CompTIA A+ (220-1202) Core 2


Course Description:
The CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) course is designed to prepare students for the second exam required to earn the CompTIA A+ certification, one of the most globally recognized entry-level IT certifications. This course focuses on the software, security, troubleshooting, and operational skills needed by modern IT support professionals.

While Core 1 (220-1201) focuses mainly on hardware and networking basics, Core 2 builds the real-world skills required to support users, secure systems, troubleshoot operating systems, and follow professional IT procedures in workplace environments.

This course follows CompTIA’s official Exam Objectives Version 3.0 (V15) to ensure students are fully aligned with the current exam blueprint.


Why This Course Is Needed

Modern IT support roles require more than just hardware knowledge. Organizations expect IT professionals to:

  • Secure systems against malware and cyber threats
  • Troubleshoot Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems
  • Support end users professionally and efficiently
  • Follow operational, safety, documentation, and compliance procedures

The CompTIA A+ Core 2 course provides these essential skills, making it a critical step for anyone starting or growing a career in IT support.


What Students Will Learn

By completing this course, students will gain knowledge and hands-on understanding of:

  • Operating Systems
    • Windows 10 and Windows 11 configuration and management
    • macOS and Linux fundamentals
    • Command-line tools and system utilities
  • Security
    • Physical and logical security concepts
    • Malware types, removal techniques, and prevention
    • User account management, encryption, and authentication
    • Mobile device and wireless security
  • Software Troubleshooting
    • Diagnosing and resolving OS and application issues
    • Mobile device troubleshooting
    • Security-related software problems
  • Operational Procedures
    • Professional communication and customer support
    • Documentation, ticketing systems, and change management
    • Backup and recovery methods
    • Safety, compliance, licensing, and privacy concepts
    • Basic scripting, automation, and remote access tools
    • Introduction to AI concepts and responsible use

How This Course Helps Students

This course helps students:

  • Prepare confidently for the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) exam
  • Build job-ready skills for roles such as:
    • IT Support Specialist
    • Help Desk Technician
    • Desktop Support Technician
    • Technical Support Analyst
  • Understand real-world IT environments, not just exam theory
  • Develop professional behavior and troubleshooting methodologies expected by employers

Who Should Take This Course

This course is ideal for:

  • Beginners entering the IT field
  • Students preparing for CompTIA A+ certification
  • Help desk and technical support professionals
  • Career changers looking for an entry point into IT

Recommended experience:
Approximately 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support or help desk role (not mandatory but helpful).


Certification, Validity, and Renewal

  • Certification Earned: CompTIA A+ (after passing Core 1 and Core 2 exams)
  • Certification Validity: 3 years from the date of certification
  • Renewal Options:
    • Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
    • Passing a higher-level CompTIA certification
    • Completing CompTIA CertMaster CE

CompTIA A+ is part of CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program, ensuring certified professionals stay current with evolving technologies.


Exam Information (Core 2 – 220-1202)

  • Number of Questions: Maximum 90
  • Question Types: Multiple-choice and performance-based
  • Exam Duration: 90 minutes
  • Passing Score: 700 (on a scale of 100–900)
  • Exam Weighting:
    • Operating Systems – 28%
    • Security – 28%
    • Software Troubleshooting – 23%
    • Operational Procedures – 21%

Summary

The CompTIA A+ 220-1202 Exam Objectives (3.0) course equips students with essential IT support, security, troubleshooting, and professional skills required in today’s technology-driven workplaces. It serves as a strong foundation for an IT career and is widely trusted by employers across the globe.



1.0 Operating Systems (28%)

1.1 Explain common operating system (OS) types and their purposes

1.2 Given a scenario, perform OS installations and upgrades in a diverse environment.

1.3 Compare and contrast basic features of Microsoft Windows editions.

1.4 Given a scenario, use Microsoft Windows operating system features and tools.

1.5 Given a scenario, use the appropriate Microsoft command-line tools.

1.6 Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows settings

1.7 Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows networking features on a client/desktop

1.8 Explain common features and tools of the macOS/desktop operating system

−File types

−App Store

−Uninstallation process

−Backups
−Antivirus
−Updates/patches
−Rapid Security Response (RSR)

−Displays
−Networks
−Printers
−Scanners
−Privacy
−Accessibility
−Time Machine

−Multiple desktops
−Mission Control
−Keychain
−Spotlight
−iCloud
◦ iMessage
◦ FaceTime
◦ Drive
−Gestures
−Finder
−Dock
−Continuity

1.9 Identify common features and tools of the Linux client/desktop operating system.

1.10 Given a scenario, install applications according to requirements.

1.11 Given a scenario, install applications and cloud-based productivity tools


2.0 Security (28%)

2.1 Summarize physical and logical security measures

2.2 Given a scenario, configure and apply basic Microsoft Windows OS security settings.

2.3 Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods.

2.4 Summarize types of malware and tools/methods for detection, removal, and prevention.

2.5 Compare and contrast social engineering attacks, threats, and vulnerabilities

2.6 Given a scenario, implement procedures for basic small office/home office (SOHO) malware
removal.

  1. Investigate and verify
    malware symptoms.
  2. Quarantine infected system.
  3. Disable System Restore in Windows Home.
  4. Remediate infected systems.
  5. Update anti-malware software.
  6. Scan and removal techniques (e.g., safe mode, preinstallation environment)
  7. Reimage/reinstall.
  8. Schedule scans and run updates.
  9. Enable System Restore and create a restore point in Windows Home.
  10. Educate the end user.

2.7 Given a scenario, apply workstation security options and hardening techniques.

2.8 Given a scenario, apply common methods for securing mobile devices.

2.9 Compare and contrast data destruction and disposal methods

2.10 Given a scenario, apply security settings on SOHO wireless and wired networks.

2.11 Given a scenario, configure relevant security settings in a browser.


3.0 Software Troubleshooting (23%)

3.1 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common Windows OS issues.

3.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application security issues

3.3 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile OS and application security issues.

3.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common personal computer (PC) security issues.


4.0 Operational Procedures (21%)

4.1 Given a scenario, implement best practices associated with documentation and support
systems information management.

4.2 Given a scenario, apply change management procedures.

4.3 Given a scenario, implement workstation backup and recovery methods.

4.4 Given a scenario, use proper safety procedures

4.5 Summarize environmental impacts and local environment controls.

4.6 Explain the importance of prohibited content/activity and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts.

4.7 Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism.

4.8 Explain the basics of scripting.

4.9 Given a scenario, use remote access technologies.

4.10 Explain basic concepts related to artificial intelligence (AI).

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