CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide

Book description

CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide, is a comprehensive guide to the new A+ exams from CompTIA from one of the leading A+ Certification authors. With over 15 years of experience in developing CompTIA A+ Certification content and 30 years of experience in the computer field, Mark teaches you not just what you need to pass the exams, but also what you need to know to apply your knowledge in the real world.

This book is rich with learning and exam preparation features:

  • Hands-on lab exercises
  • Real-world test preparation advice

This is the eBook edition of the CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide. This eBook does not include the practice exam that comes with the print edition.

CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide, is a comprehensive guide to the new A+ exams from CompTIA from one of the leading A+ Certification authors. With over 15 years of experience in developing CompTIA A+ Certification content and 30 years of experience in the computer field, Mark teaches you not just what you need to pass the exams, but also what you need to know to apply your knowledge in the real world.

This book is rich with learning and exam preparation features:

  • Hands-on lab exercises
  • Real-world test preparation advice

This is the eBook edition of the CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide. This eBook does not include the practice exam that comes with the print edition.

Each chapter takes a ground-up approach - starting with the essentials and gradually building to larger, more complex concepts. Regardless of your level of experience, from beginner to expert, this book helps you improve your knowledge and skills. Loaded with informative illustrations, photos and screen captures that help readers follow along, the book also includes access to bonus content including a handy objectives index that maps each test objective to the section of the book in which that objective is covered. This invaluable tool will help readers be certain that they are ready for test day!

This study guide helps you master all the topics on the new A+ 901 and 902 exams, including

  • Motherboards, processors, RAM, and BIOS
  • Power supplies and system cooling
  • I/O, input ports, and devices
  • Video displays and video cards
  • Customized PCs
  • Laptops, mobile and wearable devices
  • Printers
  • Storage devices including SSDs
  • Installing, using, and troubleshooting Windows, Linux, and OS X
  • Virtualization
  • Networking
  • Security
  • Operational procedures and communications methods

