This comprehensive guide covers the four major domains of the Core 2 (220-1102) CompTIA A+ certification exam. Perfect for aspiring help desk technicians, field service techs, and IT support professionals.
🖥️ 1.0 Operating Systems
31%
Windows editions: Home,
Pro, Enterprise, features like BitLocker, RDP, domain joining.
CLI tools: ipconfig,
chkdsk, net user, sfc, etc.
Control Panel & Settings:
Configure Firewall, Power Options, Device Manager.
OS management: Use Task
Manager, Event Viewer, MMC snap-ins, msconfig.
Networking: VPN setup,
proxy, static/dynamic IPs, private vs. public networks.
Application installation:
Requirements, distribution methods, OS compatibility.
OS types: Windows, Linux,
macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome OS.
Install methods: Clean,
recovery, dual boot, image deployment.
macOS tools: Keychain, Disk
Utility, Terminal, System Preferences.
Linux tools: sudo, apt-get,
grep, nano, chown, etc.
🔒 2.0 Security
25%
Physical security: Locks,
biometrics, motion sensors, video surveillance.
SANS Institute ↗
Logical security: MFA,
ACLs, AD groups, principle of least privilege.
NIST Framework ↗
Wireless security: WPA3,
WPA2, RADIUS, TACACS+.
Wi-Fi Alliance ↗
Malware tools: Remove
trojans, ransomware, keyloggers, rootkits.
Kaspersky Resources ↗
Social engineering:
Phishing, whaling, tailgating, impersonation.
CISA Guide ↗
Threat mitigation: DDoS,
spoofing, SQLi, XSS, zero-day vulnerabilities.
OWASP ↗
Windows security:
BitLocker, UAC, group policies, file permissions.
Microsoft Docs ↗
Device hardening: Screen
locks, MDM, failed login lockouts, encryption.
CIS Security ↗
🔧 3.0 Software Troubleshooting
22%
Windows issues: BSOD,
slow boot, failed services, profile errors.
Security symptoms:
Popups, antivirus alerts, file changes, browser redirects.
Malware removal: Safe
mode scan, restore, reimage, user education.
Mobile OS problems:
Crashing apps, connectivity issues, screen not rotating.
Mobile security: APK
concerns, fake apps, performance slowdown, data leaks.
⚙️ 4.0 Operational Procedures
22%
Documentation: Tickets,
asset tags, AUPs, network diagrams, SOPs.
Change management:
Approvals, rollback plans, scope and risk.
Backup: Full, incremental,
differential; rotation strategies; 3-2-1 rule.
Safety: ESD protection,
lifting, fire safety, power safety.
OSHA ↗
Environmental: Ventilation,
proper disposal of e-waste, surge protection.
EPA Guide ↗
Policy & law: Chain of
custody, DRM, EULA, PII regulations.
GDPR Info ↗
Communication: Listen, avoid
jargon, professionalism, follow-up.
MindTools ↗
Scripting: .bat, .ps1, .sh
for automation and task execution.
Codecademy ↗
Remote access: VPN, SSH,
MSRA, VNC, third-party remote tools.
Cisco VPN ↗
💡 Study Tips & Success Strategy
📚
Practice Hands-On
Set up virtual machines and practice the commands and procedures
🎯
Focus on Weak Areas
Spend extra time on domains where you score lower in practice tests
⏰
Time Management
Practice with timed mock exams to improve your pace