CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Study Guide

The CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam is the second of two exams required for CompTIA A+ certification. While the 1101 focuses on hardware and networking, the 1102 exam tests your knowledge of operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

This comprehensive study guide covers all exam objectives to help you prepare effectively and pass on your first attempt.

Exam Overview

Detail	Information
Exam Code	220-1102
Number of Questions	Maximum of 90
Question Types	Multiple choice, performance-based
Time Limit	90 minutes
Passing Score	700 (on a scale of 100-900)
Prerequisites	None (but 1101 required for full certification)

Exam Objectives Breakdown

The 220-1102 exam covers four main domains:

Domain	Weight
1.0 Operating Systems	31%
2.0 Security	25%
3.0 Software Troubleshooting	22%
4.0 Operational Procedures	22%

Domain 1: Operating Systems (31%)

This is the largest domain and covers Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile operating systems.

1.1 Windows Versions and Features

You need to understand the differences between Windows editions:

Windows 10/11 Editions:

Home - Consumer-focused, basic features
Pro - Business features including BitLocker, Remote Desktop hosting, domain join
Pro for Workstations - High-performance hardware support
Enterprise - Volume licensing, advanced security features

Key Features to Know:

BitLocker and BitLocker To Go (drive encryption)
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
Group Policy (gpedit.msc)
Domain join vs workgroup
Windows Defender and Windows Security

1.2 Windows Settings and Control Panel

Know both the modern Settings app and classic Control Panel:

Settings App Categories:

System (Display, Sound, Notifications, Power)
Devices (Bluetooth, Printers, Mouse)
Network & Internet
Personalization
Apps
Accounts
Time & Language
Gaming
Privacy
Update & Security

Control Panel Applets:

Programs and Features
Device Manager
Network and Sharing Center
System (sysdm.cpl)
User Accounts
Indexing Options
Administrative Tools

1.3 Windows Command Line Tools

Essential commands you must know:

# Navigation and File Management
cd, dir, md/mkdir, rd/rmdir, copy, xcopy, robocopy

# System Information
systeminfo, hostname, whoami

# Network Commands
ipconfig, ping, tracert, netstat, nslookup, net user, net use

# Disk Management
diskpart, chkdsk, sfc /scannow, DISM

# Process Management
tasklist, taskkill

# Group Policy
gpupdate, gpresult

PowerShell Equivalents:

Get-Process, Stop-Process
Get-Service, Start-Service, Stop-Service
Get-EventLog
Get-NetIPConfiguration
Test-Connection

1.4 Windows Networking

Understand network configuration:

IP addressing (static vs DHCP)
DNS configuration
Workgroups vs domains
Network shares and permissions (NTFS vs Share)
Mapped drives
Proxy settings
Windows Firewall configuration

1.5 macOS and Linux Basics

macOS:

System Preferences/Settings
Finder and file management
Terminal and basic commands
Time Machine backups
FileVault encryption
Keychain Access
Disk Utility
Force Quit Applications

Linux:

Common distributions (Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS)
Terminal commands (ls, cd, pwd, grep, chmod, chown, sudo, apt/yum)
File system structure (/home, /etc, /var, /usr)
Package management
Basic shell scripting

1.6 Mobile Operating Systems

iOS and Android:

App installation and management
OS updates
Account setup (Apple ID, Google Account)
Screen security (PIN, pattern, biometrics)
Location services
Mobile device synchronization
Backup methods

Domain 2: Security (25%)

Security is critical for IT professionals. This domain covers threats, prevention, and best practices.

2.1 Physical Security

Bollards and fencing
Security guards
Badge readers and smart cards
Biometrics (fingerprint, retina, facial recognition)
Lighting and cameras
Magnetometers and mantraps
Cable locks for equipment

2.2 Logical Security

Authentication Methods:

Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Something you know (password, PIN)
Something you have (smart card, token)
Something you are (biometrics)

Access Control:

Principle of least privilege
Access control lists (ACLs)
User Account Control (UAC)
NTFS permissions

2.3 Wireless Security

Know these wireless security protocols:

Protocol	Security Level	Notes
WEP	Very Weak	Deprecated, do not use
WPA	Weak	Legacy, avoid if possible
WPA2	Strong	Current standard
WPA3	Strongest	Latest standard

Best Practices:

Disable SSID broadcast (limited effectiveness)
MAC filtering (limited effectiveness)
Strong encryption (WPA2/WPA3)
Complex passwords
Guest network isolation

2.4 Malware Types and Removal

Malware Categories:

Virus - Requires host file, spreads through user action
Worm - Self-replicating, spreads automatically
Trojan - Disguised as legitimate software
Rootkit - Hides deep in the system
Ransomware - Encrypts files, demands payment
Spyware - Monitors user activity
Keylogger - Records keystrokes
Cryptominer - Uses system resources for mining

Malware Removal Process:

Identify symptoms
Quarantine the system
Disable System Restore
Remediate (safe mode, scan, remove)
Schedule scans and updates
Enable System Restore and create restore point
Educate end user

Recognize these attack types:

Phishing - Fraudulent emails seeking credentials
Spear phishing - Targeted phishing attacks
Whaling - Targeting executives
Vishing - Voice phishing (phone calls)
Smishing - SMS phishing
Tailgating - Following authorized person into secure area
Shoulder surfing - Observing screens/keyboards
Dumpster diving - Searching trash for information

2.6 Windows Security Settings

Windows Defender Antivirus
Windows Firewall
BitLocker configuration
EFS (Encrypting File System)
User Account Control (UAC) levels
Login options and requirements

Domain 3: Software Troubleshooting (22%)

This domain tests your ability to diagnose and resolve software issues.

