CompTIA A+ 220-1202 (V15) Core 2 Exam Objectives
This page breaks down the CompTIA A+ 220-1202 (V15) Core 2 Exam Objectives in plain English. You’ll see what each domain covers, what tasks show up on the exam, and how to study efficiently with labs, PBQs, and quick wins.
Last updated: November 9, 2025. Always verify against the official CompTIA blueprint before your exam.
TL;DR: The CompTIA A+ 220-1202 (V15) Core 2 Exam Objectives focus on operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile), security fundamentals, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Treat the list as a checklist—review, lab, quiz, and document.
Table of Contents
- What Is Covered on CompTIA A+ 220-1202 (V15) Core 2?
- Objective-By-Objective Breakdown (with examples)
- Core 1 vs. Core 2: What’s the Difference?
- Study Plan: How to Master the 220-1202 Core 2 Objectives
- Free Checklist & Next Steps
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Covered on CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (V15) Core 2?
The Core 2 exam validates day-to-day skills for configuring and supporting operating systems, securing endpoints, troubleshooting software, and following professional procedures. Expect scenario-driven questions and PBQs that test how you think and act on the job:
- Install, configure, and maintain Windows; understand macOS/Linux basics and mobile OS settings
- Apply security best practices: account policies, access control, hardening, malware prevention, and safe browsing
- Troubleshoot OS and application issues methodically, using logs, tools, and recovery utilities
- Follow operational procedures: documentation, change management, safety, professionalism, and communication
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 2 (220-1202 V15) objectives.
Objective-By-Objective Breakdown (with examples)
1) Operating Systems
Build confidence with Windows administration and cross-platform awareness for macOS, Linux, and mobile.- Windows install & config: editions, upgrade paths, partitions, file systems, services, features, Control Panel vs. Settings
- System tools: Task Manager, Services, MSC snap-ins, Device Manager, Disk Management, Event Viewer, msconfig, regedit (caution)
- macOS/Linux basics: Finder/Terminal, package managers (brew/apt/yum), file permissions, common commands (ls, cp, mv, chmod, chown, ps)
- Mobile OS: iOS/Android updates, profiles, MDM basics, app permissions, backups, remote wipe, biometrics/PIN
2) Security
Harden endpoints and user accounts to reduce risk and protect data.- Authentication & authorization: strong passwords, MFA, principle of least privilege, account types, lockout policies
- Endpoint hardening: updates/patching, host firewalls, anti-malware/EDR, secure boot basics, full-disk encryption
- Protocols and ports (recognition): HTTP/HTTPS, RDP, SSH, SMB, POP/IMAP, SMTP, LDAP, SNMP
- Data protection: backups, restore testing, data destruction, retention, device disposal and sanitization
- Safe practices: phishing awareness, social engineering red flags, securing browsers and email clients
3) Software Troubleshooting
Diagnose OS and application issues with a structured approach, tools, and logs.- Startup & boot issues: safe mode, startup repair, system restore, bootrec, bcdedit (advanced), recovery environments
- Application faults: crashes, hangs, missing DLLs, compatibility mode, reinstall/repair, clean profiles
- Performance problems: high CPU/RAM/disk, runaway processes, services, startup impact, logs and resource monitors
- Networked apps: DNS issues, proxy settings, SSL/TLS warnings, cached credentials, profile corruption
- Malware indicators: pop-ups, browser redirects, disabled security tools; isolate, scan, remediate, verify, and educate the user
4) Operational Procedures
Work professionally: protect users, data, and yourself—then document.- Safety: electrical and battery safety, ESD precautions, lifting techniques, ergonomics, environmental concerns
- Procedures: change management, tickets, approvals, maintenance windows, versioning, rollbacks, documentation
- Communication & professionalism: active listening, tailored explanations, expectations, follow-ups, privacy and ethics
- Scripting & automation basics: PowerShell/Bash fundamentals, task scheduling, common admin scripts (within role)
- Best practices: inventory, asset tags, baseline configurations, secure disposal, chain of custody
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.
Most learners start Core 1 to build hands-on device confidence, then tackle Core 2 for OS and security depth.
Study Plan: How to Master the 220-1202 Core 2 Objectives
- Map objectives to labs Install Windows in a VM, create users, configure permissions, set policies, and test restore points. Do a quick tour of macOS/Linux and practice terminal basics.
- Build a security baseline Enable updates, host firewall, and anti-malware. Configure MFA, least privilege, and browser hardening. Practice a simple backup/restore.
- Troubleshoot by method Identify → theory → test → plan → implement → verify → document. Use logs and built-in tools before third-party utilities.
- Practice recovery paths Boot to recovery environment, run startup repair, try system restore, and practice command-line repair steps safely in a VM snapshot.
- Finish with PBQs and full tests Target weak spots, time yourself, and document every fix—you’re training both skills and exam stamina.
