CompTIA · 2026 Edition
A complete preparation guide written by CompTIA-certified engineers. Covers the exam format,all 5 blueprint domains, a week-by-week study plan, and proven tips for passing first time.
3–5 months
Prep time
Beginner
Difficulty
90
Exam questions
675/1000
Pass mark
Exam code
220-1101
Full name
A+
Vendor
CompTIA
Duration
90 minutes
Questions
90 items
Passing score
675/1000 (scaled)
Domains covered
5 blueprint domains
Recommended experience
No formal prerequisites; basic familiarity with computers is helpful but not required
Typical prep time
3–5 months
CompTIA A+ is the most widely recognised entry-level IT certification globally — the industry's baseline credential for help desk, IT support, and desktop technician roles. It requires passing two exams: Core 1 (220-1101, hardware and networking) and Core 2 (220-1102, operating systems, security, and software).
Job roles this opens
Domain percentage weights are not currently available for this exam. The checklist below is still useful for planning your study.
Weeks 1–3
Core 1 — Hardware: PC components, RAM types, storage (HDD/SSD/NVMe), expansion cards, connectors
Tip: Memorise connector types with images: SATA, M.2 (B-key vs M-key), PCIe slot sizes (x1, x4, x8, x16), USB-A/C, and common display ports. A+ exam questions regularly include photos of ports and connectors — text descriptions alone are insufficient.
Weeks 4–6
Core 1 — Networking: IP addressing, TCP/IP, network hardware, troubleshooting
Tip: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting is the heaviest Core 1 domain (28%). Focus on troubleshooting methodology: identify the problem, establish a theory, test the theory, establish a plan, implement the solution, verify, document. This sequence is tested directly.
Weeks 7–9
Core 2 — Operating Systems: Windows editions, installation, command-line tools, macOS and Linux basics
Tip: Windows editions are tested directly: Home vs Pro vs Enterprise. Pro adds BitLocker, domain join, Remote Desktop host, and Group Policy. Enterprise adds AppLocker and DirectAccess. Know what each edition can and cannot do.
Weeks 10–12
Core 2 — Security and Operational Procedures: malware removal, security controls, documentation, scripting basics
Tip: The CompTIA malware removal 7-step process appears on Core 2: Investigate/identify → Quarantine → Disable system restore → Remediate → Schedule scan → Enable system restore → Educate user. Memorise this sequence exactly.
Final 2 weeks
Full practice exams for both Core 1 and Core 2, weak-area reinforcement
Tip: Each A+ exam allows 90 minutes for up to 90 questions. Performance-based questions (PBQs) simulate real tasks and take 3–5 minutes each — flag them on first pass and return after answering all multiple-choice questions.
The A+ certification requires passing two separate exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). You can sit them in any order and schedule them on different days — most candidates study for and pass Core 1 before starting Core 2.
Laser printers follow a 7-step imaging process: Processing → Charging → Exposing → Developing → Transferring → Fusing → Cleaning. Print quality problems on the exam map to specific steps in this process.
RAM tested on Core 1: DDR4 vs DDR5, DIMM (desktop, 288-pin) vs SO-DIMM (laptop, 260-pin), and what ECC RAM does. RAM is not interchangeable between DDR generations even if the pin count is the same.
Windows command-line tools on Core 2: ipconfig, ping, tracert, nslookup, netstat, sfc /scannow, dism, chkdsk, diskpart. Know what each does and its key flags — questions describe a symptom and ask which tool to run.
A+ certification is valid for 3 years. Renewal options: 20 CEUs through CompTIA CertMaster CE, passing a higher-level CompTIA exam (Network+, Security+), or retaking the current A+ exams.
Apply everything in this guide with adaptive practice questions, detailed answer explanations, and domain analytics.
Deep-dive explanations of the key topics tested on 220-1101 — with exam key points and common misconceptions.
A+ Hardware
The A+ certification is where IT careers begin, but that does not mean the exam is easy.
A+ OS and Software
Core 2 (220-1102) shifts from physical hardware to software, operating systems, and security.
Mobile Device Types
The CompTIA A+ 220-1101 exam begins with mobile devices — you must identify device types, understand their hardware characteristics, and know how they connect to enterprise environments.
Laptop Components
Laptop components are a major focus of the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 exam.
Mobile Connectivity
Mobile device connectivity covers the wireless and wired technologies that allow smartphones, tablets, and laptops to communicate.
Mobile Device Sync
Mobile device synchronization keeps data consistent across devices and cloud services.
