Information Technology   

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• It's also recommended that you have a PC that you can take apart and put back together again. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not the student), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer. This is, however, a class that trains you to be a hardware technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course teaches you about the hardware common to nearly every personal computer, including microprocessors, RAM, power supplies, motherboards, UEFI/BIOS, the system setup utility, the expansion bus, and input/output devices.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: To properly prepare for your 220-1101/1102 CompTIA A+ certification exams, in addition to this course, you will need to complete the following course series: CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security.

1. The Art of the Tech
2. Desktop PC Basics
3. Laptop PC Basics
4. Maintenance and Safety Precautions
5. Central Processing Units and RAM
6. Motherboards and Cases
7. Powering the PC
8. Input Devices
9. Storage Technologies
10. Working with Storage Devices
11. Removable Media and RAID
12. Operational Procedures

What you will learn

• Learn proper tech terminology and how all the components of the PC work together
• Discover important safety techniques that every good tech needs to know
• Gain practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs
• Learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it
• Obtain everything you need to know about motherboard form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards
• Gain knowledge of hard drive technologies and the fundamentals of protecting data with RAID technology

How you will benefit

• Learn the skills you need to promote yourself as a PC hardware technician capable of solving various computer issues
• Gain the confidence you need to successfully perform integral computer support in the workplace
• Become an indispensable part of any organization that uses computers daily
• Complete the first of three courses needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• Access to a Mac running macOS (in addition to the PC) is recommended.
• You should have access to a hard drive that you can install, format, and partition, and to a couple of Plug and Play devices that you can practice installing. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software course teaches you about working with many different operating systems, virtual machines, and various software. In part two of our three-step series, you will learn how to operate and maintain these items on our systems.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students should previously have completed the CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course. Upon completion of CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software, you should prepare to enroll in our final prep course, CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security, to successfully prepare for both the 220-1101/1102 exams and your career as a certified technician.

1. Understanding Operating Systems
2. Installing Windows
3. Starting Windows and Managing User Accounts
4. Customizing and Configuring Windows
5. Using Windows Utilities
6. Exploring macOS and Linux
7. Working at a Command Prompt
8. Troubleshooting Windows Startup and System Issues
9. Troubleshooting Windows Performance and Application Issues
10. Virtual Machines and Remote Access
11. Printers and Multifunction Devices
12. Installing and Troubleshooting Printers and Multifunction Devices

What you will learn

• Learn how to install, organize, maintain, and troubleshoot three different versions of Windows (explore similar features in MacOS and Linux)
• Examine and compare the features and structures of Windows Vista, 7, and 8/8.1
• Get a deeper understanding of how we use virtualization and virtual machines in modern networks
• Learn about printers and multifunction devices, from the various technologies in use to installing and troubleshooting

How you will benefit

• Master many of the techniques covered on the certification exam and feel confident on test day
• Become an integral part of any organization as you learn to install and troubleshoot new hardware, software, and MFDs
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• A Windows PC that you can experiment on. You will probably want to remove/install various devices, such as video, sound, and modems. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not the student), however, we do not require you to tear apart your own primary computer. This is a class that trains you to be a technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security course focuses on keeping our networks and systems secure from outside threats and how to troubleshoot issues as they appear.

If you want to jumpstart your career with your first tech support job, this third and final course in our CompTIA prep series is a necessary component to prepare you for the A+ certification exam successfully.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students need to complete CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software before attempting CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security to properly prepare to sit for the A+ certification exam.

1. Video Technologies
2. Multimedia
3. Essentials of Networking
4. Local Area Networking
5. Wireless Networking
6. Internet Connections and Cloud Computing
7. Internet Protocols and Troubleshooting
8. Facility and Workstation Security
9. Authentication and Data Security
10. Network Security
11. Understanding Mobile Devices
12. Care and Feeding of Mobile Devices

What you will learn

• Learn how to install and troubleshoot video technologies properly
• Understand how to upgrade, manage, maintain, and repair portable computing devices
• Learn the essentials of networking, including local area networking and wireless networking
• Discover the best ways to keep your network secure
• Understand how to work with mobile devices

How you will benefit

• Prepare for both the 1001/1002 CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
• Complete the third and final course needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 10 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

There are no instructional material requirements to take this course.

Getting into cybersecurity can be rewarding and lucrative! In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analysts can make over $100,000 per year. This course will give you the knowledge to help you decide whether a career in cybersecurity is right for you.

The course will start by introducing the basics of cybersecurity. You will learn the types of threats companies face daily and how a cybersecurity specialist can help prepare for and prevent those threats. Finally, the course will cover cybersecurity learning paths and different types of cybersecurity jobs and salaries.

1. Introduction to Cybersecurity
2. Cybersecurity Roles and Industries
3. Problem Solving
4. Cybersecurity Basics
5. Types of Information Security
6. Common Concepts and Terminology
7. Types of Threats
8. Secure Coding
9. Protecting the Business
10. Developing a Security Awareness Program
11. Employment and the Future of Cybersecurity
12. Next Steps

What you will learn

• Explore cybersecurity as a career path
• Identify cybersecurity job roles and industries
• Describe the soft skills that cybersecurity professionals need
• Explain the threats that cyberattacks pose to modern businesses
• Explain the importance of securing information
• Define common cybersecurity terms and concepts
• Explain the role of secure coding in preventing cyberattacks
• Identify the ways that cybersecurity professionals protect a business
• Describe the key elements of a security awareness program
• Identify employment opportunities and career steps in the cybersecurity field

How you will benefit

• Learn if a career in cybersecurity is right for you
• Explore the basics of the cybersecurity industry
• Discover potential career paths in the cybersecurity field

Self-Study

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Microsoft Word Online
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

This course gives you the option of following along with the instructor on a few video-based exercises, allowing you to pause and replay until you are confident in your skillset. Should you wish to follow along, it is recommended that you have the following: Windows 10 environment, Wireshark, an AWS account (free tier), and a Windows 2016 VM (available in the AWS free tier).

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The need for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to grow year over year, making it a great time to enter this in-demand industry.

In this video-based learning course, you will learn fundamentals of cybersecurity such as concepts, commands, and tools from an experienced professional through lectures and follow-along demonstrations. You will also learn about cloud computing, networking, cybersecurity policy, and frameworks, as well as risk management and security auditing in a 100% online, self-paced training format.

By the completion of your course, you will have a firm understanding of cybersecurity foundations, including key concepts and best practices.

1. Cybersecurity Foundations
2. Operating Systems
3. Windows Command Line Foundations
4. Network Fundamentals
5. Cloud Computing Fundamentals
6. Cybersecurity Policy, Framework, and Guidelines
7. Cybersecurity Audit Foundations
8. Risk Management
9. Penetration Testing - Demonstration

What you will learn

• Understand what cybersecurity entails
• Identify the three most common operating systems
• Execute simple commands
• Learn about cloud computing and networking
• Learn about cybersecurity policies, frameworks, audits, and risk management

How you will benefit

• Learn if a career in cybersecurity could be right for you
• Increase your baseline knowledge of foundational cybersecurity concepts
• Learn tips and tricks from a working cybersecurity professional
• Follow along with hands-on demonstrations to develop and practice your foundational skills
• Finish in three months or less

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac. Chromebooks are not compatible.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.10 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox is preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins. Setup instructions can be found here.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

In this online course you will learn how to connect MySQL to PHP. You will also learn how to create a MySQL database This MySQL course provides new PHP developers with the prerequisite knowledge necessary to learn to build database-driven websites with PHP and MySQL. This course does not cover PHP, but it prepares you for learning PHP to integrate with MySQL. Although most of the SQL learned in the course is applicable to all major databases, including SQL Server, Oracle, and PostgreSQL, it focuses on MySQL.

