CompTIA A+ Certification Training

"The A+ classes were instructed in a professional, informative manner with attention given to all students (including myself) who required further explanation. The instructor presented himself and CED Solutions in the most impressive way possible. He is very knowledgeable in all subject matter, which I found very helpful. I will not hesitate to gain further CompTIA certifications from this instructor and this company."

-J Carr, Holly Springs, NC

Custom Training Quote

• Aug 17 - Aug 22, 2013
• Nov 09 - Nov 14, 2013

• Includes roundtrip airfare and lodging
  
  (Atlanta and Fort Lauderdale boot camps only)
• Hands-on instruction by a certified instructor
• Includes all course materials and practice exams
• Onsite Testing
• Breakfast and Lunch provided each day

Can't travel or you want to stay with your family or business. No problem! Stay in your own city and save the additional expenses of roundtrip airfare, lodging, transportation, and meals and receive the same great instruction live from our instructors in our Live Instructor-Led Remote Classroom Training.

Remote Classroom Training

Our Remote Classroom Training is a live class with students observing the instructor and listening through your computer speakers. You will see the instructor's computer, slides, notes, etc., just like in the classroom. You will be following along, doing work, labs, and individual assignments.

The CompTIA A+ certification is the starting point for a career in IT. The exam covers maintenance of PCs, mobile devices, laptops, operating systems and printers. In order to receive the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams:

CompTIA A+ 220-801 covers the fundamentals of computer technology, installation and configuration of PCs, laptops and related hardware, and basic networking.

CompTIA A+ 220-802 covers the skills required to install and configure PC operating systems, as well as configuring common features (e.g. network connectivity and email) for mobile operating systems Android and Apple iOS.

• CompTIA A+ 220-801
• CompTIA A+ 220-802

Jobs that use CompTIA A+

• Technical support specialist
• Field service technician
• IT support technician
• IT support administrator
• IT support specialist

Individuals in some non-technical roles such as student, sales personnel or small business office managers may also find the validation of skills associated with the CompTIA A+ credential to be valuable.

CompTIA A+ 220-801

The CompTIA A+ 220-801 examination measures necessary competencies for an entry-level IT professional with the equivalent knowledge of at least 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field. Successful candidates will have the knowledge required to assemble components based on customer requirements, install, configure and maintain devices, PCs and software for end users, understand the basics of networking and security/forensics, properly and safely diagnose, resolve and document common hardware and software issues while applying troubleshooting skills. Successful candidates will also provide appropriate customer support; understand the basics of virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment.

Course Outline

1.0 PC Hardware

1.1 Configure and apply BIOS settings.

• Install firmware upgrades - flash BIOS
• BIOS component information
• BIOS configurations
• BIOS security (passwords, drive encryption: TPM, lo-jack)
• Use built-in diagnostics
• Monitoring

1.2 Differentiate between motherboard components, their purposes, and properties.

• Sizes
• Expansion slots
• RAM slots
• CPU sockets
• Chipsets
• Jumpers
• Power connections and types
• Fan connectors
• Front panel connectors
• Bus speeds

1.3 Compare and contrast RAM types and features.

• Types
• Single channel vs. dual channel vs. triple channel
• RAM compatibility and speed

1.4 Install and configure expansion cards.

• Sound cards
• Video cards
• Network cards
• Serial and parallel cards
• USB cards
• Firewire cards
• Storage cards
• Modem cards
• Wireless/cellular cards
• TV tuner cards
• Video capture cards
• Riser cards

1.5 Install and configure storage devices and use appropriate media.

• Optical drives
• Combo drives and burners
• Connection types
• USB
• Firewire
• eSATA
• Ethernet
• IDE configuration and setup (Master, Slave, Cable Select)
• SCSI IDs (0 - 15)
• Hard drives
• Solid state/flash drives
• RAID types
• Floppy drive
• Tape drive
• Media capacity

1.6 Differentiate among various CPU types and features and select the appropriate cooling method.

• Socket types
• Characteristics
• Cooling

1.7 Compare and contrast various connection interfaces and explain their purpose.

• Physical connections
• Connector types: A, B, mini, micro
• Serial
• Parallel
• VGA
• HDMI
• DVI
• Audio
• RJ-45
• RJ-11
• VGA vs. HDMI
• Speeds, distances and frequencies of wireless device connections

1.8 Install an appropriate power supply based on a given scenario.

• Connector types and their voltages
• Specifications
• Dual voltage options

1.9 Evaluate and select appropriate components for a custom configuration, to meet customer specifications or needs.

• Graphic / CAD / CAM design workstation
• Audio/Video editing workstation
• Virtualization workstation
• Gaming PC
• Home Theater PC
• Standard thick client
• Thin client
• Home Server PC

1.10 Given a scenario, evaluate types and features of display devices.

• Types
• Refresh rates
• Resolution
• Native resolution
• Brightness/lumens
• Analog vs. digital
• Privacy/antiglare filters
• Multiple displays

