CompTIA A

CompTIA A+ Course Outline

Duration: 40-50 Hours (Global Standards)
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Delivery Mode: Online/Offline
Certification: CompTIA A+
Global Exam Codes: 220-1101 and 220-1102 (Latest Versions)

Module 1: Introduction to IT and the CompTIA A+ Certification

Duration: 2-3 Hours

• Introduction to IT and the Role of IT Professionals
• Overview of the CompTIA A+ Certification and Exam Structure
• Global Industry Standards and Opportunities for A+ Certified Professionals
• Key IT Terminology and Concepts
• Job Roles in IT Support: Technician, Network Specialist, Helpdesk Support

Module 2: Hardware Fundamentals

Duration: 8-10 Hours

• Overview of Computer Hardware Components
  • CPU, RAM, Motherboards, Storage Devices (HDD, SSD), Power Supply Units
  • Expansion Cards: Video, Audio, Network, and Storage Cards
  • Peripheral Devices: Keyboards, Mice, Printers, Scanners
• Identifying and Installing Internal and External Hardware Devices
• Hands-on Lab: Assembling and Disassembling a Computer
• Diagnosing and Troubleshooting Hardware Problems
  • Power Issues, POST Errors, and Boot Failures
  • Identifying Faulty Components and Replacing Parts
• Hardware Maintenance Best Practices

Module 3: Operating Systems Installation and Configuration

Duration: 6-8 Hours

• Installing and Configuring Different Operating Systems
  • Windows 10/11 (Installation, Setup, and Configuration)
  • macOS (Basic Setup and Configuration)
  • Linux (Ubuntu Basics, Installation, and Configuration)
• Partitioning and Formatting Drives
• Windows Installation and Configuration Best Practices
• Understanding File Systems (NTFS, FAT32, exFAT)
• Installing Drivers and Windows Updates
• Configuring User Accounts and Permissions
• OS Virtualization: Overview and Setup (VirtualBox, Hyper-V)

Module 4: Networking Fundamentals

Duration: 6-8 Hours

• Introduction to Networking Concepts
  • Types of Networks (LAN, WAN, PAN)
  • Network Topologies: Star, Bus, Ring, Mesh
  • OSI and TCP/IP Models
• Understanding IP Addressing and Subnetting
  • IPv4 vs IPv6
  • Static and Dynamic IP Addressing
• Basic Networking Devices: Routers, Switches, Hubs, and Modems
• Wired and Wireless Networking: Ethernet, Wi-Fi
  • Configuring Wireless Routers and SSID Setup
• Network Troubleshooting
  • Common Networking Issues: Connectivity, DNS, DHCP
  • Network Testing Tools: Ping, Traceroute, nslookup

Module 5: Mobile Devices and Hardware Support

Duration: 4-6 Hours

• Mobile Operating Systems: Android, iOS Basics
• Configuring and Securing Mobile Devices
  • Setting Up Mobile Email, Apps, and Wi-Fi Connections
  • Securing Mobile Devices: Screen Locks, Encryption, Remote Wipe
• Troubleshooting Mobile Device Issues
• Managing Mobile Device Settings and Application Support

Module 6: IT Security Fundamentals

Duration: 5-7 Hours

• Introduction to IT Security Concepts
  • Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA Triad)
  • Common Security Threats: Viruses, Malware, Phishing, Ransomware
• Configuring Firewalls and Antivirus Software
• Best Practices for Securing Computers and Networks
  • Using Password Policies, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
  • Installing and Configuring Security Tools
• Securing Wireless Networks: WPA, WPA2, and WPA3
• Basic Encryption Concepts and Applications

Module 7: Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving

Duration: 6-8 Hours

• Troubleshooting Methodology: Identify, Diagnose, and Resolve
• Troubleshooting Hardware Issues:
  • Power Failures, System Freeze, Overheating
  • RAM, CPU, and Storage Problems
• Operating System Troubleshooting:
  • Boot Problems, Blue Screens, System Lockups
  • Reinstalling Operating Systems and Repair Options
• Networking Troubleshooting:
  • Diagnosing Connectivity Issues (Wired and Wireless)
  • Troubleshooting IP Configuration and DNS Problems
• Using System Tools and Utilities for Diagnostics

Module 8: Operational Procedures and Best Practices

Duration: 4-6 Hours

• IT Professional Best Practices
  • Safety and Environmental Concerns in IT Operations
  • Proper Handling of Computer Equipment and Components
  • ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) and Equipment Care
• Customer Service Skills for IT Professionals
  • Communication, Listening, and Documentation Skills
  • Problem Resolution and Handling Difficult Customers
• Time Management and Task Prioritization for IT Support
• Documentation and Incident Reporting

Module 9: Global IT Support Practices and Professionalism

Duration: 2-3 Hours

• Global IT Support Frameworks: ITIL, Helpdesk Support
• Working in Global IT Environments: Remote and On-Site Support
• Understanding Cultural Differences in Global IT Support
• Professionalism in IT: Ethics, Continuing Education, and Certifications

Module 10: Exam Preparation and Review

Duration: 3-4 Hours

• Overview of CompTIA A+ Exam Format
• Key Exam Domains Review:
  • Hardware, Operating Systems, Networking, Security, Troubleshooting
• Practice Exam Questions and Simulations
• Exam-taking Strategies and Tips
• Mock Exam and Q&A Session

Module 11: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam

• Final Exam: CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102
• Post-Exam Steps and Continuing IT Career Development