The CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) is an exam that will cover everything from software and hardware, to network security. This exam will cover installing and configuring operating systems, expanded security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Moreover, this certification course is the preferred performance-based qualifying credential for technical support and for IT operational roles. The CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) certification also gets regularly re-invented by IT experts to ensure that it properly validates the core skills and abilities demanded in the workplace. You can also get the credential with performance-based items to perform critical IT support tasks at the moment and that can be truly a great boost to your career.
CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2): Overview
Before you begin your exam preparation, the first thing to do is to understand the intricacies of the exam and what it has to offer. The CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) certification has got huge scope. Various companies hire computer support specialists who are well-trained or properly certified in this particular course. Also according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of computer support specialists will grow 12% by 2024. That is why professional certifications in this course are high in demand. Furthermore, after computer support specialists, this course also supports other roles that include Help Desk Tier 2 Support, Desktop Support Analyst, and Field Service, Technician. Also, one can become Associate Network Engineer or End-User Computing Technician after completing this course.
Exam Format
After making yourself clear with the format of the exam, and type of potential questions, it becomes easy deal to plan for the exam and perform better –
- In the CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) exam, there will about 90 questions and the duration for the exam will be 90 minutes. You have to be really quick to attempt all the questions.
- The format of the exam will be multiple-choice and multiple-response. You are required to use the technique of eliminating and select. Therefore, try to eliminate options that do not suit the requirement and go for the best match.
- This exam will cost you $226 USD.
- Also, the passing score is 675 (on a scale of 100-900).
- Further, the exam is offered in different languages for your convenience – English, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Thai, and Spanish
- Multiple Choice Questions: Such questions have only one correct response and the other three are incorrect responses (distractors).
- Multiple Response Questions: Such questions have two or more correct responses out of a total of five or more options. So, with questions having more than one correct answer you must evaluate your options and choose the ones that best meet your requirements.
Course Outline
The CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) exam is designed to provide deep technical training to the candidates in the field of IT support which includes support tasks for mobile devices, networking, and IT hardware devices. This exam will consist of 4 domains, namely- Operating Systems, Security, Software Troubleshooting, and Operational Procedures. Below mentioned is the detailed information regarding the domains and also the weightage of each domain.
Operating Systems 27%
- Firstly, Compare and contrast common operating system types and their purposes.
- Compare and contrast features of Microsoft Windows versions.
- Summarize general OS installation considerations and upgrade methods.
- Also, Given a scenario, use appropriate Microsoft command-line tools.
- Given a scenario, use Microsoft operating system features and tools.
- Then, Given a scenario, use Microsoft Windows Control Panel utilities.
- Summarize application installation and configuration concepts.
- Given a scenario, configure Microsoft Windows networking on a client/desktop.
- Finally, Given a scenario, use features and tools of the Mac OS and Linux client/desktop operating systems.
Security 24%
- Firstly, Summarize the importance of physical security measures.
- Explain logical security concepts.
- Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods.
- Given a scenario, detect, remove, and prevent malware using appropriate tools and methods.
- Also, compare and contrast social engineering, threats, and vulnerabilities.
- Compare and contrast the differences of basic Microsoft Windows OS security settings.
- Then, Given a scenario, implement security best practices to secure a workstation.
- Given a scenario, implement methods for securing mobile devices.
- Given a scenario, implement appropriate data destruction and disposal methods.
- Finally, Given a scenario, configure security on SOHO wireless and wired networks.
Software Troubleshooting 26%
- Firstly, Given a scenario, troubleshoot Microsoft Windows OS problems.
- Given a scenario, troubleshoot and resolve PC security issues.
- Also, Given a scenario, use best practice procedures for malware removal.
- Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application issues.
- Finally, Given a scenario, troubleshoot mobile OS and application security issues.
Operational Procedures 23%
- Firstly, Compare and contrast best practices associated with types of documentation.
- Given a scenario, implement basic change management best practices.
- Given a scenario, implement basic disaster prevention and recovery methods.
- Explain common safety procedures.
- Explain environmental impacts and appropriate controls.
- Also, Explain the processes for addressing prohibited content/ activity, and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts.
- Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism.
- Identify the basics of scripting.
- Finally, Given a scenario, use remote access technologies.
Learning Resources: CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) Exam
Choosing the best resources for preparation is the foundation that you are creating for success in the CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) exam. Get the most suitable learning resources for your preparation as it will definitely make a difference. It is the most vital and important step. You can also join the online CompTIA community as it will bring more ease if you are not comfortable speaking publically. It not only gives you the opportunity to engage with candidates from other places but you will also learn alongside candidates ranging from different professional backgrounds, and life experiences. This will surely enrich your knowledge in an unexpected way.
You can also go for Instructor-led Training, as nothing can really beat personalized learning. Also, it is very flexible for both the candidates and for the instructor. Moreover, it brings expertise directly to the learners and provides hands-on learning opportunities. Further, these trainings are also highly effective in terms of knowledge retention.
Finally, after the above-mentioned sources of learning, another important thing is to take as many practice tests as you can. This will help you analyze your preparation and know the topics which you have not mastered yet and will encourage you to focus more on future learning in your weak areas. In addition to the above-mentioned learning resources, we also provide CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) Online Tutorial and Free Practice Tests to help you in your preparation. The tutorials provide a well-elaborated guide that serves as a roadmap in your career. Also, it contains the necessary study resources, that’ll enhance your knowledge. The tutorials will be worth referring to throughout your journey towards the CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) certification.
Expert’s Corner
There’s nothing wrong in saying that no certification can really replace the importance that the CompTIA A+ 220-1002 (Core 2) certification has. This certification will definitely help you land a great IT job in the first place. It’ll prepare you as a technician with expertise in troubleshooting problems from networks to mobile devices, and in operating systems. With the right strategy of preparation and suitable study material, you can easily pass this certification. Apart from the books, and training, practice tests play a key role in helping you identify your strengths and weaknesses before the exam and also stimulate revision which very essential to clear any exam. So do not forget to brush up your skills with our free practice tests. Start Practicing Now!
