Cybersecurity • Certification Preparation

CompTIA A+ Learning Path

Learn how computers, devices, networks, operating systems, security controls, and support procedures work—then practice thinking like an IT technician. This independent FamilyPD learning path is designed to support preparation for the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) exams.

Start learning View the certification roadmap

Start here • Interactive missions

Work through the A+ missions in order—or jump to the skill you need.

Missions 01–04 are available now. Mission 05 is the next learning mission being developed.

Mission 01 • Available

Your First Shift

Learn what an IT specialist does, practice the troubleshooting methodology, and work a queue of realistic support tickets.

Start Mission 01

Mission 02 • Available

Inside the Machine

Investigate power versus data, volts/amps/watts, motherboard components, CPU, RAM, storage, bits and bytes, and safe hardware handling.

Start Mission 02

Mission 03 • Available

Motherboards, Connectors & PC Hardware

Disassemble a training PC, identify hardware and connectors, check compatibility, and use the interactive computer builder.

Start Mission 03

Mission 04 • Available

Build the PC: From Parts to POST

Assemble a desktop safely while applying CPU, cooling, RAM, storage, power, expansion, POST, and troubleshooting knowledge.

Start Mission 04

Mission 05 • Available

Connect the Network

Compare network types, NICs, switches, patch panels, PoE, copper/fiber/coax, tools, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID, and NFC.

Start Mission 05

Mission 06 • Available

Address the Network

Internet connections, TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, subnet masks, ports, DHCP, DNS, VLANs, VPNs—and an interactive subnet helper.

Start Mission 06

Learn

Clear explanations, visuals, examples, and memory connections.

Practice

Realistic technician scenarios and troubleshooting decisions.

Build

Add useful pieces to your interactive A+ study notebook.

Review

Use certification-aligned checks and mixed practice.

Core 1 • 220-1201

Build the hardware and networking foundation first.

The current Core 1 exam is organized into five domains.

13%

Mobile Devices

Hardware, accessories, connectivity, synchronization, support.

23%

Networking

Ports, protocols, Wi-Fi, services, SOHO networks, tools.

25%

Hardware

Displays, cables, RAM, storage, motherboards, power, printers.

11%

Virtualization & Cloud

VMs, hypervisors, containers, cloud models and characteristics.

28%

Troubleshooting

Hardware, storage, displays, mobile, network, and printer issues.

Core 2 • 220-1202

Then move into systems, security, and support operations.

28%

Operating Systems

Windows, Linux, macOS, installations, settings, tools, commands, networking, and applications.

28%

Security

Physical and logical controls, hardening, malware, social engineering, wireless security, and data protection.

23%

Software Troubleshooting

Windows, mobile OS, application, and security troubleshooting scenarios.

21%

Operational Procedures

Documentation, change management, backup, safety, professionalism, scripting, remote access, and AI concepts.

Study companion

Build an A+ Interactive Notebook

Turn each mission into a study tool you can reuse later. Print FamilyPD images, draw your own, use accurate cutouts, add safe cable samples, and build flaps, pockets, sliders, and mini-books that help you quiz yourself.

Build the A+ notebook

Hands-on build

Build, Understand & Use a Raspberry Pi 5

Use a real single-board computer to connect A+ concepts: power, cooling, storage, ports, operating systems, Linux, networking, command-line tools, troubleshooting, and documentation.

Open the Raspberry Pi 5 lab

Certification alignment, sources & credit

This independent FamilyPD educational resource supports preparation for CompTIA A+. CompTIA and A+ are trademarks of CompTIA, Inc. Family Personal Development, Inc. is not affiliated with or endorsed by CompTIA unless expressly stated.

Primary alignment sources used for this page: CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) V15 Exam Objectives, CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) V15 Exam Objectives, and instructor-provided CompTIA A+ Module 1 instructional materials. FamilyPD explanations, scenarios, activities, and page design are independently created for teaching and study.

When future lessons use additional authoritative sources—such as Microsoft, Apple, Linux documentation, hardware manufacturers, NIST, or CISA—the specific sources used will be listed on that lesson page.

Plan + reinforce

Know what to study next.

Missions 07–10

Placeholders are live so the complete Core 1 path stays visible while we build the next modules.

See Mission 07

Test-Date Study Pacing

Enter a test date and current module to map Modules 1–10.

Build Study Plan

Printer Reference

Compare laser, inkjet, thermal, and impact printers with scenarios.

Review Printers