Table of contents

  1. About This E-Book
  2. Title Page
  3. Copyright Page
  4. Contents at a Glance
  5. Table of Contents
  6. About the Author
  7. About the Technical Reviewer
  8. Dedication
  9. Acknowledgments
  10. We Want to Hear from You!
  11. Reader Services
  12. Becoming a CompTIA Certified IT Professional is Easy
  13. Introduction
    1. Goals and Methods
    2. What’s New?
    3. Who Should Read This Book?
    4. Strategies for Exam Preparation
    5. Companion Website
    6. Accessing the Pearson Test Prep Software and Questions
    7. Accessing the Pearson Test Prep Software Online
    8. Accessing the Pearson Test Prep Software Offline
      1. Desktop Version System Requirements
    9. Premium Edition eBook and Practice Tests
  14. Chapter 1. Technician Essentials and Computer/Device Anatomy 101
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. The Essential Parts of Any Computer or Mobile Device
      2. Hardware, Software, and Firmware
      3. The CompTIA Six-Step Troubleshooting Theory
      4. Technician Tools and Equipment
      5. Important Websites
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review Questions
      2. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  15. Chapter 2. Configure and Use BIOS/UEFI Tools
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. BIOS/UEFI Configuration
      2. Flash Upgrade BIOS
      3. Using BIOS/UEFI Diagnostics
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  16. Chapter 3. Motherboard Components
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. ATX, ITX, and Smaller Sizes
      2. Expansion Slot Types
      3. RAM Sockets
      4. CPU Sockets
      5. Chipsets
      6. CMOS Battery
      7. Power Connectors
      8. Fan Connectors
      9. Front and Top Panel Connectors
      10. Bus Speeds
      11. Installing Motherboards
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  17. Chapter 4. RAM Types and Features
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Memory Upgrade Considerations
      2. RAM Types
      3. SO-DIMM vs DIMM
      4. RAM Configurations
      5. Single-Sided vs Double-Sided
      6. RAM Compatibility
      7. Installing Memory
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Lab
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  18. Chapter 5. PC Expansion Cards
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Expansion Card and Slot Overview
      2. Installing Sound Cards
      3. Installing Video Cards
      4. Installing Network Cards
      5. Installing USB Cards
      6. Installing FireWire Cards
      7. Installing Thunderbolt Cards
      8. Installing Storage Cards
      9. Installing Modem Cards
      10. Installing Wireless/Cellular Cards
      11. Installing TV Tuner Cards
      12. Installing Video Capture Cards
      13. Installing Riser Cards
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete Hands-On Labs
      4. Answer Review Questions
      5. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      6. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  19. Chapter 6. Storage Devices
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Optical Drive Features and Capacities
      2. Magnetic Hard Disk Drives
      3. Flash Drives
      4. Solid State Drives
      5. Hot-Swappable Drives
      6. RAID Types
      7. Tape Drive
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  20. Chapter 7. CPUs
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Processor Characteristics
      2. Socket Types
      3. Cooling
      4. CPU Installation
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations for Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  21. Chapter 8. Ports and Interfaces
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Rear Panel Port Clusters
      2. USB
      3. FireWire (IEEE 1394)
      4. SATA and eSATA
      5. Thunderbolt
      6. Video
      7. Audio
      8. PS/2
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations for Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  22. Chapter 9. Designing and Building Custom PC Configurations
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Custom PC Configurations
      2. Evaluating Onboard Components
      3. Installing Power Supplies
      4. Installing and Configuring Input, Output, and I/O Devices
      5. Display Types
      6. Video Display Settings and Features
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations for Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  23. Chapter 10. Using, Maintaining, and Installing Printers and Multifunction Devices
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Laser Printers
      2. Inkjet Printers
      3. Thermal Printers
      4. Impact Printers
      5. Virtual Printers
      6. Installing Your Printer or Multifunction Device
      7. Configuring Your Printer or Multifunction Device
      8. Device Sharing Options
      9. Wireless Device Sharing Options
      10. Cloud and Remote Printing
      11. Configuring Your Operating System to Share a Printer or Device
      12. Maintaining Data Privacy
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations for Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  24. Chapter 11. Networking
