V15
A+ Core 1 V15 (New Version)
CompTIA A+ Core 1 is the first of two exams required to earn the industry-standard A+ certification, designed to launch your tech career. This exam focuses on foundational skills in hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. Passing Core 1 and Core 2 prepares you for roles like IT support specialist and help desk technician while building the knowledge needed to pursue advanced certifications like Network+ and Security+.
CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1)
Mobile devices (15%)
- Installation and configuration: Install and configure laptop hardware components like HDD/SSD, RAM, and wireless cards.
- Accessories setup: Set up accessories such as USB, Bluetooth, and NFC devices.
- Display technologies: Compare mobile display technologies like LCD and OLED.
- Network connectivity: Configure network connectivity options, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and mobile data synchronization.
- Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues related to mobile devices, including hardware failures and connectivity problems.
Networking (20%)
- Protocols: Compare and contrast TCP/UDP protocols.
- Networking hardware: Explore the roles and functionalities of routers, switches, and firewalls.
- Wireless standards: Understand wireless networking standards like 802.11.
- Network services: Summarize services provided by networked hosts, including DNS, DHCP, and web servers.
- SOHO networks: Install and configure small office/home office networks.
- Networking tools: Utilize tools like crimpers, cable testers, and WiFi analyzers for troubleshooting.
Hardware (25%)
- Cables and connectors: Explain various cable types and connectors, such as HDMI and Ethernet.
- RAM installation: Install appropriate RAM modules for different systems, including DDR3 and DDR4.
- Storage solutions: Select and install storage solutions like HDDs and SSDs.
- Motherboards and CPUs: Configure motherboards and CPUs, considering form factors, sockets, and cooling solutions.
- Peripheral devices: Install and configure peripheral devices such as printers and scanners.
Virtualization and cloud computing (11%)
- Virtualization technologies: Learn the fundamentals of virtualization technologies, including virtual machines and hypervisors.
- Cloud computing models: Understand cloud computing models, such as IaaS and SaaS, and their benefits.
Hardware and network troubleshooting (29%)
- Troubleshooting methodologies: Diagnose, resolve, and document common hardware and network issues.
- Tools and techniques: Utilize appropriate tools and techniques, such as multimeters and cable testers, for troubleshooting.
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Exam details
Exam version: V15; Core 1 and Core 2 exams must be taken from the same version, no mixing allowed
Exam series code: 220-1201 (Core 1)
Launch date: March 25, 2025
Number of questions: Maximum of 90 per exam, including multiple-choice (single and multiple response), drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions
Length of test: 90 minutes
Passing score: A+ Core 1: 675 (on a scale of 900)
Recommended experience: 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support specialist job role
Languages: English
Retirement: Usually three years after launch (estimated 2028)
DoD 8140 approved work roles: Technical support specialist, system administrator, and cyber defense infrastructure support specialist
Skills learned
Install, configure, and maintain hardware components and mobile devices.
Troubleshoot hardware, network, and connectivity issues.
Understand networking basics and configure SOHO networks.
Explain virtualization and cloud computing concepts.
Use troubleshooting tools to diagnose and resolve technical problems.
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