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CompTIA A+ Study Guide

Comprehensive study materials covering all Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) exam objectives. Updated for V15 launched March 2025.

Download PDF Guide

Quick Navigation

Jump to specific exam domains

Core 2 (220-1202)

1.0 Operating Systems (31%)
2.0 Security (25%)
3.0 Software Troubleshooting (22%)
4.0 Operational Procedures (22%)

Core 1
220-1201 Study Materials

Hardware and network troubleshooting domains

15% of exam

1.0 Mobile Devices

Laptop hardware, mobile device accessories, and connectivity

1.1 Laptop Hardware

• Display types: LCD, LED, OLED, TN, IPS, VA
• WiFi antenna connector/placement
• Webcam, microphone, speakers
• System board, DC jack, battery
• Keyboard, touchpad, function keys

1.2 Mobile Device Accessories

• Connection types: USB, Lightning, USB-C, Thunderbolt
• Accessories: headsets, speakers, game pads, docking stations

1.3 Mobile Device Connectivity

• Wireless: Bluetooth, NFC, cellular, WiFi
• Mobile device synchronization methods

Practice Mobile Devices Questions

20% of exam

2.0 Networking

TCP/IP, protocols, network devices, and wireless technologies

2.1 TCP/IP and Ports

• IPv4: Classes, private ranges (10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12, 192.168.0.0/16)
• IPv6: Address structure, link-local (FE80::)
• Common ports: HTTP (80), HTTPS (443), FTP (20/21), SSH (22), Telnet (23)
• DNS (53), DHCP (67/68), SMTP (25), POP3 (110), IMAP (143)
• RDP (3389), SMB (445), AFP (548), NetBIOS (137-139)

2.2 Network Devices

• Router, switch, access point, modem, firewall
• Patch panel, PoE switch, hub
• Cable modem, DSL modem, ONT

2.3 Wireless Standards

• 802.11a (5 GHz, 54 Mbps), 802.11b (2.4 GHz, 11 Mbps)
• 802.11g (2.4 GHz, 54 Mbps), 802.11n (2.4/5 GHz, 600 Mbps)
• 802.11ac (5 GHz, 1+ Gbps), 802.11ax/WiFi 6 (2.4/5 GHz, 9.6 Gbps)

2.4 Network Types and Services

• LAN, WAN, PAN, MAN, SAN, WLAN
• DHCP, DNS, file sharing, print services

Practice Networking Questions

25% of exam

3.0 Hardware

Computer components, cables, storage, and peripherals

3.1 Cables and Connectors

• Network: Cat 5, Cat 5e (100m), Cat 6 (55m for 10Gbps), Cat 6a (100m)
• Fiber: Single-mode, multi-mode
• Video: HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, Thunderbolt
• Peripheral: USB 2.0/3.0/3.1/3.2, USB-C, Lightning
• Storage: SATA, eSATA, IDE/PATA

3.2 RAM Types

• DDR3, DDR4, DDR5 (desktop: DIMM, laptop: SO-DIMM)
• ECC vs non-ECC, registered vs unbuffered
• Single-channel, dual-channel, triple-channel, quad-channel

3.3 Storage Devices

• HDD: Magnetic storage, 5400/7200 RPM
• SSD: SATA, M.2, NVMe (PCIe interface)
• RAID: 0 (striping), 1 (mirroring), 5 (striping with parity), 10 (1+0)

3.4 Motherboards and CPUs

• Form factors: ATX, microATX, Mini-ITX
• Chipset, expansion slots: PCIe x1/x4/x8/x16
• CPU sockets: Intel LGA, AMD AM4/AM5

3.5 Power Supplies

• Input: 115V or 230V (voltage selector)
• Connectors: 20/24-pin ATX, 4/8-pin CPU, 6/8-pin PCIe, SATA, Molex
• Wattage ratings, efficiency (80 PLUS)