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Network Cable and Connector Types and Characteristics
      2. TCP/IP
      3. TCP and UDP Ports, Protocols, and Purposes
      4. WiFi (Wi-Fi) Network and Encryption Standards
      5. Configure SOHO Wired or Wireless Router
      6. Internet Connection Types
      7. Network Types
      8. Network Architecture Devices
      9. Using Networking Tools
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations for Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  25. Chapter 12. Mobile Devices
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Install and Configure Laptop Hardware and Components
      2. Replace Laptop Components
      3. Laptop Display Components
      4. Using Laptop Features
      5. Characteristics of Other Mobile Devices
      6. Accessories and Ports Used by Other Mobile Devices
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Memory Table
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  26. Chapter 13. Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Troubleshooting Motherboard, RAM, CPU, and Power Issues
      2. Recommended Tools
      3. Troubleshooting Hard Drives and RAID Arrays
      4. Troubleshooting Video, Projector, and Display Issues
      5. Network Troubleshooting
      6. Overview of Network Command-Line Tools
      7. Mobile Device Troubleshooting
      8. Mobile Device Disassembly Process
      9. Printer Troubleshooting
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-on Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  27. Chapter 14. Windows Operating Systems Features and Installation
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Differences Between Windows Versions
      2. Boot Methods
      3. Installation Types
      4. Partitioning Methods
      5. Windows File Systems
      6. Configuring Windows During/After Installation
      7. Using the Factory Recovery Partition
      8. Refresh and Reset (Windows 8/8.1/10)
      9. Characteristics of a Properly Formatted Boot Drive
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      4. Complete Hands-On Lab
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  28. Chapter 15. Managing Microsoft Windows
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Command-Line Tools
      2. Microsoft Administrative Tools
      3. Task Manager
      4. MSCONFIG
      5. Disk Management
      6. Storage Spaces
      7. Windows Upgrade Tools
      8. System Utilities
      9. Control Panel Utilities
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  29. Chapter 16. Networking Microsoft Windows
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Homegroup vs. Workgroup
      2. Domain Setup
      3. Network Shares
      4. Administrative Shares
      5. Printer Sharing versus Network Printer Mapping
      6. Establish Networking Connections
      7. Proxy Settings
      8. Remote Desktop Connection and Remote Assistance
      9. Home vs. Work vs. Public Network Settings
      10. Firewall Settings
      11. Configuring an Alternative IP Address in Windows
      12. Network Card Properties
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete Hands-On Lab
      4. Answer Review Questions
      5. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      6. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  30. Chapter 17. Operational Procedures
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Using Appropriate Safety Procedures
      2. Applying Environmental Controls
      3. Addressing Prohibited Content or Activity
      4. Licensing/DRM/EULA
      5. Personally Identifiable Information
      6. Following Corporate End-User Policies and Security Best Practices
      7. Communication Methods and Professionalism
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  31. Chapter 18. OS X and Linux
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Best Practices
      2. Tools
      3. Features
      4. Basic Linux Commands
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Lab
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Lab
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  32. Chapter 19. Virtualization, Cloud Computing, and Network Services
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Client-Side Virtualization Overview
      2. Identify Basic Cloud Concepts
      3. Properties and Purposes of Network Services—Server Roles
      4. Internet Appliances
      5. Legacy and Embedded Systems
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete Hands-On Lab
      4. Answer Review Questions
      5. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      6. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  33. Chapter 20. Mobile Operating Systems and Devices
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Android vs iOS vs Windows Features
      2. Mobile Device Connectivity
      3. Email Configuration
      4. PRI Updates/PRL Updates/Baseband Updates
      5. Radio Firmware
      6. IMEI vs IMSI
      7. VPN
      8. Data Synchronization
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Define Key Terms
      3. Complete Hands-On Labs
      4. Answer Review Questions