1. Relational Database Basics
   1. Brief History of SQL
   2. Relational Databases
   3. Tables
      1. Rows
      2. Columns
      3. Relationships
      4. Datatypes
      5. Primary Keys
      6. Foreign Keys
      7. Relational Database Management System
   4. Popular Databases
      1. Commercial Databases
      2. Popular Open Source Databases
   5. SQL Statements
      1. Database Manipulation Language (DML)
      2. Database Definition Language (DDL)
      3. Database Control Language (DCL)
2. Simple SELECTs
   1. Introduction to the Northwind Database
   2. Some Basics
      1. Comments
      2. Whitespace and Semi-colons
      3. Case Sensitivity
   3. SELECTing All Columns in All Rows
   4. Exercise: Exploring the Tables
   5. SELECTing Specific Columns
   6. Exercise: SELECTing Specific Columns
   7. Sorting Records
      1. Sorting by a Single Column
      2. Sorting By Multiple Columns
   8. Ascending and Descending Sorts
   9. Exercise: Sorting Results
   10. The WHERE Clause and Logical Operator Symbols
       1. Checking for Equality
       2. Checking for Inequality
   11. Exercise: Using the WHERE Clause to Check for Equality or Inequality
   12. Checking for Greater or Less Than
   13. Exercise: Using the WHERE Clause to Check for Greater or Less Than
   14. Checking for NULL
   15. Exercise: Checking for NULL
   16. WHERE and ORDER BY
   17. Exercise: Using WHERE and ORDER BY Together
   18. Checking Multiple Conditions with Boolean Operators
       1. AND
       2. OR
       3. Order of Evaluation
   19. Exercise: Writing SELECTs with Multiple Conditions
   20. The WHERE Clause and Logical Operator Keywords
       1. The BETWEEN Operator
       2. The IN Operator
       3. The LIKE Operator
       4. The NOT Operator
   21. Exercise: More SELECTs with WHERE
3. Advanced SELECTs
   1. Calculated Fields
      1. Concatenation
      2. Mathematical Calculations
      3. Aliases
   2. Exercise: Calculating Fields
   3. Aggregate Functions and Grouping
      1. Aggregate Functions
      2. Grouping Data
   4. Exercise: Working with Aggregate Functions
   5. Selecting Distinct Records
   6. Built-in Data Manipulation Functions
      1. Common Math Functions
      2. Common String Functions
      3. Common Date Functions
   7. Exercise: Data Manipulation Functions
4. Subqueries, Joins and Unions
   1. Subqueries
   2. Exercise: Subqueries
   3. Joins
      1. Table Aliases
      2. Multi-table Joins
   4. Exercise: Using Joins
   5. Outer Joins
   6. Unions
      1. UNION ALL
      2. UNION Rules
   7. Exercise: Working with Unions
5. Inserting, Updating and Deleting Records (if time allows)
   1. Inserting Records
   2. Updating and Deleting Records

What you will learn

• Understand how MySQL works
• Learn to use SQL to output reports with MySQL
• Learn to modify MySQL data with SQL

How you will benefit

• Organizations store data in databases, and MySQL is the most popular open source database. Knowing how to query those databases opens up opportunities for you to build reports for such organizations
• Database-driven websites require knowledge of SQL, and MySQL is one of the most popular databases used to build these websites, especially those built with PHP. This course gives you the prerequisite knowledge to start learning a server-side language such as PHP to use with MySQL

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Applications must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Learn the fundamentals of PC and network security from this expert-developed course.

Introduction to PC Security

In your first lesson, you will learn both the facts and myths surrounding PC security. By the end of the lesson, you will also be able to assess your own risk, whether you're an individual or manage a network of any size. You will also perform a self-assessment to evaluate just how vulnerable you are to security flaws.

Your PC and Network

If you ever wondered what technical gurus are speaking about when they talk about LANs, WANs, VPNs, and P2P, you will find detailed answers in this lesson. Discover the basics of networks and how your PC connects to them.

PCs, Networks, and Software Demystified

Most of us don't stop to think about how a Mac can talk to a PC and vice versa. Yet, different types of machines talk to each other on a daily basis across networks. They also talk to printers, fax machines, and a host of other devices. The OSI model for network connections lets you accomplish this, and you will learn all about it in this lesson.

Viruses, Worms, Blended Threats, and More

Get ready to investigate the world of viruses, worms, and blended threats. You will learn what they are and the differences between all three. Of course, all this knowledge will also teach you how to protect yourself and your network from the hackers and crackers of the world.

The Family of Malware

This lesson introduces you to the ware family. What is the ware family? They are the products that download themselves onto your computer without your consent or knowledge—spyware, scumware, malware, and adware. You will meet them and learn all about where they live, places they frequent, and how to remove these unwelcome guests.

Exploits and Vulnerabilities

You may have heard of them: vulnerabilities, exploits, and exposure. But what are they? Have you ever wondered if someone really can control your computer without your knowledge? If you've been pondering these questions lately, then you will find your answers here, along with priceless information on protecting your computer and your network to keep your business and personal data private.

Network Attacks

Have you ever tried to access the web but received an error saying the page can't be displayed, you aren't connected, or you don't have access? Denial of Service attacks and SYN flooding are two types of network attacks that seem to go unnoticed on personal PCs and small networks. After this lesson, you will no longer be left wondering what happened to your Internet connection.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls. (Part One)

This lesson will introduce you to firewalls. Join me in this lesson, and you will soon start building an impenetrable moat around your network.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls. (Part Two)

Now that you have your moat built, it's time to arm up and defend yourself. In this lesson, you will learn how to configure your firewall and maximize your network security.

Laptops, Notebooks, Netbooks, and Wireless Networking

Laptops and wireless connectivity aren't as secure as they appear. You will understand why in this lesson.

Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

This lesson explores the Virtual Private Network and how it's different from standard networks, how it works, how to secure it, and how to set up your own. You can share files with family across the miles by allowing them to connect remotely to your designated shared folders. You can share music files, family pictures, and anything else you choose to give them access to.

The Changing Face of Security

Now that you know what's out there, how can you possibly keep on top of security issues? There's so much information out there, how will you know what applies to you? You will learn about emerging security technology that will help make managing and securing your network easier. Finally, you can test yourself against the first security assessment to see how well you've secured your own PC or network.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
• Dual monitors are helpful but are not required.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
• Necessary rights (local administrative rights) to install programs on the computer.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

• SQL Server Express
• SQL Server Management Studio

Gain a solid working knowledge of the most powerful and widely used database programming language. This course will provide you the skills to write SQL queries to create tables, retrieve data from single or multiple tables, manipulate data in a database, and gather statistics from data stored in a database.

Introduction to Database Design and SQL

In this introductory lesson, you will examine database terms and concepts. Understanding the purpose of a database and collecting data is foundational to using SQL to write queries and retrieve data result-sets that are usable.

SQL Server

In this lesson, you will install SQL Server Express and the SQL Server Management Studio to use throughout the course in your learn-by-doing practices. You will use a SQL code script to create one of the tables for the practice database in SQL Server.

Retrieving Data Result-Sets

SQL queries are the statements used to retrieve data from the database. Queries are written in a specific, logical order. In this lesson, you will explore various ways to write SQL queries to retrieve data that meets a defined criteria.

Sorting Data

SQL queries are defined and written to retrieve data in a certain order. Queries are also written to limit columns and to filter data rows. In this lesson, you will explore and practice defining and writing queries to meet a defined criteria to retrieve the expected result-set.

Designing SQL Data Tables

This lesson is about designing SQL data tables for a database. You will explore the relationship concept and how it is used in a RDBMS. You will define tables that are structured according to RDBMS standards. You will also create the tables to add to your practice database.

Designing Data Rows

In this lesson, you will add data to your newly defined tables. You will explore several methods of adding data to a table, and you will also practice writing and executing these query statements. After adding several individual rows to the tables, you will use a SQL code script to populate your tables with enough data rows to use in the learn-by-doing practices in this course.

Getting Data From Two Tables

SQL JOIN statements are used to retrieve data from more than one table. In this lesson, you will practice writing JOIN query statements that are defined to retrieve data result-sets from tables that have a relationship between their PKs and FKs.

Retrieving Data From Multiple Tables

In this lesson, you will continue writing JOIN statement that retrieve data result-sets from more than one table. You will also examine how and when to use SQL subquery statements to retrieve data from multiple tables. You will practice defining and writing JOIN and subquery queries.

Keeping the Database Up to Date

The quality of the data in the database depends on its integrity, including the concepts of data accuracy and consistency. In this lesson, you will explore writing queries to maintain the database so that it is up to date with data that is accurate, consistent, and has integrity.

Aggregate Functions

In this lesson, you will examine the concept of aggregate functions and how they are used in query statements to examine multiple rows. Aggregate functions are a method of retrieving summarized data that is useful for analysis.

SQL Views

SQL views are an important concept in database design and in using databases. In this lesson, you will explore designing and writing queries to create views. You will also explore the reason they are valuable for database security and database access.

Maximize Database Integrity and Performance

Constraints are one way to maximize the integrity of the database and minimize the opportunity for user error. Indexes are used for increasing the performance of a data query. In this lesson, you will explore both these concepts.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• It's also recommended that you have a PC that you can take apart and put back together again. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not to you), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer. This is, however, a class that trains you to be a hardware technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course teaches you about the hardware common to nearly every personal computer, including microprocessors, RAM, power supplies, motherboards, UEFI/BIOS, the system setup utility, the expansion bus, and input/output devices.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: To properly prepare for your 220-1101/1102 CompTIA A+ certification exams, in addition to this course, you will need to complete the following course series: CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security.

The Art of the Tech

In Lesson 1, we'll introduce you to the course and to the CompTIA A+ certification, and then move right into essential information for every tech. You'll get the scoop on how the many components of the personal computer work together. We'll discuss how professional techs behave and interact with clients. And we'll finish with a tried-and-true troubleshooting methodology that will apply to all tech situations.

