220-1201-1202-SCH.AB1 ISBN: 978-1-64459-790-3
Complete A+ Guide to IT Hardware and Software (1201/1202)
Master IT hardware, software, and networking essentials with this complete CompTIA A+ guide for certification.
What you will be able to do
- Hardware Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve complex issues across motherboards, processors, memory, and storage devices, understanding common failure modes and their practical limitations.
- Network Configuration & Security: Implement and secure SOHO networks, configure DNS/DHCP, troubleshoot IP addressing, and defend against threats like IP spoofing using command-line tools and firewall concepts.
- Operating System Management: Master installation, configuration, and advanced management of Windows, macOS, and Linux, including scripting for automation and creating system restore points.
- Mobile Device & Peripheral Support: Effectively manage, troubleshoot, and secure mobile devices, printers, and multimedia peripherals, understanding their connectivity options and common operational constraints.
Beginner Self-paced · 1 year access
150 Hands-On LiveLabs
Practice real IT tasks in guided environments.
- Real environments
- Auto-graded
- No installation
01 / About
About This Course
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No credit card required
This complete A+ guide to IT provides a brutally honest, deep dive into hardware, software, and networking. You'll tackle real-world scenarios, from troubleshooting IP addressing to simulating DOS attacks, understanding common failure points in system design, and implementing SOHO networks. We cover everything from processor basics and memory installation to configuring DNS servers and defending against IP spoofing. While comprehensive, remember that mastering IT requires continuous learning beyond any single course; the technology landscape constantly evolves. This course equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills, including 150 virtual labs, to become certified in CompTIA A+ and confidently navigate complex IT environments.
Key Competencies Covered
Computer Hardware
Operating Systems
File Management
Peripheral Devices
Printing Solutions
Mobile Technologies
Networking Essentials
Security Measures
Prepares for Certification
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02 / Lessons & labs
See exactly what you will learn and practice
Lessons
21 Interactive Lessons · 383 topics01 Introduction to the World of IT 12 topics +
- Who Needs This Course?
- Technician Qualities
- Breaking into IT with the CompTIA A+ Certification
- Basic Skills for This Course
- Types of Computers
- Basic Computer Hardware
- Mice and Keyboards
- Common Peripherals
- 1s and 0s
- Safety Notes
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
02 Connectivity 15 topics · 2 LiveLab +
- Introduction to Connectivity
- External Connectivity
- Mouse and Keyboard Ports
- Video Ports
- Audio Ports
- eSATA Ports
- Modem and Serial Ports
- Network Ports
- Network Cabling
- Integrated Motherboard Ports
- Getting to Know Ports
- Wireless Connectivity for Input Devices
- Soft Skills: Using Appropriate Titles
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
2 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
03 On the Motherboard 28 topics · 2 LiveLab +
- Introduction to the Motherboard
- Processor Overview
- Processor Basics
- Speeding Up Processor Operations Overview
- Cache
- Connecting to the Processor
- Multicore Processors
- Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
- Introduction to Virtualization
- Intel Processors
- AMD Processors
- CPU Sockets
- Processor Cooling
- Installing a Processor
- Upgrading Processors
- Overclocking Processors
- Installing CPU Thermal Solutions
- Troubleshooting Processor Issues
- Expansion Slots
- PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect)
- PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express)
- Motherboard Security Options
- Types of Motherboards
- Upgrading and Replacing Motherboards
- Motherboard Troubleshooting
- Soft Skills: Active Listening
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
2 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
04 Introduction to Configuration 15 topics · 1 LiveLab +
- Configuration Overview
- BIOS Overview
- UEFI
- BIOS/UEFI Configuration Settings
- CMOS Memory
- Flashing/Clearing the BIOS/UEFI
- Other Configuration Parameters
- Hardware Configuration Overview
- Installing a USB Device
- Installing an eSATA Card
- Installing a Network Interface Card