Mobile Device Security
Mobile device security protects smartphones and tablets from unauthorized access and data loss.
Networking Concepts
Networking concepts for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 exam cover the foundational knowledge technicians need to configure, connect, and troubleshoot networks for end users.
Network Hardware
Network hardware knowledge is required for CompTIA A+ 220-1101 — technicians must identify and understand routers, switches, access points, modems, firewalls, and other devices used in home and small business networks.
Wireless Networking
Wireless networking is one of the most tested topics in CompTIA A+ 220-1101.
Cables & Connectors
Network cables and connectors are foundational physical layer knowledge for CompTIA A+ 220-1101.
Internet Connection Types
Understanding internet connection types is required for CompTIA A+ 220-1101.
Network Configuration
Network configuration is a daily task for A+ technicians — configuring IP addresses, DNS settings, and proxy settings on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.
Motherboard Components
The motherboard is the central circuit board that connects all PC components.
CPU Concepts
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the primary processor that executes instructions.
RAM Types
RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile system memory that the CPU uses for active processes.
Storage Devices
Storage devices hold operating systems, applications, and user data.
Power Supplies
The power supply unit (PSU) converts AC power from the wall outlet to DC power required by PC components.
Display Technologies
Display technologies are tested in CompTIA A+ 220-1101 for both desktop monitors and laptop displays.
Printers
Printers are a significant topic in CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102 — the exam covers laser, inkjet, thermal, and impact printer technologies in detail, plus installation, sharing, and troubleshooting.
BIOS / UEFI
BIOS and UEFI are firmware interfaces that initialize hardware and launch the operating system.
Virtualization
Virtualization allows multiple operating systems to run simultaneously on a single physical machine.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing delivers computing resources — servers, storage, databases, networking, software — over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Cloud Storage
Cloud storage delivers on-demand storage capacity over the internet.
Peripheral Devices
Peripheral devices extend the capabilities of a computer through input, output, and storage expansion.
Expansion Cards
Expansion cards add capabilities to a desktop computer through PCIe or legacy slots.
Troubleshooting Methodology
The CompTIA A+ troubleshooting methodology is a structured 6-step process tested on both 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams.
POST Troubleshooting
POST (Power-On Self Test) failures prevent a computer from booting to the operating system.
Storage Troubleshooting
Storage troubleshooting addresses HDD and SSD failures, missing drive detection, slow performance, and data recovery scenarios.
Power Troubleshooting
Power issues prevent computers from starting or cause random shutdowns and instability.
Printer Troubleshooting
Printer troubleshooting is heavily tested on CompTIA A+ 220-1102.
Mobile Troubleshooting
Mobile device troubleshooting addresses the unique failure modes of smartphones and tablets.
Laptop Troubleshooting
Laptop troubleshooting requires addressing hardware issues unique to the portable form factor — battery, display, keyboard, touchpad, and thermal management.
Network Sharing
Network sharing enables multiple computers to access shared files and printers without transferring files manually or purchasing multiple devices.
Firewall Basics
Firewalls are the primary network security control tested in CompTIA A+ 220-1101.
Network Tools
Network troubleshooting tools are essential for diagnosing connectivity problems.
Display Troubleshooting
Display troubleshooting resolves monitor and display issues in desktops, laptops, and projectors.
Network HW Troubleshooting
Network hardware troubleshooting addresses physical layer and device failures that prevent network connectivity.
Custom PC Configs
Custom PC configurations match hardware components to specific workload requirements.
Driver Management
Device drivers are software that allow the operating system to communicate with hardware.
Windows Editions
Windows editions are a significant topic in CompTIA A+ 220-1102.
Windows Installation
Windows installation is a core CompTIA A+ 220-1102 skill.
User Management
User account management is a core CompTIA A+ 220-1102 skill — creating, modifying, and troubleshooting user accounts in Windows.
Windows File Systems
File systems define how data is stored and organized on storage media.
Windows Command Line
The Windows command line is a critical tool for A+ technicians.
Windows Task Manager
Task Manager is the go-to tool for A+ technicians diagnosing performance issues, killing unresponsive applications, and analyzing resource usage.
Windows Admin Tools
Windows includes dozens of built-in administrative tools that A+ technicians use daily.
Windows Updates
Keeping Windows updated is fundamental to security and stability.
Windows Backup & Restore
Data protection is a critical responsibility for A+ technicians.
macOS Features
CompTIA A+ 220-1102 tests macOS support alongside Windows.
