220-1101-1102-SCH.AB1

Complete A+ Guide to IT Hardware and Software (1101/1102)

Master everything you need to know for the A+ exams, from hardware and software installation to configuration, troubleshooting, and security.

Practice in 110 Hands-On Labs — nothing to install
21 Interactive Lessons and 404 topics mapped to the official exam objectives
768 Practice Test Questions and 2 Full Length Tests

Intermediate Self-paced · 1 year access 4.5/5 (77 Reviews)

110 Hands-On LiveLabs

Practice real IT tasks in guided environments.

Real environments
Auto-graded
No installation

21Interactive Lessons

404Topics

110LiveLab

768Practice Test Questions

1618Flashcards

1618Glossary of terms

01 / Skills you'll get

What you will be able to do

Try Free → No credit card required

This complete A+ guide to IT hardware and software pdf and online lessons provide in-depth preparation for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) certification exams. These industry standard certifications validate your skills in hardware and software troubleshooting, networking, security, and operational procedures.

Pass the industry-recognized A+ certification exams and validate your foundational IT knowledge.
Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain various computer hardware and software components.
Understand networking concepts, network technologies, and basic troubleshooting methods.
Grasp essential security practices to keep data and systems safe.
Learn best practices for installing operating systems, deploying software, and performing preventative maintenance procedures.
Gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an IT support specialist role.

Target Career Roles

Help Desk Tech
Field Service Technician
Associate Network Engineer
Junior Systems Administrator
Desktop Support Specialist
Help Desk Technician
System Support Technician

Key Competencies Covered

Computer Hardware

Operating Systems

File Management

Peripheral Devices

Printing Solutions

Mobile Technologies

Networking Essentials

Security Measures

Prepares for Certification

uCertify PC Expert

Get trained and certified for entry-level IT support roles. Secure your place in today’s digital world.

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02 / Lessons & labs

See exactly what you will learn and practice

Download outline (PDF)

Lessons

21 Interactive Lessons · 404 topics

01 Introduction 4 topics

What’s New in the Ninth Edition?
Organization of the Text
Features of This course
CompTIA A+ Exam Objectives

02 Introduction to the World of IT 12 topics · 4 LiveLab

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

4 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

03 Connectivity 15 topics · 3 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

3 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

04 On the Motherboard 31 topics · 10 LiveLab

Introduction to the Motherboard
Processor Overview
Processor Basics
Speeding Up Processor Operations Overview
Clocking
Cache
Threading Technology
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)
AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port)
PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express)
Motherboard Security Options
Types of Motherboards
Upgrading and Replacing Motherboards
Motherboard Troubleshooting
Soft Skills: Active Listening
Lesson Summary
Activities

10 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

05 Introduction to Configuration 17 topics · 2 LiveLab

Configuration Overview
BIOS Overview
The Setup Program
Flash BIOS
BIOS/UEFI Configuration Settings
CMOS Memory
Motherboard Battery
Firmware Updates: 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

2 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

06 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 →

07 Memory 12 topics · 3 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

3 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

08 Storage Devices 22 topics · 5 LiveLab

Storage Devices Overview
Hard Drive Overview
Solid-State Drive (SSD) Overview
Mechanical Drive Interfaces Overview
M.2 and NVMe
PATA, 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

5 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

09 Video and Multimedia Devices 17 topics · 1 LiveLab

Multimedia Devices Overview
Video Overview
Video Cards
Projectors
Introduction to Audio
Installing Sound Cards
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

1 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

10 Printers and Multifunction Devices 27 topics · 4 LiveLab

Printer/Multifunction Device Overview
Categories of Printers
Impact Printers
Inkjet Printers
Laser Printers
Thermal Printers
3-D 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
USB-Attached Printer Troubleshooting
Windows Printer Troubleshooting
Impact Printer Troubleshooting
Inkjet Printer Troubleshooting
Laser Printer Troubleshooting
Soft Skills: Work Ethics
Lesson Summary
Activities

4 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

11 Mobile Devices 20 topics · 9 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
Laptop Display
Mobile Device Security
Mobile Device Travel and Storage
Mobile Device Troubleshooting Overview
Soft Skills: A Word about Appearance
Lesson Summary
Activities

9 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

12 Computer Design and Troubleshooting Review 18 topics · 2 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

2 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

13 Internet Connectivity, Virtualization, and Cloud Technologies 16 topics · 1 LiveLab

Internet Connectivity Overview
Dial-up Connectivity
Cable Modems
xDSL Modems
VoIP
Fiber Networks
Satellite Modems
Mobile Connectivity Overview
Web Browsers
Basic Web Browser Issues
Introduction to Virtualization
Desktop Virtualization Basics
Cloud Computing
Soft Skills: Mentoring
Lesson Summary
Activities