- Troubleshooting Configurations
- Soft Skills: A Good Technician Practice: Change Only One Thing At A Time And Document
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
1 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
05 Disassembly and Power 15 topics · 2 LiveLab +
- Disassembly Overview
- Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
- Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
- Tools
- Disassembly
- Reassembly
- Preventive Maintenance
- Basic Electronics Overview
- Power Supply Overview
- Replacing or Upgrading a Power Supply
- Power Protection
- Symptoms of Power Supply Problems
- Soft Skills: Written Communications Skills
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
2 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
06 Memory 12 topics · 6 LiveLab +
- Memory Overview
- Memory Physical Packaging
- Planning a Memory Installation
- Installing Memory Overview
- Virtual RAM
- Monitoring Memory Usage in Windows
- Older Applications in Windows
- Troubleshooting Memory Problems
- Removable Storage
- Soft Skills: Teamwork
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
6 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
07 Storage Devices 21 topics · 9 LiveLab +
- Storage Devices Overview
- Hard Drive Overview
- Solid-State Drive (SSD) Overview
- Mechanical Drive Interfaces Overview
- SATA and SAS Connectivity
- Storage Device Configuration Overview
- System BIOS/UEFI Configuration for Storage Devices
- Hard Drive Preparation Overview
- Windows Disk Management
- Fault Tolerance
- Windows Storage Spaces
- Disk Caching/Virtual Memory
- Troubleshooting Storage Devices Overview
- Data Loss and Corruption
- Troubleshooting New Storage Device Installation
- Troubleshooting Previously Installed Storage Devices
- RAID Issues
- SSD Issues
- Soft Skills: Phone Skills
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
9 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
08 Video and Multimedia Devices 15 topics · 3 LiveLab +
- Multimedia Devices Overview
- Video Overview
- Projectors
- Introduction to Audio
- Sound Cards Using Windows
- Speakers
- Troubleshooting Sound Problems
- Optical Drive Overview
- Optical Drive Installation
- Troubleshooting Optical Drive Issues
- Scanners
- Other Multimedia Devices
- Soft Skills: Attitude
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
3 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
09 Printers and Multifunction Devices 21 topics · 3 LiveLab +
- Printer/Multifunction Device Overview
- Categories of Printers
- Impact Printers
- Inkjet Printers
- Laser Printers
- Thermal Printers
- Paper
- Virtual Printing
- Refilling Cartridges, Re-inking Ribbons, and Recycling Cartridges
- Upgrading Printers
- Printer Maintenance
- Printer Installation Overview
- Installing Multifunction Devices
- USB Printer Installation
- Printers in the Windows Environment
- Printer Sharing
- Cloud Printing/Scanning
- General Printer Troubleshooting
- Soft Skills: Work Ethics
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
3 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
10 Mobile Devices 18 topics · 15 LiveLab +
- Mobile Device Overview
- Using Mobile Devices
- Cell Phones
- Mobile Apps
- Mobile Device Wired Connectivity
- Mobile Device Wireless Connectivity
- Mobile Device Email Configuration
- Mobile Device Synchronization and Backup
- Other Mobile Software Tools
- Laptops Overview
- Laptop Hardware
- Laptop Power
- Laptop Repairs Overview
- Mobile Device Security
- Mobile Device Troubleshooting Overview
- Soft Skills: A Word about Appearance
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
15 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
11 Computer Design and Troubleshooting Review 18 topics · 1 LiveLab +
- Design Overview
- Computer System Design
- Motherboard and Associated Component Design
- Power Supply and Case Design
- Storage Subsystem Design
- Audio Subsystem Design
- Display Subsystem Design
- Troubleshooting Overview
- Step 1. Identify the Problem
- Step 2. Establish a Theory of Probable Cause (Question the Obvious)
- Step 3. Test the Theory to Determine the Cause
- Step 4. Establish a Plan of Action to Resolve the Problem and Implement the Solution
- Step 5. Verify Full System Functionality and, If Applicable, Implement Preventive Measures
- Step 6. Document the Findings, Actions, and Outcomes
- Sample Troubleshooting Flowcharts
- Soft Skills: Dealing with Difficult Customers
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
