CompTIA Tech+

The CompTIA Tech+ Certification (FC0-U71) course equips learners with foundational IT knowledge and skills, providing a steppingstone into IT careers or further professional certifications like CompTIA A+. This course covers computing basics, IT infrastructure, software, databases, and essential security concepts. Learners will gain practical insights into troubleshooting, managing IT environments, and understanding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing.

Key focus areas include IT terminology, system troubleshooting, basic network management, software development principles, and security best practices. Hands-on labs and real-world scenarios help reinforce understanding and build confidence in applying new skills.

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Describe foundational IT concepts, including computing, data, and security.
• Identify and configure key components of IT infrastructure.
• Compare and contrast software applications and their roles in productivity and collaboration.
• Explain database concepts and utilise basic database management tools.
• Implement fundamental security practices to safeguard devices and data.
• Troubleshoot basic technical issues using a structured methodology.

• CompTIA Tech+ is aimed at those considering a career in IT and computer-related fields. Consequently, there are no special prerequisites for you to meet to successfully start this course.

Target Audience

CompTIA Tech+ is a starter qualification for students and career changes to help decide whether they can be successful in pursuing a career in IT.

It is ideal for those with no previous computer experience considering a career as an IT technician or in IT customer support / helpdesk.

1. Introduction to IT concepts and terminology

• Understanding binary, hexadecimal, and other notational systems.
• Overview of computing basics: input, processing, output, and storage.
• Units of measurement: bits, bytes, and processing speeds.
• Applying troubleshooting methodology to identify and resolve problems.

2. IT infrastructure essentials

• Exploring common computing devices (e.g., smartphones, laptops, servers, IoT devices).
• Internal components: motherboards, CPUs, GPUs, storage types, and network interfaces.
• Comparing storage types: local vs. cloud storage.
• Configuring and managing peripheral devices and I/O interfaces.
• Introduction to virtualization and cloud technologies (PaaS, IaaS, SaaS).

3. Applications and software

Purpose and structure of operating systems (e.g., file systems, utilities, processes).

• Using productivity and collaboration software: word processors, email clients, and web browsers.
• Practical browser configuration (e.g., cache clearing, add-ons).
• Exploring AI in applications: chatbots, generative AI, and predictive analytics.

4. Software development concepts

• Types of programming languages: interpreted, compiled, and query languages.
• Fundamental programming concepts: variables, arrays, and functions.
• Introduction to organisational techniques: pseudocode and flowcharting.

5. Data and database fundamentals

• Understanding the value of data and information in decision-making.
• Database concepts: relational vs. non-relational structures, schemas, and tables.
• Basic data backup concepts and solutions.

6. Security essentials

• Exploring confidentiality, integrity, and availability principles.
• Device security practices: authentication, firewalls, and anti-malware.
• Safe browsing and password management.
• Encryption basics: data at rest vs. data in transit.
• Securing wireless networks: SSID management and WPA protocols.