3 Smartphones, Tablets, and Other Mobile Devices, Part 1

1.4 — Compare and contrast characteristics of various types of other mobile devices

Tablets

Smartphones

Wearable Technology Devices

E-readers

GPS Devices

1.5 — Given a scenario, connect and configure accessories and ports of other mobile devices

Connection Types

Accessories

Chapter 4 Smartphones, Tablets, and Other Mobile Devices, Part 2

1.6 — Given a scenario, configure basic mobile device network connectivity and application support

Enabling Wireless Functions

USB Tethering

Bluetooth

E-mail Configuration

Cellular Radio Technologies

1.7 — Given a scenario, use methods to perform mobile device synchronization

Synchronization Methods

Types of Data to Synchronize and Authentication

Core 1 (220-1001) Domain 2.0: Networking

Chapter 5 Ports, Protocols, and Network Devices

2.1 — Compare and contrast TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purpose

TCP vs. UDP

Ports and Protocols

2.2 — Compare and contrast common networking hardware devices

Switches

Routers

Wireless Access Points

Firewalls

Network Interface Cards

Cloud-based Network Controllers

Repeaters

Hubs

Cable/DSL Modems

Bridges

Patch Panels

Power over Ethernet

Ethernet over Power

Chapter 6 SOHO Networks and Wireless Protocols

2.3 — Given a scenario, install and configure a basic wired/wireless SOHO network

Router Setup and Wireless

Access Point Settings

NIC and End-user Device Configuration

IoT Device Configuration

Cable/DSL Modem Configuration

Firewall Settings and Additional Configurations

Configuring Wireless Encryption

2.4 — Compare and contrast wireless networking protocols

802.11 Wireless

RFID

Zigbee and Z-Wave

Chapter 7 Networked Hosts and Network Configuration

2.5 — Summarize the properties and purposes of services provided by networked hosts

Server Roles

Internet Appliances

Embedded/Legacy Systems

2.6 — Explain common network configuration concepts

Configuring IPv4

Configuring IPv6

VLANs

VPNs

Chapter 8 Network Types and Networking Tools

2.7 — Compare and contrast Internet connection types, network types, and their features

Network Types

Internet Connection Types

2.8 — Given a scenario, use appropriate networking tools

Network Cabling Tools

Wi-Fi Analyzers

Core 1 (220-1001) Domain 3.0: Hardware

Chapter 9 Cables and Connectors

3.1 — Explain basic cable types, features, and their purposes

3.2 — Identify common connector types

Network Cables

Video Cables and Connectors

Multipurpose Cables and Connectors

Hard Drive Cables and Connectors

Adapters

Chapter 10 RAM and Storage

3.3 — Given a scenario, install RAM types

RAM Types

Installing RAM

RAM Technologies

3.4 — Given a scenario, select, install and configure storage devices

SATA

Magnetic Hard Drives

Solid-State Drives

RAID

Flash

Optical Drives

Chapter 11 Motherboards and Add-on Cards

3.5 — Given a scenario, install and configure motherboards, CPUs, and add-on cards

Motherboard Form Factors and Connectors

Expansion Cards

More Ports and Connectors

BIOS/UEFI Settings

The POST

Chapter 12 CPUs

3.5 — Given a scenario, install and configure motherboards, CPUs, and add-on cards

CPU Features

CPU Compatibility

Power Consumption

Cooling Mechanisms

Installing CPUs

Chapter 13 Peripherals and Power

3.6 — Explain the purposes and uses of various peripheral types

Input Devices

Output Devices

Hybrid I/O Devices and Others

3.7 — Summarize power supply types and features

Planning Which Power Supply to Use

Installing the Power Supply

Chapter 14 Custom PCs and Common Devices

3.8 — Given a scenario, select and configure appropriate components for a custom PC configuration to meet customer specifications or needs

Graphic/CAD/CAM Design Workstation

Audio/Video Editing Workstation

Virtualization Workstation

Gaming PC

Network-Attached Storage Device

Thin Client

Standard Thick Client

3.9 — Given a scenario, install and configure common devices

Desktop Devices and Settings

Laptop Configurations and Settings

Chapter 15 Printers and Multifunction Devices

3.10 — Given a scenario, configure SOHO multifunction devices/printers and settings

Printer Configuration Settings

Local Versus Network Printers

3.11 — Given a scenario, install and maintain various print technologies

Types of Printers

Virtual Printing

Printer Installation and Drivers

Core 1 (220-1001) Domain 4.0: Virtualization and Cloud Computing

Chapter 16 Cloud Computing and Client-side Virtualization

4.1 — Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts

Common Cloud Models

Cloud Computing Concerns

4.2 — Given a scenario, set up and configure client-side virtualization

Purpose of Virtual Machines

Hypervisors

Examples of Virtual Machine Software

Virtual Machine Requirements

Core 1 (220-1001) Domain 5.0: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