Practice Hardware Questions

11% of exam

4.0 Virtualization and Cloud Computing

Cloud models, virtualization technologies, and resources

4.1 Cloud Models

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Virtual machines, storage
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Development platforms
• SaaS (Software as a Service): Web-based applications
• Public, private, hybrid, community cloud

4.2 Virtualization

• Hypervisor Type 1 (bare metal) vs Type 2 (hosted)
• Virtual machine resource requirements
• Network, storage, and security resources for VMs

Practice Virtualization Questions

29% of exam

5.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting methodology and common issues

5.1 Troubleshooting Methodology

Identify the problem
Establish a theory of probable cause
Test the theory to determine cause
Establish a plan of action and implement the solution
Verify full system functionality
Document findings, actions, and outcomes

5.2 Common Hardware Issues

• POST beep codes, no power, overheating
• Blue screen of death (BSOD), black screen
• Distorted display, incorrect color patterns
• Boot failures, grinding noises

5.3 Network Troubleshooting

• No connectivity, intermittent connectivity
• IP conflict, slow transfer speeds
• Limited connectivity, unavailable resources

Practice Troubleshooting Questions

Core 2
220-1202 Study Materials

Operating systems, security, and operational procedures

31% of exam

1.0 Operating Systems

Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems

1.1 Windows Command-Line Tools

• ipconfig, ping, tracert, netstat, nslookup
• sfc, chkdsk, diskpart, format, xcopy, robocopy
• gpupdate, gpresult, shutdown, dism

1.2 File Systems

• NTFS: File-level security, compression, encryption
• FAT32: Max 4GB file size, compatible with most devices
• exFAT: For flash drives, no 4GB limit
• ext3, ext4, APFS, HFS+

1.3 Windows Features

• Task Manager, Device Manager, Disk Management
• Control Panel, Settings app
• System Configuration (msconfig), Registry Editor (regedit)

1.4 macOS and Linux Basics

• macOS: Finder, Spotlight, Time Machine, Keychain
• Linux: apt-get, yum, ps, grep, ls, cd, chmod

Practice OS Questions

25% of exam

2.0 Security

Physical security, logical security, and best practices

2.1 Malware Types

• Virus, worm, Trojan, ransomware, spyware, rootkit
• Keylogger, crypto-miner, adware

2.2 Authentication Methods

• Single sign-on (SSO), multifactor authentication (MFA)
• Biometrics: fingerprint, facial recognition
• Smart cards, tokens, passwords

2.3 Security Best Practices

• Password policies, account management
• Antivirus/anti-malware software
• Firewalls, screensaver locks
• Principle of least privilege

2.4 Data Destruction

• Shredding, degaussing, drilling, wiping
• Standard formatting vs low-level formatting

Practice Security Questions

22% of exam

3.0 Software Troubleshooting

OS issues, malware removal, and application problems

3.1 Windows Boot Problems

• Safe Mode, Startup Repair, System Restore
• Boot into Recovery Environment (WinRE)
• Missing operating system, invalid boot disk

3.2 Common Issues

• Slow performance, freeze, application crashes
• Services not starting, print spooler issues
• Slow boot time, profile loading problems

3.3 Malware Removal

Investigate and verify malware symptoms
Quarantine infected systems
Disable System Restore
Remediate infected systems
Schedule scans and run updates
Enable System Restore and create restore point
Educate the end user

Practice Software Troubleshooting

22% of exam

4.0 Operational Procedures

Documentation, change management, and safety

4.1 Documentation

• Network topology diagrams, knowledge base articles
• Incident reports, compliance reports
• Inventory lists (asset tags, barcodes)

4.2 Change Management

• Request forms, purpose of changes
• Scope, risk analysis, plan, end-user acceptance
• Change board approval, backout plan

4.3 Backup and Recovery

• Full backup, incremental, differential
• Grandfather-father-son (GFS) rotation
• 3-2-1 backup rule

4.4 Safety Procedures

• Electrostatic discharge (ESD) prevention
• Proper component handling and storage
• Equipment grounding, power supply safety
• Personal safety, compliance regulations

Practice Operational Procedures

Additional Study Resources

Official Resources

• CompTIA Exam Objectives
• CompTIA CertMaster Learn
• CompTIA Labs for A+

Practice Materials

🎯 What to Study Next After CompTIA A+

Build on your A+ knowledge with these recommended certifications

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)

Most popular next step. Learn cybersecurity fundamentals. 500+ practice questions available.

CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)

Deep dive into networking. Builds on A+ networking knowledge. 640+ practice questions.

Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

Enter cloud computing. Great entry point for cloud careers. 490+ practice questions.

Browse all 52 certifications →

Back to A+

CompTIA A+ Study Guide

Comprehensive study materials covering all Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) exam objectives. Updated for V15 launched March 2025.

Download PDF Guide

Quick Navigation

Jump to specific exam domains

Core 1 (220-1201)

1.0 Mobile Devices (15%)
2.0 Networking (20%)
3.0 Hardware (25%)
4.0 Virtualization & Cloud (11%)
5.0 Hardware Troubleshooting (29%)

Core 2 (220-1202)

1.0 Operating Systems (31%)
2.0 Security (25%)
3.0 Software Troubleshooting (22%)
4.0 Operational Procedures (22%)

Core 1
220-1201 Study Materials

Hardware and network troubleshooting domains

15% of exam

1.0 Mobile Devices

Laptop hardware, mobile device accessories, and connectivity

1.1 Laptop Hardware

• Display types: LCD, LED, OLED, TN, IPS, VA
• WiFi antenna connector/placement
• Webcam, microphone, speakers
• System board, DC jack, battery
• Keyboard, touchpad, function keys

1.2 Mobile Device Accessories

• Connection types: USB, Lightning, USB-C, Thunderbolt
• Accessories: headsets, speakers, game pads, docking stations

1.3 Mobile Device Connectivity

• Wireless: Bluetooth, NFC, cellular, WiFi
• Mobile device synchronization methods

Practice Mobile Devices Questions

20% of exam

2.0 Networking

TCP/IP, protocols, network devices, and wireless technologies

2.1 TCP/IP and Ports

• IPv4: Classes, private ranges (10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12, 192.168.0.0/16)
• IPv6: Address structure, link-local (FE80::)
• Common ports: HTTP (80), HTTPS (443), FTP (20/21), SSH (22), Telnet (23)
• DNS (53), DHCP (67/68), SMTP (25), POP3 (110), IMAP (143)
• RDP (3389), SMB (445), AFP (548), NetBIOS (137-139)

2.2 Network Devices

• Router, switch, access point, modem, firewall
• Patch panel, PoE switch, hub
• Cable modem, DSL modem, ONT

2.3 Wireless Standards

• 802.11a (5 GHz, 54 Mbps), 802.11b (2.4 GHz, 11 Mbps)
• 802.11g (2.4 GHz, 54 Mbps), 802.11n (2.4/5 GHz, 600 Mbps)
• 802.11ac (5 GHz, 1+ Gbps), 802.11ax/WiFi 6 (2.4/5 GHz, 9.6 Gbps)

2.4 Network Types and Services

• LAN, WAN, PAN, MAN, SAN, WLAN
• DHCP, DNS, file sharing, print services

Practice Networking Questions

25% of exam

3.0 Hardware

Computer components, cables, storage, and peripherals

3.1 Cables and Connectors

• Network: Cat 5, Cat 5e (100m), Cat 6 (55m for 10Gbps), Cat 6a (100m)
• Fiber: Single-mode, multi-mode
• Video: HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, Thunderbolt
• Peripheral: USB 2.0/3.0/3.1/3.2, USB-C, Lightning
• Storage: SATA, eSATA, IDE/PATA

3.2 RAM Types

• DDR3, DDR4, DDR5 (desktop: DIMM, laptop: SO-DIMM)
• ECC vs non-ECC, registered vs unbuffered
• Single-channel, dual-channel, triple-channel, quad-channel