Desktop PC Basics

In Lesson 2, we'll take a tour of a desktop PC, starting with the exterior connectors. We'll go into details of the interior devices as well. Our goal is to begin teaching proper tech terminology and familiarize you with standard computer components. You'll also learn about some common computer roles, so you can better understand why desktop PCs are used in both homes and businesses.

Laptop PC Basics

This lesson looks at the ways laptops differ from desktops. You'll learn about laptop hardware, including a variety of support devices such as docking stations and port replicators. You'll find out how to manage laptop power and battery life and how to protect, maintain, and troubleshoot laptops.

Maintenance and Safety Precautions

In this lesson we dive into the important safety techniques that every good tech absolutely needs to know. These range from how to clean a computer to methods to avoid tech-induced damage to how to dispose of old parts safely.

Central Processing Units and RAM

In this lesson, we'll deliver the goods on central processing units, the core processing component in every PC. We'll explain variations in technology and then give practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs. Plus, we'll dig into the details of one of the foundations of the computer: RAM. With RAM, the CPU can make magic happen. Without it? Literally nothing can happen. You'll learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it. Then, we'll wrap up the lesson with troubleshooting RAM and memory problems.

Motherboards and Cases

In this lesson, we'll teach you about the essential programming that makes computers function, what's called the BIOS or UEFI. Plus, you'll learn about the special tools we use for storing configuration options for BIOS and UEFI. It's awesome stuff! We'll also teach you all about motherboards, the bedrock of every PC. You'll learn form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards. In this lesson, we'll also cover upgrading, installing, and troubleshooting motherboards.

Powering the PC

Today, we'll introduce you to power supplies and the basics of powering a PC. You'll learn about how electricity gets from your wall outlet into your PC, along with how to test that electricity. We'll teach you about the many power supply standards and how to install one inside your PC. Finally, we'll discuss how to troubleshoot a power supply with problems.

Input Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about devices that enable you to input data into your computer. We'll discuss standard input devices (like keyboards and mice) and multimedia devices (like digital cameras and webcams). We'll also teach you about connecting those devices to your computers using connectors like USB and Thunderbolt.

Storage Technologies

Today, we'll dig into storage technologies, including traditional hard disk drives and modern solid-state drives. You'll also learn how to install storage devices of several interface types, including SATA and M.2. We'll also explain the fundamentals of troubleshooting storage devices.

Working with Storage Devices

In Lesson 10, you'll learn how to prepare a storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid-state drive for use by an operating system. We'll teach you about partitioning and formatting. We'll also cover maintaining your data using several included Windows utilities.

Removable Media and RAID

In this lesson, you'll explore various forms of mass storage that you can take with you, such as USB flash media, memory cards, optical drives, and external drives. You'll also discover how RAID arrays improve storage performance and/or reliability.

Operational Procedures

As we wrap up the course, you'll learn about all the other stuff that goes into making IT work, such as documentation, change management, ticketing systems, and disaster prevention and recovery.

What you will learn

• Learn proper tech terminology and how all the components of the PC work together
• Discover important safety techniques that every good tech needs to know
• Gain practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs
• Learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it
• Obtain everything you need to know about motherboard form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards
• Gain knowledge of hard drive technologies and the fundamentals of protecting data with RAID technology

How you will benefit

• Learn the skills you need to promote yourself as a PC hardware technician capable of solving various computer issues
• Gain the confidence you need to successfully perform integral computer support in the workplace
• Become an indispensable part of any organization that uses computers daily
• Complete the first of three courses needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• Access to a Mac running macOS (in addition to the PC) is recommended.
• You should have access to a hard drive that you can install, format, and partition, and to a couple of Plug and Play devices that you can practice installing. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software course teaches you about working with many different operating systems, virtual machines, and various software. In part two of our three-step series, you will learn how to operate and maintain these items on our systems.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students should previously have completed the CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course. Upon completion of CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software, you should prepare to enroll in our final prep course, CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security, to successfully prepare for both the 220-1101/1102 exams and your career as a certified technician.

Understanding Operating Systems

In this lesson, you'll learn basic operating system concepts and the various operating systems (and versions) covered on the CompTIA A+ exams. You'll explore common OS functions that enable users, software, and hardware to interact with each other. We'll also look at the primary user interfaces—the graphic user interface and the command line interface—and how the GUI manifests in recent versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux. We'll also look at basic OS security features that protect the system by authenticating users and requiring proper authorization to take certain actions.

Installing Windows

This lesson is all about Microsoft Windows. You'll learn how to prepare for installing or upgrading Windows, install the OS, and apply the post-installation finishing touches. You'll also learn how to troubleshoot any problems that might pop up during installation.

Starting Windows and Managing User Accounts

What do you do after installing Windows? Start it up, of course! Here you'll learn about sign-in options and security, and the different kinds of user accounts available and how to manage them. Then you'll discover the various ways that Windows controls access to files and other resources based on the permissions assigned to user accounts and groups.

Customizing and Configuring Windows

This lesson focuses on the two main Windows utilities that you can use to customize and configure its settings: the Settings app and the Control Panel. We'll compare the two utilities and then review how to make the most common system changes, such as changing desktop appearance settings, disabling a webcam, modifying default apps for certain file types, and more.

Using Windows Utilities

Windows includes dozens of helpful special-purpose utilities you can use to configure and troubleshoot a system. Here you'll learn about the Task Manager and its role in shutting down unresponsive apps and correcting slow startup and sluggish performance issues. Then we'll look at the Microsoft Management Console and explore some of its most popular snap-ins. You'll finish up by learning how to access, back up, and make changes to the Registry and understand the Registry's structure.

Exploring macOS and Linux

CompTIA A+ exam 220-1102 includes several objectives that deal with macOS and Linux, and this lesson prepares you for that by explaining the macOS desktop and how to use it to manage files, install and run apps, and access popular utilities such as Keychain and Boot Camp. You'll learn how to customize the desktop and protect your disks, files, and accounts. We'll round out this lesson by explaining the basics of the Linux OS, including distros, the (optional) desktop GUI, file systems, startup apps, and software updates.

Working at a Command Prompt

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the text-based command-line interface in each of the "big three" operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux. You'll explore the command prompt and find out how to use it to navigate the folder structure. You'll learn about basic commands for listing files and creating new directories, and we'll discuss advanced commands for moving and copying files. This lesson will finish up by explaining the basics of scripting using text commands.

Troubleshooting Windows Startup and System Issues

This lesson looks at the various reasons a Windows system doesn't boot normally—or isn't stable after booting up—and how to fix them. You'll learn about the Windows Recovery Environment and its many tools and features, and explore the options on the Startup Settings menu, such as Safe Mode. Then you'll take your command prompt knowledge from Lesson 7 and put it to work to troubleshoot and repair boot problems at a command line interface. Finally, we'll look at the various causes of system instability and crashes and how to troubleshoot them.

Troubleshooting Windows Performance and Application Issues

This lesson continues our look at Windows troubleshooting. It tackles some common Windows performance problems from sluggish performance to services not starting, and demonstrates some of Windows' many tools and utilities for troubleshooting various problems. Here you'll put to work many of the utilities you learned about in earlier lessons in specific troubleshooting scenarios, and access the many troubleshooting tools and wizards that Windows provides for different kinds of hardware and connectivity issues.

Virtual Machines and Remote Access

In this lesson, we'll discuss virtualization—using special software to run a second operating system within your actual OS. We'll show you what virtualization is and explain its many benefits. You'll also learn about the types of virtualization and popular virtualization software. To finish up this lesson, you'll learn about technologies that enable technicians (and also end users) to control computers remotely.

Printers and Multifunction Devices

The CompTIA A+ certification strongly stresses the area of multifunction devices (MFDs) and printing, so you'll need a high degree of technical knowledge about all types of printers. Here we'll begin our trip into printers and MFDs. You'll learn about the types of printers and scanners in common use today. We'll teach you how printers connect to PCs and networks, plus we'll talk about how they communicate with computers. Finally, we'll look at the laser printing process in detail so that you can troubleshoot like a printer technician.

Installing and Troubleshooting Printers and Multifunction Devices

In this course's final lesson, you'll learn the practical side of supporting printers and MFDs. You'll learn how to unbox and set up a printer, and how to install drivers for it to make it work in Windows. You'll then learn how to configure and maintain printers, and how to troubleshoot the many different problems that printers have, from general connectivity issues to print quality problems specific to certain printer technologies.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install, organize, maintain, and troubleshoot three different versions of Windows (explore similar features in MacOS and Linux)
• Examine and compare the features and structures of Windows Vista, 7, and 8/8.1
• Get a deeper understanding of how we use virtualization and virtual machines in modern networks
• Learn about printers and multifunction devices, from the various technologies in use to installing and troubleshooting

How you will benefit

• Master many of the techniques covered on the certification exam and feel confident on test day
• Become an integral part of any organization as you learn to install and troubleshoot new hardware, software, and MFDs
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

 Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• A Windows PC that you can experiment on. You will probably want to remove/install various devices, such as video, sound, and modems. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not the student), however, we do not require you to tear apart your own primary computer. This is a class that trains you to be a technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security course focuses on keeping our networks and systems secure from outside threats and how to troubleshoot issues as they appear.

