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CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (Core 1)

Exam Code : 220-1201 (Core 1)

With the CompTIA A+ Core 1 certification, you can land entry-level IT jobs such as Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, and Desktop Support Technician. These roles involve troubleshooting hardware and software issues, supporting end users, maintaining devices, and performing basic network tasks—providing a solid foundation for a long-term career in IT.

Why Join this Program

  • Launch Your IT Career
    CompTIA A+ is the go-to certification for starting a successful career in IT support, help desk, or technical roles.

  • Industry-Recognized Credential
    Widely trusted by employers worldwide, A+ proves your ability to handle real-world IT support tasks.

  • Hands-On, Practical Skills
    The program focuses on performance-based learning, helping you gain job-ready technical skills from day one.

  • Pathway to Advanced IT Roles
    A+ serves as a foundation for more advanced certifications like Network+, Security+, and beyond—opening doors to long-term growth.

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Program Overview

The CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) certification is the first exam in the CompTIA A+ certification track, designed for individuals starting their careers in IT. It covers essential skills needed for IT support roles, including the installation, configuration, and maintenance of computer hardware, mobile devices, networking devices, and troubleshooting network issues. The exam also focuses on virtual environments, cloud computing models, and mobile technologies, providing a strong foundation for handling the most common IT tasks and support challenges.

This certification exam is composed of multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions that simulate real-world IT scenarios. It tests your knowledge in five key areas: mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization/cloud computing, and network troubleshooting. Passing the A+ Core 1 exam, along with the Core 2 exam (220-1102), certifies you as a skilled IT professional capable of addressing various technical support tasks, and it’s recognized globally by employers across industries as an entry-level qualification in IT.

Key Features

  • Foundational IT Certification
    Globally recognized as the industry standard for launching a career in IT support and technical roles.

  • Performance-Based Assessment
    Includes simulations and hands-on performance-based questions to reflect real-world technical support tasks.

  • Comprehensive Coverage
    Covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing, and troubleshooting.

  • Vendor-Neutral Certification
    Prepares candidates to work with technologies from a wide range of vendors and platforms.

  • Updated for Modern Tech
    Reflects current job roles and technologies used by support professionals, including cloud-based and mobile device support.

  • Job-Ready Skills
    Equips candidates with practical, job-focused skills necessary for roles such as help desk technician, IT support specialist, and technical support analyst.

  • Stepping Stone to Advanced Certifications
    Acts as a prerequisite or foundation for other certifications like Network+, Security+, and more.

  • Flexible Learning Paths
    Offers both instructor-led and self-paced learning options to fit different learning styles and schedules.

  • Industry Demand
    Trusted by employers and used in hiring for a variety of entry-level IT support and operational roles.

  • Lifetime Career Value
    Enhances professional credibility and opens up a broad range of career opportunities in the IT field.

Learning Path

1.0 Operating Systems (31%)

Subdomains:

1.1 – Identify basic features of Microsoft Windows editions
1.2 – Given a scenario, use the appropriate Microsoft command-line tool
1.3 – Given a scenario, use features and tools of the Microsoft Windows 10 operating system (OS)
1.4 – Given a scenario, use the appropriate Microsoft Windows 10 Control Panel utility
1.5 – Given a scenario, use the appropriate Windows settings
1.6 – Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows networking features on a client/desktop
1.7 – Given a scenario, apply application installation and configuration concepts
1.8 – Explain common OS types and their purposes
1.9 – Given a scenario, perform OS installations and upgrades
1.10 – Identify common features and tools of the macOS/desktop OS
1.11 – Identify common features and tools of the Linux client/desktop OS


2.0 Security (25%)

Subdomains:

2.1 – Summarize various security measures and their purposes
2.2 – Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods
2.3 – Given a scenario, detect, remove, and prevent malware using the appropriate tools and methods
2.4 – Explain common social-engineering attacks, threats, and vulnerabilities
2.5 – Given a scenario, manage and configure basic security settings in the Microsoft Windows OS
2.6 – Given a scenario, configure a workstation to meet best practices for security
2.7 – Explain common methods for securing mobile and embedded devices
2.8 – Given a scenario, use common data destruction and disposal methods
2.9 – Given a scenario, configure appropriate security settings on small office/home office (SOHO) wireless and wired networks
2.10 – Given a scenario, install and configure browsers and relevant security settings

