V14

A+ Core 1 & 2 V14 (Retiring Version)

CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for launching your tech career, offering foundational skills for beginners. The A+ Core 1 and Core 2 exams cover essential tech areas like hardware, operating systems, troubleshooting, networking, and security. To achieve this certification, you must pass both exams under the same certification version. Gaining this certification opens doors to roles like IT specialist and help desk technician and sets you up for intermediate certifications like Network+ and Security+.

CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1)

Mobile devices (15%)

Installation and configuration: Install and configure laptop hardware components like HDD/SSD, RAM, and wireless cards.
Accessories setup: Set up accessories such as USB, Bluetooth, and NFC devices.
Display technologies: Compare mobile display technologies like LCD and OLED.
Network connectivity: Configure network connectivity options, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and mobile data synchronization.
Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues related to mobile devices, including hardware failures and connectivity problems.

Networking (20%)

Protocols: Compare and contrast TCP/UDP protocols.
Networking hardware: Explore the roles and functionalities of routers, switches, and firewalls.
Wireless standards: Understand wireless networking standards like 802.11.
Network services: Summarize services provided by networked hosts, including DNS, DHCP, and web servers.
SOHO networks: Install and configure small office/home office networks.
Networking tools: Utilize tools like crimpers, cable testers, and WiFi analyzers for troubleshooting.

Hardware (25%)

Cables and connectors: Explain various cable types and connectors, such as HDMI and Ethernet.
RAM installation: Install appropriate RAM modules for different systems, including DDR3 and DDR4.
Storage solutions: Select and install storage solutions like HDDs and SSDs.
Motherboards and CPUs: Configure motherboards and CPUs, considering form factors, sockets, and cooling solutions.
Peripheral devices: Install and configure peripheral devices such as printers and scanners.

Virtualization and cloud computing (11%)

Virtualization technologies: Learn the fundamentals of virtualization technologies, including virtual machines and hypervisors.
Cloud computing models: Understand cloud computing models, such as IaaS and SaaS, and their benefits.

Hardware and network troubleshooting (29%)

Troubleshooting methodologies: Diagnose, resolve, and document common hardware and network issues.
Tools and techniques: Utilize appropriate tools and techniques, such as multimeters and cable testers, for troubleshooting.

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (Core 2)

Operating systems (31%)

Windows features: Identify features of different Windows editions.
Command-line tools: Effectively use command-line tools and Windows 10 utilities like Task Manager and Disk Management.
Control panel utilities: Navigate and utilize Control Panel utilities for system configuration.
Windows settings: Adjust Windows settings for optimal performance and security, including network and user account settings.
OS types: Explain the purposes of various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS.
OS installations: Perform installations and upgrades, ensuring compatibility and system requirements are met.

Security (25%)

Physical and logical security: Implement security measures such as access controls and encryption.
Wireless security protocols: Compare wireless security protocols and authentication methods, including WPA2 and multifactor authentication.
Malware prevention: Detect, remove, and prevent malware using appropriate tools.
Social engineering attacks: Understand social-engineering attacks to mitigate threats and vulnerabilities.

Software troubleshooting (22%)

Software issue diagnosis: Diagnose and resolve software issues on PCs and mobile devices.
Troubleshooting tools: Use tools such as event logs and system restore to identify and fix software-related issues.

Operational procedures (22%)

Safety and communication: Follow industry best practices for safety, communication, and professionalism.
Documentation: Maintain accurate documentation and records to support operational efficiency and compliance.
Environmental safety: Implement procedures for environmental safety and equipment handling to prevent damage and ensure workplace safety.

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Exam details

Exam codes: 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2) must be from the same series of A+; no mixing.
Launch date: April 2022
Number of questions: Maximum of 90 questions per exam
Types of questions: Multiple choice questions (single and multiple response), drag and drops, and performance-based
Length of test: 90 Minutes per exam
Passing score: 220-1101: 675 (on a scale of 900), 220-1102: 700 (on a scale of 900)
Recommended experience: 9 to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field
Languages: English, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish and Thai
Retirement: TBD - Usually three years after launch
DoD 8140 approved work roles: technical support specialist, system administrator, cyber defense infrastructure support specialist

Skills learned

Hardware: Identify, use, and connect hardware components and devices.
Operating systems: Install and support Windows OS, Mac OS, Chrome OS, Android, and Linux OS.
Software troubleshooting: Troubleshoot PC and mobile device issues.
Networking: Explain types of networks and connections.
Security: Identify and protect against security vulnerabilities.
Mobile devices: Install and configure laptops and other mobile devices.
Virtualization and cloud computing: Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts.
Operational procedures: Follow best practices for safety, environmental impacts, and communication.

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