If you want to jumpstart your career with your first tech support job, this third and final course in our CompTIA prep series is a necessary component to prepare you for the A+ certification exam successfully.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students need to complete CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software before attempting CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security to properly prepare to sit for the A+ certification exam.

Video Technologies

In this first lesson, you'll learn the details of monitors—standard desktop and projectors—and video cards. You'll learn how they work and function together to produce the display you see, and how to install and troubleshoot them.

Multimedia

In this lesson, you'll delve into the details of multimedia. You'll explore how sound works in a digital environment, examine all the components that work to record and play back video, and learn how 3D graphics work.

Portable Computing Devices

In this lesson, you'll examine the many features of portable computers. You'll explore the many ways to expand the capabilities of portables, from connecting to external monitors to docking stations. You'll also look at how to upgrade, manage, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot them.

Essentials of Networking

In this lesson, you'll be introduced to the essentials of networking. You'll explore topics such as network hardware and topologies and learn about Ethernet, coaxial and fiber cabling technologies, and more.

Local Area Networking

In this lesson, you'll delve deeper into networking. You'll learn about the TCP/IP protocol and how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a basic network.

Wireless Networking

In this lesson, you'll explore wireless technologies, starting with the basics, such as components, software, modes, security, speed, and range. You'll learn about wireless networking standards, such as radio wave and infrared networks. You'll finish the lesson with a look at installing, configuring, and troubleshooting wireless networks.

Internet Connections

Get ready to take the networking covered in previous lessons and expand it to fill the Internet. You'll start by learning how the Internet works and then examine the various connection types to get onto the Internet. The lesson will be wrapped up with a discussion of how you actually connect.

The Internet

In this lesson, you'll continue to dig further into the nuts and bolts of how the Internet works at the software layer, including the application and utility protocols, Internet applications, and cloud-computing services.

Security Hygiene

This lesson will teach you how to maintain security hygiene. You'll discover the many threats faced and then dive into access-control techniques. You'll also learn about topics like data classification, compliance, and reporting procedures.

Network Security

In this lesson, you'll jump into security aspects in the big bad world; specifically, threats from outside your network. You'll look at malicious software types and how to deal with them. You'll also learn what protections you should establish networkwide. The knowledge in this lesson is invaluable to you as both a tech and for the CompTIA A+ certification exams.

Understanding Mobile Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about the features and capabilities of smartphones and tablets, as well as the mobile operating systems that power them. You'll also explore common configuration techniques for working with mobile devices.

Care and Feeding of Mobile Devices

In this final lesson, you'll wrap up the trio of CompTIA A+ exam prep courses by learning how to troubleshoot and secure mobile device hardware, operating systems, and apps.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install and troubleshoot video technologies properly
• Understand how to upgrade, manage, maintain, and repair portable computing devices
• Learn the essentials of networking, including local area networking and wireless networking
• Discover the best ways to keep your network secure
• Understand how to work with mobile devices

How you will benefit

• Prepare for both the 1101/1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
• Complete the third and final course needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Gain skills and confidence in your ability to build and service networks as you prepare for CompTIA Network+ Certification. This course will teach you everything you need to take and successfully pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam (N10-007).

Network Fundamentals

In this lesson, you will examine the purpose of IT certifications, with specific emphasis on CompTIA Network+ and how it fits into the career of a network tech. You will explore how networks work in general, covering such essential concepts as servers and clients, Ethernet, switches, and LANs. In the last two sections of the lesson, you will examine two different models that technicians use to troubleshoot networks: the OSI seven-layer model and the TCP/IP model.

Network Media

In this lesson, you will learn about all kinds of network connections, such as cable types—coaxial, twisted-pair, and fiber—and wireless options. It should be fun and informative and carry you deeper into the CompTIA Network+ journey.

Network Topologies and Standards

In this lesson, you will jump into network topologies and standards, exploring Ethernet in detail. You will get a shorter look at some other standards that used to matter as well, including the star topology, so you won't be surprised by them on the CompTIA Network+ exam.

Network Hardware

Network hardware enables networking devices—nodes—to connect together into a network. In this lesson, you will learn about all the major device types, such as switches, routers, and wireless access points and how they function in modern networks.

TCP/IP

Most modern networks use TCP/IP, so it's essential knowledge for competent techs. In this lesson, you will delve into the protocol suite, looking at the many protocols included, how they work together, and what resources they require. You will also research the addressing and naming conventions used in TCP/IP networks and how computers get named.

Routing

In this lesson, you will delve into interconnecting networks, such as the Internet. Routers are the primary tools used for the job, so you will explore how they work and what routing protocols they use.

Virtualization

This lesson is about virtualization, a process of using software to handle jobs traditionally serviced with hardware. You will learn about VLANs and virtual computing and how complex networks use these technologies to accomplish specific goals.

Wide Area Networking

In this lesson, you will examine the many forms of remote connectivity, ways to interconnect a local computer or network with distant computers. You will explore everything from older-style dial-up and T-1 lines to the latest satellite and fiber connections.

Network Security

In this lesson, you will explore the many aspects of network security. You will examine threats to your network, from social engineering to cracking encryption. Then you will look at the many ways the good guys combat the bad guys through authentication and authorization standards and protocols.

The Complete Network

In this lesson, you will start to put together everything you've learned so far in this course. You will get the scoop on designing and implementing both wired and wireless SOHO networks. You will also explore categories of requirements, unified communication, specialized network devices, and industrial control systems.

Troubleshooting Networks

In this lesson, you will roll up your sleeves and plunge into network troubleshooting. You will look first at the CompTIA Network+ troubleshooting model and then examine top network hardware faults. You will explore network hardware tools and finish the lesson with a discussion on troubleshooting WAN issues.

Network Management

In this final lesson, you will look at a variety of practical concerns in network management, including emergency procedures, safety, segmentation, and network configuration and monitoring.

What you will learn

• The OSI seven-layer model to understand and troubleshoot networks
• Network connections such as cable types and wireless
• Explore the Ethernet in detail
• How major device types function
• How protocols work together and what resources they require
• How routers create interconnecting networks
• Internet security and the threats to your network
• How to design and implement both wired and wireless SOHO networks
• Network troubleshooting and top network hardware faults

How you will benefit

• Discover how Comp TIA Network + can fit into a network tech career
• Be prepared to pass the Comp TIA Network + certification exam

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Learn why you're at risk and what you can do to protect your precious personal and business data from the outside world. In this course, a security expert will teach you the fundamentals of PC and network security as you learn to install and configure a firewall to build an impenetrable moat around your computer or network.

Introduction to PC Security

In this lesson, you will learn the facts and myths about PC security. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to assess your own risk, whether you're an individual or manage a network of any size. You will also perform a self-assessment to evaluate just how vulnerable you are to security flaws.

Your PC and Network

If you ever wondered what technical gurus are speaking about when they talk about LANs, WANs, VPNs, and P2P, you will find detailed answers in this lesson. Discover the basics of networks and how your PC connects to them.

PCs, Networks, and Software Demystified

Most people don't stop to think about how a Mac can talk to a PC and vice versa. Yet, different types of machines talk to each other on a daily basis across networks. They also talk to printers, fax machines, and a host of other devices. The OSI model for network connections lets you accomplish this, and you will learn all about it in this lesson.

Viruses, Worms, Blended Threats, and More

Get ready to investigate the world of viruses, worms, and blended threats. You'll learn what they are and the differences between all three. Of course, all this knowledge will also teach you how to protect yourself and your network from the hackers and crackers of the world.

The Family of Malware

This lesson introduces you to the ware family. What is the ware family? They are the products that download themselves onto your computer without your consent or knowledge—spyware, scumware, malware, and adware. You will meet them and learn all about where they live, places they frequent, and how to remove these unwelcome guests.

Exploits and Vulnerabilities

You may have heard of them: vulnerabilities, exploits, and exposure. But what are they? Have you ever wondered if someone really can control your computer without your knowledge? If you've been pondering these questions lately, then you will find your answers here, along with priceless information on protecting your computer and your network to keep your business and personal data private.

Network Attacks

Have you ever tried to access the web but received an error saying the page can't be displayed, you aren't connected, or you don't have access? Denial of Service attacks and SYN flooding are two types of network attacks that seem to go unnoticed on personal PCs and small networks. After this lesson, you will no longer be left wondering what happened to your Internet connection.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part One)

This lesson will introduce you to firewalls. Join me in this lesson, and you will soon start building an impenetrable moat around your network.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part Two)

Now that you have your moat built, it's time to arm up and defend yourself. In this lesson, you will learn how to configure your firewall and maximize your network security.

