CompTIA A+ Core 1 Study Guide

Introduction

• Objective: Simplify essential CompTIA A+ Core 1 objectives and identify top five pitfalls for candidates.
• Coverage: All 28 objectives broken into digestible segments.

Mobile Device Hardware Installation and Configuration

Power Management

• Laptops use batteries and AC adapters.
• Troubleshoot by checking connections, using the correct adapter.
• Consider battery replacement for lifespan or residual voltage issues.

Keyboards and Touchpads

• Laptop keyboards often have FN keys.
• Clean or replace stuck keys, follow ESD prevention.
• Update drivers if experiencing cursor drift.

Memory Upgrade

• Use compatible SO-DIMM DDR3 or DDR4 modules.
• Ensure proper orientation and seating.

Storage Solutions

• SSDs, HDDs, and hybrid drives improve performance.
• Use anti-static measures when replacing drives.

Communication Connections

• Laptops connect via Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi adapters.
• Manage wireless using dedicated buttons or FN key combinations.

Physical Security

• Use cable locks, biometric readers, and disable NFC when not in use.

Display Components

LCD vs OLED

• LCD: Uses backlight, types include TN, IPS, VA.
• OLED: Superior black levels, thinner, lighter, faster response times.

Backlight and Inverter

• Backlight source for LCD, inverter powers it in older models.

Touch Screens and Digitizers

• Touch screens respond to fingers, digitizers convert touch to digital signals.

Webcams and Microphones

• Built-in above display, can be disabled for security.

Wi-Fi Antennas

• Internal M2 cards or external USB adapters.

Accessories and Ports

Wired Connections

• USB-C, micro USB, lightning connectors.

Wireless Connections

• Bluetooth, mobile hotspot, NFC for short-range communication.

Productivity Accessories

• Cases, screen protectors, Micro SD cards for storage.
• Wireless charging, stylus pens, docking stations.

Networks, Apps, and Connectivity

Wireless Data

• 2G to 5G for mobile internet.

Network Types

• GSM vs CDMA, PRL updates.

Bluetooth

• Pair devices, check connection, troubleshoot failures.

Location Services

• GPS, cellular location accuracy and privacy.

Mobile Applications

• Corporate email setup, 2FA, data synchronization.

MDM and MAM

• Manage and secure devices and applications.

Network Traffic and Protocols

TCP vs UDP

• TCP: Reliable, error-checked, for critical tasks.
• UDP: Faster, no resends, for streaming media.

Common Ports

• HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP, POP3, IMAP, FTP, SSH, Telnet, DHCP, DNS, RDP, SMB.

Networking Hardware

Switches and Routers

• Switches direct traffic, routers connect networks.

Access Points and NICs

• Wireless Access Points create Wi-Fi networks.

Firewalls and PoE

• Firewalls protect from unauthorized access.

Legacy Tools

• Hubs, patch panels, modems.

Wireless Networking

Frequency and Channels

• 2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz frequencies.

Wireless Standards

• 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax.

Wi-Fi Analyzer

• Tool for identifying networks and channels.

Networked Host Services

Server Roles

• File, web, print, mail, proxy, DHCP, DNS, syslog, AAA servers.

Internet Appliances

• Firewalls, UTM, spam gateways, load balancers.

Embedded Systems and IoT

• Specialized devices and IoT security.

SOHO Network Configuration

IP Addressing

• IPv4 vs IPv6, static vs dynamic addressing.

Network Configuration

• DNS, DHCP, VLANs, VPNs.

Internet Connection Options

Network Types

• LAN, WAN, MAN, SAN, WLAN, PAN.

Internet Connections

• Cable, DSL, Fiber, Satellite, WISP.

Networking Tools

Cabling Tools

• Cable stripper, punch down tool, cable testers, RJ45 crimper.

Network Tap

• Monitors network traffic.

Wi-Fi Analyzers

• Visualize wireless networks, detect signal strength.

Hardware

Cables and Connectors

• Network, peripheral, video, storage cables and connectors.

RAM Installation

• Types, installation guide, memory channels, virtual RAM.

Storage Devices

• HDD, SSD, RAID configurations, removable storage, optical drives.

Motherboards and CPUs

• Form factors, socket compatibility, BIOS/UEFI settings.

Expansion Cards

• Video, sound, NIC, USB, capture cards.

Power Supplies

• Power conversion, redundancy, connectors, installation.

Multi-Function Devices

• Deployment, configuration, security, maintenance.

Printer Maintenance

• Consumables for laser, inkjet, thermal, impact, and 3D printers.

Cloud Computing and Virtualization

Cloud Models

• Private, public, hybrid, community.

Cloud Services

• IaaS, PaaS, SaaS.

Desktop Virtualization

• VDI on-premises vs in-cloud.

Client-Side Virtualization

• Benefits, resource considerations, security.

Troubleshooting Hardware and Network

General Troubleshooting Process

• Identify, establish theory, test, implement, verify, document.

Specific Component Issues

• Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, power supplies.

Storage Troubleshooting

• Storage drives, RAID arrays.

Display Troubleshooting

• Video, projectors, monitors, and video cards.

Mobile Device Troubleshooting

• Battery, screens, connectivity, overheating.

Printer Troubleshooting

• Paper jams, quality, connectivity, print queue management.

Network Troubleshooting

• Wired and wireless issues, IP conflicts, latency, interference.

Conclusion

• Review weaker areas, use the guide as a reference before exams. Best of luck!