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Comprehensive Guide to CompTIA A+ Course

May 28, 2025

IT Training Course: CompTIA A+ Core 1 Complete Training Course

Introduction

  • Welcome to Certification Synergy's IT training course.
  • This course is 100% free and aims to prepare you for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification exam.
  • Suitable for entry-level problem solvers with IT basics.

Certification Overview

  • CompTIA A+ certification requires passing two exams: Core 1 and Core 2.
  • Core 1 focuses on hardware and networking essentials.
  • Core 2 covers operating systems, security, and operational procedures.

Course Structure

  • Designed for those who have completed CompTIA ITF+ certification or have foundational IT skills.
  • The course covers essential IT skills and knowledge for entry-level IT professionals.
  • Key topics include mobile devices, networking concepts, computing hardware, cloud computing, and virtualization.

Exam Details

  • Current version: 220-1001, launched in April 2022.
  • Consists of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions.
  • Passing score: 675 out of 900.

Scoring Breakdown

  • Below 500: Needs more studying.
  • 500-674: Need a bit more understanding.
  • 675-749: Passed with a decent understanding.
  • 750-799: Knew most content well.
  • 800+: Strong understanding; very proud achievement.

Exam Objectives

  • Exam objectives document outlines study parameters and topics.
  • Domains for the exam include: Mobile Devices, Networking, Hardware, Cloud Computing, and Troubleshooting.

Mobile Devices

  • Definition: Portable, battery-powered computing gadgets.
  • Components: Safety first, keyboards, RAM, storage (HDD and SSD), wireless cards, security features.
  • Display Components: LCD vs. OLED screens, webcams, microphones, touchscreens, and digitizers.

Networking Concepts

  • Protocols: HTTP, FTP, DNS, DHCP, SMTP, etc.
  • Hardware: Hubs, switches, routers, access points, SOHO routers, patch panels, PoE, firewalls, modems, NICs, SDN.
  • Wireless Networking: Frequencies, channels, Wi-Fi standards (802.11 series), Bluetooth, NFC, RFID.

Storage and RAM

  • Types of Storage: HDD, SSD, removable storage.
  • RAID: Understanding RAID levels (0, 1, 5, 10).
  • RAM: Types of RAM (DDR3, DDR4, DDR5), memory channels, identifying RAM specifications.

Motherboards and CPUs

  • Form Factors: ATX, ITX.
  • Socket Types: LGA vs. PGA.
  • Architecture: x86 vs. x64, multi-core, hyper-threading, virtualization support.
  • Cooling: Heat sinks, fans, liquid cooling.

Printers

  • Types: Inkjet, laser, thermal, impact printers.
  • Components and Maintenance: Toner, print heads, calibration.
  • Connectivity: Local and networked connections, printer sharing.

Troubleshooting

  • Methodology: Identify problem, establish theory, test, plan solution, verify functionality, document.
  • Common Issues: Power problems, display errors, connectivity issues, printer malfunctions.
  • Tools: Use of multimeters, cable testers, Wi-Fi analyzers.

Cloud Computing

  • Models: Public, Private, Hybrid, Community.
  • Services: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS.
  • Virtualization: Desktop virtualization, client-side virtualization, hypervisors.

Conclusion

  • Review the course as needed and take practice exams to ensure readiness for the certification exam.