CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Exam Cram is an all-inclusive study guide designed to help you pass the updated versions of the CompTIA A+ exams. Prepare for test day success with complete coverage of exam objectives and topics, plus hundreds of realistic practice questions. Extensive prep tools include quizzes, Exam Alerts, and our essential last-minute review CramSheet. The powerful Pearson Test Prep practice test software provides real-time assessment and feedback with four complete exams.
Covers the critical information needed to score higher on your CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams!
- Install, configure, and troubleshoot PC hardware including CPUs, RAM, video cards, network cards, storage drives, and peripherals
- Work effectively with mobile devices: laptops, tablets, and smartphones
- Configure Windows settings, components, and administrative tools
- Manage and troubleshoot Linux, macOS, Android, and iOS
- Administer and support basic IT infrastructure including IP networking, IoT devices, virtualization, cloud-based systems, and backup systems
- Understand security features such as firewalls, multifactor authentication, permissions, and access control
- Defend against malware, network threats, and social engineering
- Learn the basics of IT documentation, change management, and incident response
Prepare for your exam with Pearson Test Prep:
- Realistic practice questions and answers
- Comprehensive reporting and feedback
- Customized testing in study, practice exam, or flash card modes
- Complete coverage of A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exam objectives
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Part I: Introduction to Core 1 (220-1201)
Core 1 (220-1201) Domain 1.0: Mobile Devices
Chapter 1: Monitoring, Maintaining, and Replacing Mobile Device Hardware
Introduction to Laptops
Power
Keyboards/Keys
Touchpad
Random-Access Memory (RAM)
Storage Drives.
Communications.
Camera/Webcam and Microphone.
Wi-Fi Antenna Connector and Placement
Physical Privacy and Security Components
Chapter 2: Mobile Device Accessories and Connectivity Options
Connection Types
Accessories
Chapter 3: Mobile Device Network Connectivity and Application Support
Enabling Wireless Functions
Bluetooth
Email Configuration
Cellular Radio Technologies
Location Services
Synchronization Methods
Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Core 1 (220-1201) Domain 2.0: Networking
Chapter 4: TCP and UDP Ports and Protocols
TCP vs. UDP
Ports and Protocols
Chapter 5: Wireless Technologies
802.11 Wireless
Long-Range Fixed Wireless
RFID
Chapter 6: Networked Hosts
Server Roles
Internet Security Appliances
Embedded Systems and IoT
Chapter 7: Network Configuration Concepts
DNS
Email Authentication Methods
DHCP
VLANs
VPNs
Chapter 8: Network Devices
Switches
Routers
Access Points
Firewalls
Network Interface Cards
Patch Panels
Power over Ethernet
Cable/DSL Modems
Network Interface Devices
Chapter 9: SOHO Network Configuration
Configuring IPv4
Private vs. Public Addresses
Configuring IPv6
Chapter 10: Network Types
Network Types
Internet Connection Types
Chapter 11: Networking Tools
Network Cabling Tools
Network Tap
Wi-Fi Analyzers
Core 1 (220-1201) Domain 3.0: Hardware
Chapter 12: Device Display Components
Display Types
Inverter and Backlight
Digitizers and Touchscreens
Attributes
Chapter 13: Cables and Connectors
Network Cables
Peripheral Cables and Connectors
Video Cables and Connectors
Storage Drive Cables and Connectors
Adapters
Chapter 14: RAM
RAM Types
Installing RAM
RAM Technologies
Chapter 15: Storage Drives
SATA
Magnetic Hard Drives
Solid-State Drives
RAID
Flash
Optical Drives
Chapter 16: Motherboards and Add-on Cards
Motherboard Form Factors and Connector Types
Expansion Cards
More Ports and Connectors
BIOS/UEFI Settings
The POST
Chapter 17: CPUs
CPU Architecture
CPU Compatibility
Power Consumption
Cooling Mechanisms
Installing CPUs
Chapter 18: Power
Planning Which Power Supply to Use
Installing the Power Supply
Chapter 19: Multifunction Devices/Printers
Setup Considerations
Firmware
Printer Configuration Settings
Local vs. Network Printers
Basic Printer Security
Chapter 20: Printer Maintenance
Laser Printers
Inkjet Printers
Thermal Printers
Impact Printers
Core 1 (220-1201) Domain 4.0: Virtualization and Cloud Computing
Chapter 21: Virtualization Concepts
Purpose of Virtual Machines
Desktop Virtualization
Hypervisors
Examples of Virtual Machine Software
Virtual Machine Requirements
Cross-Platform Virtualization
Containers and Sandboxes
Chapter 22: Cloud Computing Concepts
Introduction to Cloud Computing
Common Cloud Models
Cloud Computing Characteristics
Core 1 (220-1201) Domain 5.0: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