1 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
12 Internet Connectivity, Virtualization, and Cloud Technologies 15 topics · 8 LiveLab +
- Internet Connectivity Overview
- Dial-up Connectivity
- Cable Modems
- xDSL Modems
- VoIP
- Fiber Networks
- Satellite Modems
- Mobile Connectivity Overview
- Web Browsers
- Introduction to Virtualization
- Containers
- Cloud Computing
- Soft Skills: Mentoring
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
8 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
13 Networking 33 topics · 21 LiveLab +
- Networking Overview
- Network Media Overview
- Ethernet Over Power
- Protecting Your Network and Cable Investment
- The OSI Model
- The TCP/IP Model
- Network Addressing
- More IPv4 Addressing
- Wireless Networks Overview
- Wireless Network Standards
- Wireless Network Components
- Wireless Network Design
- Wireless and Wired Client Device Configuration Overview
- Configuring an End Device: IP Addressing
- Adding a Computer to a Windows Domain
- Wireless NIC–Specific Settings
- Advanced NIC Properties
- NIC Configuration When Using Virtualization
- Wireless AP/Router Configuration
- WWAN Cellular Configuration
- IoT and Smart Devices
- Network Troubleshooting
- Networking Multifunction Devices
- Network Servers
- Embedded, SCADA, and Legacy Systems
- Software-Defined Networking
- Network Terminology
- The TCP/IP Model in Action
- More Windows Network Settings
- Introduction to Shared Folders
- Soft Skills: Being Proactive
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
21 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
14 Introduction to Operating Systems 29 topics · 6 LiveLab +
- Operating Systems Overview
- User Interaction with Operating Systems
- Overview of Popular Operating Systems
- 32-Bit vs. 64-Bit Operating Systems
- Windows 11 Versions
- Workstation Operating Systems
- Operating Systems for Mobile Devices
- End-of-Life (EOL) Concerns
- Update Limitations
- Compatibility Concerns
- Corporate Operating System Needs
- Basic Windows Usage Overview
- Windows 11 Desktop Components
- Shortcuts
- Recycle Bin
- Interactions Within a Window
- Managing Windows Files and Folders
- Searches and Indexing
- Attributes, Compression, and Encryption
- Introduction to Windows Settings
- Determining the Windows Version
- Windows Registry
- Editing the Windows Registry
- Backing Up Data
- WinRE
- Recovering the Windows OS
- Soft Skills: Staying Current
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
6 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
15 Introduction to Scripting 31 topics · 7 LiveLab +
- Scripting Overview
- Command Prompt Overview
- Command Prompt Basics
- Moving Around from a Command Prompt
- The md and rd Commands
- Two Useful Commands: del and type
- Copying Files
- The attrib Command
- Why Learn Commands?
- PowerShell
- Other Commands You Should Look Over
- Command Format
- Introduction to Scripting
- Script File Types
- Use Cases for Scripting
- Mitigating Consequences of Scripting
- Environment Variables
- Script Syntax
- Introduction to Script Programming
- Variables
- Data Types
- Examples of Using Variables
- Comments Within Scripts
- Basic Script Constructs
- Decisions: The Selection Structure
- Compound Conditions and Logical Operators
- Loops: The Repetition Structure
- A Brief Look at VBScript and PowerShell
- Soft Skills: Changing Perspective When Troubleshooting
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
7 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
16 Advanced Windows 43 topics · 24 LiveLab +
- Advanced Windows Overview
- Preinstallation of Windows
- Installation/Upgrade of Windows
- Corporate Windows Deployment
- Verifying the Installation
- Troubleshooting a Windows Installation
- System Restore
- Reloading Windows
- Windows Updates
- Backing Up the Windows Registry and Data
- Configuring Windows Overview
- Configuring Windows
- Adding Devices
- Installing/Removing Software
- Computer Management Console
- System Tools
- User Account Management
- Managing Storage
- Managing Services and Applications
- Data Sources (ODBC)
- Print Management Console
- Overview of the Windows Boot Process
- Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
- Startup Settings Menu
- System Configuration Utility
- Task Manager
- Monitoring System Performance
- Speeding Up the Windows Boot Process
- Troubleshooting the Windows Boot Process
- Black Screen/Video Issues
- Troubleshooting a Service That Does Not Start
- Slow Boot
- Troubleshooting Windows Network Settings
