The Integrated CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) Study Guide [155 Minute Read]

How to Use This Guide

Welcome to your study guide for the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) exam. This guide is structured to align 1:1 with the official exam objectives, with each objective covered in its own dedicated section.

Structure Overview:

• Phase 1 establishes foundational concepts and the troubleshooting methodology you'll apply throughout
• Phases 2–5 cover the four exam domains: Operating Systems (28%), Security (28%), Software Troubleshooting (23%), and Operational Procedures (21%)
• Phase 6 provides exam strategies and practice questions
• Phase 7 is a glossary for quick reference

Each section includes practical scenarios, diagnostic paths, and reflection questions. Start with Phase 1 to build the mental framework, then work through the domains in order or focus on your weakest areas.

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(Table of Contents - For Reference)

• Phase 1: Foundational Technician Concepts

  • 1.1. Exam Foundations
  • 1.2. The Technician's Mindset
    • 1.2.1. The Technician's Mindset: A Problem-Solving Approach
    • 1.2.2. The Core Troubleshooting Methodology
      • 1.2.2.1. 💡 First Principle: Identify the Problem
      • 1.2.2.2. 💡 First Principle: Establish a Theory of Probable Cause
      • 1.2.2.3. 💡 First Principle: Test the Theory to Determine Cause
      • 1.2.2.4. 💡 First Principle: Establish a Plan and Implement the Solution
      • 1.2.2.5. 💡 First Principle: Verify Full System Functionality
      • 1.2.2.6. 💡 First Principle: Document Findings, Actions, and Outcomes
  • 1.3. Reflection Checkpoint: Foundational Concepts Mastery

• Phase 2: Operating Systems

  • 2.1. Domain 1.0 - Operating Systems
    • 2.1.1. Explain common operating system (OS) types and their purposes. (Obj. 1.1)
    • 2.1.2. Perform OS installations and upgrades in a diverse environment. (Obj. 1.2)
    • 2.1.3. Compare and contrast basic features of Microsoft Windows editions. (Obj. 1.3)
    • 2.1.4. Use Microsoft Windows operating system features and tools. (Obj. 1.4)
    • 2.1.5. Use the appropriate Microsoft command-line tools. (Obj. 1.5)
    • 2.1.6. Configure Microsoft Windows settings. (Obj. 1.6)
    • 2.1.7. Configure Microsoft Windows networking features on a client/desktop. (Obj. 1.7)
    • 2.1.8. Explain common features and tools of the macOS/desktop operating system. (Obj. 1.8)
    • 2.1.9. Identify common features and tools of the Linux client/desktop operating system. (Obj. 1.9)
    • 2.1.10. Install applications according to requirements. (Obj. 1.10)
    • 2.1.11. Install and configure cloud-based productivity tools. (Obj. 1.11)
  • 2.2. Reflection Checkpoint: Operating Systems Mastery

• Phase 3: Security

  • 3.1. Domain 2.0 - Security
    • 3.1.1. Summarize various security measures and their purposes. (Obj. 2.1)
    • 3.1.2. Configure and apply basic Microsoft Windows OS security settings. (Obj. 2.2)
    • 3.1.3. Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods. (Obj. 2.3)
    • 3.1.4. Summarize types of malware and tools/methods for detection, removal, and prevention. (Obj. 2.4)
    • 3.1.5. Compare and contrast common social engineering attacks, threats, and vulnerabilities. (Obj. 2.5)
    • 3.1.6. Implement procedures for basic small office/home office (SOHO) malware removal. (Obj. 2.6)
    • 3.1.7. Apply workstation security options and hardening techniques. (Obj. 2.7)
    • 3.1.8. Apply common methods for securing mobile devices. (Obj. 2.8)
    • 3.1.9. Compare and contrast common data destruction and disposal methods. (Obj. 2.9)
    • 3.1.10. Apply security settings on SOHO wireless and wired networks. (Obj. 2.10)
    • 3.1.11. Configure relevant security settings in a browser. (Obj. 2.11)
  • 3.2. Reflection Checkpoint: Security Mastery

• Phase 4: Software Troubleshooting

  • 4.1. Domain 3.0 - Software Troubleshooting
    • 4.1.1. Troubleshoot common Windows OS issues. (Obj. 3.1)
    • 4.1.2. Troubleshoot common mobile OS and application issues. (Obj. 3.2)
    • 4.1.3. Troubleshoot common mobile OS and application security issues. (Obj. 3.3)
    • 4.1.4. Troubleshoot common personal computer (PC) security issues. (Obj. 3.4)
  • 4.2. Reflection Checkpoint: Software Troubleshooting Mastery

• Phase 5: Operational Procedures

  • 5.1. Domain 4.0 - Operational Procedures
    • 5.1.1. Implement best practices associated with documentation and support systems. (Obj. 4.1)
    • 5.1.2. Apply change management procedures. (Obj. 4.2)
    • 5.1.3. Implement workstation backup and recovery methods. (Obj. 4.3)
    • 5.1.4. Use common safety procedures. (Obj. 4.4)
    • 5.1.5. Summarize environmental impacts and local environment controls. (Obj. 4.5)
    • 5.1.6. Explain the importance of prohibited content/activity and privacy, licensing, and policy concepts. (Obj. 4.6)
    • 5.1.7. Use proper communication techniques and professionalism. (Obj. 4.7)
    • 5.1.8. Explain the basics of scripting. (Obj. 4.8)
    • 5.1.9. Use remote access technologies. (Obj. 4.9)
    • 5.1.10. Explain basic concepts related to artificial intelligence (AI). (Obj. 4.10)
  • 5.2. Reflection Checkpoint: Operational Procedures Mastery

• Phase 6: Exam Readiness & Beyond

  • 6.1. Exam Preparation Strategies
    • 6.1.1. Exam Structure, Question Types, and Scoring
    • 6.1.2. Tackling Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
    • 6.1.3. Sample Questions (Categorized by Domain)
  • 6.2. Beyond the Exam: A Career in IT
    • 6.2.1. Beyond the Exam: A Career in IT
  • 6.3. Reflection Checkpoint: Exam Readiness & Beyond Mastery
    • 6.3.1. Visual Reference Guide
    • 6.3.2. Hands-On Lab Exercises
      • 6.3.2.1. Lab 1: Windows Troubleshooting Tools
      • 6.3.2.2. Lab 2: Command Line Fundamentals
      • 6.3.2.3. Lab 3: User and Security Management
      • 6.3.2.4. Lab 4: Malware Removal Simulation
      • 6.3.2.5. Lab 5: Backup and Recovery
      • 6.3.2.6. Lab 6: Remote Access Configuration
      • 6.3.2.7. Lab 7: PowerShell Basics
      • 6.3.2.8. Virtual Lab Resources

• Phase 7: Glossary

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