CompTIA A+ Certification Companion

This book covers all topics and requirements of the CompTIA A+ certification exam. It will allow readers to easily understand the concepts, information, and skills needed to obtain the associated certification. 

CompTIA A+ certification is at its core an entry-level certification to the information technology world, including cybersecurity. It is comprised of a set of two exams (Exams 220-1101 & 220-1102) created by IT industry professionals that validate skills needed for entry-level IT jobs, including cybersecurity. This certification stands as baseline proof of knowledge of these topics and is largely sought by recruiters.

Main exam topics include hardware, networking, mobile devices, security, Windows operating system, other IOS technologies, software troubleshooting and operations procedures. This book has been designed to follow the core requirements for the full scope of the CompTIA A+ certification, covering both examination test requirements.  It has been formatted to follow a logical and easy to follow order to allow a foundational level of understanding prior to moving onto more advanced topics.

The book will provide all readers with the appropriate knowledge and information to have a foundational level of many Information Technology components.  It will primarily serve the newer entrants to the field but will also support more experienced individuals that are looking towards certifications.

What You Will Learn:

• Effective communication with clients and colleagues and interpersonal skills for collaboration in team environments.
• Understanding of motherboard components and architecture.
• Knowledge of CPU types and socket compatibility.
• Installation and configuration of operating systems.
• Software troubleshooting techniques.
• Installation and configuration of Windows, Linux, and macOS.
• Management of system settings and user accounts.
• Identification of laptop components and peripherals.
• Maintenance procedures for laptops, including cleaning and battery management.
• Configuration of mobile device settings and preferences.
• Understanding of mobile operating systems and app installation procedures.
• Troubleshooting common printer hardware and software issues.
• Basic networking concepts, including IP addressing and subnetting.
• Configuration of network devices such as routers and switches.
• Configuration and management of wireless access points.
• Implementation of wireless security protocols such as WPA2 and WPA3.
• Understanding of cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS).
• Deployment and management of virtual machines in the cloud.
• Recognition of common security threats and vulnerabilities.
• Implementation of security best practices for data protection.

Who this book is for:

Anyone that is looking to get into the information technology or cybersecurity fields. This would also include academics looking to pursue bachelor’s or master’s degrees, as often programs include the A+ certification. There is no necessary prior skill experience or knowledge needed.

Kodi Cochran is highly invested in the field of cybersecurity, something he has followed as a hobbyist for  the past decade and expanded to make it his field of study and work. He has a Bachelors and Masters in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, in addition to working as an Information Systems Manager for the Networking and Infrastructure team of the Department of Human and Health Resources under the agency of the Office of Management of Information Services at the state of West Virginia. 

He’s responsible for networking administration, project management, system support, and site support for the state of West Virginia in all state-owned health care facilities, hospitals, and labs. In addition, Kodi holds the following certifications: CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Project+, CySA+, and Pentest+. He’s currently working on the CompTIA CASP+.