Chapter 23: Troubleshooting Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, and Power
Troubleshooting Motherboards
Troubleshooting CPUs
Troubleshooting RAM
Troubleshooting Power Supply Issues
Heating and Cooling
Chapter 24: Troubleshooting Storage Drives and RAID Arrays
Preventive Maintenance and Troubleshooting of Storage Drives
Troubleshooting RAID Arrays
Chapter 25: Troubleshooting Video Issues
PC Video Troubleshooting
External Laptop Monitors and Projectors
Chapter 26: Troubleshooting Mobile Devices
Mobile Device Display Troubleshooting
Mobile Device Overheating
More Mobile Device Troubleshooting
Disassembling Processes
Chapter 27: Troubleshooting Wired and Wireless Network Problems
Troubleshooting Common Symptoms
Chapter 28: Troubleshooting Printers
Troubleshooting Printers
Print Jobs and the Print Spooler
A+ Core 1 (220-1201) Practice Exam
Part II: Introduction to Core 2 (220-1202)
Core 2 (220-1202) Domain 1.0: Operating Systems
Chapter 29: Common Operating Systems
Workstation Operating Systems
Mobile Operating Systems
File System Types and Formatting
Vendor Life-Cycle Limitations
Compatibility Concerns Between Operating Systems
Chapter 30: Operating System Installations and Upgrades
Boot Methods
Types of Installations
Partitioning
More OS Installation and Upgrade Considerations
Chapter 31: Basic Features of Windows Editions
Windows 10 Editions and Feature Differences
Windows 11 Editions and Feature Differences
Windows Desktop/User Interface and Components
Windows Upgrade Paths
Windows 11
Windows N
Windows 10 End of Support
Chapter 32: Microsoft Operating System Features and Tools, Part I
Task Manager
The MMC and Administrative Windows Tools
Chapter 33: Microsoft Operating System Features and Tools, Part II
Disk Management
Additional Windows Tools
Chapter 34: Microsoft Command-Line Tools, Part I
Microsoft Command-Line Basics
Navigating in the Command Line
Working with Folders/Directories and Files
Partitioning and File System–Based Commands
chkdsk and sfc
winver
Advanced Commands: gpupdate and gpresult
Chapter 35: Microsoft Command-Line Tools, Part II
Networking Commands
Chapter 36: Windows Control Panel Utilities
Opening and Viewing the Control Panel Utilities
Bonus: Storage Sense
Chapter 37: Windows Settings
How to Access Windows Settings
Internet Options
Bluetooth & Devices
System
Accessibility
Time & Language
Windows Update & Security
Personalization
Gaming
Accounts
Control Panel Operations
Chapter 38: Windows Networking
Domain Joined vs. Workgroup Setup
How to Establish Networking Connections
Proxy Settings
Chapter 39: macOS
macOS Basics
System Preferences
macOS Features
iCloud and Continuity
macOS System Folders
Managing and Maintaining macOS
Installation and Uninstallation of Applications
Apple ID
Chapter 40: Linux
Linux Basics
Linux Desktop Distributions
Linux Partition Scheme and File System
Linux Command Line
Recovery Mode
Common Configuration Files
Linux Best Practices
Chapter 41: Application Installation and Configuration Concepts
32-Bit vs. 64-Bit
System and OS Requirements for Applications
Distribution Methods
Other Considerations for New Applications
Chapter 42: Cloud-Based Productivity Tools
Email Systems
Online Storage
Collaboration Tools
Identity Synchronization
Licensing Assignment
Core 2 (220-1202) Domain 2.0: Security
Chapter 43: Physical Security
Physical Locks
Entry Systems
Biometrics
Other Physical Security Precautions
Protecting Data Physically
Chapter 44: Logical Security
Authentication
Just-in-Time Access
Principle of Least Privilege
MDM Policies
More Logical Security Concepts
Chapter 45: Windows Security Settings
The CIA of Computer Security
Microsoft Defender Antivirus
Microsoft Defender Firewall
Users and Groups
Permissions
File Security
Active Directory
Chapter 46: Wireless Security and Malware
Comparing and Contrasting Wireless Security Protocols and Authentication Methods
Detecting, Removing, and Preventing Malware Using the Appropriate Tools and Methods
Chapter 47: Social Engineering, Threats, and Vulnerabilities
Social Engineering
Threats and Vulnerabilities
Chapter 48: Workstation Best Practices
Usernames and Passwords
Password Policies
Account Management and End-User Best Practices
Disabling Unused Services
Disabling AutoPlay/AutoRun
Chapter 49: Mobile Device Security
Hardening Techniques
Theft and Loss of Mobile Devices
Compromised and Damaged Devices
IoT Security
Policies and Procedures
Chapter 50: Data Destruction and Disposal
Data Security 101
Formatting Drives
Overwriting Drives
Physical Destruction
Regulatory and Environmental Requirements
Chapter 51: SOHO Security
Removing SOHO Malware
Applying Security Settings on SOHO Wireless and Wired Networks
Chapter 52: Browser Security