- Windows Reboots/System Instability
- Shutdown Problems
- Summary of Troubleshooting Steps
- Power Options
- Supporting Windows Computers Remotely
- Preventive Maintenance for Your Operating System
- Cloud-Based Productivity Tools
- Soft Skills: Avoiding Burnout
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
24 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
17 macOS and Linux Operating Systems 14 topics · 16 LiveLab +
- Introduction to macOS
- Navigating the User Interface
- Basic System Usage, Applications, Updates, and Backups
- Management and Troubleshooting Tools
- Utilities
- Introduction to Linux
- OS Components and Common Configuration Files
- Navigating the User Interface
- Basic System Usage, Updates, and Backups
- Command-Line Interface
- macOS and Linux Best Practices
- Soft Skills: Be Humble
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
16 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
18 Computer and Network Security 20 topics · 21 LiveLab +
- Security Overview
- Security Policy
- Physical Security
- Logical Security
- Considering the End User
- Licensing
- Security Threats and Vulnerabilities
- Protecting Access to Local and Network Resources
- Permissions
- Folder Options
- Protecting the Operating System and Data
- Internet Security
- Remote Access to Network Devices
- Internet Appliances
- Wireless Network Security Overview
- Security Incident Response
- A Final Word About Security
- Soft Skills: Building Customer Trust
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
21 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
19 Operational Procedures 7 topics · 3 LiveLab +
- Operational Procedures Overview
- Proper Power Handling and Adverse Power Conditions
- IT Documentation
- Change Management
- Soft Skills: Skills TO SUCCEED
- Lesson Summary
- Activities
3 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →
20 Appendix A: Subnetting Basics +
21 Appendix: Key Terms 1 topics +
- Glossary
Hands-On Labs Our edge
150 LiveLabs- Connecting a Desktop
- Connecting a Wireless Mouse and Keyboard
- Connecting Internal Components of a Desktop
- Troubleshooting the Slow Performance Issue
- Enabling and Disabling a Device Driver
- Replacing SMPS
- Protecting the Computer Using a UPS
- Replacing the RAM in a Laptop
- Configuring Virtual Memory
- Troubleshooting Memory Issue of a Desktop
- Installing an SD Card
- Inserting and Ejecting a USB Drive
- Connecting an External Hard Disk
- Replacing the Internal HDD
- Formatting and Cleaning a Disk
- Creating and Managing Dynamic Disks
- Converting a Basic Disk to a Dynamic Disk
- Creating a Volume with Disk Management
- Creating RAID Arrays
- Creating a Storage Pool
- Creating a VHD
- Performing Disk Cleanup
- Adjusting Display Settings
- Installing the Sound Card
- Connecting an External Speaker and Headphones
- Setting up a Wireless Inkjet Printer
- Installing a Printer
- Sharing a Printer
- Installing an App and Configuring Permission Settings
- Connecting an iPhone to Wi-Fi
- Setting a Data-Usage Limit
- Connecting a Laptop to a Personal Mobile Hotspot
- Connecting an iPhone to a Laptop via Bluetooth
- Configuring Email and Synchronization on Mobile Devices
- Connecting a Docking Station
- Replacing a Laptop Battery
- Replacing the SSD in a Laptop
- Jailbreaking an iPhone
- Setting a Secure Passcode on iPhone
- Configuring iPad Access Control and Authentication
- Setting Up Mobile Device Encryption and Backup on an iPad
- Updating iPhone iOS and Security Patches
- Performing a Factory Reset on an Android Phone
- Joining a Workstation to an AD Domain
- Connecting to an Ethernet Network
- Connecting to a Cable Modem
- Connecting to a DSL Network
- Creating a VM in Azure
- Securing the Browser
- Setting Up Azure Storage and Uploading a File
- Creating and Deploying a Web App
- Creating an Azure IoT Hub
- Configuring an IPv6 Address
- Configuring an IPv4 Address
- Creating a VLAN
- Configuring the SSID
- Changing the Password for the Router
- Configuring a Router Manually
- Creating a Home Wireless Network
- Configuring a Router
- Configuring a DHCP Server
- Implementing a SOHO Network
- Configuring a DNS Server
- Exploring APIPA and Loopback Addresses
- Configuring NAT
- Casting an Android Device to a Television
- Troubleshooting IP Addressing Issues
- Configuring an SSH Server
- Capturing Packets Using Wireshark
- Configuring NIC Teaming
- Configuring Advanced Network Adapter Settings
- Mapping a Network Drive
- Setting Up and Using Network File Sharing
- Using BitLocker to Encrypt a Drive