3.0 Software Troubleshooting (22%)

Subdomains:

3.1 – Given a scenario, troubleshoot common Windows OS problems
3.2 – Given a scenario, troubleshoot common personal computer (PC) security issues
3.3 – Given a scenario, use best practice procedures for malware removal
3.4 – Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile OS and application issues
3.5 – Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile OS and application security issues


4.0 Operational Procedures (22%)

Subdomains:

4.1 – Given a scenario, implement best practices associated with documentation and support systems information management
4.2 – Explain basic change-management best practices
4.3 – Given a scenario, implement workstation backup and recovery methods
4.4 – Given a scenario, use common safety procedures
4.5 – Summarize environmental impacts and local environmental controls
4.6 – Explain the importance of prohibited content/activity and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts
4.7 – Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism
4.8 – Identify the basics of scripting
4.9 – Given a scenario, use remote access technologies

What Skills Will You Learn?

  • Hardware Installation & Configuration
    Learn how to install, configure, and maintain PCs, laptops, printers, and other hardware components.

  • Mobile Device Support
    Understand how to set up, configure, and troubleshoot smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices.

  • Networking Basics
    Gain knowledge of TCP/IP, Wi-Fi, SOHO routers, and common networking concepts to support and troubleshoot network connectivity.

  • Virtualization & Cloud Computing
    Learn about virtualization technologies and basic cloud computing concepts relevant to IT support roles.

  • Troubleshooting Skills
    Develop critical thinking and problem-solving techniques to identify and resolve hardware and networking issues efficiently.

  • Peripheral Devices & Expansion
    Understand how to install and configure peripherals like monitors, keyboards, storage devices, and external components.

  • Custom PC Configuration
    Gain the ability to configure PCs for specific functions like gaming, graphic design, and home theater.

  • Basic Security Practices
    Learn foundational security skills related to device hardening, user authentication, and securing data on devices.

  • Software Installation & Maintenance
    Understand the basics of installing operating systems, drivers, and performing system updates and maintenance tasks.

  • Understanding IT Documentation and Best Practices
    Learn how to follow professional documentation standards, safety procedures, and operational best practices in IT environments.

Jobs You Can Land with the CompTIA A+  Certification:

  • Help Desk Technician
    Provide technical support and troubleshoot hardware and software issues for end users.

  • IT Support Specialist
    Install, maintain, and troubleshoot IT systems and assist users with daily tech problems.

  • Technical Support Analyst
    Resolve customer and client issues, manage support tickets, and ensure system functionality.

  • Field Service Technician
    Travel to client sites to repair, install, and maintain computer hardware and peripheral devices.

  • Desktop Support Technician
    Offer on-site or remote support for desktops, laptops, and other end-user devices.

  • Service Desk Analyst
    Monitor and respond to IT service requests and incidents in a business environment.

  • System Support Specialist
    Assist with the administration of IT systems and help maintain overall network performance.

  • IT Operations Technician
    Support day-to-day IT infrastructure tasks including backups, updates, and monitoring.

  • End User Computing Technician
    Specialize in user-facing technology setup and troubleshooting, including mobile and desktop platforms.

  • Associate Network Technician
    Assist in basic networking tasks such as router setup, cabling, and resolving connectivity issues.

Exam Details

Course NameCompTIA A+ 220-1201 (Core 1) 
Course Number:220-1201 (Core 1) 
Required exam220-1201 (Core 1) 
Number of QuestionsMaximum of 90 questions 
Type of QuestionsMultiple-choice and performance-based 
Length of Test90 Minutes 
Passing Score675 (on a scale of 900) 
RetirementUsually three years after launch 
LanguagesEnglish

Exam Preparation

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