Laptops, Notebooks, Netbooks, and Wireless Networking

Laptops and wireless connectivity aren't as secure as they appear. You will understand why in this lesson.

Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

This lesson explores the Virtual Private Network and how it's different from standard networks, how it works, how to secure it, and how to set up your own. You can share files with family across the miles by allowing them to connect remotely to your designated shared folders. You can share music files, family pictures, and anything else you choose to give them access to.

Changing Face of Security

Now that you know what's out there, how can you possibly keep on top of security issues? There's so much information out there, how will you know what applies to you? You will learn about emerging security technology that will help make managing and securing your network easier. Finally, you can test yourself against the first security assessment to see how well you've secured your own PC or network.

What you will learn

• Learn to assess your own risk on your computer or network
• Learn the weak links of security in software and operating systems
• Learn to protect your network from hackers
• Learn priceless information on protecting your computer and keep personal data private
• Learn to build a firewall
• Learn to set up your own Virtual Private Network

How you will benefit

• Understand when your computer is being attacked
• Understand the many vulnerabilities of operating systems, software, and networks
• Know how to protect your network from hackers
• Keep your personal data private

Debbie Mahler

Debbie Mahler has worked for 15 years in the computer repair industry and runs her own IT business. She teaches on a wide range of business-related topics at the university level and has written six books on the business. She also contributes to several publications. Mahler holds a Bachelor of Art in Applied Behavioral Psychology and the title of Symantec Software Partner and Security Specialist.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
• Dual monitors are helpful but are not required.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins. Student will install the required software in the course.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
• Necessary rights (local administrative rights) to install programs on the computer.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

• SQL Server Express
• SQL Server Management Studio

Gain a solid working knowledge of the most powerful and widely used database programming language. This course will provide you the skills to write SQL queries to create tables, retrieve data from single or multiple tables, manipulate data in a database, and gather statistics from data stored in a database.

Introduction to Database Design and SQL

In this introductory lesson, you will examine database terms and concepts. Understanding the purpose of a database is foundational to writing efficient SQL queries that retrieve the right data.

SQL Server

In this lesson, you will install SQL Server Express and the SQL Server Management Studio to use throughout the course in your learn-by-doing practices. You will use SQL code to create one of the tables for the practice database in SQL Server.

Retrieving Data Result-Sets

SQL queries are the statements used to retrieve data from the database. Queries are written in a specific, logical order. In this lesson, you will explore various ways to write SQL queries to retrieve data that meet defined criteria.

Sorting Data

SQL queries are defined and written to retrieve data in a certain order. Queries are also written to limit columns and to filter data rows. In this lesson, you will practice writing queries that meet defined criteria and retrieve the expected result-sets.

Designing SQL Data Tables

This lesson is about designing SQL data tables for a database. You will explore the relationship concept and how it is used in an RDBMS. You will define tables that are structured according to RDBMS standards. You will also create the tables to add to your practice database.

Designing Data Rows

In this lesson, you will add data to your newly defined tables. You will explore several methods of adding data to a table and practice writing and executing these query statements. After adding several individual rows to the tables, you will use a SQL query to populate your tables with enough data rows to use in the learn-by-doing practices in this course.

Getting Data From Two Tables

SQL JOIN statements are used to retrieve data from more than one table. In this lesson, you will practice writing JOIN statements that retrieve data from tables that have a relationship between their PKs and FKs.

Retrieving Data From Multiple Tables

In this lesson, you will continue writing JOIN statements that retrieve data result-sets from more than one table. You will also examine how and when to use SQL subquery statements to retrieve data from multiple tables. You will practice defining and writing JOIN and subquery queries.

Keeping the Database Up to Date

The quality of the data in the database depends on its integrity, including the concepts of data accuracy and consistency. In this lesson, you will explore writing queries to maintain the database so that it is up to date with data that is accurate, consistent, and has integrity.

Aggregate Functions

In this lesson, you will examine the concept of aggregate functions and how they are used in query statements to examine multiple rows. Aggregate functions are a method of retrieving summarized data that is useful for analysis.

SQL Views

SQL views are an important concept in database design and in using databases. In this lesson, you will explore designing and writing queries to create views. You will also explore the reason they are valuable for database security and database access.

Maximize Database Integrity and Performance

Constraints are one way to maximize the integrity of the database and minimize the opportunity for user error. Indexes are used for increasing the performance of a data query. In this lesson, you will explore both these concepts.

What you will learn

• Use SQL to develop a relational database
• Design table and row structures that fulfill your requirements
• Write efficient SQL queries to find and organize data
• Write SQL queries to retrieve data from multiple tables
• Create updates for a secure, high-performance database

How you will benefit

• Gain confidence in your SQL ability, the standard database query language
• Open the door to opportunities as you list basic SQL programming as a skill on your resume
• Develop a new skill and learn whether or not you would like a career in IT

Mava Wilson

Mava Wilson, Ph.D., is a professor with more than 28 years of teaching experience. While she specializes in Information Systems (IS), she has taught several computer science topics, including basic computer literacy, programming, database design, and SQL. She holds a Ph.D. and master's degree in computing technology from Nova Southeastern University, as well as a bachelor's in administrative systems from Radford University.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• It's also recommended that you have a PC that you can take apart and put back together again. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not to you), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer. This is, however, a class that trains you to be a hardware technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course teaches you about the hardware common to nearly every personal computer, including microprocessors, RAM, power supplies, motherboards, UEFI/BIOS, the system setup utility, the expansion bus, and input/output devices.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: To properly prepare for your 220-1101/1102 CompTIA A+ certification exams, in addition to this course, you will need to complete the following course series: CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security.

The Art of the Tech

In Lesson 1, we'll introduce you to the course and to the CompTIA A+ certification, and then move right into essential information for every tech. You'll get the scoop on how the many components of the personal computer work together. We'll discuss how professional techs behave and interact with clients. And we'll finish with a tried-and-true troubleshooting methodology that will apply to all tech situations.

Desktop PC Basics

In Lesson 2, we'll take a tour of a desktop PC, starting with the exterior connectors. We'll go into details of the interior devices as well. Our goal is to begin teaching proper tech terminology and familiarize you with standard computer components. You'll also learn about some common computer roles, so you can better understand why desktop PCs are used in both homes and businesses.

Laptop PC Basics

This lesson looks at the ways laptops differ from desktops. You'll learn about laptop hardware, including a variety of support devices such as docking stations and port replicators. You'll find out how to manage laptop power and battery life and how to protect, maintain, and troubleshoot laptops.

Maintenance and Safety Precautions

In this lesson we dive into the important safety techniques that every good tech absolutely needs to know. These range from how to clean a computer to methods to avoid tech-induced damage to how to dispose of old parts safely.

Central Processing Units and RAM

In this lesson, we'll deliver the goods on central processing units, the core processing component in every PC. We'll explain variations in technology and then give practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs. Plus, we'll dig into the details of one of the foundations of the computer: RAM. With RAM, the CPU can make magic happen. Without it? Literally nothing can happen. You'll learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it. Then, we'll wrap up the lesson with troubleshooting RAM and memory problems.

Motherboards and Cases

In this lesson, we'll teach you about the essential programming that makes computers function, what's called the BIOS or UEFI. Plus, you'll learn about the special tools we use for storing configuration options for BIOS and UEFI. It's awesome stuff! We'll also teach you all about motherboards, the bedrock of every PC. You'll learn form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards. In this lesson, we'll also cover upgrading, installing, and troubleshooting motherboards.

Powering the PC

Today, we'll introduce you to power supplies and the basics of powering a PC. You'll learn about how electricity gets from your wall outlet into your PC, along with how to test that electricity. We'll teach you about the many power supply standards and how to install one inside your PC. Finally, we'll discuss how to troubleshoot a power supply with problems.

Input Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about devices that enable you to input data into your computer. We'll discuss standard input devices (like keyboards and mice) and multimedia devices (like digital cameras and webcams). We'll also teach you about connecting those devices to your computers using connectors like USB and Thunderbolt.

Storage Technologies

Today, we'll dig into storage technologies, including traditional hard disk drives and modern solid-state drives. You'll also learn how to install storage devices of several interface types, including SATA and M.2. We'll also explain the fundamentals of troubleshooting storage devices.

Working with Storage Devices

In Lesson 10, you'll learn how to prepare a storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid-state drive for use by an operating system. We'll teach you about partitioning and formatting. We'll also cover maintaining your data using several included Windows utilities.

Removable Media and RAID

In this lesson, you'll explore various forms of mass storage that you can take with you, such as USB flash media, memory cards, optical drives, and external drives. You'll also discover how RAID arrays improve storage performance and/or reliability.