3.3 Storage Devices

• HDD: Magnetic storage, 5400/7200 RPM
• SSD: SATA, M.2, NVMe (PCIe interface)
• RAID: 0 (striping), 1 (mirroring), 5 (striping with parity), 10 (1+0)

3.4 Motherboards and CPUs

• Form factors: ATX, microATX, Mini-ITX
• Chipset, expansion slots: PCIe x1/x4/x8/x16
• CPU sockets: Intel LGA, AMD AM4/AM5

3.5 Power Supplies

• Input: 115V or 230V (voltage selector)
• Connectors: 20/24-pin ATX, 4/8-pin CPU, 6/8-pin PCIe, SATA, Molex
• Wattage ratings, efficiency (80 PLUS)

Practice Hardware Questions

11% of exam

4.0 Virtualization and Cloud Computing

Cloud models, virtualization technologies, and resources

4.1 Cloud Models

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Virtual machines, storage
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Development platforms
• SaaS (Software as a Service): Web-based applications
• Public, private, hybrid, community cloud

4.2 Virtualization

• Hypervisor Type 1 (bare metal) vs Type 2 (hosted)
• Virtual machine resource requirements
• Network, storage, and security resources for VMs

Practice Virtualization Questions

29% of exam

5.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting methodology and common issues

5.1 Troubleshooting Methodology

Identify the problem
Establish a theory of probable cause
Test the theory to determine cause
Establish a plan of action and implement the solution
Verify full system functionality
Document findings, actions, and outcomes

5.2 Common Hardware Issues

• POST beep codes, no power, overheating
• Blue screen of death (BSOD), black screen
• Distorted display, incorrect color patterns
• Boot failures, grinding noises

5.3 Network Troubleshooting

• No connectivity, intermittent connectivity
• IP conflict, slow transfer speeds
• Limited connectivity, unavailable resources

Practice Troubleshooting Questions

Core 2
220-1202 Study Materials

Operating systems, security, and operational procedures

31% of exam

1.0 Operating Systems

Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems

1.1 Windows Command-Line Tools

• ipconfig, ping, tracert, netstat, nslookup
• sfc, chkdsk, diskpart, format, xcopy, robocopy
• gpupdate, gpresult, shutdown, dism

1.2 File Systems

• NTFS: File-level security, compression, encryption
• FAT32: Max 4GB file size, compatible with most devices
• exFAT: For flash drives, no 4GB limit
• ext3, ext4, APFS, HFS+

1.3 Windows Features

• Task Manager, Device Manager, Disk Management
• Control Panel, Settings app
• System Configuration (msconfig), Registry Editor (regedit)

1.4 macOS and Linux Basics

• macOS: Finder, Spotlight, Time Machine, Keychain
• Linux: apt-get, yum, ps, grep, ls, cd, chmod

Practice OS Questions

25% of exam

2.0 Security

Physical security, logical security, and best practices

2.1 Malware Types

• Virus, worm, Trojan, ransomware, spyware, rootkit
• Keylogger, crypto-miner, adware

2.2 Authentication Methods

• Single sign-on (SSO), multifactor authentication (MFA)
• Biometrics: fingerprint, facial recognition
• Smart cards, tokens, passwords

2.3 Security Best Practices

• Password policies, account management
• Antivirus/anti-malware software
• Firewalls, screensaver locks
• Principle of least privilege

2.4 Data Destruction

• Shredding, degaussing, drilling, wiping
• Standard formatting vs low-level formatting

Practice Security Questions

22% of exam

3.0 Software Troubleshooting

OS issues, malware removal, and application problems

3.1 Windows Boot Problems

• Safe Mode, Startup Repair, System Restore
• Boot into Recovery Environment (WinRE)
• Missing operating system, invalid boot disk

3.2 Common Issues

• Slow performance, freeze, application crashes
• Services not starting, print spooler issues
• Slow boot time, profile loading problems

3.3 Malware Removal

Investigate and verify malware symptoms
Quarantine infected systems
Disable System Restore
Remediate infected systems
Schedule scans and run updates
Enable System Restore and create restore point
Educate the end user

