CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives EXAM NUMBER: CORE 1 (220-1001) About the Exam

Candidates are encouraged to use this document to help prepare for CompTIA A+ Core 1. In order to receive the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams: Core 1 (220- 1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). CompTIA A+ Core 1 measures the necessary skills for an entry- level IT professional. Successful candidates will have the knowledge required to: • Assemble components based on customer requirements • Install, configure, and maintain PCs, mobile devices, and software for end users • Understand the basics of networking and security forensics • Properly and safely diagnose, resolve, and document common hardware and software issues • Apply troubleshooting skills • Provide appropriate customer support • Understand the basics of scripting, virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment These content examples are meant to clarify the test objectives and should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all the content of this examination.

EXAM ACCREDITATION CompTIA A+ is accredited by ANSI to show compliance with the ISO 17024 and, as such, undergoes regular reviews and updates to the exam objectives.

EXAM DEVELOPMENT CompTIA exams result from subject matter expert workshops and industry-wide survey results regarding the skills and knowledge required of an entry-level IT professional.

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PLEASE NOTE The lists of examples provided in bulleted format are not exhaustive lists. Other examples of technologies, processes, or tasks pertaining to each objective may also be included on the exam although not listed or covered in this objectives document. CompTIA is constantly reviewing the content of our exams and updating test questions to be sure our exams are current and the security of the questions is protected. When necessary, we will publish updated exams based on testing exam objectives. Please know that all related exam preparation materials will still be valid.

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) TEST DETAILS Required exam Core 1 Number of questions Maximum of 90 Types of questions Multiple choice and performance-based Length of test 90 minutes Recommended experience 12 months of experience as an IT support specialist Passing score 675 (on a scale of 100–900)

EXAM OBJECTIVES (DOMAINS) The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the to which they are represented:

DOMAIN PERCENTAGE OF EXAMINATION

1.0 Mobile Devices 14% 2.0 Networking 20% 3.0 Hardware 27% 4.0 Virtualization and Cloud Computing 12% 5.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting 27% Total 100%

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 1.0 Mobile Devices

1.1 Given a scenario, install and configure laptop hardware and components.

• Hardware/device replacement - Wireless card/Bluetooth module - Plastics/frames - Keyboard - Cellular card - Speaker - Hard drive - Video card - System board - SSD vs. hybrid vs. magnetic disk - Mini PCIe - CPU - 1.8in vs. 2.5in - Screen - Memory - DC jack - Smart card reader - Battery - Optical drive - Touchpad

1.2 Given a scenario, install components within the display of a laptop.

• Types • Webcam - LCD • Microphone - OLED • Inverter • WiFi antenna connector/placement • Digitizer/touchscreen

1.3 Given a scenario, use appropriate laptop features.

• Special function keys - Screen orientation - Dual displays - Media options (fast forward/rewind) - Wireless (on/off) - GPS (on/off) - Cellular (on/off) - Airplane mode - settings • Docking station - Screen brightness • Port replicator - Bluetooth (on/off) • Physical laptop lock and cable lock - Keyboard backlight • Rotating/removable screens - Touchpad (on/off)

1.4 Compare and contrast characteristics of various types of other mobile devices.

• Tablets • Wearable technology devices • E-readers • Smartphones - Smart watches • GPS - Fitness monitors - VR/AR headsets

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 1.0 Mobile Devices

1.5 Given a scenario, connect and configure accessories and ports of other mobile devices. • Connection types • Accessories - Wired - Headsets - Micro-USB/Mini-USB/USB-C - Speakers - Lightning - Game pads - Tethering - Extra battery packs/battery chargers - Proprietary vendor-specific - Protective covers/waterproofing ports (communication/power) - Credit card readers - Wireless - Memory/MicroSD - NFC - Bluetooth - IR - Hotspot

1.6 Given a scenario, configure basic mobile device network connectivity and application support.

• Wireless/cellular data network • Corporate and ISP email configuration • PRI updates/PRL updates/ (enable/disable) - POP3 baseband updates - Hotspot - IMAP • Radio firmware - Tethering - Port and SSL settings • IMEI vs. IMSI - Airplane mode - S/MIME • VPN • Bluetooth • Integrated commercial provider - Enable Bluetooth email configuration - Enable pairing - iCloud - Find a device for pairing - Google/Inbox - Enter the appropriate pin code - Exchange Online - Test connectivity - Yahoo

1.7 Given a scenario, use methods to perform mobile device synchronization.

• Synchronization methods - • Connection types to enable - Synchronize to the cloud - Bookmarks synchronization - Synchronize to the desktop - Documents - Synchronize to the automobile - Location data • Types of data to synchronize - Social media data - Contacts - E-books - Applications - Passwords - Email • Mutual authentication for - Pictures multiple services (SSO) - Music • Software requirements to install - Videos the application on the PC

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 2.0 Networking

2.1 Compare and contrast TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purposes.

• Ports and protocols - 110 – POP3 - 548 – AFP - 21 – FTP - 143 – IMAP - 67/68 – DHCP - 22 – SSH - 443 – HTTPS - 389 – LDAP - 23 – Telnet - 3389 – RDP - 161/162 – SNMP - 25 – SMTP - 137-139 – NetBIOS/NetBT • TCP vs. UDP - 53 – DNS - 445 – SMB/CIFS - 80 – HTTP - 427 – SLP

2.2 Compare and contrast common networking hardware devices.

• Routers • Firewall • panel • Switches • Network interface card • Power over Ethernet (PoE) - Managed • Repeater - Injectors - Unmanaged • Hub - Switch • Access points • Cable/DSL modem • Ethernet over Power • Cloud-based network controller • Bridge

2.3 Given a scenario, install and configure a basic wired/wireless SOHO network.

• Router/switch functionality - Light switches - NAT • Access point settings - Security cameras - UPnP • IP addressing - Door locks - Whitelist/blacklist • NIC configuration - Voice-enabled, smart - MAC filtering - Wired speaker/digital assistant • QoS - Wireless • Cable/DSL modem configuration • Wireless settings • End-user device configuration • Firewall settings - Encryption • IoT device configuration - DMZ - Channels - Thermostat - Port forwarding - QoS

2.4 Compare and contrast wireless networking protocols. • 802.11a • Channels • 4G • 802.11b - 1–11 • 5G • 802.11g • Bluetooth • LTE • 802.11n • NFC • 802.11ac • RFID • Frequencies • Zigbee - 2.4Ghz • Z-Wave - 5Ghz • 3G

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 2.0 Networking

2.5 Summarize the properties and purposes of services provided by networked hosts.

• roles - Proxy server • Internet appliance - Web server - server - UTM - File server - Authentication server - IDS - Print server - syslog - IPS - DHCP server - End-point management server - DNS server • Legacy/embedded systems

2.6 Explain common network configuration concepts.

• IP addressing • DNS • Gateway - Static • DHCP • VPN - Dynamic - Reservations • VLAN - APIPA • IPv4 vs. IPv6 • NAT - Link local • Subnet mask

2.7 Compare and contrast Internet connection types, network types, and their features.

• Internet connection types - ISDN • Network types - Cable - Cellular - LAN - DSL - Tethering - WAN - Dial-up - Mobile hotspot - PAN - Fiber - Line-of-sight wireless Internet service - MAN - Satellite - WMN

2.8 Given a scenario, use appropriate networking tools.

• Crimper • Cable tester • Cable stripper • Loopback plug • Multimeter • Punchdown tool • Tone generator and probe • WiFi analyzer

