Introduction
Part I: Introduction to Core 1 (220-1101)
CORE 1 (220-1101): DOMAIN 1.0: MOBILE DEVICES
Chapter 1 Laptop Hardware and Components
Introduction to Laptops
Power
Keyboards/Keys
Special Function Keys
Troubleshooting Keyboards
Touchpad
Random-Access Memory (RAM)
Storage Drives
Communications
Physical Privacy
Chapter 2 Mobile Device Display Components
Display Types
Inverter and Backlight
Damaged Inverter
Worn-Out Backlight
Digitizers and Touchscreens
Webcam and Microphone
Wi-Fi Antenna Connector and Placement
Chapter 3 Mobile Device Accessories and Ports
Connection Types
Wired Connections
Wireless Connections
Accessories
Docking Stations and Port Replicators
Drawing Pads, Touchpads, and Touch Pens
Chapter 4 Mobile Device Network Connectivity and Application Support
Enabling Wireless Functions
Bluetooth
Email Configuration
Integrated Commercial Provider Email Configuration
Corporate and ISP Email Configuration
Cellular Radio Technologies
Location Services
GPS
Cellular Location
IMEI and IMSI
Synchronization Methods
Synchronizing to the Cloud
Synchronizing to the Desktop
Synchronizing to the Automobile
Mobile Device Management (MDM)
CORE 1 (220-1101): DOMAIN 2.0: NETWORKING
Chapter 5 TCP and UDP Ports and Protocols
TCP vs. UDP
Ports and Protocols
HTTP vs. HTTPS
Email Protocols
FTP, SSH, and Telnet
DHCP
DNS
LDAP
RDP
More Protocols and Ports
Chapter 6 Network Devices
Switches
Routers
Wireless Access Points
Firewalls
Network Interface Cards
Hubs
Patch Panels
Power over Ethernet
Cable/DSL Modems
Network Interface Devices
Software-Defined Networking
Chapter 7 Wireless Protocols
802.11 Wireless
Long-Range Fixed Wireless
RFID
Chapter 8 Networked Hosts
Server Roles
File Servers
Web Servers
Print Servers
Mail Servers
Proxy Servers
DHCP Servers
DNS Servers
Syslog Servers
AAA Servers
Internet Security Appliances
Network Firewall
UTM
Spam Gateway
Load Balancer
Embedded Systems and IoT
Embedded Systems
IoT
Chapter 9 SOHO Network Configuration
Configuring IPv4
Private vs. Public Addresses
Configuring IPv6
Chapter 10 Network Configuration Concepts
DNS
Email Authentication Methods
DHCP
DHCP Process
DHCP Reservations
VLANs
VPNs
Chapter 11 Network Types
Network Types
LAN and WAN
MAN
SAN
WLAN
WMN
PAN
Internet Connection Types
Cable Internet
DSL
Fiber
Satellite
Wireless Internet Service Provider
Chapter 12 Networking Tools
Network Cabling Tools
Network Tap
Wi-Fi Analyzers
CORE 1 (220-1101): DOMAIN 3.0: HARDWARE
Chapter 13 Cables and Connectors
Network Cables
Twisted Pair
Coaxial
Optical
Peripheral Cables and Connectors
USB
Lightning and Thunderbolt
Serial
Video Cables and Connectors
Storage Drive Cables and Connectors
Adapters
Chapter 14 RAM
RAM Types
DDR3
DDR4
DDR5
Installing RAM
RAM Technologies
Single-Channel vs. Multichannel Architectures
ECC vs. Non-ECC
Chapter 15 Storage Drives
SATA
Magnetic Hard Drives
Solid-State Drives
RAID
Flash
USB Flash Drives
Secure Digital Cards
Optical Drives
Chapter 16 Motherboards and Add-on Cards
Motherboard Form Factors and Connector Types
ATX
microATX
ITX
Expansion Buses
Expansion Cards
Installing Video Cards
Sound Cards
Other Expansion Cards
More Ports and Connectors
