Introduction

The CompTIA A+ certification is an entry-level certification for IT professionals that validates foundational skills and knowledge in hardware, software, networking, security, troubleshooting, and customer support. This 5-day intensive training course is designed to provide participants with the practical skills and knowledge required to pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams. The course covers essential topics such as PC hardware, operating systems, mobile devices, network troubleshooting, and security best practices, ensuring that participants are fully prepared to begin a career in IT support.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will:

1. Understand the fundamentals of IT support, including hardware components, software, and operating systems.
2. Learn how to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to PCs, mobile devices, and networks.
3. Gain proficiency in installing, configuring, and maintaining hardware and software.
4. Learn to support network connections, configure security settings, and secure IT infrastructure.
5. Be fully prepared to take and pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams and pursue a career in IT support.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Aspiring IT support technicians, help desk professionals, and system administrators.
• Individuals looking to gain foundational IT knowledge and skills for entry-level roles in IT support.
• Those preparing for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 certification exams.
• Professionals looking to formalize their IT skills and advance their career in IT infrastructure and customer support.

Day 1: IT Fundamentals and Hardware

• Session 1: Introduction to IT and CompTIA A+ Certification

  • Overview of IT roles and career paths in IT support
  • The importance of CompTIA A+ certification for IT professionals
  • Structure of the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams
  • Key exam topics and study strategies

• Session 2: Understanding Computer Hardware

  • Overview of computer components: CPU, RAM, motherboard, storage devices
  • Types of storage devices: Hard drives (HDD), Solid-state drives (SSD), optical drives, and flash drives
  • Installing and configuring hardware components: RAM, CPU, expansion cards, and peripheral devices
  • Basic troubleshooting of hardware components and issues

• Session 3: PC Assembly and Hardware Installation

  • Understanding how to assemble a PC: Motherboard, CPU, RAM, and other components
  • Installing and configuring storage devices, optical drives, and power supplies
  • Configuring internal and external peripherals: Printers, monitors, keyboards, and mice
  • Best practices for handling hardware and avoiding static discharge

Day 2: Operating Systems and Mobile Devices

• Session 4: Operating Systems Overview

  • Introduction to operating systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile OS
  • Installing and configuring Windows operating systems
  • File systems: FAT32, NTFS, exFAT, and others
  • Managing users and permissions in Windows OS: Creating user accounts and applying permissions

• Session 5: Installing and Configuring Windows OS

  • Windows installation options: Clean installation, upgrades, and repair installations
  • Configuring system settings: Network settings, time, language, and device drivers
  • Windows troubleshooting tools: Event Viewer, Task Manager, and System Configuration (msconfig)
  • Basic security features in Windows: Windows Defender, firewalls, and user account control (UAC)

• Session 6: Mobile Devices and Operating Systems

  • Overview of mobile device platforms: iOS, Android, and Windows Mobile
  • Configuring and troubleshooting mobile device settings: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, email, and security
  • Installing and managing apps on mobile devices
  • Managing and securing mobile devices: Password protection, encryption, and remote wiping

Day 3: Networking and Troubleshooting

• Session 7: Introduction to Networking

  • Basic networking concepts: IP addresses, subnetting, DNS, DHCP, and NAT
  • Networking devices: Routers, switches, hubs, and modems
  • Types of networks: LAN, WAN, PAN, and VPN
  • Overview of TCP/IP and OSI model layers

• Session 8: Networking Tools and Configuration

  • Common networking tools: Ping, ipconfig, tracert, nslookup, and netstat
  • Configuring network connections: Wired and wireless networks, setting up Wi-Fi, and network sharing
  • Understanding network cables and connectors: Ethernet, fiber, and coaxial cables
  • Configuring routers, switches, and firewalls for basic network security

• Session 9: Troubleshooting Common Networking Issues

  • Identifying common network problems: Connectivity, DNS issues, slow performance
  • Using troubleshooting tools to diagnose network issues
  • Resolving IP address conflicts, DHCP issues, and router configuration problems
  • Troubleshooting wireless networking problems: Interference, weak signals, and incorrect configurations

Day 4: Security and Cloud Computing

• Session 10: Security Fundamentals

  • Introduction to IT security: Confidentiality, integrity, availability, and authentication
  • Implementing security best practices: Password policies, encryption, and antivirus software
  • Types of threats: Malware, ransomware, phishing, and social engineering attacks
  • Securing physical devices and network access

• Session 11: Configuring and Managing Security

  • Configuring firewalls and antivirus software for security
  • Using Windows Defender and third-party security tools
  • Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and password management
  • Best practices for securing data on devices and networks

• Session 12: Cloud Computing and Virtualization

  • Introduction to cloud computing: SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS models
  • Cloud storage solutions: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox
  • Virtualization basics: Virtual machines and hypervisors
  • Setting up and managing cloud storage and virtual machines

Day 5: Exam Review, Case Studies, and Final Preparation

• Session 13: Exam Review and Key Topics

  • Comprehensive review of all exam objectives: Hardware, operating systems, networking, security, and troubleshooting
  • Reviewing key areas for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams
  • Practice exam questions and discussions of answers

• Session 14: Real-World Case Studies

  • Troubleshooting case studies: Analyzing and solving common IT problems in real-world scenarios
  • Hands-on labs: Configuring networks, troubleshooting devices, and securing systems
  • Best practices for supporting end users and managing IT environments

• Session 15: Final Exam Preparation

  • Exam strategies: Time management, question analysis, and focus areas
  • Tips for taking the CompTIA A+ exams: Answering multiple-choice and performance-based questions
  • Final Q&A session to address any last-minute doubts and reinforce key concepts