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 3.0 Hardware

3.1 Explain basic cable types, features, and their purposes.

• Network cables • Video cables - USB 2.0 - Ethernet - VGA - USB 3.0 - Cat 5 - HDMI • Peripheral cables - Cat 5e - Mini-HDMI - Serial - Cat 6 - DisplayPort • Hard drive cables - Plenum - DVI - SATA - Shielded twisted pair - DVI-DDVI-I - IDE - Unshielded twisted pair • Multipurpose cables - SCSI - 568A/B - Lightning • Adapters - Fiber - Thunderbolt - DVI to HDMI - Coaxial - USB - USB to Ethernet - Speed and transmission limitations - USB-C - DVI to VGA

3.2 Identify common connector types.

• RJ-11 • RG-6 • DB-9 • RJ-45 • USB • Lightning • RS-232 • Micro-USB • SCSI • BNC • Mini-USB • eSATA • RG-59 • USB-C • Molex

3.3 Given a scenario, install RAM types.

• RAM types • Single channel - SODIMM • Dual channel - DDR2 • Triple channel - DDR3 • Error correcting - DDR4 • Parity vs. non-parity

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 3.0 Hardware

3.4 Given a scenario, select, install and configure storage devices.

• Optical drives • Magnetic hard drives • Hybrid drives - CD-ROM/CD-RW - 5,400rpm • Flash - DVD-ROM/DVD-RW/DVD-RW DL - 7,200rpm - SD card - Blu-ray - 10,000rpm - CompactFlash - BD-R - 15,000rpm - Micro-SD card - BD-RE - Sizes: - Mini-SD card • Solid-state drives -2.5 - xD - M2 drives -3.5 • Configurations - NVME - RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 - SATA 2.5 - Hot swappable

3.5 Given a scenario, install and configure motherboards, CPUs, and add-on cards.

• Motherboard form factor - Security settings • Compatibility - ATX - Interface configurations - AMD - mATX - Security - Intel - ITX - Passwords • Cooling mechanism - mITX - Drive encryption - Fans • Motherboard connectors types - TPM - Heat sink - PCI - LoJack - Liquid - PCIe - Secure boot - Thermal paste - Riser card • CMOS battery • Expansion cards - Socket types • CPU features - Video cards - SATA - Single-core - Onboard - IDE - Multicore - Add-on card - Front panel connector - Virtual technology - Sound cards - Internal USB connector - Hyperthreading - Network interface card • BIOS/UEFI settings - Speeds - USB expansion card - Boot options - Overclocking - eSATA card - Firmware updates - Integrated GPU

3.6 Explain the purposes and uses of various peripheral types.

• Printer • Touchpad • External storage drives • ADF/flatbed scanner • Signature pad • KVM • Barcode scanner/QR scanner • Game controllers • Magnetic reader/chip reader • Monitors • Camera/webcam • NFC/tap pay device • VR headset • Microphone • Smart card reader • Optical • Speakers • DVD drive • Headset • Mouse • Projector • Keyboard - Lumens/brightness

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 3.0 Hardware

3.7 Summarize power supply types and features.

• Input 115V vs. 220V • Wattage rating • Output 5.5V vs. 12V • Number of devices/types of • 24-pin motherboard adapter devices to be powered

3.8 Given a scenario, select and configure appropriate components for a custom PC configuration to meet customer specifications or needs.

• Graphic/CAD/CAM design workstation • Gaming PC • Thin client - Multicore processor - Multicore processor - Basic applications - High-end video - High-end video/specialized GPU - Meets minimum requirements - Maximum RAM - High-definition sound card for selected OS • Audio/video editing workstation - High-end cooling - Network connectivity - Specialized audio and video card • Standard thick client • Network attached storage device - Large, fast hard drive - Desktop applications - Media streaming - Dual monitors - Meets recommended - File sharing • Virtualization workstation requirements for selected OS - Gigabit NIC - Maximum RAM and CPU cores - RAID array

3.9 Given a scenario, install and configure common devices.

• Desktop - Application installations/configurations - Thin client - Synchronization settings - Thick client - Account setup/settings - Account setup/settings - Wireless settings • Laptop/common mobile devices - Touchpad configuration - Touchscreen configuration

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 3.0 Hardware

3.10 Given a scenario, configure SOHO multifunction devices/printers and settings.

• Use appropriate drivers for a - Wireless given - Bluetooth - Configuration settings - 802.11(a, b, g, n, ac) - Duplex - Infrastructure vs. ad hoc - Collate - Integrated print server (hardware) - Orientation - Cloud printing/remote printing - Quality • Public/shared devices • Device sharing - Sharing local/networked device - Wired via operating system settings - USB - TCP/Bonjour/AirPrint - Serial - Data privacy - Ethernet - User authentication on the device - Hard drive caching

3.11 Given a scenario, install and maintain various print technologies.

• Laser • Inkjet • Impact - Imaging drum, fuser assembly, - Ink cartridge, print head, roller, feeder, - Print head, ribbon, tractor feed transfer belt, transfer roller, pickup duplexing assembly, carriage, and belt - Impact paper rollers, separate pads, - Calibrate - Maintenance: Replace ribbon, duplexing assembly - Maintenance: Clean heads, replace replace print head, replace paper - Imaging process: processing, cartridges, calibrate, clear jams • Virtual charging, exposing, developing, • Thermal - Print to file transferring, fusing, and cleaning - Feed assembly, heating element - Print to PDF - Maintenance: Replace toner, apply - Special thermal paper - Print to XPS maintenance kit, calibrate, clean - Maintenance: Replace paper, clean - Print to image heating element, remove debris • 3D printers - Plastic filament

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 4.0 Virtualization and Cloud Computing

4.1 Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts.

• Common cloud models • Measured service - IaaS • Metered - SaaS • Off-site email applications - PaaS • Cloud file storage services - Public vs. private vs. - Synchronization apps hybrid vs. community • Virtual application streaming/ • Shared resources cloud-based applications - Internal vs. external - Applications for cell phones/tablets • Rapid elasticity - Applications for laptops/desktops • On-demand • Virtual desktop • Resource pooling - Virtual NIC

4.2 Given a scenario, set up and configure client-side virtualization.

• Purpose of virtual machines • Resource requirements • Emulator requirements • Security requirements • Network requirements • Hypervisor

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 5.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

5.1 Given a scenario, use the best practice methodology to resolve problems.

• Always consider corporate - Review system and application logs 4. Establish a plan of action to resolve the policies, procedures, and impacts 2. Establish a theory of probable problem and implement the solution before implementing changes cause (question the obvious) 5. Verify full system functionality and, if - If necessary, conduct external or applicable, implement 1. Identify the problem internal research based on symptoms preventive measures - Question the user and identify 3. Test the theory to determine cause 6. Document findings, user changes to computer and - Once the theory is confirmed, determine actions, and outcomes perform backups before the next steps to resolve problem making changes - If theory is not confirmed re- - Inquire regarding environmental establish new theory or escalate or infrastructure changes

5.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPUs, and power.