BIOS/UEFI Settings
The POST
Chapter 17 CPUs
CPU Architecture
Clock Rate
Overclocking
Types of CPUs
Multithreading and Multicore
Cache Memory
CPU Compatibility
Intel and AMD
Sockets
Power Consumption
Cooling Mechanisms
Heat Sinks
Thermal Paste
Fans
Liquid Cooling Systems
Installing CPUs
Chapter 18 Power
Planning Which Power Supply to Use
Types of Power Supplies and Compatibility
Wattage and Capacity Requirements
Number and Type of Power Connectors
Modular and Redundant PSUs
Installing the Power Supply
Chapter 19 Multifunction Devices/Printers
Setup Considerations
Printer Configuration Settings
Basic Printer Configuration Settings
Sharing Printers and Managing Permissions
Local vs. Network Printers
Basic Printer Security
Chapter 20 Printer Consumables
Laser Printers
Inkjet Printers
Thermal Printers
Impact Printers
3D Printers
CORE 1 (220-1101): DOMAIN 4.0: VIRTUALIZATION AND CLOUD COMPUTING
Chapter 21 Cloud Computing Concepts
Introduction to Cloud Computing
Common Cloud Models
Cloud Computing Characteristics
Desktop Virtualization
Chapter 22 Client-Side Virtualization
Purpose of Virtual Machines
Hypervisors
Examples of Virtual Machine Software
Virtual Machine Requirements
Cross-Platform Virtualization
Containers and Sandboxes
OS-Level Virtualization (Containers)
Sandboxes
CORE 1 (220-1101): DOMAIN 5.0: HARDWARE AND NETWORK TROUBLESHOOTING
Chapter 23 Computer Troubleshooting 101
The CompTIA Six-Step Troubleshooting Process
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Step 2: Establish a Theory of Probable Cause (Question the Obvious)
Step 3: Test the Theory to Determine the 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 the Findings, Actions, and Outcomes
Chapter 24 Troubleshooting Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, and Power
Troubleshooting Motherboards
Troubleshooting CPUs
Troubleshooting RAM
Troubleshooting Power Supply Issues
Heating and Cooling
Chapter 25 Troubleshooting Storage Drives and RAID Arrays
Preventive Maintenance and Troubleshooting of Storage Drives
Storage Drive Preventive Maintenance
Storage Drive Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting RAID Arrays
Chapter 26 Troubleshooting Video Issues
PC Video Troubleshooting
External Laptop Monitors and Projectors
External Laptop Monitors
Projectors
Chapter 27 Troubleshooting Mobile Devices
Mobile Device Display Troubleshooting
Mobile Device Overheating
More Mobile Device Troubleshooting
Disassembling Processes
Chapter 28 Troubleshooting Printers
Troubleshooting Printers
Print Jobs and the Print Spooler
Managing Printers and Print Jobs
The Windows Print Spooler
Chapter 29 Troubleshooting Wired and Wireless Network Problems
Troubleshooting Common Symptoms
A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Practice Exam
Part II: Introduction to Core 2 (220-1102)
CORE 2 (220-1102): DOMAIN 1.0: OPERATING SYSTEMS
Chapter 30 Comparing Windows Editions
Windows 10 Editions and Feature Differences
Windows Desktop/User Interface and Components
Windows 10 Upgrade Paths
Windows 11
Chapter 31 Microsoft Command-Line Tools, Part I
Microsoft Command-Line Basics
Command Prompt
PowerShell
Windows Terminal
Ask for Help!
