CompTIA A+ Core 2 Certification
Last updated: March 31, 2026
Exam Syllabus & Domains
The CompTIA A+ Core 2 certification exam covers the following domains. Focus your training time proportionally to each domain's weight.
Operating Systems
- 1.1 Identify basic features of Microsoft Windows editions
- 1.2 Given a scenario, use the appropriate Microsoft command-line tools
- 1.3 Given a scenario, use features and tools of Windows 11 operating system
- 1.4 Given a scenario, use common OS features and tools for macOS, Linux, and mobile OS
Security
- 2.1 Summarize various security measures and their purposes
- 2.2 Compare and contrast wireless security protocols and authentication methods
- 2.3 Given a scenario, detect, remove, and prevent malware
- 2.4 Explain common social engineering attacks, threats, and vulnerabilities
- 2.5 Given a scenario, manage and configure endpoint security
Software Troubleshooting
- 3.1 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common Windows OS problems
- 3.2 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common PC security issues
- 3.3 Given a scenario, use best practices for malware removal
- 3.4 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common mobile OS and application issues
Operational Procedures
- 4.1 Given a scenario, implement best practices for workstation setup and documentation
- 4.2 Given a scenario, use proper communication techniques and professionalism
- 4.3 Explain basic scripting and automation concepts
- 4.4 Given a scenario, use remote access technologies and tools
Where to Focus Your Study Time
Domains with higher weight have more exam questions — allocate your study hours accordingly.
Study Tips
- Create a 8-week study schedule and assign specific domains to each week
- Focus more time on higher-weighted domains — they have more exam questions
- Use practice quizzes to identify weak areas early, then revisit those domains
- Study in focused 25-minute blocks (Pomodoro technique) with 5-minute breaks
- Create flashcards for key terms, acronyms, and port numbers
- Review domain objectives weekly to track your progress and adjust your plan
Free Study Resources
Practice Quiz
Test your knowledge before the exam with our free practice quiz.
Take the CompTIA A+ Core 2 Practice QuizRelated Comparisons
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CompTIA A+ Core 2 certification?
The CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202) is a professional IT certification that validates your knowledge and skills in the exam domains covered. It is recognized globally by employers and is a valuable credential for career advancement in cybersecurity and IT.
What does the CompTIA A+ Core 2 certification syllabus cover?
The CompTIA A+ Core 2 exam syllabus covers 4 domains. Each domain is weighted differently, so focus your training on higher-weighted domains first. Review the complete domain breakdown above for objectives and key concepts.
How should I study for CompTIA A+ Core 2?
Create a structured study plan covering all exam domains, use practice tests to identify weak areas, and review key concepts regularly. A fillable study planner can help you organize your training with weekly schedules and progress tracking.
How long does it take to prepare for CompTIA A+ Core 2?
Preparation time varies by experience level. Most candidates spend 8-12 weeks of dedicated training. Using a structured study planner with domain-by-domain breakdown helps ensure you cover all certification objectives efficiently.