• Common symptoms - Continuous reboots - Smoke - Unexpected shutdowns - No power - Burning smell - System lockups - Overheating - Proprietary crash screens - POST code beeps - Loud noise (BSOD/pin wheel) - Blank screen on bootup - Intermittent device failure - Distended capacitors - BIOS time and setting resets - Fans spin – no power to other devices - Log entries and error messages - Attempts to boot to incorrect device - Indicator lights

5.3 Given a scenario, troubleshoot hard drives and RAID arrays.

• Common symptoms - OS not found - Read/write failure - RAID not found - Slow performance - RAID stops working - Loud clicking noise - Proprietary crash screens - Failure to boot (BSOD/pin wheel) - Drive not recognized - S.M.A.R.T. errors

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) 5.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

5.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot video, projector, and display issues.

• Common symptoms - Artifacts - Distorted geometry - VGA mode - Incorrect color patterns - Burn-in - No image on screen - Dim image - Oversized images and icons - Overheat shutdown - Flickering image - Multiple failed jobs in logs - Dead pixels - Distorted image

5.5 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile device issues while adhering to the appropriate procedures.

• Common symptoms - Cannot display to external monitor • Disassembling processes - No display - Touchscreen non-responsive for proper reassembly - Dim display - Apps not loading - Document and label cable - Flickering display - Slow performance and screw locations - Sticking keys - Unable to decrypt email - Organize parts - Intermittent wireless - Extremely short battery life - Refer to manufacturer resources - Battery not charging - Overheating - Use appropriate hand tools - Ghost cursor/pointer drift - Frozen system - No power - No sound from speakers - Num lock indicator lights - GPS not functioning - No wireless connectivity - Swollen battery - No Bluetooth connectivity

5.6 Given a scenario, troubleshoot printers.

• Common symptoms - Paper jam - Printer will not print - Streaks - No connectivity - Color prints in wrong print color - Faded prints - Garbled characters on paper - Unable to install printer - Ghost images - Vertical lines on page - Error codes - Toner not fused to the paper - Backed-up print queue - Printing blank pages - Creased paper - Low memory errors - No image on printer display - Paper not feeding - Access denied

5.6 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common wired and wireless network problems.

• Common symptoms - No connectivity - Limited connectivity - APIPA/link local address - Unavailable resources - Intermittent connectivity - Internet - IP conflict - Local resources - Slow transfer speeds - Shares - Low RF signal - Printers - SSID not found - Email

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) CompTIA A+ Acronyms

The following is a list of acronyms that appear on the CompTIA A+ exams. Candidates are encouraged to review the complete list and attain a working knowledge of all listed acronyms as a part of a comprehensive exam preparation program.

ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT AC Alternating Current CGA Computer Graphics and Applications ACL Access Control List CIDR Classless Inter-Domain Routing ACPI Advanced Configuration Power Interface CIFS Common Internet ADF Automatic Document Feeder CMOS Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor ADSL Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line CNR Communications and Networking Riser AES Advanced Encryption Standard COMx Communication port (x=port number) AHCI Advanced Host Controller Interface CPU Central Processing Unit AP Access Point CRT Cathode-Ray Tube APIPA Automatic Private Internet Protocol Addressing DaaS Data as a Service APM Advanced Power Management DAC Discretionary Access Control ARP Address Resolution Protocol DB-25 Serial Communications D-Shell Connector, 25 pins ASR Automated System Recovery DB-9 Serial Communications D-Shell Connector, 9 pins ATA Advanced Technology Attachment DBaaS Database as a Service ATAPI Advanced Technology DC Direct Current Attachment Packet Interface DDoS Distributed Denial of Service ATM Asynchronous Transfer Mode DDR Double Data Rate ATX Advanced Technology Extended DDR RAM Double Data Rate Random Access Memory AUP Acceptable Use Policy DFS Distributed File System A/V Audio Video DHCP Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol BD-R Blu-ray Disc Recordable DIMM Dual Inline Memory Module BIOS Basic Input/Output System DIN Deutsche Industrie Norm BD-RE Blu-ray Disc Rewritable DLT BNC Bayonet-Neill-Concelman DLP Digital Light Processing or Data Loss Prevention BSOD Blue Screen of Death DMA Direct Memory Access BYOD Bring Your Own Device DMZ Demilitarized Zone CAD Computer-Aided Design DNS Domain Name Service or Domain Name Server CAPTCHA Completely Automated Public Turing test to DoS Denial of Service tell Computers and Humans Apart DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory CD DRM Digital Rights Management CD-ROM Compact Disc-Read-Only Memory DSL Digital Subscriber Line CD-RW Compact Disc-Rewritable DVD Digital Versatile Disc CDFS DVD-RAM Digital Versatile Disc-Random Access Memory CERT Computer Emergency Response Team DVD-ROM Digital Versatile Disc-Read Only Memory CFS Central File System, Common File System, or DVD-R Digital Versatile Disc-Recordable Command File System DVD-RW Digital Versatile Disc-Rewritable