Practice Software Troubleshooting

22% of exam

4.0 Operational Procedures

Documentation, change management, and safety

4.1 Documentation

• Network topology diagrams, knowledge base articles
• Incident reports, compliance reports
• Inventory lists (asset tags, barcodes)

4.2 Change Management

• Request forms, purpose of changes
• Scope, risk analysis, plan, end-user acceptance
• Change board approval, backout plan

4.3 Backup and Recovery

• Full backup, incremental, differential
• Grandfather-father-son (GFS) rotation
• 3-2-1 backup rule

4.4 Safety Procedures

• Electrostatic discharge (ESD) prevention
• Proper component handling and storage
• Equipment grounding, power supply safety
• Personal safety, compliance regulations

Practice Operational Procedures

Additional Study Resources

Official Resources

• CompTIA Exam Objectives
• CompTIA CertMaster Learn
• CompTIA Labs for A+

Practice Materials

🎯 What to Study Next After CompTIA A+

Build on your A+ knowledge with these recommended certifications

CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)

Most popular next step. Learn cybersecurity fundamentals. 500+ practice questions available.

CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)

Deep dive into networking. Builds on A+ networking knowledge. 640+ practice questions.

Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

Enter cloud computing. Great entry point for cloud careers. 490+ practice questions.

Browse all 52 certifications →

Quick Feedback

CompTIA A+ Study Guide

Core 1 (220-1201)

Core 2 (220-1202)

Core 1220-1201 Study Materials

1.1 Laptop Hardware

1.2 Mobile Device Accessories

1.3 Mobile Device Connectivity

2.1 TCP/IP and Ports

2.2 Network Devices

2.3 Wireless Standards

2.4 Network Types and Services

3.1 Cables and Connectors

3.2 RAM Types

3.3 Storage Devices

3.4 Motherboards and CPUs

3.5 Power Supplies

4.1 Cloud Models

4.2 Virtualization

5.1 Troubleshooting Methodology

5.2 Common Hardware Issues

5.3 Network Troubleshooting

Core 2220-1202 Study Materials

1.1 Windows Command-Line Tools

1.2 File Systems

1.3 Windows Features

1.4 macOS and Linux Basics

2.1 Malware Types

2.2 Authentication Methods

2.3 Security Best Practices

2.4 Data Destruction

3.1 Windows Boot Problems

3.2 Common Issues

3.3 Malware Removal

4.1 Documentation

4.2 Change Management

4.3 Backup and Recovery

4.4 Safety Procedures

Official Resources

Practice Materials

CompTIA A+ Study Guide

Core 1 (220-1201)

Core 2 (220-1202)

Core 1220-1201 Study Materials

1.1 Laptop Hardware

1.2 Mobile Device Accessories

1.3 Mobile Device Connectivity

2.1 TCP/IP and Ports

2.2 Network Devices

2.3 Wireless Standards

2.4 Network Types and Services

3.1 Cables and Connectors

3.2 RAM Types

3.3 Storage Devices

3.4 Motherboards and CPUs

3.5 Power Supplies

4.1 Cloud Models

4.2 Virtualization

5.1 Troubleshooting Methodology

5.2 Common Hardware Issues

5.3 Network Troubleshooting

Core 2220-1202 Study Materials

1.1 Windows Command-Line Tools

1.2 File Systems

1.3 Windows Features

1.4 macOS and Linux Basics

2.1 Malware Types

2.2 Authentication Methods

2.3 Security Best Practices

2.4 Data Destruction

3.1 Windows Boot Problems

3.2 Common Issues

3.3 Malware Removal

4.1 Documentation

4.2 Change Management

4.3 Backup and Recovery

4.4 Safety Procedures

Official Resources

Practice Materials

Core 1
220-1201 Study Materials

Core 2
220-1202 Study Materials

Core 1
220-1201 Study Materials

Core 2
220-1202 Study Materials