V14

A+ Core 1 V14 (Retiring Version)

CompTIA A+ Core 1 is the first of two exams required for the A+ certification, a key starting point for a tech career. This exam covers essential skills in hardware, troubleshooting, networking, and mobile devices. Successfully passing both Core 1 and Core 2 opens the door to roles such as IT specialist and help desk technician while laying the groundwork for advanced certifications like Network+ and Security+.

A+ Core 1 (V14) exam objectives

Mobile devices (15%)

Installation and configuration: installing and configuring laptop hardware like HDD/SSD, RAM, and wireless cards.
Accessories setup: setting up accessories such as USB, Bluetooth, and NFC devices.
Display technologies: comparing mobile display technologies like LCD and OLED.
Network connectivity: configuring network connectivity options, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and mobile data synchronization.
Troubleshooting: diagnosing and resolving issues related to mobile devices, including hardware failures and connectivity problems.

Networking (20%)

Protocols: comparing and contrasting TCP and UDP protocols.
Networking hardware: exploring the roles and functionalities of routers, switches, and firewalls.
Wireless standards: understanding wireless networking standards like 802.11.
Network services: summarizing services provided by networked hosts, including DNS, DHCP, and web servers.
SOHO networks: installing and configuring small office/home office networks.
Networking tools: utilizing tools like crimpers, cable testers, and WiFi analyzers for troubleshooting.

Hardware (25%)

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

Virtualization and cloud computing (11%)

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

Hardware and network troubleshooting (29%)

Troubleshooting methodologies: diagnosing, resolving, and documenting common hardware and network issues.
Tools and techniques: utilizing appropriate tools and techniques, such as multimeters and cable testers, for troubleshooting.

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CompTIA A+ Core 1 (V14) practice questions

Exam details

Exam version: V14; Core 1 and Core 2 exams must be taken from the same version
Exam series code: 220-1101 (Core 1)
Launch date: April 2022
Number of questions: maximum of 90 per exam, including multiple-choice (single and multiple response), drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions
Length of test: 90 minutes
Passing score: A+ Core 1: 675 (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: September 25, 2025, for English, December 19, 2025, for all other languages

Skills learned

Install and configure laptops and other mobile devices for optimal performance.
Identify, use, and connect hardware components and devices effectively.
Troubleshoot issues with PCs and mobile devices to resolve hardware and connectivity problems.
Explain types of networks and connections to ensure proper networking functionality.
Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts to understand virtualization and cloud computing.
Follow best practices for safety, environmental impacts, and effective communication in operational procedures.

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