Chapter 17 Computer Troubleshooting 101

5.1 — Given a scenario, use the best practice methodology to resolve problems

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Step 2: Establish a Theory of Probable Cause (Question the Obvious)

Step 3: Test the Theory to Determine Cause

Step 4: Establish a Plan of Action to Resolve the Problem and Implement the Solution

Step 5: Verify Full System Functionality and, If Applicable, Implement Preventive Measures

Step 6: Document Findings, Actions, and Outcomes

Chapter 18 Troubleshooting Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, and Power

5.2 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPUs, and power

Troubleshooting Motherboards

Troubleshooting CPUs

Troubleshooting RAM

Troubleshooting Power Supply Issues

Heating and Cooling

Chapter 19 Troubleshooting Hard Drives and RAID Arrays

5.3 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot hard drives and RAID arrays

Troubleshooting Hard Drives

Troubleshooting RAID Arrays

Chapter 20 Troubleshooting Video Issues and Mobile Devices

5.4 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot video, projector, and display issues

Video Troubleshooting

5.5 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile device issues while adhering to the appropriate procedures

Mobile Device Display Troubleshooting

Mobile Device Overheating

More Mobile Device Troubleshooting

Disassembling Processes for Proper Reassembly

Chapter 21 Troubleshooting Printers

5.6 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot printers

Troubleshooting Printers

Print Jobs and the Print Spooler

Chapter 22 Troubleshooting Wired and Wireless Network Problems

5.7 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot common wired and wireless network problems

Troubleshooting Common Symptoms

A+ Core 1 (220-1001) Practice Exam

PART II: INTRODUCTION TO CORE 2 (220-1002)

Core 2 (220-1002) Domain 1.0: Operating Systems

Chapter 23 Operating System Types and Windows Versions

1.1 — Compare and contrast common operating system types and their purposes

Workstation Operating Systems

32-Bit Versus 64-Bit

Smartphone and Tablet Operating Systems

Vendor-Specific Limitations

Compatibility Concerns Between Operating Systems

1.2 — Compare and contrast features of Microsoft Windows versions

Windows 7

Windows 8 and 8.1

Windows 10

Windows User Interfaces and Components

Chapter 24 Operating System Installation

1.3 — Summarize general OS installation considerations and upgrade methods

Boot Methods

Types of Installations

Partitioning

File System Types and Formatting

More OS Installation Considerations

Chapter 25 Microsoft Command Line Tools

1.4 — Given a scenario, use appropriate Microsoft command line tools

Command Prompt Basics

Navigating and Working with Directories and Files in the Command Prompt

Partitioning and File System-based Commands

Chkdsk and SFC

Networking Commands

Advanced Commands

Chapter 26 Microsoft Operating System Features and Tools, Part 1

1.5 — Given a scenario, use Microsoft operating system features and tools

Administrative Tools

System Configuration/MSConfig

Task Manager

Chapter 27 Microsoft Operating System Features and Tools, Part 2

1.5 — Given a scenario, use Microsoft operating system features and tools

Disk Management

System Utilities

Chapter 28 Windows Control Panel Utilities

1.6 — Given a scenario, use Microsoft Windows Control Panel utilities

Internet Options

Display

User Accounts

Folder Options

Performance (Virtual Memory)

Power Management

Credential Manager

Programs and Features

Program Compatibility

Devices and Printers

Sound

Troubleshooting

Sync Center

Chapter 29 Windows Networking and Application Installatio

1.8 — Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows networking on a client/desktop

Workgroup, HomeGroup, and Domain

Sharing Resources and Making Network Connections

Establishing Networking Connections

Proxy Settings

Configuring an Alternate IP Address in Windows

Network Card Properties

1.7 — Summarize application installation and configuration concepts

Application Requirements

Method of Installation and Deployment

User Permissions

Security Considerations

Chapter 30 Linux and macOS Tools

1.9 — Given a scenario, use features and tools of the macOS and Linux client/desktop operating systems

macOS

Linux

Core 2 (220-1002) Domain 2.0: Security

Chapter 31 Physical and Logical Security

2.1 — Summarize the importance of physical security measures

Physical Locks

Entry Systems

Biometrics

Protecting Data Physically

2.2 — Explain logical security concepts

Authentication

Principle of Least Privilege

Active Directory

Firewalls

VPN

Additional Security Considerations in Windows

Chapter 32 Wireless Security, Malware, and Social Engineering

2.3 — Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods

Wireless and Encryption Protocols

2.4 — Given a scenario, detect, remove, and prevent malware using appropriate tools and methods