3.1 Troubleshooting Methodology

CompTIA’s official troubleshooting steps:

Identify the problem - Gather information, question users, identify symptoms
Establish a theory - Consider multiple causes, research if needed
Test the theory - Confirm or establish new theory
Establish a plan of action - Plan the fix and consider impacts
Implement the solution - Or escalate if necessary
Verify functionality - Test and implement preventive measures
Document findings - Record actions and outcomes

3.2 Windows Troubleshooting

Boot Issues:

Boot into Safe Mode (F8 or Shift+Restart)
Use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
Startup Repair
System Restore
Reset this PC
sfc /scannow and DISM commands

Common Issues and Solutions:

Symptom	Possible Causes	Solutions
Blue Screen (BSOD)	Driver issues, hardware failure, memory	Safe Mode, update drivers, check RAM
Slow performance	Too many startup programs, malware, low resources	Task Manager, msconfig, malware scan
Application crashes	Corrupted files, compatibility, updates	Reinstall, compatibility mode, updates
No network	Cable, adapter, IP config, DNS	ipconfig, ping, check physical

3.3 Application Installation and Removal

MSI installers
Setup.exe
Windows Store apps
Programs and Features for removal
Application compatibility settings
32-bit vs 64-bit applications

3.4 Mobile Device Troubleshooting

App not loading - Force stop, clear cache, reinstall
Slow performance - Close apps, restart, check storage
Battery drain - Check battery health, close background apps
Connectivity issues - Toggle airplane mode, forget/reconnect network
Screen issues - Restart, check display settings

Domain 4: Operational Procedures (22%)

This domain covers professional practices and documentation.

4.1 Documentation Best Practices

Types of Documentation:

Network diagrams and topologies
Knowledge bases and articles
Incident documentation
Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Change management documentation
Asset inventory

Ticketing System Best Practices:

Clear problem description
Steps already taken
Category and priority assignment
Regular updates
Resolution documentation
User communication

4.2 Change Management

The change management process:

Request - Document the proposed change
Review - Assess impact and risk
Approve - Get proper authorization
Test - Verify in test environment
Schedule - Plan implementation window
Implement - Execute the change
Document - Record all details and outcomes

4.3 Backup and Recovery

Backup Types:

Type	Description	Pros	Cons
Full	All selected data	Complete restore	Time/space intensive
Incremental	Changed since last backup	Fast, small	Slow restore
Differential	Changed since last full	Faster restore than incremental	Larger than incremental

Backup Best Practices:

3-2-1 Rule: 3 copies, 2 media types, 1 offsite
Regular testing of restores
Encryption of backup data
Automated scheduling
Documentation of procedures

4.4 Safety Procedures

Equipment Safety:

ESD (electrostatic discharge) prevention
Proper lifting techniques
Equipment grounding
Disconnect power before servicing
Cable management

Environmental Concerns:

Proper disposal of batteries
Recycling of electronics (e-waste)
Toner cartridge disposal
CRT monitor handling (contain lead)
MSDS/SDS compliance

4.5 Communication and Professionalism

Active listening
Clear communication
Setting and meeting expectations
Dealing with difficult customers
Maintaining confidentiality
Cultural sensitivity
Professional appearance

4.6 Scripting Basics

Understand basic scripting concepts:

Variables and data types
Loops (for, while)
Conditionals (if/else)
Comments
Basic syntax for:
- Batch files (.bat)
- PowerShell (.ps1)
- Bash (.sh)
- Python (.py)
- JavaScript (.js)

Study Tips for Success

1. Hands-On Practice

Theory alone won’t prepare you. Set up practice environments:

Use virtual machines to practice Windows, Linux, and macOS
Configure network settings
Practice command-line tools
Troubleshoot common issues

2. Use Multiple Resources

Combine different study materials:

Official CompTIA study guide
Video courses (Professor Messer, free on YouTube)
Practice exams
Flashcards for memorization
Lab environments

3. Focus on Weak Areas

After taking practice tests, identify domains where you score lowest and dedicate extra time to those topics.

4. Understand Performance-Based Questions

PBQs require you to perform tasks in a simulated environment. Practice:

Command-line operations
Network configuration
Troubleshooting scenarios
Security configurations

5. Time Management

With 90 questions in 90 minutes, you have about 1 minute per question. Flag difficult questions and return to them.

Practice Resources

Free Resources

Professor Messer’s A+ Course - Free video training
ExamCompass - Free practice questions
CompTIA’s official exam objectives PDF

Paid Resources

CompTIA CertMaster Practice
Jason Dion’s Practice Exams (Udemy)
Mike Meyers’ Total Seminars
Kaplan IT Training

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I study for the 1102?

Most candidates spend 4-8 weeks studying, depending on experience level. If you’re already working in IT support, you may need less time.

Should I take 1101 or 1102 first?

CompTIA recommends taking 1101 first since some 1102 concepts build on 1101 knowledge. However, you can take them in either order.

How many times can I retake the exam?

You can retake the exam as many times as needed, but you must wait 14 days between attempts. There’s no waiting period after the first attempt.

Is the A+ certification worth it?

Yes, especially for entry-level IT positions. The A+ is widely recognized and often required for help desk and technical support roles. See our IT certification guide for more career advice.

How long is the certification valid?

CompTIA A+ is valid for 3 years. You can renew by earning continuing education units (CEUs) or passing a higher-level CompTIA exam.

Conclusion

The CompTIA A+ 220-1102 exam tests practical knowledge that every IT professional needs. Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts, and supplement your studying with hands-on practice.

Remember: the goal isn’t just to pass the exam, but to build a foundation for your IT career. The skills you learn preparing for the A+ will serve you throughout your professional journey.

Ready to advance your IT career? Check out our guides on penetration testing and security tools for your next steps after certification.

Good luck with your exam!