1 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

14 Networking 36 topics · 14 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
Antenna Basics
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
Thin or Thick Client Installation Overview
Wireless AP/Router Configuration
WWAN Cellular Configuration
IoT and Smart Devices
Network Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Cable and DSL Modems
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

14 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

15 Introduction to Operating Systems 29 topics · 3 LiveLab

Operating Systems Overview
User Interaction with Operating Systems
Overview of Popular Operating Systems
32-Bit vs. 64-Bit Operating Systems
Windows 10 and 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 10 and Windows 11 Desktop Components
Shortcuts and Tiles
Recycle Bin
Interactions Within a Window
Managing Windows Files and Folders
Searches and Indexing
Attributes, Compression, and Encryption
Introduction to Windows Control Panel Utilities
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

3 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

16 Introduction to Scripting 31 topics · 5 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

5 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

17 Advanced Windows 42 topics · 20 LiveLab

Advanced Windows Overview
Preinstallation of Windows
Installation/Upgrade of Windows
Corporate Windows Deployment
Verifying the Installation
Troubleshooting a Windows Installation
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
System Restore
Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
Startup Settings Menu
System Configuration Utility
Task Manager
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
Monitoring System Performance
Supporting Windows Computers Remotely
Preventive Maintenance for Your Operating System
Soft Skills: Avoiding Burnout
Lesson Summary
Activities

20 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

18 macOS and Linux Operating Systems 13 topics · 4 LiveLab

Introduction to macOS
Navigating the User Interface
Basic System Usage, Updates, and Backups
Management and Troubleshooting Tools
Utilities
Introduction to Linux
Navigating the GNOME User Interface
Basic System Usage, Updates, and Backups
Command-Line Interface
macOS and Linux Best Practices
Soft Skills: Be Humble
Lesson Summary
Activities

4 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

19 Computer and Network Security 20 topics · 18 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

18 LiveLab in this lesson — see the labs panel →

20 Operational Procedures 7 topics

Operational Procedures Overview
Proper Power Handling and Adverse Power Conditions
IT Documentation
Change Management
Soft Skills: Skills TO SUCCEED
Lesson Summary
Activities

21 Appendix A: Subnetting Basics

Hands-On Labs Our edge

110 LiveLabs

Disabling a Device Driver
Enabling a Device Driver
Configuring the Mouse Settings
Adding a Keyboard Layout
Connecting the Hub with Different Devices Using USB Cables
Installing a PCI Sound Card

Inserting a Pen Drive into the Laptop's USB Port
Enabling Hardware Virtualization
Identifying the CPU Socket (Slot)
Installing a Processor
Installing Expansion Cards on a Motherboard
Supplying Power to a SATA Drive
Identifying a PCI Bus Slot 1
Installing a USB 3.0 PCI Express Card (2.0 x4)
Providing Cooling and Ventilation to a Motherboard
Installing Motherboard Components
Connecting the Motherboard to the Internal Hard Drive
Accessing the BIOS Setup in Windows 10
Installing the NIC
Assembling Computer Components
Replacing the Power Supply
Installing Memory Modules
Verifying the RAM Usage
Editing a Drive Letter
Mounting a Drive to a Folder
Converting a FAT32 Partition to NTFS
Converting a Basic Disk to a Dynamic Disk
Creating a Storage Pool
Running the Disk Cleanup
Installing an Optical Drive and a PCI Sound Card
Installing a Printer
Inserting Ink Cartridges into a Printer
Connecting a USB Printer to a Computer
Sharing a Printer
Locking an iPhone With a Password
Removing an Account in Android
Turning On the Airplane Mode of an iPhone
Configuring Email in Android
Viewing the iOS Version of an iPhone
Inserting a CD in a Laptop
Connecting a Router to a Laptop
Installing Laptop Components
Setting Up a VPN on Android
Connecting a Workstation to the LAN and Configuring IPv4 Properties
Identifying Clients and Servers
Connecting the Cable Modem to Access the Internet
Configuring a Class C IP Address
Configuring a Class B IP Address
Configuring a Class A IP Address
Configuring an IPv6 Address
Configuring an IPv4 Address and a DNS Server
Creating a VLAN and Viewing its Assignment to Port Mapping
Configuring a DHCP Server
Adding a DNS Server
Using the ping Command
Using the nslookup Command
Using the ipconfig Command
Using the tracert and the pathping Command
Using the net Command
Using the Sharing Tab
Implementing EFS File Sharing
Backing Up the Windows Registry
Backing Up Files
Working with the Command Prompt
Running Commands on PowerShell
Creating a Loop in PowerShell
Executing the Basic Commands Through a ps1 File
Creating and Running a ps1 File
Setting Automatic Windows Updates
Creating a Swap Partition
Creating a Restore Point
Observing the Control Panel Options from Different Views
Configuring the Screen Resolution Setting
Uninstalling a Program
Configuring Computer Management Services
Displaying Windows PowerShell Snap-ins
Adding an MMC Snap-in
Using Windows Event Viewer
Using the Task Scheduler
Configuring UAC Settings
Viewing the Status of a Disk
Disabling a Service
Setting Up a Boot Device Priority
Monitoring the System's Performance Using Performance Monitor
Working with the Task Manager
Using the Task Manager to Start an Application
Configuring a Power Plan
Configuring Screen Savers
Viewing Processes in Linux
Obtaining Software Using the Command-Line Interface
Using Basic Linux Commands
Finding Files
Conducting a DoS Attack Using Smurf Attack
Performing Reconnaissance on a Network
Performing an MITM Attack
Using Rainbow Tables
Conducting IP Spoofing
Creating a New User
Creating an Organizational Unit
Propagating Permissions
Stopping Permission Inheritance
Managing NTFS Permissions
Sharing a Folder
Using BitLocker
Disabling the AutoPlay Feature
Installing the Proxy Server Feature
Configuring Windows Defender Firewall
Configuring Network Address Translation
Setting up a Demilitarized Zone
Configuring a VPN