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT DVI Digital Visual Interface HTTP Hypertext Transfer Protocol DVI-D Digital Visual Interface--Digital HTTPS Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure ECC Error Correcting Code I/O Input/Output ECP Extended Capabilities Port IaaS Infrastructure as a Service EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable ICMP Internet Control Message Protocol Read-Only Memory ICR Intelligent Character Recognition EFS IDE Integrated Drive Electronics EIDE Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics IDS Intrusion Detection System EMI Electromagnetic Interference IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers EMP Electromagnetic Pulse IIS Internet Information Services EPROM Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory IMAP Internet Mail Access Protocol EPP Enhanced Parallel Port IMEI International Mobile Equipment Identity ERD Emergency Repair Disk IMSI International Mobile Subscriber Identity eSATA External Serial Advanced Technology Attachment IP Internet Protocol ESD Electrostatic Discharge IPConfig Internet Protocol Configuration EULA End User License Agreement IPP Internet Printing Protocol EVGA Extended Video Graphics Adapter/Array IPS Intrusion Prevention System Second IPSec Internet Protocol Security exFAT Extended IR Infrared FAT File Allocation Table IrDA Infrared Data Association FAT12 12-bit File Allocation Table IRP Incident Response Plan FAT16 16-bit File Allocation Table IRQ Interrupt Request FAT32 32-bit File Allocation Table ISA Industry Standard Architecture FDD Drive ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network FPM Fast Page Mode ISO International Organization for Standardization FSB Front-Side Bus ISP Internet Service Provider FTP File Transfer Protocol JBOD Just a Bunch of Disks FQDN Fully Qualified Domain Name KB Knowledge Base GDDR Graphics Double Data Rate KVM Kernel-based Virtual Machine GDI Graphics Device Interface KVM Keyboard-Video-Mouse GUI Graphical User Interface LAN Local Area Network GUID Globally Unique Identifier LBA Logical Block Addressing GPS Global Positioning System LC Lucent Connector GPT GUID Partition Table LCD Liquid Crystal Display GPU Graphics Processing Unit LDAP Lightweight Directory Access Protocol GSM Global System for Mobile Communications LED Light Emitting Diode HAL Hardware Abstraction Layer LPD/LPR Line Printer Daemon/Line Printer Remote HAV Hardware Assisted Virtualization LPT Line Printer Terminal HCL Hardware Compatibility List LVD Low Voltage Differential HDCP High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection MAC Media Access Control/Mandatory Access Control HDD MAN Metropolitan Area Network HDMI High Definition Media Interface MAPI Messaging Application Programming Interface HIPS Host Intrusion Prevention System mATX Micro Advanced Technology Extended HPFS High Performance File System MAU Media Access Unit/Media Attachment Unit HTML Hypertext Markup Language MBR HTPC Home Theater PC MBSA Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT MDM Mobile Device Management PCIe Peripheral Component Interconnect Express MFA Multifactor Authentication PCIX Peripheral Component Interconnect Extended MFD Multifunction Device PCL Printer Control Language MFP Multifunction Product PCMCIA Personal Computer Memory MicroDIMM Micro Dual Inline Memory Module Card International Association MIDI Musical Instrument Digital Interface PE Preinstallation Environment MIME Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension PGA Pin Grid Array MIMO Multiple Input Multiple Output PGA2 Pin Grid Array 2 MMC Microsoft Management Console PGP Pretty Good Protection MP3 Moving Picture Experts Group Layer 3 Audio PII Personally Identifiable Information MP4 Moving Picture Experts Group Layer 4 PIN Personal Identification Number MPEG Moving Picture Experts Group PHI Personal Health Information MSConfig Microsoft Configuration PKI Public Key Infrastructure MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet PnP Plug and Play MT-RJ Mechanical Transfer Registered Jack PoE Power over Ethernet MUI Multilingual User Interface POP3 Post Office Protocol 3 NaaS Network as a Service PoS Point of Sale NAC Network Access Control POST Power-On Self-Test NAS Network-Attached Storage POTS Plain Old Telephone Service NAT Network Address Translation PPM Pages Per Minute NetBIOS Networked Basic Input/Output System PPP Point-to-Point Protocol NetBEUI Networked Basic Input/Output PPTP Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol System Extended User Interface PRI Primary Rate Interface NFC Near Field Communication PROM Programmable Read-Only Memory NFS PS/2 Personal System/2 connector NIC Network Interface Card PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network NiCd Nickel Cadmium PSU Power Supply Unit NiMH Nickel Metal Hydride PVA Patterned Vertical Alignment NLX New Low-profile Extended PVC Permanent Virtual Circuit NNTP Network News Transfer Protocol PXE Preboot Execution Environment NTFS New Technology File System QoS Quality of Service NTLDR New Technology Loader RADIUS Remote Authentication Dial-In User Server NTP Network Time Protocol RAID Redundant Array of NTSC National Transmission Standards Committee Independent (or Inexpensive) Disks NVMe Non-volatile Memory Express RAM Random Access Memory OCR Optical Character Recognition RAS Remote Access Service OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer RDP Remote Desktop Protocol OLED Organic Light Emitting Diode RF Radio Frequency OS Operating System RFI Radio Frequency Interference PaaS Platform as a Service RFID Radio Frequency Identification PAL Phase Alternating Line RGB Red Green Blue PAN Personal Area Network RIP Routing Information Protocol PAT Port Address Translation RIS Remote Installation Service PC Personal Computer RISC Reduced Instruction Set Computer PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect RJ-11 Registered Jack Function 11 PCI Payment Card Industry RJ-45 Registered Jack Function 45

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT RMA Returned Materials Authorization TKIP Temporal Key Integrity Protocol ROM Read-Only Memory TLS Transport Layer Security RPO Recovery Point Objective TN Twisted Nematic RTC Real-Time Clock TPM Trusted Platform Module RT Recovery Time Objective UAC Saas Software as a Service UDF User Defined Functions or Universal SAN Storage Area Network Disk Format or Universal Data Format SAS Serial Attached SCSI UDP User Datagram Protocol SATA Serial Advanced Technology Attachment UEFI Unified Extensible Firmware Interface SC Subscription Channel UNC Universal Naming Convention SCP Secure Copy Protection UPnP Universal Plug and Play SCSI Small Computer System Interface UPS Uninterruptible Power Supply SCSI ID Small Computer System Interface Identifier URL Uniform Resource Locator SD card Secure Digital Card USB Universal Serial Bus SEC Single Edge Connector USMT User State Migration Tool SFC UTM Unified Threat Management SFF Small Form Factor UTP Unshielded Twisted Pair SFTP Secure File Transfer Protocol UXGA Ultra Extended Graphics Array SIM Subscriber Identity Module VA Vertical Alignment SIMM Single In-Line Memory Module VDC Volts DC SLI Scalable Link Interface or System Level VDI Virtual Desktop Infrastructure Integration or Scanline Interleave Mode VESA Video Electronics Standards Association S.M.A.R.T. Self-Monitoring, Analysis, VFAT Virtual File Allocation Table and Reporting Technology VGA Video Graphics Array SMB VLAN Virtual LAN SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol VM Virtual Machine SNMP Simple Network Management Protocol VNC Virtual Network Computer SoDIMM Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol SOHO Small Office/Home Office VPN Virtual Private Network SP Service Pack VRAM Video Random Access Memory SPDIF Sony-Philips Digital Interface Format WAN Wide Area Network SPGA Staggered Pin Grid Array WAP Wireless Access Protocol/Wireless Access Point SRAM Static Random Access Memory WEP Wired Equivalent Privacy SSD Solid State Drive WIFI Wireless Fidelity SSH Secure Shell WINS Windows Internet Name Service SSID Service Set Identifier WLAN Wireless Local Area Network SSL Secure Sockets Layer WMN Wireless Mesh Network SSO Single Sign-on WPA Wireless Protected Access ST Straight Tip WPA2 WiFi Protected Access 2 STP Shielded Twisted Pair WPS WiFi Protected Setup SXGA Super Extended Graphics Array WUXGA Wide Ultra Extended Graphics Array TACACS Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System WWAN Wireless Wide Area Network TCP Transmission Control Protocol XGA Extended Graphics Array TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol ZIF Zero-Insertion-Force TDR Time Domain Reflectometer ZIP Zigzag Inline Package TFTP Trivial File Transfer Protocol

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 1) A+ Proposed Hardware and Software List

CompTIA has included this sample list of hardware and software to assist candidates as they prepare for the A+ exam. This list may also be helpful for training companies that wish to create a lab component for their training offering. The bulleted lists below each topic are sample lists and not exhaustive.

EQUIPMENT • CPUs SOFTWARE • Apple tablet/smartphone • Assorted connectors/cables • Operating systems • Android tablet/smartphone - USB - Linux • Windows tablet/Smartphone - HDMI - Chrome OS • Chromebook - Etc. - • Windows laptop/Mac laptop/Linux laptop • Adapters - Mac OS • Windows desktop/Mac desktop/Linux desktop • Network cables - Android • Windows Server w/ • Unterminated network cables/connectors - iOS and Print Management • AC adapters • PE Disk/Live CD • Monitors • Optical drives • • Projectors • Screws/stand-offs • Virtualization software • SOHO router/switch • Cases • Anti- • Access point • Maintenance kit • Driver software • VoIP phone • Mice/keyboards • Printer • KVM - Laser/inkjet • Console cable - Wireless - 3D printer TOOLS • Surge suppressor • Screw drivers • UPS • Multimeter • VR headset • Wire cutters • Smart devices (IoT devices) • Punchdown tool • Crimper SPARE PARTS/HARDWARE • Power supply tester • Motherboards • Cable stripper • RAM • Standard technician toolkit • Hard drives • ESD strap • Power supplies • Thermal paste • Video cards • Cable tester • Sounds cards • Cable toner • Network cards • WiFi analyzer • Wireless NICs • SATA to USB connectors • Fans/cooling devices/heat sink

© 2018 CompTIA Properties, LLC, used under license by CompTIA Certifications, LLC. All rights reserved. All certification programs and education related to such programs are operated exclusively by CompTIA Certifications, LLC. CompTIA is a registered trademark of CompTIA Properties, LLC in the U.S. and internationally. Other brands and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks or service marks of CompTIA Properties, LLC or of their respective owners. Reproduc- tion or dissemination prohibited without written consent of CompTIA Properties, LLC. Printed in the U.S. 04992A-Apr2018 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives EXAM NUMBER: CORE 2 (220-1002) About the Exam

Candidates are encouraged to use this document to help prepare for CompTIA A+ Core 2. In order to receive the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams: Core 1 (220- 1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). CompTIA A+ Core 2 measures the necessary skills for an entry- level IT professional. Successful candidates will have the knowledge required to: • Assemble components based on customer requirements • Install, configure, and maintain PCs, mobile devices, and software for end users • Understand the basics of networking and security forensics • Properly and safely diagnose, resolve, and document common hardware and software issues • Apply troubleshooting skills • Provide appropriate customer support • Understand the basics of scripting, virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment These content examples are meant to clarify the test objectives and should not be construed as a comprehensive listing of all the content of this examination.