- Encrypting a File Using EFS
- Compressing and Extracting Files Using 7-Zip
- Configuring Display Language, Region, and Keyboard Layout
- Personalizing Windows
- Exploring Windows Registry
- Using System Commands
- Diagnosing Network Issues Using Command-Line Utilities
- Creating a Volume with Diskpart
- Using the ipconfig and ifconfig Commands
- Creating and Executing a Shell Script
- Creating and Executing a Python Script
- Creating and Executing a PowerShell Script
- Creating a Swap Partition
- Enabling the Shadow Copies Feature
- Configuring Windows Update
- Creating a Restore Point
- Configuring and Using File History
- Creating and Scheduling a Backup in Windows
- Observing Control Panel Options from Different Views
- Installing an Application Based on System Requirements in Windows
- Installing and Uninstalling an Application in Windows
- Adding an MMC Snap-in
- Managing Users and Groups in Windows
- Using Task Scheduler
- Viewing Logs in Windows Event Viewer
- Setting Up a User Account
- Configuring and Managing User Permissions in Windows
- Configuring UAC Settings
- Mounting a Drive to a Folder
- Converting a FAT32 Partition to NTFS
- Disabling a Service
- Using Task Manager for Performance Analysis
- Using Performance Monitor
- Monitoring System Performance Using Resource Monitor
- Creating a Power Plan
- Using Microsoft Office 365 Tools
- Configuring an IP Address in Linux
- Managing Files and Directories
- Manipulating Files Using Command-Line Utilities
- Creating Backups in Linux
- Using the SET Tool
- Implementing Malware Protection on Linux
- Implementing PGP for Secure Email and File Encryption
- Performing Symmetric and Asymmetric Encryption
- Searching for Files and Text in Linux
- Archiving and Compressing Files in Linux
- Encrypting and Decrypting a File Using OpenSSL
- Creating an Extended and Logical Partition
- Managing Linux Passwords
- Viewing Network Details Using Linux Commands
- Managing Linux Processes
- Managing Linux File Permissions and Editing Text Files
- Implementing Physical Security
- Configuring Port Security on an Access Port
- Examining Kerberos Settings
- Implementing MFA on Mobile Devices
- Defending Against IP Spoofing
- Simulating a DDoS Attack
- Simulating a DoS Attack
- Configuring Group Policy Management
- Creating an OU
- Configuring Folder Redirection in Windows
- Managing File Attributes and Permissions
- Sharing a Folder with a Specific User and Group
- Configuring NTFS Permissions
- Configuring Firewall Rules and Monitoring Network Logs Using pfsense
- Detecting Threats Using Windows Defender
- Configuring a Windows Firewall
- Configuring Proxy Settings
- Configuring Windows Defender Firewall
- Using the Remote Desktop Service
- Adding a VPN Network
- Completing the Chain of Custody Form
- Reporting an Issue
- Enforcing Password Settings
- Creating a Bus Topology
Labs run in your browser — nothing to install.
04 / FAQs
Questions before you start
How much hands-on experience will I gain with this course?+
You'll gain extensive hands-on experience with 150 virtual labs, 435 practice exercises, and 245 practice quizzes. These resources are designed to simulate real-world scenarios, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge directly.
Does this course cover both CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 objectives?+
Yes, this complete A+ guide covers all objectives for both CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) exams. It's structured to provide comprehensive preparation for the full certification.
What kind of IT jobs can I pursue after completing this course and certification?+
Upon completing this complete CompTIA A+ guide and earning your certification, you'll be well-prepared for entry-level IT roles such as Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, Field Service Technician, Desktop Support Analyst, and Junior System Administrator.
How does this course address real-world troubleshooting and security challenges?+
The course integrates real-world scenarios, failure points, and limitations throughout. You'll learn practical troubleshooting for IP addressing, simulating DOS attacks, configuring firewalls (like pfSense), and defending against IP spoofing, focusing on actionable solutions rather than theoretical perfection.
Build Your IT Foundation
Become a part of the IT revolution & begin your career with a CompTIA A+ certification hardware and software course.
- 1 year of full access
- 150 LiveLab included
- Certificate of completion
No credit card required