Labs run in your browser — nothing to install.

03 / Exam details

Complete A+ Guide to IT Hardware and Software (1101/1102) Details

uCertify’s CompTIA A+ (220-1101 & 220-1102) course and lab are designed to enhance the latest knowledge and skills of an IT professional. The course contains interactive tools like CompTIA A+ exam objective-based lessons, test preps, and live labs for a hands-on experience. It will be a great source to learn about Mobile Devices, Networking, Hardware, Virtualization and Cloud Computing, and Hardware and Network Troubleshooting.

Official exam objectives →

Questions 90 (per exam)

Duration 90 minutes (per exam)

Passing Score 220-1101: 675 (on a scale of 900) 220-1102: 700 (on a scale of 900) (on a scale of 900)

Exam Fee $239 USD (per exam)

Delivered by Pearson VUE (in-person or online)

Question Format Multiple choice questions (single and multiple response),... single/multiple choice, performance-based

Practice Tests 768 Practice Questions (mapped to official exam objectives)

Certification 220-1101-1102-SCH.AB1 CompTIA credential

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04 / FAQs

Questions before you start

What is the difference between CompTIA A+ 1101 and 1102?

CompTIA A+ 1101 and 1102 are two separate exams that you must pass to earn the full CompTIA A+ certification. They cover different but complementary topics:

CompTIA A+ 220-1101: Focuses on mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, and cloud computing.
CompTIA A+ 220-1102: Covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

Is CompTIA A+ a hard exam?

The difficulty of the CompTIA A+ exam depends on your prior IT experience. With a strong foundation in computers and technology, you'll find it more manageable. However, even with no experience, the exams are achievable with thorough preparation using resources like the course you're considering.

Is CompTIA A+ certification worth IT?

Yes, the CompTIA A+ certification is valuable for IT professionals. It validates your foundational skills and knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate for entry-level IT support specialist, system administrator, or help desk technician positions.

Does CompTIA A+ expire?

Yes, the CompTIA A+ certification expires every three years. To maintain your certification, you'll need to retake both exams (1101 and 1102).

What is the passing score for the A+ 1102 exam?

The passing score for the A+ 1102 exam is 700 on a scale of 1000.

Fast Track Your Career to CompTIA A+ Certification

Enroll now to gain hands-on skills and confidently prepare for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) certification exams.

1 year of full access
110 LiveLab included
Certificate of completion

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Complete A+ Guide to IT Hardware and Software (1101/1102)

110 Hands-On LiveLabs

What you will be able to do

Target Career Roles

Key Competencies Covered

uCertify PC Expert

See exactly what you will learn and practice

Lessons

Hands-On Labs Our edge

Complete A+ Guide to IT Hardware and Software (1101/1102) Details

Ready to take the exam?

Questions before you start

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Fast Track Your Career to CompTIA A+ Certification