EXAM ACCREDITATION CompTIA A+ is accredited by ANSI to show compliance with the ISO 17024 Standard and, as such, undergoes regular reviews and updates to the exam objectives.

EXAM DEVELOPMENT CompTIA exams result from subject matter expert workshops and industry-wide survey results regarding the skills and knowledge required of an entry-level IT professional.

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PLEASE NOTE The lists of examples provided in bulleted format are not exhaustive lists. Other examples of technologies, processes, or tasks pertaining to each objective may also be included on the exam although not listed or covered in this objectives document. CompTIA is constantly reviewing the content of our exams and updating test questions to be sure our exams are current and the security of the questions is protected. When necessary, we will publish updated exams based on testing exam objectives. Please know that all related exam preparation materials will still be valid.

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) TEST DETAILS Required exam Core 2 Number of questions Maximum of 90 Types of questions Multiple choice and performance-based Length of test 90 minutes Recommended experience 12 months of experience as an IT support specialist Passing score 700 (on a scale of 100–900)

EXAM OBJECTIVES (DOMAINS) The table below lists the domains measured by this examination and the extent to which they are represented:

DOMAIN PERCENTAGE OF EXAMINATION

1.0 Operating Systems 27% 2.0 Security 24% 3.0 Software Troubleshooting 26% 4.0 Operational Procedures 23% Total 100%

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 1.0 Operating Systems

1.1 Compare and contrast common operating system types and their purposes.

• 32-bit vs. 64-bit • Cell phone/tablet operating systems • Compatibility concerns - RAM limitations - Microsoft Windows between operating systems - Software compatibility - Android • Workstation operating systems - iOS - Microsoft Windows - Chrome OS - Apple Macintosh OS • Vendor-specific limitations - Linux - End-of-life - Update limitations

1.2 Compare and contrast features of Microsoft Windows versions.

• • Corporate vs. personal needs - Branchcache • - Domain access - EFS • Windows 8.1 - Bitlocker • Desktop styles/user interface • - Media center

1.3 Summarize general OS installation considerations and upgrade methods.

• Boot methods - Image deployment - , - USB - Recovery partition - HFS - CD-ROM - Refresh/restore - Swap partition - DVD • Partitioning - Quick format vs. full format - PXE - Dynamic • Load alternate third-party - Solid state/flash drives - Basic drivers when necessary - Netboot - Primary • Workgroup vs. Domain setup - External/hot-swappable drive - Extended • Time/date/region/language settings - Internal hard drive (partition) - Logical • Driver installation, software, • Type of installations - GPT and Windows updates - Unattended installation • File system types/formatting • Factory recovery partition - In-place upgrade - ExFAT • Properly formatted boot drive with - Clean install - FAT32 the correct partitions/format - Repair installation - NTFS • Prerequisites/hardware compatibility - Multiboot - CDFS • Application compatibility - Remote network installation - NFS • OS compatibility/upgrade path

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 1.0 Operating Systems

1.4 Given a scenario, use appropriate Microsoft command line tools.

• Navigation • shutdown • copy - dir • dism • xcopy - cd • sfc • robocopy - .. • chkdsk • net use • ipconfig • diskpart • net user • ping • taskkill • [command name] /? • tracert • gpupdate • Commands available with standard • netstat • gpresult privileges vs. administrative privileges • nslookup • format

1.5 Given a scenario, use Microsoft operating system features and tools.

• Administrative • MSConfig - Shrink partitions - Computer Management - General - Assigning/changing drive letters - - Boot - Adding drives - Local Users and Groups - Services - Adding arrays - Local Security Policy - Startup - Storage spaces - - Tools • System utilities - Services • - Regedit - System Configuration - Applications - Command - Task Scheduler - Processes - Services.msc - Component Services - Performance - MMC - Data Sources - Networking - MSTSC - Print Management - Users - Notepad - Windows Memory Diagnostics • Disk Management - Explorer - - Drive status - Msinfo32 - Advanced Security - Mounting - DxDiag - - Initializing - Disk Defragmenter - User Account Management - Extending partitions - - Splitting partitions -

1.6 Given a scenario, use Microsoft Windows utilities.

• Internet Options • Folder Options - Sleep/suspend - Connections - View hidden files - Standby - Security - Hide extensions • Credential Manager - General - General options • Programs and features - Privacy - View options • HomeGroup - Programs • System • Devices and Printers - Advanced - Performance (virtual memory) • Sound • Display/Display Settings - Remote settings • Troubleshooting - Resolution - System protection • Network and Sharing Center - Color depth • Windows Firewall • Device Manager - Refresh rate • Power Options • Bitlocker • User Accounts - Hibernate • Sync Center - Power plans

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 1.0 Operating Systems

1.7 Summarize application installation and configuration concepts.

• System requirements • Methods of installation and deployment • Security considerations - Drive space - Local (CD/USB) - Impact to device - RAM - Network-based - Impact to network • OS requirements • Local user permissions - Compatibility - Folder/file access for installation

1.8 Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows networking on a client/desktop.

• HomeGroup vs. Workgroup • Proxy settings - DNS • Domain setup • Remote Desktop Connection - Gateway • Network shares/administrative • Remote Assistance • Network card properties shares/mapping drives • Home vs. Work vs. Public network settings - Half duplex/full duplex/auto • Printer sharing vs. network • Firewall settings - Speed printer mapping - Exceptions - Wake-on-LAN • Establish networking connections - Configuration - QoS - VPN - Enabling/disabling Windows Firewall - BIOS (on-board NIC) - Dial-ups • Configuring an alternative - Wireless IP address in Windows - Wired - IP addressing - WWAN (Cellular) - Subnet mask

1.9 Given a scenario, use features and tools of the Mac OS and Linux client/desktop operating systems.

• Best practices • Features - pwd vs. passwd - Scheduled backups - Multiple desktops/Mission Control - mv - Scheduled disk maintenance - Key Chain - cp - System updates/App Store - Spot Light - rm - Patch management - iCloud - - Driver/firmware updates - Gestures - chown - Antivirus/Anti-malware updates - Finder - iwconfig/ifconfig • Tools - Remote Disc - ps - Backup/Time Machine - Dock - su/sudo - Restore/Snapshot - Boot Camp - apt-get - Image recovery • Basic Linux commands - vi - Disk maintenance utilities - ls - dd - Shell/Terminal - grep - kill - Screen sharing - cd - Force Quit - shutdown

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 2.0 Security

2.1 Summarize the importance of physical security measures.

• Mantrap • Biometric locks • Privacy screen • Badge reader • Hardware tokens • Key fobs • Smart card • Cable locks • Entry control roster • Security guard • Server locks • Door lock • USB locks

2.2 Explain logical security concepts.

• Active Directory • MDM policies • Directory permissions - Login script • Port security • VPN - Domain • MAC address filtering • DLP - /Updates • Certificates • Access control lists - Organizational Units • Antivirus/Anti-malware • Smart card - Home Folder • Firewalls • Email filtering - • User authentication/strong passwords • Trusted/untrusted software sources • Software tokens • Multifactor authentication • Principle of least privilege

2.3 Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods.

