CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002) Cert Guide

CompTIAⓇ A+ Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002) Cert Guide Fifth Edition

  • Author: Rick McDonald
  • Publisher: Pearson Education
  • Copyright: © 2020 Pearson Education, Inc.
  • ISBN-13: 978-0-7897-6051-7
  • ISBN-10: 0-7897-6051-7

Preface

  • Purpose of the Book: It aims to prepare readers to pass the CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 exams by providing detailed coverage of both practical and theoretical knowledge needed for an IT career.

Structure of the Book

Part 1: Core 1
  1. Mobile Devices
  2. Networking
  3. Hardware
  4. Virtualization and Cloud Computing
  5. Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
Part 2: Core 2
  1. Operating Systems
  2. Security
  3. Software Troubleshooting
  4. Operational Procedures
Part 3: Final Preparation
  1. Final Preparation
Appendices
  • Appendix A: Answers to “Do I Know This Already?” Quizzes
  • Appendix B: Exam Updates
Index

Chapter 1: Mobile Devices

  • Key Topics:
    • Install and Configure Laptop Hardware and Components
    • Characteristics of Other Mobile Devices
    • Connection Types
    • Basic Mobile Device Network Connectivity
    • Synchronization Methods

Key Components

  • Laptop Hardware:
    • DC Jack
    • Battery
    • Touchpad
    • CPU
    • Cooling Fan

Characterization of Mobile Devices

  • Smartphones: Portable devices combining mobile computing and communication functionalities.
  • Tablets: Larger than smartphones, optimized for media consumption and productivity tasks.
  • Wearable Technology: Devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers that offer specialized functions.

Connection Types

  • Wired:

    • Micro-USB/Mini-USB (Android)
    • Lightning (Apple)

  • Wireless:

    • NFC (Near Field Communication)
    • Bluetooth

Chapter 2: Networking

  • Key Topics:
    • TCP and UDP Ports, Protocols, and Their Purposes
    • Networking Hardware Devices
    • Install and Configure a Basic Wired/Wireless Network

Protocol Overview

  • TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): Connection-oriented protocol ensuring data delivery.
  • UDP (User Datagram Protocol): Connectionless protocol allowing faster transmission without guarantee of delivery.

Networking Hardware

  • Router: Directs data packets between networks.
  • Switch: Connects devices within the same network.
  • Access Point: Extends a wired network using a wireless signal.

Chapter 3: Hardware

  • Key Topics:
    • Basic Cable Types
    • Installing RAM Types
    • Storage Device Configurations

Important Cable Types

  • USB: Universal connection for various devices.
  • HDMI: High-definition multimedia interface for video/audio.
  • Ethernet Cable: Used for network connections, capable of supporting various speeds and configurations (CAT5, CAT6, etc.).

Chapter 4: Virtualization and Cloud Computing

  • Key Topics:
    • Common Cloud Models (IaaS, SaaS, PaaS)
    • Internal vs. External Cloud
    • Security Implications in Virtualization

Key Cloud Models

  • IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet.
  • SaaS (Software as a Service): Delivers software applications over the internet.
  • PaaS (Platform as a Service): Provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications.

Chapter 5: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

  • Key Topics:
    • Troubleshooting Methodology
    • Troubleshooting Power Supply and Overheating

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Identify the Problem
  2. Establish a Theory of Probable Cause
  3. Test the Theory
  4. Establish a Plan of Action
  5. Verify Functionality
  6. Document Findings

Chapter 6: Operating Systems

  • Key Topics:
    • Common Operating Systems Investigation
    • Command Line Utilities

OS Types

  • Windows: Various versions and their features.
  • Macintosh: OS X and its interface features.
  • Linux: Open-source operating systems and their capabilities.

Chapter 7: Security

  • Key Topics:
    • Physical Security Measures
    • Malware Exposure and Defense Mechanisms
    • User Authentication

Security Concepts

  • Firewalls: Protects networks by filtering incoming and outgoing traffic.
  • Antivirus Programs: Protect systems against malicious software by continually analyzing system behavior.

Malware Types

  • Spyware: Collects user information without consent.
  • Ransomware: Encrypts files and requests payment for decryption.

Chapter 8: Software Troubleshooting

  • Key Topics:
    • Diagnosing Software Problems on Windows
    • Implementing Best Practices for Malware Removal

Common Software Issues

  • Application Crashes
  • Corrupt Files

Chapter 9: Operational Procedures

  • Key Topics:
    • Change Management
    • Documentation Requirements

Procedures for IT Professionals

  • Change Management: Plans and processes that manage the transition or transformation of an organization's goals.

Chapter 10: Final Preparation

  • Exam Overview: Key topics likely on the exam, recommended last-minute study tips, and practice exams.

Appendices

  • Appendix A: Answers to Quizzes and Review Questions.
  • Appendix B: Updates for Exam Preparation Material.

Index

  • Access: User access management.
  • Circuit: Components and their relevance to IT.
  • End-User Training: Education practices for users to promote security awareness.

Notes and Key Terms

  • Physical Security: Protection of physical IT assets.
  • Malware: Malicious software subset.
  • Encryption: Security measure for data protection.