      5. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      6. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  34. Chapter 21. Security
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Common Security Threats and Vulnerabilities
      2. Common Prevention Methods
      3. Windows Basic Security Settings
      4. Best Security Practices for Workstations
      5. Securing Mobile Devices
      6. Data Destruction and Disposal Methods
      7. SOHO Network Security
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Labs
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Labs
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  35. Chapter 22. Troubleshooting Desktop and Mobile Operating Systems
    1. Foundation Topics
      1. Troubleshooting Common Symptoms
      2. Tools for Troubleshooting Software
      3. Troubleshoot Mobile OS and Application Issues
      4. Mobile Devices and Application Security Issues
      5. Troubleshooting PC Security Issues
    2. Exam Preparation Tasks
      1. Review All the Key Topics
      2. Complete the Tables and Lists from Memory
      3. Define Key Terms
      4. Complete Hands-On Lab
      5. Answer Review Questions
      6. Answers and Explanations to Hands-On Lab
      7. Answers and Explanations to Review Questions
  36. Glossary
  37. Index
  38. Appendix A. CompTIA A+ Objectives
    1. 220-901 Domain 1.0 Hardware
      1. 220-901 Objective 1.1
      2. 220-901 Objective 1.2
      3. 220-901 Objective 1.3
      4. 220-901 Objective 1.4
      5. 220-901 Objective 1.5
      6. 220-901 Objective 1.6
      7. 220-901 Objective 1.7
      8. 220-901 Objective 1.8
      9. 220-901 Objective 1.9
      10. 220-901 Objective 1.10
      11. 220-901 Objective 1.11
      12. 220-901 Objective 1.12
      13. 220-901 Objective 1.13
      14. 220-901 Objective 1.14
      15. 220-901 Objective 1.15
    2. 220-901 Domain 2.0 Networking
      1. 220-901 Objective 2.1
      2. 220-901 Objective 2.2
      3. 220-901 Objective 2.3
      4. 220-901 Objective 2.4
      5. 220-901 Objective 2.5
      6. 220-901 Objective 2.6
      7. 220-901 Objective 2.7
      8. 220-901 Objective 2.8
      9. 220-901 Objective 2.9
    3. 220-901 Domain 3.0 Mobile Devices
      1. 220-901 Objective 3.1
      2. 220-901 Objective 3.2
      3. 220-901 Objective 3.3
      4. 220-901 Objective 3.4
      5. 220-901 Objective 3.5
    4. 220-901 Domain 4.0 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
      1. 220-901 Objective 4.1
      2. 220-901 Objective 4.2
      3. 220-901 Objective 4.3
      4. 220-901 Objective 4.4
      5. 220-901 Objective 4.5
      6. 220-901 Objective 4.6
    5. 220-902 Domain 1.0 Windows Operating Systems
      1. 220-902 Objective 1.1
      2. 220-902 Objective 1.2
      3. 220-902 Objective 1.3
      4. 220-902 Objective 1.4
      5. 220-902 Objective 1.5
      6. 220-902 Objective 1.6
      7. 220-902 Objective 1.7
    6. 220-902 Domain 2.0 Other Operating Systems and Technologies
      1. 220-902 Objective 2.1
      2. 220-902 Objective 2.2
      3. 220-902 Objective 2.3
      4. 220-902 Objective 2.4
      5. 220-902 Objective 2.5
      6. 220-902 Objective 2.6
      7. 220-902 Objective 2.7
    7. 220-902 Domain 3.0 Security
      1. 220-902 Objective 3.1
      2. 220-902 Objective 3.2
      3. 220-902 Objective 3.3
      4. 220-902 Objective 3.4
      5. 220-902 Objective 3.5
      6. 220-902 Objective 3.6
      7. 220-902 Objective 3.7
    8. 220-902 Domain 4.0 Software Troubleshooting
      1. 220-902 Objective 4.1
      2. 220-902 Objective 4.2
      3. 220-902 Objective 4.3
      4. 220-902 Objective 4.4
    9. 220-902 Domain 5.0 Operational Procedures
      1. 220-902 Objective 5.1
      2. 220-902 Objective 5.2
      3. 220-902 Objective 5.3
      4. 220-902 Objective 5.4
      5. 220-902 Objective 5.5
  39. Appendix B. Memory Tables
    1. Chapter 2
    2. Chapter 3
    3. Chapter 4
    4. Chapter 6
    5. Chapter 7
    6. Chapter 8
    7. Chapter 9
    8. Chapter 10
    9. Chapter 11
    10. Chapter 12
    11. Chapter 13
    12. Chapter 14
    13. Chapter 15
    14. Chapter 17
    15. Chapter 21
    16. Chapter 22
  40. Appendix C. Answers to Memory Tables
    1. Chapter 2
    2. Chapter 3
    3. Chapter 4
    4. Chapter 6
    5. Chapter 7
    6. Chapter 8
    7. Chapter 9
    8. Chapter 10
    9. Chapter 11
    10. Chapter 12
    11. Chapter 13
    12. Chapter 14
    13. Chapter 15
    14. Chapter 17
    15. Chapter 21
    16. Chapter 22
  41. Key Topics Master List
    1. Chapter 1
    2. Chapter 2
    3. Chapter 3
    4. Chapter 4
    5. Chapter 5
    6. Chapter 6
    7. Chapter 7
    8. Chapter 8
    9. Chapter 9
    10. Chapter 10
    11. Chapter 11
    12. Chapter 12
    13. Chapter 13
    14. Chapter 14
    15. Chapter 15
    16. Chapter 16
    17. Chapter 17
    18. Chapter 18
    19. Chapter 19
    20. Chapter 20
    21. Chapter 21
    22. Chapter 22
  42. Where are the companion content files?
  43. Inside Front Cover
  44. Inside Back Cover
  45. Code Snippets

Product information

  • Title: CompTIA A+ 220-901 and 220-902 Cert Guide
  • Author(s): Mark Edward Soper
  • Release date: August 2016
  • Publisher(s): Pearson IT Certification
  • ISBN: 9780134400570