• Protocols and encryption • Authentication - WEP - Single-factor - WPA - Multifactor - WPA2 - RADIUS - TKIP - TACACS - AES

2.4 Given a scenario, detect, remove, and prevent malware using appropriate tools and methods.

• Malware - Botnet - - Ransomware - Worm - Backup/restore - Trojan - Spyware - End user education - Keylogger • Tools and methods - Software firewalls - Rootkit - Antivirus - SecureDNS - Virus - Anti-malware

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 2.0 Security

2.5 Compare and contrast social engineering, threats, and vulnerabilities.

• Social engineering • DDoS • Spoofing - Phishing • DoS • Non-compliant systems - Spear phishing • Zero-day • Zombie - Impersonation • Man-in-the-middle - Shoulder surfing • Brute force - Tailgating • Dictionary - Dumpster diving • Rainbow table

2.6 Compare and contrast the differences of basic Microsoft Windows OS security settings. • User and groups - Moving vs. copying folders and files • User authentication - Administrator - File attributes - Single sign-on - Power user • Shared files and folders • Run as administrator vs. standard user - Guest - Administrative shares vs. local shares • BitLocker - Standard user - Permission propagation • BitLocker To Go • NTFS vs. share permissions - Inheritance • EFS - Allow vs. deny • System files and folders

2.7 Given a scenario, implement security best practices to secure a workstation.

• Password best practices - Failed attempts lockout • Disable - Setting strong passwords - Timeout/screen lock • Data encryption - Password expiration - Change default admin • Patch/update management - Screensaver required password user account/password - BIOS/UEFI passwords - Basic Active Directory functions - Requiring passwords - Account creation • Account management - Account deletion - Restricting user permissions - Password reset/unlock account - Logon time restrictions - Disable account - Disabling guest account

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 2.0 Security

2.8 Given a scenario, implement methods for securing mobile devices.

• Screen locks • Remote backup applications • Authenticator applications - Fingerprint lock • Failed login attempts restrictions • Trusted sources vs. untrusted sources - Face lock • Antivirus/Anti-malware • Firewalls - Swipe lock • Patching/OS updates • Policies and procedures - Passcode lock • Biometric authentication - BYOD vs. corporate-owned • Remote wipes • Full device encryption - Profile security requirements • Locator applications • Multifactor authentication

2.9 Given a scenario, implement appropriate data destruction and disposal methods.

• Physical destruction • Recycling or repurposing best practices - Shredder - Low-level format vs. standard format - Drill/ - Overwrite - Electromagnetic (Degaussing) - Drive wipe - Incineration - Certificate of destruction

2.10 Given a scenario, configure security on SOHO wireless and wired networks.

• Wireless-specific • Firewall settings - Changing default SSID • Port forwarding/mapping - Setting encryption • Disabling ports - Disabling SSID broadcast • Content filtering/parental controls - Antenna and access point placement • Update firmware - Radio power levels • Physical security - WPS • Change default usernames and passwords • Enable MAC filtering • Assign static IP addresses

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 3.0 Software Troubleshooting

3.1 Given a scenario, troubleshoot Microsoft Windows OS problems.

• Common symptoms - Slow bootup - Roll back devices drivers - Slow performance - Slow profile load - Apply updates - Limited connectivity • Common solutions - Repair application - Failure to boot - Defragment the hard drive - Update boot order - No OS found - Reboot - Disable Windows services/applications - Application crashes - Kill tasks - Disable application startup - Blue screens - Restart services - Safe boot - Black screens - Update network settings - Rebuild Windows profiles - Printing issues - Reimage/reload OS - Services fail to start - Roll back updates

3.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve PC security issues.

• Common symptoms - Application crash - Hijacked email - Pop-ups - OS updates failures - Responses from - Browser redirection - Rogue antivirus users regarding email - Security alerts - Spam - Automated replies - Slow performance - Renamed system files from unknown sent email - Internet connectivity issues - Disappearing files - Access denied - PC/OS lockup - File permission changes - Invalid certificate (trusted root CA) - System/application log errors

3.3 Given a scenario, use best practice procedures for malware removal.

1. Identify and research malware symptoms. 5. Schedule scans and run updates. 2. Quarantine the infected systems. 6. Enable System Restore and create 3. Disable System Restore (in Windows). a restore point (in Windows). 4. Remediate the infected systems. 7. Educate the end user. a. Update the anti-malware software. b. Scan and use removal techniques (safe mode, pre-installation environment).

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 3.0 Software Troubleshooting

3.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application issues.

• Common symptoms - Touchscreen non-responsive - Frozen system - Dim display - Apps not loading - No sound from speakers - Intermittent wireless - Slow performance - Inaccurate touch screen response - No wireless connectivity - Unable to decrypt email - System lockout - No Bluetooth connectivity - Extremely short battery life - App log errors - Cannot broadcast to external monitor - Overheating

3.5 Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application security issues.

• Common symptoms - Unauthorized account access - Signal drop/weak signal - Unauthorized location tracking - Power drain - Unauthorized camera/ - Slow data speeds microphone activation - Unintended WiFi connection - High resource utilization - Unintended Bluetooth pairing - Leaked personal files/data - Data transmission over limit

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 4.0 Operational Procedures

4.1 Compare and contrast best practices associated with types of documentation.

• Network topology diagrams • Password policy • Knowledge base/articles • Inventory management • Incident documentation - Asset tags • Regulatory and compliance policy - Barcodes • Acceptable use policy

4.2 Given a scenario, implement basic change management best practices.

• Documented business processes • Change board • Purpose of the change - Approvals • Scope the change • Backout plan • Risk analysis • Document changes • Plan for change • End-user acceptance

4.3 Given a scenario, implement basic disaster prevention and recovery methods. • Backup and recovery • Surge protector - Image level • Cloud storage vs. local storage backups - File level • Account recovery options - Critical applications • Backup testing • UPS

4.4 Explain common safety procedures.

• Equipment grounding - Toner - Weight limitations • Proper component handling and storage - CRT - Electrical fire safety - Antistatic bags - Cell phones - Cable management - ESD straps - Tablets - Safety goggles - ESD mats • Personal safety - Air filter mask - Self-grounding - Disconnect power before repairing PC • Compliance with government regulations • Toxic waste handling - Remove jewelry - Batteries - Lifting techniques

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 4.0 Operational Procedures

4.5 Explain environmental impacts and appropriate controls.

• MSDS documentation for • Power surges, brownouts, and blackouts • Dust and debris handling and disposal - Battery backup - Compressed air • Temperature, humidity level - Surge suppressor - Vacuums awareness, and proper ventilation • Protection from airborne particles • Compliance to government regulations - Enclosures - Air filters/mask

4.6 Explain the processes for addressing prohibited content/ activity, and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts.