Linux Basics
CompTIA A+ 220-1102 requires basic Linux knowledge for the growing number of Linux-based enterprise and IoT deployments.
Mobile OS
Mobile devices run specialized operating systems with unique security models, app distribution, and management requirements.
Ports & Connectors
Identifying ports and connectors by sight is a foundational A+ skill.
Display Connectors
Display connectors are one of the most commonly tested topics on CompTIA A+ 220-1101.
RAID
RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) combines multiple drives to improve performance, redundancy, or both.
Client Virtualization
Client-side virtualization lets a single physical computer run multiple operating systems simultaneously.
Network Addressing
Understanding IP addressing is essential for configuring and troubleshooting networks.
Windows Registry
The Windows Registry is the centralized configuration database for Windows and installed applications.
Windows Networking
Configuring and troubleshooting Windows networking is a daily task for A+ technicians.
Security Threats
Security threats are a major focus of CompTIA A+ 220-1102.
Malware Removal
CompTIA A+ 220-1102 tests a specific malware removal procedure that every technician must follow.
Windows Security
Windows includes comprehensive built-in security features that A+ technicians must know how to configure.
Account Security
Account security is a foundational skill for A+ technicians.
Physical Security
Physical security prevents unauthorized access to hardware and sensitive areas.
Data Destruction
Proper data destruction is a critical but often overlooked security practice.
Encryption Basics
Encryption is fundamental to modern security.
Wireless Security
Wireless networks are inherently more vulnerable than wired networks due to their broadcast nature.
SOHO Security
Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) networks have unique security challenges.
Workstation Security
Securing individual workstations is a daily responsibility for A+ technicians.
Windows Services
Windows services run in the background to support applications and OS functions.
CPU Performance
CPU performance and cooling are interconnected hardware topics on CompTIA A+ 220-1101.
IoT & Smart Home
IoT (Internet of Things) and smart home technology are increasingly common in homes and businesses.
Browser Security
Web browsers are among the most frequently attacked applications.
Mobile Security
Mobile devices contain sensitive personal and business data and face unique security threats.
Application Troubleshooting
Application errors and crashes are among the most common support calls for A+ technicians.
OS Troubleshooting
Operating system problems range from boot failures to performance degradation.
Malware Troubleshooting
Diagnosing and resolving malware infections requires systematic investigation.
Remote Access Tools
Remote access tools let A+ technicians support users without being physically present.
IT Documentation
Proper documentation enables consistent IT support, faster troubleshooting, and regulatory compliance.
Change Management
Change management prevents unplanned downtime and ensures IT changes are tested, approved, and reversible.
Disaster Recovery
Disaster recovery planning ensures business continuity after catastrophic events.
Environmental Controls
Environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and power quality significantly impact hardware reliability.
Safety Procedures
IT technicians work with electrical equipment and sometimes in physically demanding environments.
Professional Communication
Professional communication and customer service skills are explicitly tested on CompTIA A+ 220-1102.
Scripting Basics
Scripting automates repetitive tasks and increases technician efficiency.
Network Software Troubleshooting
Network and software problems often intersect — a misconfigured DNS affects applications, a proxy blocks downloads, a VPN client causes routing issues.
Mobile App Troubleshooting
Mobile apps crash, slow down, and fail to sync.
Privacy & Licensing
Privacy laws, software licensing, and acceptable use policies govern IT operations.
Incident Response
Incident response provides a structured approach to handling security events.
Printer Installation
Installing and configuring printers is a daily task for A+ technicians.
Multifunction Devices
Multifunction devices (MFDs) combine printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into one unit.
Cloud Synchronization
Cloud sync services keep files, settings, and data consistent across multiple devices.
Cable Management
Proper cable management is essential for airflow, safety, and maintainability in any IT environment.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features enable users with disabilities to use computers effectively.
Power Management
Power management settings extend battery life and reduce energy consumption.
Display Settings
Configuring display settings for optimal clarity and productivity is a routine A+ task.
Physical Testing Tools
Hardware testing tools help A+ technicians diagnose cable faults, power issues, and connectivity problems.
Network Protocols
A+ technicians must know the protocols and ports used by common network services.
Bluetooth Pairing
Bluetooth is the dominant short-range wireless technology for peripherals and mobile devices.
Virtualization Troubleshooting
Virtualization problems range from VM startup failures to network connectivity issues and resource contention.
Cloud Service Models
Cloud computing transforms how IT services are delivered.