220-1201

The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 exam focuses on core hardware and operational troubleshooting concepts. Here are the main points, broken down by subject area:

1. Mobile Devices:

• Hardware: Understanding the components of mobile devices (smartphones, tablets), including processors, memory, storage, and connectivity options.
• Operating Systems: Familiarity with mobile OSes (iOS, Android) and their basic functions.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnosing common mobile device issues, such as connectivity problems, battery issues, and software malfunctions.
• Security: Implementing basic security measures on mobile devices, like passwords and device encryption.

2. Networking:

• Fundamentals: Understanding basic networking concepts like IP addresses, subnets, DNS, and TCP/IP.
• Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving common network connectivity problems.
• Wireless Networking: Knowledge of Wi-Fi standards (802.11), security protocols (WPA2/3), and troubleshooting wireless connections.
• Network Security: Basic understanding of network security threats and mitigation techniques.

3. Hardware:

• Components: In-depth knowledge of computer components (motherboard, CPU, RAM, storage devices, power supply, etc.) and their functions.
• Installation and Configuration: Understanding how to install and configure hardware components.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and resolving hardware problems using various troubleshooting methodologies.
• BIOS/UEFI: Familiarity with BIOS/UEFI settings and their impact on system operation.

4. Operating Systems:

• Windows: Significant focus on Windows operating systems (primarily Windows 10/11), including user accounts, file system management, and basic troubleshooting.
• Other Operating Systems: Basic understanding of other OSes like macOS and Linux (less emphasized than Windows).
• Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and resolving OS-related problems, including boot issues and software conflicts.
• Security: Implementing basic security measures within the OS, like user permissions and security updates.

5. Virtualization and Cloud Computing:

• Virtualization: Basic understanding of virtualization technologies and their use.
• Cloud Computing: Fundamental concepts of cloud computing services (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS).

6. Software Troubleshooting:

• Software Installation and Configuration: Installing and configuring software applications.
• Troubleshooting Software Issues: Diagnosing and resolving software problems, including application crashes and conflicts.
• Drivers: Installing and updating device drivers.

7. Operational Procedures:

• Health and Safety: Basic computer safety and workplace safety considerations.
• Documentation: Maintaining proper documentation of troubleshooting steps and solutions.
• Customer Service: Basic customer service skills and techniques.

In summary: The 220-1201 exam tests your practical skills in troubleshooting hardware and software problems, understanding core networking concepts, and your ability to work efficiently and safely in a computer environment. It's a hands-on, practical exam, so hands-on experience is crucial for success. Remember to focus on the troubleshooting aspects of each topic.