• Incident response • Licensing/DRM/EULA - First response - Open-source vs. commercial license - Identify - Personal license vs. enterprise licenses - Report through proper channels • Regulated data - Data/device preservation - PII - Use of documentation/ - PCI documentation changes - GDPR - Chain of custody - PHI - Tracking of evidence/ • Follow all policies and documenting process security best practices

4.7 Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism.

• Use proper language and avoid jargon, • Dealing with difficult • Set and meet expectations/timeline and acronyms, and slang, when applicable customers or situations communicate status with the customer • Maintain a positive attitude/ - Do not argue with customers - Offer different repair/ project confidence and/or be defensive replacement options, if applicable • Actively listen (taking notes) and - Avoid dismissing customer problems - Provide proper documentation avoid interrupting the customer - Avoid being judgmental on the services provided • Be culturally sensitive - Clarify customer statements (ask - Follow up with customer/user at - Use appropriate professional open-ended questions to narrow the a later date to verify satisfaction titles, when applicable scope of the problem, restate the issue, • Deal appropriately with customers’ • Be on time (if late, contact the customer) or question to verify understanding) confidential and private materials • Avoid distractions - Do not disclose experiences - Located on a computer, - Personal calls via social media outlets desktop, printer, etc. - Texting/social media sites - Talking to coworkers while interacting with customers - Personal interruptions

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) 4.0 Operational Procedures

4.8 Identify the basics of scripting.

• Script file types • Environment variables • Basic data types - .bat • Comment syntax - Integers - .ps1 • Basic script constructs - Strings - .vbs - Basic loops - .sh - Variables - .py - .js

4.9 Given a scenario, use remote access technologies.

• RDP • Telnet • SSH • Third-party tools - Screen share feature - File share • Security considerations of each access method

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) CompTIA A+ Acronyms

The following is a list of acronyms that appear on the CompTIA A+ exams. Candidates are encouraged to review the complete list and attain a working knowledge of all listed acronyms as a part of a comprehensive exam preparation program.

ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT AC Alternating Current CGA Computer Graphics and Applications ACL Access Control List CIDR Classless Inter-Domain Routing ACPI Advanced Configuration Power Interface CIFS Common Internet File System ADF Automatic Document Feeder CMOS Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor ADSL Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line CNR Communications and Networking Riser AES Advanced Encryption Standard COMx Communication port (x=port number) AHCI Advanced Host Controller Interface CPU Central Processing Unit AP Access Point CRT Cathode-Ray Tube APIPA Automatic Private Internet Protocol Addressing DaaS Data as a Service APM Advanced Power Management DAC Discretionary Access Control ARP Address Resolution Protocol DB-25 Serial Communications D-Shell Connector, 25 pins ASR Automated System Recovery DB-9 Serial Communications D-Shell Connector, 9 pins ATA Advanced Technology Attachment DBaas Database as a Service ATAPI Advanced Technology Attachment DC Direct Current Packet Interface DDoS Distributed Denial of Service ATM Asynchronous Transfer Mode DDR Double Data Rate ATX Advanced Technology Extended DDR RAM Double Data Rate Random Access Memory AUP Acceptable Use Policy DFS Distributed File System A/V Audio Video DHCP Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol BD-R Blu-ray Disc Recordable DIMM Dual Inline Memory Module BIOS Basic Input/Output System DIN Deutsche Industrie Norm BD-RE Blu-ray Disc Rewritable DLT Digital Linear Tape BNC Bayonet-Neill-Concelman DLP Digital Light Processing or Data Loss Prevention BSOD Blue Screen of Death DMA Direct Memory Access BYOD Bring Your Own Device DMZ Demilitarized Zone CAD Computer-Aided Design DNS Domain Name Service or Domain Name Server CAPTCHA Completely Automated Public Turing test DoS Denial of Service to tell Computers and Humans Apart DRAM Dynamic Random Access Memory CD Compact Disc DRM Digital Rights Management CD-ROM Compact Disc-Read-Only Memory DSL Digital Subscriber Line CD-RW Compact Disc-Rewritable DVD Digital Versatile Disc CDFS Compact Disc File System DVD-RAM Digital Versatile Disc-Random Access Memory CERT Computer Emergency Response Team DVD-ROM Digital Versatile Disc-Read Only Memory CFS Central File System, Common File System, DVD-R Digital Versatile Disc-Recordable or Command File System DVD-RW Digital Versatile Disc-Rewritable

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT DVI Digital Visual Interface HTTP Hypertext Transfer Protocol DVI-D Digital Visual Interface-Digital HTTPS Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure ECC Error Correcting Code I/O Input/Output ECP Extended Capabilities Port IaaS Infrastructure as a Service EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable ICMP Internet Control Message Protocol Read-Only Memory ICR Intelligent Character Recognition EFS Encrypting File System IDE Integrated Drive Electronics EIDE Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics IDS Intrusion Detection System EMI Electromagnetic Interference IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers EMP Electromagnetic Pulse IIS Internet Information Services EPROM Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory IMAP Internet Mail Access Protocol EPP Enhanced Parallel Port IMEI International Mobile Equipment Identity ERD Emergency Repair Disk IMSI International Mobile Subscriber Identity eSATA External Serial Advanced Technology Attachment IP Internet Protocol ESD Electrostatic Discharge IPConfig Internet Protocol Configuration EULA End User License Agreement IPP Internet Printing Protocol EVGA Extended Video Graphics Adapter/Array IPS Intrusion Prevention System Ext2 Second Extended File System IPSec Internet Protocol Security exFAT Extended File Allocation Table IR Infrared FAT File Allocation Table IrDA Infrared Data Association FAT12 12-bit File Allocation Table IRP Incident Response Plan FAT16 16-bit File Allocation Table IRQ Interrupt Request FAT32 32-bit File Allocation Table ISA Industry Standard Architecture FDD Floppy Disk Drive ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network FPM Fast Page Mode ISO International Organization for Standardization FSB Front-Side Bus ISP Internet Service Provider FTP File Transfer Protocol JBOD Just a Bunch of Disks FQDN Fully Qualified Domain Name KB Knowledge Base GDDR Graphics Double Data Rate KVM Kernel-based Virtual Machine GDI Graphics Device Interface KVM Keyboard-Video-Mouse GUI Graphical User Interface LAN Local Area Network GUID Globally Unique Identifier LBA Logical Block Addressing GPS Global Positioning System LC Lucent Connector GPT GUID Partition Table LCD Liquid Crystal Display GPU Graphics Processing Unit LDAP Lightweight Directory Access Protocol GSM Global System for Mobile Communications LED Light Emitting Diode HAL Hardware Abstraction Layer LPD/LPR Line Printer Daemon/Line Printer Remote HAV Hardware Assisted Virtualization LPT Line Printer Terminal HCL Hardware Compatibility List LVD Low Voltage Differential HDCP High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection MAC Media Access Control/Mandatory Access Control HDD Hard Disk Drive MAN Metropolitan Area Network HDMI High Definition Media Interface MAPI Messaging Application Programming Interface HIPS Host Intrusion Prevention System mATX Micro Advanced Technology Extended HPFS High Performance File System MAU Media Access Unit/Media Attachment Unit HTML Hypertext Markup Language MBR Master Boot Record HTPC Home Theater PC MBSA Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT MDM Mobile Device Management PCIe Peripheral Component Interconnect Express MFA Multifactor Authentication PCIX Peripheral Component Interconnect Extended MFD Multifunction Device PCL Printer Control Language MFP Multifunction Product PCMCIA Personal Computer Memory Card MicroDIMM Micro Dual Inline Memory Module International Association MIDI Musical Instrument Digital Interface PE Preinstallation Environment MIME Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension PGA Pin Grid Array MIMO Multiple Input Multiple Output PGA2 Pin Grid Array 2 MMC Microsoft Management Console PGP Pretty Good Protection MP3 Moving Picture Experts Group Layer 3 Audio PII Personally Identifiable Information MP4 Moving Picture Experts Group Layer 4 PIN Personal Identification Number MPEG Moving Picture Experts Group PHI Personal Health Information MSConfig Microsoft Configuration PKI Public Key Infrastructure MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet PnP Plug and Play MT-RJ Mechanical Transfer Registered Jack PoE Power over Ethernet MUI Multilingual User Interface POP3 Post Office Protocol 3 NaaS Network as a Service PoS Point of Sale NAC Network Access Control POST Power-On sSelf-tTest NAS Network-Attached Storage POTS Plain Old Telephone Service NAT Network Address Translation PPM Pages Per Minute NetBIOS Networked Basic Input/Output System PPP Point-to-Point Protocol NetBEUI Networked Basic Input/Output PPTP Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol System Extended User Interface PRI Primary Rate Interface NFC Near Field Communication PROM Programmable Read-Only Memory NFS Network File System PS/2 Personal System/2 connector NIC Network Interface Card PSTN Public Switched Telephone Network NiCd Nickel Cadmium PSU Power Supply Unit NiMH Nickel Metal Hydride PVA Patterned Vertical Alignment NLX New Low-profile Extended PVC Permanent Virtual Circuit NNTP Network News Transfer Protocol PXE Preboot Execution Environment NTFS New Technology File System QoS Quality of Service NTLDR New Technology Loader RADIUS Remote Authentication Dial-In User Server NTP Network Time Protocol RAID Redundant Array of Independent NTSC National Transmission Standards Committee (or inexpensive) Discs NVMe Non-volatile Memory Express RAM Random Access Memory OCR Optical Character Recognition RAS Remote Access Service OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer RDP Remote Desktop Protocol OLED Organic Light Emitting Diode RF Radio Frequency OS Operating System RFI Radio Frequency Interference PaaS Platform as a Service RFID Radio Frequency Identification PAL Phase Alternating Line RGB Red Green Blue PAN Personal Area Network RIP Routing Information Protocol PAT Port Address Translation RIS Remote Installation Service PC Personal Computer RISC Reduced Instruction Set Computer PCI Peripheral Component Interconnect RJ-11 Registered Jack Function 11 PCI Payment Card Industry RJ-45 Registered Jack Function 45