1.11 Identify connector types and associated cables.

• Display connector types
• Display cable types
• Device connectors and pin arrangements
• IDE
• EIDE
• Device cable types
• 68pin vs. 50pin vs. 25pin

1.12 Install and configure various peripheral devices.

• Input devices
• Multimedia devices
• Output devices

2.0 Networking

2.1 Identify types of network cables and connectors.

• Fiber
• Twisted Pair
• Coaxial

2.2 Categorize characteristics of connectors and cabling.

• Fiber
• Twisted pair
• Coaxial

2.3 Explain properties and characteristics of TCP/IP.

• IP class
• IPv4 vs. IPv6
• Public vs. private vs. APIPA
• Static vs. dynamic
• Client-side DNS
• DHCP
• Subnet mask
• Gateway

2.4 Explain common TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purpose.

• Ports
• Protocols
• TCP vs. UDP

2.5 Compare and contrast wireless networking standards and encryption types.

• Standards
• Encryption types

2.6 Install, configure, and deploy a SOHO wireless/wired router using appropriate settings.

• MAC filtering
• Channels (1 - 11)
• Port forwarding, port triggering
• SSID broadcast (on/off)
• Wireless encryption
• Firewall
• DHCP (on/off)
• DMZ
• NAT
• WPS
• Basic QoS

2.7 Compare and contrast Internet connection types and features.

• Cable
• DSL
• Dial-up
• Fiber
• Satellite
• ISDN
• Cellular (mobile hotspot)
• Line of sight wireless internet service
• WiMAX

2.8 Identify various types of networks.

• LAN
• WAN
• PAN
• MAN
• Topologies

2.9 Compare and contrast network devices, their functions, and features.

• Hub
• Switch
• Router
• Access point
• Bridge
• Modem
• NAS
• Firewall
• VoIP phones
• Internet appliance

2.10 Given a scenario, use appropriate networking tools.

• Crimper
• Multimeter
• Toner probe
• Cable tester
• Loopback plug
• Punchdown tool

3.0 Laptops

3.1 Install and configure laptop hardware and components.

• Expansion options
• Hardware/device replacement

3.2 Compare and contrast the components within the display of a laptop.

• Types
• Wi-Fi antenna connector/placement
• Inverter and its function
• Backlight

3.3 Compare and contrast laptop features.

• Special function keys
• Docking station vs. port replicator
• Physical laptop lock and cable lock

4.0 Printers

4.1 Explain the differences between the various printer types and summarize the associated imaging process.

• Laser
• Inkjet
• Thermal
• Impact

4.2 Given a scenario, install, and configure printers.

• Use appropriate printer drivers for a given operating system
• Print device sharing
• USB
• Parallel
• Serial
• Ethernet
• Bluetooth
• 802.11x
• Infrared (IR)
• Printer sharing

4.3 Given a scenario, perform printer maintenance.

• Laser
• Thermal
• Impact

5.0 Operational Procedures

5.1 Given a scenario, use appropriate safety procedures.

• ESD straps
• ESD mats
• Self-grounding
• Equipment grounding
• Personal safety
• Compliance with local government regulations

5.2 Explain environmental impacts and the purpose of environmental controls.

• MSDS documentation for handling and disposal
• Temperature, humidity level awareness and proper ventilation
• Power surges, brownouts, blackouts
• Protection from airborne particles
• Dust and debris
• Component handling and protection
• Compliance to local government regulations

5.3 Given a scenario, demonstrate proper communication and professionalism.

• Use proper language - avoid jargon, acronyms, slang when applicable
• Maintain a positive attitude
• Listen and do not interrupt the customer
• Be culturally sensitive
• Be on time (if late contact the customer)
• Avoid distractions
• Dealing with difficult customer or situation
• Set and meet expectations/timeline and communicate status with the customer
• Deal appropriately with customers confidential materials

5.4 Explain the fundamentals of dealing with prohibited content/activity.

• First response
• Use of documentation/documentation changes
• Chain of custody

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CompTIA A+ 220-802

The CompTIA A+ 220-802 examination measures necessary competencies for an entry-level IT professional with the equivalent knowledge of at least 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field. Successful candidates will have the knowledge required to assemble components based on customer requirements, install, configure and maintain devices, PCs and software for end users, understand the basics of networking and security/forensics, properly and safely diagnose, resolve and document common hardware and software issues while applying troubleshooting skills. Successful candidates will also provide appropriate customer support; understand the basics of virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment.

