This comprehensive guide covers the four major domains of the Core 2 (220-1102) CompTIA A+ certification exam. Perfect for aspiring help desk technicians, field service techs, and IT support professionals.
🖥️ 1.0 Operating Systems
31%
Windows editions: Home,
Pro, Enterprise, features like BitLocker, RDP, domain joining.
CLI tools: ipconfig,
chkdsk, net user, sfc, etc.
Control Panel & Settings:
Configure Firewall, Power Options, Device Manager.
OS management: Use Task
Manager, Event Viewer, MMC snap-ins, msconfig.
Networking: VPN setup,
proxy, static/dynamic IPs, private vs. public networks.
Application installation:
Requirements, distribution methods, OS compatibility.
OS types: Windows, Linux,
macOS, Android, iOS, Chrome OS.
Install methods: Clean,
recovery, dual boot, image deployment.
macOS tools: Keychain, Disk
Utility, Terminal, System Preferences.
Linux tools: sudo, apt-get,
grep, nano, chown, etc.
🔒 2.0 Security
25%
Physical security: Locks,
biometrics, motion sensors, video surveillance.
SANS Institute ↗
Logical security: MFA,
ACLs, AD groups, principle of least privilege.
NIST Framework ↗
Wireless security: WPA3,
WPA2, RADIUS, TACACS+.
Wi-Fi Alliance ↗
Malware tools: Remove
trojans, ransomware, keyloggers, rootkits.
Kaspersky Resources ↗
Social engineering:
Phishing, whaling, tailgating, impersonation.
CISA Guide ↗
Threat mitigation: DDoS,
spoofing, SQLi, XSS, zero-day vulnerabilities.
OWASP ↗
Windows security:
BitLocker, UAC, group policies, file permissions.
Microsoft Docs ↗
Device hardening: Screen
locks, MDM, failed login lockouts, encryption.
CIS Security ↗
🔧 3.0 Software Troubleshooting
22%
Windows issues: BSOD,
slow boot, failed services, profile errors.
Security symptoms:
Popups, antivirus alerts, file changes, browser redirects.
Malware removal: Safe
mode scan, restore, reimage, user education.
Mobile OS problems:
Crashing apps, connectivity issues, screen not rotating.
Mobile security: APK
concerns, fake apps, performance slowdown, data leaks.
⚙️ 4.0 Operational Procedures
22%
Documentation: Tickets,
asset tags, AUPs, network diagrams, SOPs.
Change management:
Approvals, rollback plans, scope and risk.
Backup: Full, incremental,
differential; rotation strategies; 3-2-1 rule.
Safety: ESD protection,
lifting, fire safety, power safety.
OSHA ↗
Environmental: Ventilation,
proper disposal of e-waste, surge protection.
EPA Guide ↗
Policy & law: Chain of
custody, DRM, EULA, PII regulations.
GDPR Info ↗
Communication: Listen, avoid
jargon, professionalism, follow-up.
MindTools ↗
Scripting: .bat, .ps1, .sh
for automation and task execution.
Codecademy ↗
Remote access: VPN, SSH,
MSRA, VNC, third-party remote tools.
Cisco VPN ↗
💡 Study Tips & Success Strategy
📚
Practice Hands-On
Set up virtual machines and practice the commands and procedures
🎯
Focus on Weak Areas
Spend extra time on domains where you score lower in practice tests
⏰
Time Management
Practice with timed mock exams to improve your pace
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
The CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) is the second of two exams
required for A+ certification. It covers operating systems,
security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.
The exam consists of 90 questions with a 90-minute time limit and
requires a passing score of 700 out of 900.
The CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) exam costs $246 USD per attempt.
Academic pricing and exam vouchers with discounts may be available
through CompTIA partners and training providers.
Most candidates study for 30-60 hours over 4-8 weeks for the A+
Core 2 exam. The exact time depends on your IT experience,
familiarity with operating systems and security concepts, and
study habits. Hands-on practice with Windows, Linux, and macOS is
highly recommended.
The A+ Core 2 exam covers four domains:
1) Operating Systems (31%) - Windows, macOS,
Linux, and mobile OS; 2) Security (25%) -
physical and logical security, malware removal, social
engineering; 3) Software Troubleshooting (22%) -
OS issues, malware symptoms, mobile problems;
4) Operational Procedures (22%) - documentation,
change management, safety, communication.
While not technically required, hands-on experience is strongly
recommended. The exam includes performance-based questions (PBQs)
that simulate real-world tasks like configuring Windows settings,
troubleshooting security issues, and using command-line tools.
Practice with virtual machines or lab environments significantly
improves your chances of passing.
A+ Core 1 (220-1101) focuses on hardware, networking basics,
mobile devices, and troubleshooting. A+ Core 2 (220-1102) focuses
on operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and
operational procedures. You must pass both exams to earn the
CompTIA A+ certification.
The CompTIA A+ certification is valid for 3 years from the date
you pass both exams. To maintain your certification, you must earn
20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within the 3-year period, or
renew by passing a higher-level CompTIA exam like Network+ or
Security+.
CompTIA A+ certification qualifies you for entry-level IT
positions including Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support
Specialist, IT Support Specialist, Field Service Technician, and
Technical Support Specialist. The certification demonstrates
foundational IT skills valued by employers across industries.
Yes, you can take the CompTIA A+ exams in any order. However, most
candidates prefer taking Core 1 first as it covers foundational
hardware and networking concepts that provide context for the
software and security topics in Core 2.
The A+ Core 2 exam includes approximately 90 questions in two
formats: multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions
(PBQs). PBQs are interactive simulations where you complete tasks
like configuring settings or troubleshooting issues. You have 90
minutes to complete the exam, and the passing score is 700 out of
900.