Browser Download/Installation
Settings
Extensions and Plug-ins
Password Managers
Secure Connections
More Settings
Core 2 (220-1202) Domain 3.0: Software Troubleshooting
Chapter 53: Troubleshooting Microsoft Windows
Windows Recovery
System Restore
Improper, Spontaneous, and Frequent Shutdowns
Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) Stop Errors
How to Restore Windows
Common Windows Symptoms and Solutions
Chapter 54: Troubleshooting Mobile Operating Systems and Applications
Wireless Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting and Stopping Applications
Initiating Resets
More Mobile Application and OS Troubleshooting
Addressing Video Issues
Chapter 55: Troubleshooting Mobile Operating Systems’ Security Issues
Mobile Device Security Concerns and Symptoms
Chapter 56: Troubleshooting PC Security Issues
Symptoms of Viruses
Symptoms of Spyware
More Symptoms of PC Security Issues and Potential Solutions
Core 2 (220-1202) Domain 4.0: Operational Procedures
Chapter 57: Documentation
Types of Documents
Knowledge Base/Articles
Ticketing Systems
Asset Management
Chapter 58: Change Management and Backup Methods
Understanding Basic Change Management Best Practices
Implementing Workstation Backup and Recovery Methods
Chapter 59: Safety Procedures
ESD Prevention and Equipment Grounding
Electrical Safety
Electrical Fire Safety
Physical Safety
Chapter 60: Environmental Controls
Temperature, Humidity, and Air
MSDS and Disposal
Power Devices
Chapter 61: Incident Response, Communication, and Professionalism
Understanding the Importance of Prohibited Content/Activity and Privacy, Licensing, and Policy Concepts
Using Proper Communication Techniques and Professionalism
Chapter 62: Basic Scripting, Part I
Programming 101
When to Use Scripts
Other Considerations When Using Scripts
Chapter 63: Basic Scripting, Part II
PowerShell and .ps1
Bash and .sh
Use Cases and Other Considerations for PowerShell and Bash
Python and .py
JavaScript and .js
Visual Basic Script and .vbs
Chapter 64: Remote Access Technologies
Remote Desktop
SSH
Simple Protocol for Independent Computing Environments (SPICE)
Windows Remote Management (WinRM)
More Third-Party Tools
VPN
Chapter 65: Appropriate Use of Artificial Intelligence
Application Integration
Policy and Privacy
Limitations of AI
Chapter 66: Getting Ready for the Exams, and Farewell
Getting Ready for the Exams
Tips for Taking the Real Exams
Beyond the CompTIA A+ Certification
A+ Core 2 (220-1202) Practice Exam
The CompTIA A+ Cram Sheet
About the Author :
David Bayne has spent almost 35 years teaching IT, both at the high school and community college levels, and has prepared hundreds of students for careers in IT. He currently works for the State of California as an IT specialist where he oversees technical training and special projects, and is an adjunct professor in the Business department at Woodland Community College. He holds CCNA and CompTIA A+ certifications, as well as a Master’s degree in educational technology. When David is not working, he reads (mostly mysteries and sci-fi) and spends time with family. He lives near Sacramento, California, with his wife and daughters and their three cats.
John Pickard is an associate professor at East Carolina University in the College of Engineering and Technology, with more than 21 years of experience teaching information and cybersecurity technology. He also works as a subject matter expert and content developer in support of the Cisco Networking Academy. Through his career he has held various IT certifications, including Cisco Certified Network Professional, Microsoft Certified Professional, IPv6 Forum Certified Trainer, CompTIA Network +, and CompTIA A+. John is also a Cisco Certified Academy Instructor. John received his PhD in technology management at Indiana State University.
Mark Smith has been teaching for the past 24 years. He has been computing since 1986 when he first started with his Commodore 128. He started his IT business in 1997, which is still going strong today. Ten years ago, he started a CTE IT Pathway at the high school in his district offering Python programming, IT Essentials, CCNA 1, CCNA 2, and Red Hat Linux. In addition, he runs a top-ranking regional cybersecurity club. Additionally, he is an adjunct at a local community college in the CIS department. He also sits on the Red Hat Academy Advisory Board as well as California State University, San Bernardino’s IDT Advisory Board. Mark earned his master’s in instructional design and technology and has CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CCST: IT Support, CCST: Networking, and CCST: Cybersecurity certifications. When not working, he enjoys traveling domestically and internationally.