Navigating in the Command Line
Working with Directories and Files
Partitioning and File System-Based Commands
chkdsk and sfc
chkdsk
SFC
winver and shutdown
shutdown
Advanced Commands: gpupdate and gpresult
Chapter 32 Microsoft Command-Line Tools, Part II
Networking Commands
ipconfig
ping
tracert and pathping
hostname
netstat
nslookup
net
Bonus Command: arp
Chapter 33 Microsoft Operating System Features and Tools, Part I
Task Manager
The MMC and Administrative Tools
The MMC
Event Viewer
Task Scheduler
Device Manager
Certificate Manager
Local Users and Groups
Performance Monitor
Group Policy Editor and Local Security Policy
Services
Bonus Tool: Computer Management
Chapter 34 Microsoft Operating System Features and Tools, Part II
Disk Management
The Disk Management Utility
Mount Points and Mounting a Drive
Storage Spaces
Disk Cleanup
Optimize Drives/Disk Defragmenter
Additional Windows Tools
System Information/msinfo32
Resource Monitor
System Configuration/MSConfig
The Windows Registry
Chapter 35 Windows Control Panel Utilities
Opening and Viewing the Control Panel Utilities
Internet Options
Devices and Printers
Programs and Features
Program Compatibility
Windows Defender Firewall
Mail
Sound
User Accounts
Indexing Options
File Explorer Options
Power Management
Ease of Access Center
Chapter 36 Windows Settings
How to Access Settings
Time & Language
Update & Security
Windows Update
Windows Defender Firewall
Personalization
Apps
Privacy
System
Display
Power & Sleep
Storage
About and System Properties
Virtual Memory
Devices
Network & Internet
Gaming
Accounts
Chapter 37 Windows Networking
Workgroup vs. Domain Setup
Sharing Resources and Making Network Connections
Printer Sharing and Access
Establishing Networking Connections
Proxy Settings
Chapter 38 Application Installation and Configuration Concepts
32-Bit vs. 64-Bit
System and OS Requirements for Applications
Scenario 1: Video Editing Program
Scenario 2: Developer Program
Distribution Methods
Other Considerations for New Applications
Application Impact
User Permissions
Security Considerations
Chapter 39 Common Operating Systems
Workstation Operating Systems
Smartphone and Tablet Operating Systems
Android
iOS
iPadOS
File System Types and Formatting
Windows File System Basics
Linux File System Basics
macOS File System Basics
Vendor Life-Cycle Limitations
Compatibility Concerns Between Operating Systems
Chapter 40 Operating System Installations and Upgrades
Boot Methods
Types of Installations
Partitioning
Primary and Extended Partitions and Logical Drives
Basic and Dynamic Drives
GPT vs. MBR
More OS Installation and Upgrade Considerations
Chapter 41 macOS
macOS Basics
System Preferences
macOS Features
Managing and Maintaining macOS
Installation and Uninstallation of Applications
Apple ID
Chapter 42 Linux
Linux Basics
Linux Desktop Distributions
Linux Partition Scheme and File System
Linux Command Line
Samba
Linux Best Practices
Updates and Patches
Backups
Anti-malware
In Closing
CORE 2 (220-1102): 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
Principle of Least Privilege
MDM Policies
Active Directory
User Profiles
Logon Script
Home Folder
Group Policy
Security Groups
More Logical Security Concepts
Authenticator Applications
Hard Tokens vs. Soft Tokens
Access Control Lists
SMS
Email Security
Chapter 45 Wireless Security and Malware
Comparing/Contrasting Wireless Security Protocols and Authentication Methods
Wireless and Encryption Protocols
RADIUS and TACACS+
Kerberos
Detecting, Removing, and Preventing Malware Using the Appropriate Tools and Methods
Malicious Software Types
Preventing Malicious Software
Chapter 46 Social Engineering
Social Engineering
Phishing
Evil Twin
Shoulder Surfing
Piggybacking/Tailgating
Dumpster Diving
Impersonation
Threats and Vulnerabilities
Network-Based Attacks
Password Cracking
Additional Security Threats
Vulnerabilities and Security Best Practices
Chapter 47 Windows Security Settings
The CIA of Computer Security
Windows Defender Antivirus
Windows Defender Firewall
Users and Groups
Permissions
Permission Inheritance and Propagation