Operational Procedures

As we wrap up the course, you'll learn about all the other stuff that goes into making IT work, such as documentation, change management, ticketing systems, and disaster prevention and recovery.

What you will learn

• Learn proper tech terminology and how all the components of the PC work together
• Discover important safety techniques that every good tech needs to know
• Gain practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs
• Learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it
• Obtain everything you need to know about motherboard form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards
• Gain knowledge of hard drive technologies and the fundamentals of protecting data with RAID technology

How you will benefit

• Learn the skills you need to promote yourself as a PC hardware technician capable of solving various computer issues
• Gain the confidence you need to successfully perform integral computer support in the workplace
• Become an indispensable part of any organization that uses computers daily
• Complete the first of three courses needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• Access to a Mac running macOS (in addition to the PC) is recommended.
• You should have access to a hard drive that you can install, format, and partition, and to a couple of Plug and Play devices that you can practice installing. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software course teaches you about working with many different operating systems, virtual machines, and various software. In part two of our three-step series, you will learn how to operate and maintain these items on our systems.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students should previously have completed the CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course. Upon completion of CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software, you should prepare to enroll in our final prep course, CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security, to successfully prepare for both the 220-1101/1102 exams and your career as a certified technician.

Understanding Operating Systems

In this lesson, you'll learn basic operating system concepts and the various operating systems (and versions) covered on the CompTIA A+ exams. You'll explore common OS functions that enable users, software, and hardware to interact with each other. We'll also look at the primary user interfaces—the graphic user interface and the command line interface—and how the GUI manifests in recent versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux. We'll also look at basic OS security features that protect the system by authenticating users and requiring proper authorization to take certain actions.

Installing Windows

This lesson is all about Microsoft Windows. You'll learn how to prepare for installing or upgrading Windows, install the OS, and apply the post-installation finishing touches. You'll also learn how to troubleshoot any problems that might pop up during installation.

Starting Windows and Managing User Accounts

What do you do after installing Windows? Start it up, of course! Here you'll learn about sign-in options and security, and the different kinds of user accounts available and how to manage them. Then you'll discover the various ways that Windows controls access to files and other resources based on the permissions assigned to user accounts and groups.

Customizing and Configuring Windows

This lesson focuses on the two main Windows utilities that you can use to customize and configure its settings: the Settings app and the Control Panel. We'll compare the two utilities and then review how to make the most common system changes, such as changing desktop appearance settings, disabling a webcam, modifying default apps for certain file types, and more.

Using Windows Utilities

Windows includes dozens of helpful special-purpose utilities you can use to configure and troubleshoot a system. Here you'll learn about the Task Manager and its role in shutting down unresponsive apps and correcting slow startup and sluggish performance issues. Then we'll look at the Microsoft Management Console and explore some of its most popular snap-ins. You'll finish up by learning how to access, back up, and make changes to the Registry and understand the Registry's structure.

Exploring macOS and Linux

CompTIA A+ exam 220-1102 includes several objectives that deal with macOS and Linux, and this lesson prepares you for that by explaining the macOS desktop and how to use it to manage files, install and run apps, and access popular utilities such as Keychain and Boot Camp. You'll learn how to customize the desktop and protect your disks, files, and accounts. We'll round out this lesson by explaining the basics of the Linux OS, including distros, the (optional) desktop GUI, file systems, startup apps, and software updates.

Working at a Command Prompt

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the text-based command-line interface in each of the "big three" operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux. You'll explore the command prompt and find out how to use it to navigate the folder structure. You'll learn about basic commands for listing files and creating new directories, and we'll discuss advanced commands for moving and copying files. This lesson will finish up by explaining the basics of scripting using text commands.

Troubleshooting Windows Startup and System Issues

This lesson looks at the various reasons a Windows system doesn't boot normally—or isn't stable after booting up—and how to fix them. You'll learn about the Windows Recovery Environment and its many tools and features, and explore the options on the Startup Settings menu, such as Safe Mode. Then you'll take your command prompt knowledge from Lesson 7 and put it to work to troubleshoot and repair boot problems at a command line interface. Finally, we'll look at the various causes of system instability and crashes and how to troubleshoot them.

Troubleshooting Windows Performance and Application Issues

This lesson continues our look at Windows troubleshooting. It tackles some common Windows performance problems from sluggish performance to services not starting, and demonstrates some of Windows' many tools and utilities for troubleshooting various problems. Here you'll put to work many of the utilities you learned about in earlier lessons in specific troubleshooting scenarios, and access the many troubleshooting tools and wizards that Windows provides for different kinds of hardware and connectivity issues.

Virtual Machines and Remote Access

In this lesson, we'll discuss virtualization—using special software to run a second operating system within your actual OS. We'll show you what virtualization is and explain its many benefits. You'll also learn about the types of virtualization and popular virtualization software. To finish up this lesson, you'll learn about technologies that enable technicians (and also end users) to control computers remotely.

Printers and Multifunction Devices

The CompTIA A+ certification strongly stresses the area of multifunction devices (MFDs) and printing, so you'll need a high degree of technical knowledge about all types of printers. Here we'll begin our trip into printers and MFDs. You'll learn about the types of printers and scanners in common use today. We'll teach you how printers connect to PCs and networks, plus we'll talk about how they communicate with computers. Finally, we'll look at the laser printing process in detail so that you can troubleshoot like a printer technician.

Installing and Troubleshooting Printers and Multifunction Devices

In this course's final lesson, you'll learn the practical side of supporting printers and MFDs. You'll learn how to unbox and set up a printer, and how to install drivers for it to make it work in Windows. You'll then learn how to configure and maintain printers, and how to troubleshoot the many different problems that printers have, from general connectivity issues to print quality problems specific to certain printer technologies.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install, organize, maintain, and troubleshoot three different versions of Windows (explore similar features in MacOS and Linux)
• Examine and compare the features and structures of Windows Vista, 7, and 8/8.1
• Get a deeper understanding of how we use virtualization and virtual machines in modern networks
• Learn about printers and multifunction devices, from the various technologies in use to installing and troubleshooting

How you will benefit

• Master many of the techniques covered on the certification exam and feel confident on test day
• Become an integral part of any organization as you learn to install and troubleshoot new hardware, software, and MFDs
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

 Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• A Windows PC that you can experiment on. You will probably want to remove/install various devices, such as video, sound, and modems. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not the student), however, we do not require you to tear apart your own primary computer. This is a class that trains you to be a technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security course focuses on keeping our networks and systems secure from outside threats and how to troubleshoot issues as they appear.

If you want to jumpstart your career with your first tech support job, this third and final course in our CompTIA prep series is a necessary component to prepare you for the A+ certification exam successfully.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students need to complete CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software before attempting CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security to properly prepare to sit for the A+ certification exam.

Video Technologies

In this first lesson, you'll learn the details of monitors—standard desktop and projectors—and video cards. You'll learn how they work and function together to produce the display you see, and how to install and troubleshoot them.

Multimedia

In this lesson, you'll delve into the details of multimedia. You'll explore how sound works in a digital environment, examine all the components that work to record and play back video, and learn how 3D graphics work.

Portable Computing Devices

In this lesson, you'll examine the many features of portable computers. You'll explore the many ways to expand the capabilities of portables, from connecting to external monitors to docking stations. You'll also look at how to upgrade, manage, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot them.

Essentials of Networking

In this lesson, you'll be introduced to the essentials of networking. You'll explore topics such as network hardware and topologies and learn about Ethernet, coaxial and fiber cabling technologies, and more.

Local Area Networking

In this lesson, you'll delve deeper into networking. You'll learn about the TCP/IP protocol and how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a basic network.

Wireless Networking

In this lesson, you'll explore wireless technologies, starting with the basics, such as components, software, modes, security, speed, and range. You'll learn about wireless networking standards, such as radio wave and infrared networks. You'll finish the lesson with a look at installing, configuring, and troubleshooting wireless networks.

Internet Connections

Get ready to take the networking covered in previous lessons and expand it to fill the Internet. You'll start by learning how the Internet works and then examine the various connection types to get onto the Internet. The lesson will be wrapped up with a discussion of how you actually connect.

The Internet

In this lesson, you'll continue to dig further into the nuts and bolts of how the Internet works at the software layer, including the application and utility protocols, Internet applications, and cloud-computing services.

Security Hygiene

This lesson will teach you how to maintain security hygiene. You'll discover the many threats faced and then dive into access-control techniques. You'll also learn about topics like data classification, compliance, and reporting procedures.

Network Security

In this lesson, you'll jump into security aspects in the big bad world; specifically, threats from outside your network. You'll look at malicious software types and how to deal with them. You'll also learn what protections you should establish networkwide. The knowledge in this lesson is invaluable to you as both a tech and for the CompTIA A+ certification exams.