Malicious Software Types

Preventing Malicious Software

2.5 — Compare and contrast social engineering, threats, and vulnerabilities

Phishing

Shoulder Surfing

Piggybacking/Tailgating

Dumpster Diving

Impersonation

Additional Attacks and Security Vulnerabilities

Chapter 33 Windows Security Settings and Best Practices

2.6 — Compare and contrast the differences of basic Microsoft Windows OS security settings

Users and Groups

Permissions

File Security

2.7 — Given a scenario, implement security best practices to secure a workstation

Usernames and Passwords

Password Policies

Account Management

Disabling AutoPlay/Autorun

Chapter 34 Mobile Device Security

2.8 — Given a scenario, implement methods for securing mobile devices

Screen Locks

Authenticator Applications

Theft and Loss of Mobile Devices

Compromised and Damaged Devices

Policies and Procedures

Chapter 35 Data Destruction and SOHO Security

2.9 — Given a scenario, implement appropriate data destruction and disposal methods

Formatting Drives

Overwriting Drives

Clear

Purge

Destroy

2.10 — Given a scenario, configure security on SOHO wireless and wired networks

Changing Default Passwords

Wireless-Specific Security Settings

Enabling MAC Filtering

Assigning Static IP Addresses

Disabling Physical Ports and Physical Security

Content Filtering/Parental Controls

A Final Word on SOHO Routers

Core 2 (220-1002) Domain 3.0: Software Troubleshooting

Chapter 36 Troubleshooting Microsoft Windows

3.1 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot Microsoft Windows OS problems

Windows Recovery

Boot Errors

Improper and Spontaneous Shutdowns

Stop Errors

Restoring Windows

Common Windows Symptoms and Solutions

Chapter 37 Troubleshooting PC Security Issues and Malware Removal

3.3 — Given a scenario, use best practice procedures for malware removal

3.2 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve PC security issues

The CompTIA A+ Seven-Step Malware Removal Procedure

Malware Removal Scenario

Symptoms of Viruses

Symptoms of Spyware

Preventing and Troubleshooting Spam

Hijacked E-mail

More Symptoms of PC Security Issues and Potential Solutions

Chapter 38 Troubleshooting Mobile Operating Systems

3.4 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application issues

3.5 — Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application security issues

Wi-Fi Troubleshooting

Bluetooth Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting E-mail Connections

Troubleshooting and Stopping Applications

Initiating Resets

Additional Mobile Device Troubleshooting

Mobile Device Application and OS Troubleshooting

External Monitor Issues

Troubleshooting Mobile Device Security Issues

Core 2 (220-1002) Domain 4.0: Operational Procedures

Chapter 39 Documentation, Change Management, and Disaster Recovery

4.1 — Compare and contrast best practices associated with types of documentation

Network Topology Diagrams

Knowledge Bases/Articles

Incident Documentation

Compliance and Regulatory Policy

Acceptable Use Policy

Password Policy

Inventory Management

4.2 — Given a scenario, implement basic change management best practices

4.3 — Given a scenario, implement basic disaster prevention and recovery methods

Backup and Recovery

Cloud Storage vs. Local Storage Backups

Account Recovery Options

Chapter 40 Safety Procedures and Environmental Controls

4.4 — Explain common safety procedures

ESD Prevention and Equipment Grounding

Electrical Safety

Electrical Fire Safety

Physical Safety

4.5 — Explain environmental impacts and appropriate controls

Temperature, Humidity, and Air

MSDS and Disposal

Power Devices

Surge Protectors

Uninterruptible Power Supplies

Chapter 41 Incident Response, Communication, and Professionalism

4.6 — Explain the processes for addressing prohibited content/activity, and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts

Incident Response

Licensing/DRM/EULA

Regulated Data

4.7 — Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism

Communication Techniques and Professionalism

Chapter 42 Basic Scripting and Remote Access Technologies

4.8 — Identify the basics of scripting

Basic Data Types

Basic Script Constructs

Environment Variables

Comment Syntax

Script File Types

4.9 — Given a scenario, use remote access technologies

Remote Desktop

SSH

More Third-Party Tools

A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Practice Exam

Chapter 43 Getting Ready for the Exams, and Farewell

Getting Ready for the Exams

Tips for Taking the Real Exams

General Practices for Taking Exams

Smart Methods for Difficult Questions

Wrapping Up the Exam

Beyond the CompTIA A+ Certification

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