Moving and Copying Folders and Files
File Security
Administrative Shares
Encrypting File System
BitLocker Encryption
Chapter 48 Windows Best Practices
Usernames and Passwords
Password Policies
Account Management and End-User Best Practices
Disabling AutoPlay/AutoRun
Chapter 49 Mobile Device Security
Screen Locks
Authenticator Applications
Theft and Loss of Mobile Devices
Compromised and Damaged Devices
Backups
Updates
Antivirus/Anti-malware/Firewalls
MDM and MAM
Full Device Encryption
IoT Security
Policies and Procedures
Profile Security Requirements
Chapter 50 Data Destruction and Disposal
Data Security 101
Formatting Drives
Overwriting Drives
Clear
Purge
Destroy
Chapter 51 SOHO Security
Changing Default Passwords
Wireless-Specific Security Settings
Changing and Disabling the SSID
Antennas and Radio Power Levels
Guest Networks
Disabling WPS
Enabling MAC Filtering and IP Filtering
Assigning Static IP Addresses
Firewall Settings and Additional Configurations
Content Filtering/Parental Controls
Disabling Physical Ports and More Physical Security
A Final Word on SOHO Routers
Chapter 52 Browser Security
Browser Download/Installation
Settings
Extensions and Plug-ins
Password Managers
Secure Connections
TLS
Secure Sites and Tracking
More Settings
CORE 2 (220-1102): DOMAIN 3.0: SOFTWARE TROUBLESHOOTING
Chapter 53 Troubleshooting Microsoft Windows
Windows Recovery
Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE)
Startup Settings
System Restore
Improper, Spontaneous, and Frequent Shutdowns
Stop Errors
Restoring Windows
Common Windows Symptoms and Solutions
Chapter 54 Troubleshooting PC Security Issues
The CompTIA A+ Seven-Step Malware Removal Procedure
Malware Removal Scenario
1. Investigate and Verify Malware Symptoms
2. Quarantine the Infected Systems
3. Disable System Restore in Windows
4. Remediate the Infected Systems
5. Schedule Scans and Run Updates
6. Enable System Restore and Create a Restore Point (in Windows)
7. Educate the End User
Symptoms of Viruses
Symptoms of Spyware
More Symptoms of PC Security Issues and Potential Solutions
Chapter 55 Troubleshooting Mobile Operating Systems and Applications
Wireless Troubleshooting
Wi-Fi Troubleshooting
Bluetooth Troubleshooting
NFC and AirDrop Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Email Connections
Troubleshooting and Stopping Applications
Initiating Resets
More Mobile Application and OS Troubleshooting
Updates: The Good and the Bad
Application Issues
Random Reboots
Poor Battery Life
Video Issues
Chapter 56 Troubleshooting Mobile Operating Systems Security Issues
Mobile Device Security Concerns and Symptoms
CORE 2 (220-1102): DOMAIN 4.0: OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES
Chapter 57 Documentation
Types of Documents
Network Topology Diagrams
Incident Report Documentation
Standard Operating Procedure
Compliance and Regulatory Policy
Acceptable Use Policy
User Checklists (Onboarding and Offboarding)
Knowledge Bases/Articles
Ticketing Systems
Asset Management
Chapter 58 Change Management and Backup Methods
Understanding Basic Change Management Best Practices
Implementing Workstation Backup and Recovery Methods
Using Windows File History and Recovery
Backup Methods
Backup Testing
Backup Rotation Schemes
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
Surge Protectors
Uninterruptible Power Supplies
Chapter 61 Incident Response, Communication, and Professionalism
Understanding the Importance of Prohibited Content/Activity and Privacy, Licensing, and Policy Concepts
Incident Response
Licensing/DRM/EULA
Regulated Data
Using Proper Communication Techniques and Professionalism
Communication Techniques and Professionalism
Chapter 62 Basic Scripting, Part I
Programming 101
Basic Data Types
Basic Script Constructs
Environment Variables
Comment Syntax
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
Remote Assistance
Remote Desktop Connection
Connecting with Remote Desktop
SSH
More Third-Party Tools
VPN
A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Practice Exam
Chapter 65 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
9780137637546 TOC 4/12/2022
