💻

Hardware & Networking Overview

Jul 22, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers essential hardware, networking, and troubleshooting concepts for mobile devices and computers, focusing on installation, configuration, maintenance, and core troubleshooting strategies aligned to the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) exam objectives.

Mobile Device Hardware and Power Management

  • Laptops use batteries and AC adapters; use model-specific adapters and check connections when troubleshooting power issues.
  • Battery lifespan is affected by charge cycles and temperature; replace when necessary.
  • To discharge motherboard residual voltage: remove power, battery, and hold power button for 30 seconds.

Input Devices and Memory

  • Laptop keyboards are compact and include function (FN) keys; clean or replace if keys are stuck.
  • Touchpad issues can be resolved by updating drivers or adjusting OS settings.
  • Upgrade RAM using compatible SODIMM modules, ensure correct orientation, and clean contacts if boot issues occur.

Storage and Connectivity

  • Laptops use HDDs, SSDs, or hybrid drives; upgrading to SSD improves performance.
  • Connect to networks via Ethernet (wired) or Wi-Fi adapters (wireless); cellular modules add mobile data.

Security and Display Components

  • Physical security via cable locks; biometrics and NFC provide additional options.
  • LCD (TN, IPS, VA) uses backlights; OLED offers better black levels and faster response.
  • Touch screens use digitizers, webcams, and microphones often built-in.

Accessories and Ports

  • USB-C, micro-USB, and Lightning are common connection types.
  • Mobile devices connect wirelessly via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, or via mobile hotspots.
  • Accessories include cases, screen protectors, SD cards, audio devices, wireless chargers, docks, and stylus pens.

Network Connectivity and Applications

  • Cellular standards (2G-5G) provide mobile internet; hotspots share data connections.
  • Bluetooth enables short-range device connectivity; newer versions offer better range and efficiency.
  • Location services and geofencing use GPS and cellular data for positioning.

Networking Protocols and Ports

  • TCP is reliable and connection-based; UDP is faster with no retransmission.
  • Common ports: HTTP 80, HTTPS 443, SMTP 25/465/587, FTP 21, DNS 53, DHCP 67/68, RDP 3389, SMB 445.
  • Secure protocol variants (e.g., HTTPS) encrypt data.

Networking Hardware

  • Switches connect devices within a LAN by MAC address; routers connect networks via IP addresses.
  • Wireless access points provide Wi-Fi; NICs enable network connections.
  • Firewalls, power over Ethernet, patch panels, and modems are essential components.

Wireless Networking

  • 2.4 GHz offers greater range; 5 GHz offers higher speeds with less interference.
  • 802.11n/ac/ax standards provide increasing speeds and capabilities.
  • Wi-Fi analyzers help optimize channel selection and reduce interference.

Network Services and Cloud

  • Servers provide file, mail, print, proxy, DHCP, and DNS functions.
  • Internet appliances (firewalls, UTM, load balancers) protect and manage traffic.
  • Cloud models: private, public, hybrid; services: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS.
  • Desktop virtualization (VDI) and client-side virtualization allow for secure, flexible computing.

Troubleshooting Best Practices

  • Follow a stepwise approach: identify, theorize, test, implement, verify, and document.
  • System logs, backup, checking cables/connections, updating firmware/drivers, and consulting manuals are key steps.
  • Troubleshoot hardware (motherboard, RAM, CPU, PSU), storage, displays, and network issues using symptoms and diagnostic tools.
  • Printer and mobile device issues often have standard fixes (cleaning, replacing parts, updating software).

Key Terms & Definitions

  • SODIMM — Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module, compact RAM for laptops.
  • Function (FN) Key — Special laptop key for additional controls.
  • DHCP — Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, assigns IP addresses automatically.
  • Firewall — Device/software that blocks unauthorized network access.
  • Patch Panel — Hardware organizing network cable connections.
  • TCP/UDP — Network protocols for data transmission (reliable vs. fast).
  • PoE — Power over Ethernet, supplies power/data via one cable.
  • VDI — Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, hosts desktop environments virtually.
  • IaaS/PaaS/SaaS — Cloud service models for infrastructure, platforms, and software delivery.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review lecture sections relevant to personal weak areas.
  • Consult device/manuals for specific installation or troubleshooting steps.
  • Complete recommended readings or practice exams for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101.

Full transcript