Course Outline

1.0 Operating Systems

1.1 Compare and contrast the features and requirements of various Microsoft Operating Systems.

• Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional, Windows XP Media Center, Windows XP 64-bit Professional
• Windows Vista Home Basic, Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business, Windows Vista Ultimate, Windows Vista Enterprise
• Windows 7 Starter, Windows 7 Home Premium, Windows 7 Professional, Windows 7 Ultimate, Windows 7 Enterprise
• Features
• Upgrade paths - differences between in place upgrades, compatibility tools, Windows upgrade OS advisor

1.2 Given a scenario, install, and configure the operating system using the most appropriate method.

• Boot methods
• Type of installations
• Partitioning
• File system types/formatting
• Load alternate third party drivers when necessary
• Workgroup vs. Domain setup
• Time/date/region/language settings
• Driver installation, software and windows updates
• Factory recovery partition

1.3 Given a scenario, use appropriate command line tools.

• Networking
• OS
• Recovery console

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

• Administrative
• MSCONFIG
• Task Manager
• Disk management
• Other
• Run line utilities

1.5 Given a scenario, use Control Panel utilities (the items are organized by "classic view/large icons" in Windows).

• Common to all Microsoft Operating Systems
• Unique to Windows XP
• Unique to Vista
• Unique to Windows 7

1.6 Setup and configure Windows networking on a client/desktop.

• HomeGroup, file/print sharing
• WorkGroup vs. domain setup
• Network shares/mapping drives
• Establish networking connections
• Proxy settings
• Remote desktop
• Home vs. Work vs. Public network settings
• Firewall settings
• Configuring an alternative IP address in Windows
• Network card properties

1.7 Perform preventive maintenance procedures using appropriate tools.

• Best practices
• Tools

1.8 Explain the differences among basic OS security settings.

• User and groups
• NTFS vs. Share permissions
• Shared files and folders
• System files and folders
• User authentication

1.9 Explain the basics of client-side virtualization.

• Purpose of virtual machines
• Resource requirements
• Emulator requirements
• Security requirements
• Network requirements
• Hypervisor

2.0 Security

2.1 Apply and use common prevention methods.

• Physical security
• Digital security
• User education
• Principle of least privilege

2.2 Compare and contrast common security threats.

• Social engineering
• Malware
• Rootkits
• Phishing
• Shoulder surfing
• Spyware
• Viruses

2.3 Implement security best practices to secure a workstation.

• Setting strong passwords
• Requiring passwords
• Restricting user permissions
• Changing default user names
• Disabling guest account
• Screensaver required password
• Disable autorun

2.4 Given a scenario, use the appropriate data destruction/disposal method.

• Low level format vs. standard format
• Hard drive sanitation and sanitation methods
• Physical destruction

2.5 Given a scenario, secure a SOHO wireless network.

• Change default user-names and passwords
• Changing SSID
• Setting encryption
• Disabling SSID broadcast
• Enable MAC filtering
• Antenna and access point placement
• Radio power levels
• Assign static IP addresses

2.6 Given a scenario, secure a SOHO wired network.

• Change default usernames and passwords
• Enable MAC filtering
• Assign static IP addresses
• Disabling ports
• Physical security

3.0 Mobile Devices

3.1 Explain the basic features of mobile operating systems.

• Android 4.0.x vs. iOS 5.x

3.2 Establish basic network connectivity and configure email.

• Wireless / cellular data network (enable/disable)
• Bluetooth
• Email configuration
• POP3
• IMAP
• Port and SSL settings

3.3 Compare and contrast methods for securing mobile devices.

• Passcode locks
• Remote wipes
• Locator applications
• Remote backup applications
• Failed login attempts restrictions
• Antivirus
• Patching/OS updates

3.4 Compare and contrast hardware differences in regards to tablets and laptops.

• No field serviceable parts
• Typically not upgradeable
• Touch interface
• Solid state drives

3.5 Execute and configure mobile device synchronization.

• Types of data to synchronize
• Software requirements to install the application on the PC
• Connection types to enable synchronization

4.0 Troubleshooting

4.1 Given a scenario, explain the troubleshooting theory.

• Identify the problem
• Establish a theory of probable cause (question the obvious)
• Test the theory to determine cause
• Establish a plan of action to resolve the problem and implement the solution
• Verify full system functionality and if applicable implement preventive measures
• Document findings, actions and outcomes

4.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPU and power with appropriate tools.

• Common symptoms
• Tools

4.3 Given a scenario, troubleshoot hard drives and RAID arrays with appropriate tools.

• Common symptoms
• Tools

4.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common video and display issues.

• Common symptoms

4.5 Given a scenario, troubleshoot wired and wireless networks with appropriate tools.

• Common symptoms
• Tools

4.6 Given a scenario, troubleshoot operating system problems with appropriate tools.

• Common symptoms
• Tools

4.7 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common security issues with appropriate tools and best practices.

• Common symptoms
• Tools
• Best practices for malware removal

4.8 Given a scenario, troubleshoot, and repair common laptop issues while adhering to the appropriate procedures.

• Common symptoms
• Disassembling processes for proper re-assembly

4.9 Given a scenario, troubleshoot printers with appropriate tools

• Common symptoms
• Tools

CED Solutions is your best choice for CompTIA A+, CompTIA A+ training, CompTIA A+ certification, CompTIA A+ boot camp, CompTIA A+ certification training, CompTIA A+ certification course, CompTIA A+ course, CompTIA A+ class.