Understanding Mobile Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about the features and capabilities of smartphones and tablets, as well as the mobile operating systems that power them. You'll also explore common configuration techniques for working with mobile devices.

Care and Feeding of Mobile Devices

In this final lesson, you'll wrap up the trio of CompTIA A+ exam prep courses by learning how to troubleshoot and secure mobile device hardware, operating systems, and apps.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install and troubleshoot video technologies properly
• Understand how to upgrade, manage, maintain, and repair portable computing devices
• Learn the essentials of networking, including local area networking and wireless networking
• Discover the best ways to keep your network secure
• Understand how to work with mobile devices

How you will benefit

• Prepare for both the 1101/1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
• Complete the third and final course needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Gain skills and confidence in your ability to build and service networks as you prepare for CompTIA Network+ Certification. This course will teach you everything you need to take and successfully pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam (N10-007).

Network Fundamentals

In this lesson, you will examine the purpose of IT certifications, with specific emphasis on CompTIA Network+ and how it fits into the career of a network tech. You will explore how networks work in general, covering such essential concepts as servers and clients, Ethernet, switches, and LANs. In the last two sections of the lesson, you will examine two different models that technicians use to troubleshoot networks: the OSI seven-layer model and the TCP/IP model.

Network Media

In this lesson, you will learn about all kinds of network connections, such as cable types—coaxial, twisted-pair, and fiber—and wireless options. It should be fun and informative and carry you deeper into the CompTIA Network+ journey.

Network Topologies and Standards

In this lesson, you will jump into network topologies and standards, exploring Ethernet in detail. You will get a shorter look at some other standards that used to matter as well, including the star topology, so you won't be surprised by them on the CompTIA Network+ exam.

Network Hardware

Network hardware enables networking devices—nodes—to connect together into a network. In this lesson, you will learn about all the major device types, such as switches, routers, and wireless access points and how they function in modern networks.

TCP/IP

Most modern networks use TCP/IP, so it's essential knowledge for competent techs. In this lesson, you will delve into the protocol suite, looking at the many protocols included, how they work together, and what resources they require. You will also research the addressing and naming conventions used in TCP/IP networks and how computers get named.

Routing

In this lesson, you will delve into interconnecting networks, such as the Internet. Routers are the primary tools used for the job, so you will explore how they work and what routing protocols they use.

Virtualization

This lesson is about virtualization, a process of using software to handle jobs traditionally serviced with hardware. You will learn about VLANs and virtual computing and how complex networks use these technologies to accomplish specific goals.

Wide Area Networking

In this lesson, you will examine the many forms of remote connectivity, ways to interconnect a local computer or network with distant computers. You will explore everything from older-style dial-up and T-1 lines to the latest satellite and fiber connections.

Network Security

In this lesson, you will explore the many aspects of network security. You will examine threats to your network, from social engineering to cracking encryption. Then you will look at the many ways the good guys combat the bad guys through authentication and authorization standards and protocols.

The Complete Network

In this lesson, you will start to put together everything you've learned so far in this course. You will get the scoop on designing and implementing both wired and wireless SOHO networks. You will also explore categories of requirements, unified communication, specialized network devices, and industrial control systems.

Troubleshooting Networks

In this lesson, you will roll up your sleeves and plunge into network troubleshooting. You will look first at the CompTIA Network+ troubleshooting model and then examine top network hardware faults. You will explore network hardware tools and finish the lesson with a discussion on troubleshooting WAN issues.

Network Management

In this final lesson, you will look at a variety of practical concerns in network management, including emergency procedures, safety, segmentation, and network configuration and monitoring.

What you will learn

• The OSI seven-layer model to understand and troubleshoot networks
• Network connections such as cable types and wireless
• Explore the Ethernet in detail
• How major device types function
• How protocols work together and what resources they require
• How routers create interconnecting networks
• Internet security and the threats to your network
• How to design and implement both wired and wireless SOHO networks
• Network troubleshooting and top network hardware faults

How you will benefit

• Discover how Comp TIA Network + can fit into a network tech career
• Be prepared to pass the Comp TIA Network + certification exam

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Learn why you're at risk and what you can do to protect your precious personal and business data from the outside world. In this course, a security expert will teach you the fundamentals of PC and network security as you learn to install and configure a firewall to build an impenetrable moat around your computer or network.

Introduction to PC Security

In this lesson, you will learn the facts and myths about PC security. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to assess your own risk, whether you're an individual or manage a network of any size. You will also perform a self-assessment to evaluate just how vulnerable you are to security flaws.

Your PC and Network

If you ever wondered what technical gurus are speaking about when they talk about LANs, WANs, VPNs, and P2P, you will find detailed answers in this lesson. Discover the basics of networks and how your PC connects to them.

PCs, Networks, and Software Demystified

Most people don't stop to think about how a Mac can talk to a PC and vice versa. Yet, different types of machines talk to each other on a daily basis across networks. They also talk to printers, fax machines, and a host of other devices. The OSI model for network connections lets you accomplish this, and you will learn all about it in this lesson.

Viruses, Worms, Blended Threats, and More

Get ready to investigate the world of viruses, worms, and blended threats. You'll learn what they are and the differences between all three. Of course, all this knowledge will also teach you how to protect yourself and your network from the hackers and crackers of the world.

The Family of Malware

This lesson introduces you to the ware family. What is the ware family? They are the products that download themselves onto your computer without your consent or knowledge—spyware, scumware, malware, and adware. You will meet them and learn all about where they live, places they frequent, and how to remove these unwelcome guests.

Exploits and Vulnerabilities

You may have heard of them: vulnerabilities, exploits, and exposure. But what are they? Have you ever wondered if someone really can control your computer without your knowledge? If you've been pondering these questions lately, then you will find your answers here, along with priceless information on protecting your computer and your network to keep your business and personal data private.

Network Attacks

Have you ever tried to access the web but received an error saying the page can't be displayed, you aren't connected, or you don't have access? Denial of Service attacks and SYN flooding are two types of network attacks that seem to go unnoticed on personal PCs and small networks. After this lesson, you will no longer be left wondering what happened to your Internet connection.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part One)

This lesson will introduce you to firewalls. Join me in this lesson, and you will soon start building an impenetrable moat around your network.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part Two)

Now that you have your moat built, it's time to arm up and defend yourself. In this lesson, you will learn how to configure your firewall and maximize your network security.

Laptops, Notebooks, Netbooks, and Wireless Networking

Laptops and wireless connectivity aren't as secure as they appear. You will understand why in this lesson.

Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

This lesson explores the Virtual Private Network and how it's different from standard networks, how it works, how to secure it, and how to set up your own. You can share files with family across the miles by allowing them to connect remotely to your designated shared folders. You can share music files, family pictures, and anything else you choose to give them access to.

Changing Face of Security

Now that you know what's out there, how can you possibly keep on top of security issues? There's so much information out there, how will you know what applies to you? You will learn about emerging security technology that will help make managing and securing your network easier. Finally, you can test yourself against the first security assessment to see how well you've secured your own PC or network.

What you will learn

• Learn to assess your own risk on your computer or network
• Learn the weak links of security in software and operating systems
• Learn to protect your network from hackers
• Learn priceless information on protecting your computer and keep personal data private
• Learn to build a firewall
• Learn to set up your own Virtual Private Network

How you will benefit

• Understand when your computer is being attacked
• Understand the many vulnerabilities of operating systems, software, and networks
• Know how to protect your network from hackers
• Keep your personal data private

Debbie Mahler

Debbie Mahler has worked for 15 years in the computer repair industry and runs her own IT business. She teaches on a wide range of business-related topics at the university level and has written six books on the business. She also contributes to several publications. Mahler holds a Bachelor of Art in Applied Behavioral Psychology and the title of Symantec Software Partner and Security Specialist.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
• Dual monitors are helpful but are not required.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins. Student will install the required software in the course.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
• Necessary rights (local administrative rights) to install programs on the computer.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

• SQL Server Express
• SQL Server Management Studio

Gain a solid working knowledge of the most powerful and widely used database programming language. This course will provide you the skills to write SQL queries to create tables, retrieve data from single or multiple tables, manipulate data in a database, and gather statistics from data stored in a database.

Introduction to Database Design and SQL

In this introductory lesson, you will examine database terms and concepts. Understanding the purpose of a database is foundational to writing efficient SQL queries that retrieve the right data.

SQL Server

In this lesson, you will install SQL Server Express and the SQL Server Management Studio to use throughout the course in your learn-by-doing practices. You will use SQL code to create one of the tables for the practice database in SQL Server.

Retrieving Data Result-Sets

SQL queries are the statements used to retrieve data from the database. Queries are written in a specific, logical order. In this lesson, you will explore various ways to write SQL queries to retrieve data that meet defined criteria.

