CompTIA A+ Core 1

Overview

This course provides foundational knowledge for aspiring IT professionals pursuing the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) certification. Learners will build core technical skills in device setup, networking, hardware troubleshooting, and cloud integration. Emphasis is placed on practical application and readiness for real-world IT support roles. This training ensures participants are fully prepared for the 220-1201 exam, and capable of supporting and maintaining today’s mobile and networked computing environments.

Key focus areas include mobile devices, networking fundamentals, PC hardware, virtualisation, cloud services, and hardware/network troubleshooting.

Prerequisites

Participants should have:

• Basic understanding of computer usage and operating systems
• Interest in entering IT support or helpdesk roles
• No prior certification required

Target audience

This course is designed for:

• Entry-level IT professionals and career changers
• School leavers or graduates seeking IT support roles
• Employees needing formal certification to validate hands-on experience

Objectives

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

• Identify and configure components of mobile devices such as laptops and tablets
• Explain basic networking concepts and configure common network devices
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot PC hardware components and peripherals
• Describe virtualisation concepts and deploy cloud-based technologies
• Diagnose and resolve hardware and network issues using a structured approach
• Prepare effectively for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) certification exam

Outline

Mobile devices

• Overview of mobile device types and features
• Configuring and securing laptops, tablets, and smartphones
• Replacing components: screens, keyboards, storage
• Mobile accessories and ports
• Mobile device synchronisation and backup

Networking

• Network hardware: routers, switches, access points
• TCP/IP protocols, addressing, and ports
• Common network configurations and standards
• Wi-Fi setup and troubleshooting
• Internet connections and SOHO network security

Hardware

• PC assembly and disassembly best practices
• Storage devices: SSDs, HDDs, optical drives
• Input/output devices and peripheral configuration
• Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, and power supplies
• Printers: types, installation, and maintenance

Virtualisation and cloud computing

• Basics of virtual machines and host environments
• Cloud service models: IaaS, SaaS, PaaS
• Cloud-based storage and applications
• Benefits and challenges of virtualisation
• Client-side virtualisation tools and setup

Hardware and network troubleshooting

• Diagnosing common hardware issues using troubleshooting tools
• Step-by-step troubleshooting methodologies
• Identifying and resolving network connectivity issues
• Resolving printer problems and configuration errors
• Documentation and escalation procedures

Exams and assessments

This course prepares learners for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) certification exam, taken post course, and included with your course booking.

• Exam format: Maximum of 90 multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions
• Duration: 90 minutes
• Grading: Pass/fail

Participants will also complete scenario-based labs, knowledge checks, and discussions to reinforce exam readiness. An exam voucher is included.

Hands-on learning

This course includes:

• Lab exercises on hardware installation and device configuration
• Network setup simulations using virtual labs
• Guided practice with cloud and virtualisation platforms
• Instructor-led troubleshooting walkthroughs for live diagnostics