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) ACRONYM SPELLED OUT ACRONYM SPELLED OUT RMA Returned Materials Authorization TKIP Temporal Key Integrity Protocol ROM Read-Only Memory TLS Transport Layer Security RPO Recovery Point Objective TN Twisted Nematic RTC Real-Time Clock TPM Trusted Platform Module RTO Recovery Time Objective UAC User Account Control SaaS Software as a Service UDF User Defined Functions or SAN Storage Area Network or Universal Data Format SAS Serial Attached SCSI UDP User Datagram Protocol SATA Serial Advanced Technology Attachment UEFI Unified Extensible Firmware Interface SC Subscription Channel UNC Universal Naming Convention SCP Secure Copy Protection UPnP Universal Plug and Play SCSI Small Computer System Interface UPS Uninterruptible Power Supply SCSI ID Small Computer System Interface Identifier URL Uniform Resource Locator SD card Secure Digital Card USB Universal Serial Bus SEC Single Edge Connector USMT User State Migration Tool SFC System File Checker UTM Unified Threat Management SFF Small Form Factor UTP Unshielded Twisted Pair SFTP Secure File Transfer Protocol UXGA Ultra Extended Graphics Array SIM Subscriber Identity Module VA Vertical Alignment SIMM Single In-Line Memory Module VDC Volts DC SLI Scalable Link Interface or System Level VDI Virtual Desktop Infrastructure Integration or Scanline Interleave Mode VESA Video Electronics Standards Association S.M.A.R.T. Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and VFAT Virtual File Allocation Table Reporting Technology VGA Video Graphics Array SMB Server Message Block VLAN Virtual LAN SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol VM Virtual Machine SNMP Simple Network Management Protocol VNC Virtual Network Computer SoDIMM Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module VoIP Voice over Internet Protocol SOHO Small Office/Home Office VPN Virtual Private Network SP Service Pack VRAM Video Random Access Memory SPDIF Sony-Philips Digital Interface Format WAN Wide Area Network SPGA Staggered Pin Grid Array WAP Wireless Access Protocol/Wireless Access Point SRAM Static Random Access Memory WEP Wired Equivalent Privacy SSD Solid State Drive WIFI Wireless Fidelity SSH Secure Shell WINS Windows Internet Name Service SSID Service Set Identifier WLAN Wireless Local Area Network SSL Secure Sockets Layer WMN Wireless Mesh Network SSO Single Sign-on WPA Wireless Protected Access ST Straight Tip WPA2 WiFi Protected Access 2 STP Shielded Twisted Pair WPS WiFi Protected Setup SXGA Super Extended Graphics Array WUXGA Wide Ultra Extended Graphics Array TACACS Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System WWAN Wireless Wide Area Network TCP Transmission Control Protocol XGA Extended Graphics Array TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol ZIF Zero-Insertion-Force TDR Time Domain Reflectometer ZIP Zigzag Inline Package TFTP Trivial File Transfer Protocol

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: Core 2) A+ Proposed Hardware and Software List

CompTIA has included this sample list of hardware and software to assist candidates as they prepare for the A+ exam. This list may also be helpful for training companies that wish to create a lab component for their training offering. The bulleted lists below each topic are sample lists and not exhaustive.

EQUIPMENT • CPUs SOFTWARE • Apple tablet/smartphone • Assorted connectors/cables • Operating systems • Android tablet/smartphone - USB - Linux • Windows tablet/Smartphone - HDMI - Chrome OS • Chromebook - Etc. - Microsoft Windows • Windows laptop/Mac laptop/Linux laptop • Adapters - Mac OS • Windows desktop/Mac desktop/Linux desktop • Network cables - Android • Windows Server w/Active Directory • Unterminated network cables/connectors - iOS and Print Management • AC adapters • PE Disk/Live CD • Monitors • Optical drives • Antivirus software • Projectors • Screws/stand-offs • Virtualization software • SOHO router/switch • Cases • Anti-malware • Access point • Maintenance kit • Driver software • VoIP phone • Mice/keyboards • Printer • KVM - Laser/inkjet • Console cable - Wireless - 3D printer TOOLS • Surge suppressor • Screw drivers • UPS • Multimeter • VR headset • Wire cutters • Smart devices (IoT devices) • Punchdown tool • Crimper SPARE PARTS/HARDWARE • Power supply tester • Motherboards • Cable stripper • RAM • Standard technician toolkit • Hard drives • ESD strap • Power supplies • Thermal paste • Video cards • Cable tester • Sounds cards • Cable toner • Network cards • WiFi analyzer • Wireless NICs • SATA to USB connectors • Fans/cooling devices/heat sink

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