CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 1 Exam Objectives
Want a clear, plain-English map of the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 1 Exam Objectives? This guide explains the domains, typical tasks you’ll be tested on, and practical study tips—so you can focus on what matters and build a pass-ready study plan.
Last updated: November 9, 2025. Always verify against the official CompTIA blueprint before your exam.
TL;DR: The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 1 Exam Objectives cover modern hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization & cloud, and hardware/network troubleshooting. Use the objective list below like a checklist: read, lab, quiz, and reinforce with PBQs (performance-based questions).
Table of Contents
- What Is Covered on CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 1?
- Objective-By-Objective Breakdown (with examples)
- Core 1 vs. Core 2: What’s the Difference?
- Study Plan: How to Master the 220-1201 Core 1 Objectives
- Free Checklist & Next Steps
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Covered on CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 1?
The CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 1 Exam Objectives define exactly what entry-level IT pros should be able to do on the job. Expect hands-on tasks and scenario questions that validate your ability to:
- Identify, install, configure, and upgrade PC hardware and peripherals
- Deploy and support mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops)
- Configure wired and wireless networking, IP addressing, and SOHO gear
- Understand virtualization concepts and cloud computing models
- Diagnose and resolve hardware and network issues methodically
Note
Objective names and examples below are written in learner-friendly language to help you study. For test day, always compare your prep with the official CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201 V15) objectives.
Objective-By-Objective Breakdown (with examples)
1) Mobile Devices
Master the hardware, ports, configuration options, and common fixes for laptops, tablets, and smartphones.- Identify parts: SODIMM, M.2 NVMe, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth cards, batteries, touchscreens, webcams, microphones
- Laptop features: function keys, docking stations, external displays, privacy filters
- Mobile OS basics: updates, app management, storage, backups, profiles, screen locks, biometrics
- Accessories and connections: USB-C, Thunderbolt, DisplayPort/HDMI adapters, tethering, wireless hotspots
- Common issues: battery drain, swollen batteries (safety!), no charge/boot, keyboard/trackpad faults
- Build comfort with IP addressing, protocols, ports, Wi-Fi standards, and SOHO configuration.
- IP fundamentals: IPv4/IPv6, subnet basics, DHCP vs. static, DNS, gateway concepts
- Protocols and ports (recognition): HTTP/HTTPS, RDP, SSH, SMB, POP/IMAP, SMTP, LDAP, SNMP
- Wireless: 802.11 standards, channels, bands, security (WPA2/WPA3), SSID settings, guest networks
- SOHO gear: modem vs. router vs. switch vs. AP, NAT, QoS basics, firmware updates, admin security • Tools: ipconfig/ifconfig, ping, tracert/traceroute, nslookup/dig, netstat, Wi-Fi analyzers
- Know how to choose, install, and troubleshoot components for desktops, small form factor systems, and peripherals.
- Motherboards, CPUs, cooling, RAM types (DDR4/DDR5), PSU selection, GPU considerations
- Storage: SATA vs. NVMe, HDD vs. SSD, RAID concepts (0/1/5/10) and when to use them
- Cables and connectors: SATA, PCIe power, USB generations, display connectors (HDMI, DP), audio/mic jacks
- Peripherals: printers (laser/inkjet/thermal), scanners, webcams, microphones, VR headsets
- Safety and ESD: antistatic precautions, handling batteries and power supplies correctly
- Distinguish between type-2 virtualization on desktops and cloud service models you’ll meet in support roles.
- Local virtualization: hypervisors, VM creation, resource allocation (CPU/RAM/disk/network)
- Snapshots, templates, and lab safety for testing
- Cloud concepts: IaaS vs. PaaS vs. SaaS, public/private/hybrid, shared responsibility basics
- End-user impact: syncing files, cloud storage clients, SSO, MFA, browser-based apps
- Apply a structured troubleshooting methodology to restore service fast—and document the fix.
- Method: identify → research → establish theory → test → plan remediation → implement → verify → document
- Hardware symptoms: no POST, intermittent reboots, overheating, beeps/codes, storage SMART warnings
- Network symptoms: no connectivity, APIPA addresses, slow speeds, limited range, IP conflicts, DNS failures
- Tools and logs: POST cards, loopback plugs, cable testers, event viewer, syslogs, router/AP logs
- Best practices: change control, backups before changes, ESD safety, escalate when needed
2) Networking
3) Hardware
4) Virtualization and Cloud Computing
5) Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
Core 1 vs. Core 2: What’s the Difference?
- Core 1 (220-1201 V15): the device, network, and troubleshooting heavy-lifter—hardware, mobile, networking, virtualization/cloud, and practical break/fix scenarios.
- Core 2 (220-1202 V15): the OS, security, and operational procedures side—Windows, macOS/Linux basics, security hygiene, software troubleshooting, and professionalism.
If you’re new, start with Core 1 labs to get comfortable building, connecting, and fixing systems. Then move to Core 2 for OS configuration, security baselines, and policy.
Study Plan: How to Master the 220-1201 Core 1 Objectives
- Scan the official objectives Read them end-to-end to understand scope. Highlight verbs like install, configure, compare, troubleshoot—these hint at hands-on items and PBQs.
- Build a lab you’ll actually use A spare PC or a VM host is perfect. Practice: RAM swaps, SSD installs, BIOS/UEFI settings, creating VMs, setting up a SOHO router/AP, and basic Wi-Fi security.
- Commit ports and tools to memory Drill common ports/protocols and core CLI tools. Create flashcards and test yourself daily.
- Practice troubleshooting flows Take sample faults (no boot, no video, APIPA address, DNS not resolving) and walk the complete method—then document the fix.
- Reinforce with quizzes and PBQs After each domain, take 10–15 focused questions. Finish with at least two full-length practice tests to assess timing and weak spots.