Sorting Data

SQL queries are defined and written to retrieve data in a certain order. Queries are also written to limit columns and to filter data rows. In this lesson, you will practice writing queries that meet defined criteria and retrieve the expected result-sets.

Designing SQL Data Tables

This lesson is about designing SQL data tables for a database. You will explore the relationship concept and how it is used in an RDBMS. You will define tables that are structured according to RDBMS standards. You will also create the tables to add to your practice database.

Designing Data Rows

In this lesson, you will add data to your newly defined tables. You will explore several methods of adding data to a table and practice writing and executing these query statements. After adding several individual rows to the tables, you will use a SQL query to populate your tables with enough data rows to use in the learn-by-doing practices in this course.

Getting Data From Two Tables

SQL JOIN statements are used to retrieve data from more than one table. In this lesson, you will practice writing JOIN statements that retrieve data from tables that have a relationship between their PKs and FKs.

Retrieving Data From Multiple Tables

In this lesson, you will continue writing JOIN statements that retrieve data result-sets from more than one table. You will also examine how and when to use SQL subquery statements to retrieve data from multiple tables. You will practice defining and writing JOIN and subquery queries.

Keeping the Database Up to Date

The quality of the data in the database depends on its integrity, including the concepts of data accuracy and consistency. In this lesson, you will explore writing queries to maintain the database so that it is up to date with data that is accurate, consistent, and has integrity.

Aggregate Functions

In this lesson, you will examine the concept of aggregate functions and how they are used in query statements to examine multiple rows. Aggregate functions are a method of retrieving summarized data that is useful for analysis.

SQL Views

SQL views are an important concept in database design and in using databases. In this lesson, you will explore designing and writing queries to create views. You will also explore the reason they are valuable for database security and database access.

Maximize Database Integrity and Performance

Constraints are one way to maximize the integrity of the database and minimize the opportunity for user error. Indexes are used for increasing the performance of a data query. In this lesson, you will explore both these concepts.

What you will learn

• Use SQL to develop a relational database
• Design table and row structures that fulfill your requirements
• Write efficient SQL queries to find and organize data
• Write SQL queries to retrieve data from multiple tables
• Create updates for a secure, high-performance database

How you will benefit

• Gain confidence in your SQL ability, the standard database query language
• Open the door to opportunities as you list basic SQL programming as a skill on your resume
• Develop a new skill and learn whether or not you would like a career in IT

Mava Wilson

Mava Wilson, Ph.D., is a professor with more than 28 years of teaching experience. While she specializes in Information Systems (IS), she has taught several computer science topics, including basic computer literacy, programming, database design, and SQL. She holds a Ph.D. and master's degree in computing technology from Nova Southeastern University, as well as a bachelor's in administrative systems from Radford University.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• It's also recommended that you have a PC that you can take apart and put back together again. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not to you), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer. This is, however, a class that trains you to be a hardware technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course teaches you about the hardware common to nearly every personal computer, including microprocessors, RAM, power supplies, motherboards, UEFI/BIOS, the system setup utility, the expansion bus, and input/output devices.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: To properly prepare for your 220-1101/1102 CompTIA A+ certification exams, in addition to this course, you will need to complete the following course series: CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security.

The Art of the Tech

In Lesson 1, we'll introduce you to the course and to the CompTIA A+ certification, and then move right into essential information for every tech. You'll get the scoop on how the many components of the personal computer work together. We'll discuss how professional techs behave and interact with clients. And we'll finish with a tried-and-true troubleshooting methodology that will apply to all tech situations.

Desktop PC Basics

In Lesson 2, we'll take a tour of a desktop PC, starting with the exterior connectors. We'll go into details of the interior devices as well. Our goal is to begin teaching proper tech terminology and familiarize you with standard computer components. You'll also learn about some common computer roles, so you can better understand why desktop PCs are used in both homes and businesses.

Laptop PC Basics

This lesson looks at the ways laptops differ from desktops. You'll learn about laptop hardware, including a variety of support devices such as docking stations and port replicators. You'll find out how to manage laptop power and battery life and how to protect, maintain, and troubleshoot laptops.

Maintenance and Safety Precautions

In this lesson we dive into the important safety techniques that every good tech absolutely needs to know. These range from how to clean a computer to methods to avoid tech-induced damage to how to dispose of old parts safely.

Central Processing Units and RAM

In this lesson, we'll deliver the goods on central processing units, the core processing component in every PC. We'll explain variations in technology and then give practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs. Plus, we'll dig into the details of one of the foundations of the computer: RAM. With RAM, the CPU can make magic happen. Without it? Literally nothing can happen. You'll learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it. Then, we'll wrap up the lesson with troubleshooting RAM and memory problems.

Motherboards and Cases

In this lesson, we'll teach you about the essential programming that makes computers function, what's called the BIOS or UEFI. Plus, you'll learn about the special tools we use for storing configuration options for BIOS and UEFI. It's awesome stuff! We'll also teach you all about motherboards, the bedrock of every PC. You'll learn form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards. In this lesson, we'll also cover upgrading, installing, and troubleshooting motherboards.

Powering the PC

Today, we'll introduce you to power supplies and the basics of powering a PC. You'll learn about how electricity gets from your wall outlet into your PC, along with how to test that electricity. We'll teach you about the many power supply standards and how to install one inside your PC. Finally, we'll discuss how to troubleshoot a power supply with problems.

Input Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about devices that enable you to input data into your computer. We'll discuss standard input devices (like keyboards and mice) and multimedia devices (like digital cameras and webcams). We'll also teach you about connecting those devices to your computers using connectors like USB and Thunderbolt.

Storage Technologies

Today, we'll dig into storage technologies, including traditional hard disk drives and modern solid-state drives. You'll also learn how to install storage devices of several interface types, including SATA and M.2. We'll also explain the fundamentals of troubleshooting storage devices.

Working with Storage Devices

In Lesson 10, you'll learn how to prepare a storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid-state drive for use by an operating system. We'll teach you about partitioning and formatting. We'll also cover maintaining your data using several included Windows utilities.

Removable Media and RAID

In this lesson, you'll explore various forms of mass storage that you can take with you, such as USB flash media, memory cards, optical drives, and external drives. You'll also discover how RAID arrays improve storage performance and/or reliability.

Operational Procedures

As we wrap up the course, you'll learn about all the other stuff that goes into making IT work, such as documentation, change management, ticketing systems, and disaster prevention and recovery.

What you will learn

• Learn proper tech terminology and how all the components of the PC work together
• Discover important safety techniques that every good tech needs to know
• Gain practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs
• Learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it
• Obtain everything you need to know about motherboard form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards
• Gain knowledge of hard drive technologies and the fundamentals of protecting data with RAID technology

How you will benefit

• Learn the skills you need to promote yourself as a PC hardware technician capable of solving various computer issues
• Gain the confidence you need to successfully perform integral computer support in the workplace
• Become an indispensable part of any organization that uses computers daily
• Complete the first of three courses needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• Access to a Mac running macOS (in addition to the PC) is recommended.
• You should have access to a hard drive that you can install, format, and partition, and to a couple of Plug and Play devices that you can practice installing. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software course teaches you about working with many different operating systems, virtual machines, and various software. In part two of our three-step series, you will learn how to operate and maintain these items on our systems.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students should previously have completed the CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course. Upon completion of CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software, you should prepare to enroll in our final prep course, CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security, to successfully prepare for both the 220-1101/1102 exams and your career as a certified technician.

Understanding Operating Systems

In this lesson, you'll learn basic operating system concepts and the various operating systems (and versions) covered on the CompTIA A+ exams. You'll explore common OS functions that enable users, software, and hardware to interact with each other. We'll also look at the primary user interfaces—the graphic user interface and the command line interface—and how the GUI manifests in recent versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux. We'll also look at basic OS security features that protect the system by authenticating users and requiring proper authorization to take certain actions.

Installing Windows

This lesson is all about Microsoft Windows. You'll learn how to prepare for installing or upgrading Windows, install the OS, and apply the post-installation finishing touches. You'll also learn how to troubleshoot any problems that might pop up during installation.

Starting Windows and Managing User Accounts

What do you do after installing Windows? Start it up, of course! Here you'll learn about sign-in options and security, and the different kinds of user accounts available and how to manage them. Then you'll discover the various ways that Windows controls access to files and other resources based on the permissions assigned to user accounts and groups.

Customizing and Configuring Windows

This lesson focuses on the two main Windows utilities that you can use to customize and configure its settings: the Settings app and the Control Panel. We'll compare the two utilities and then review how to make the most common system changes, such as changing desktop appearance settings, disabling a webcam, modifying default apps for certain file types, and more.

Using Windows Utilities

Windows includes dozens of helpful special-purpose utilities you can use to configure and troubleshoot a system. Here you'll learn about the Task Manager and its role in shutting down unresponsive apps and correcting slow startup and sluggish performance issues. Then we'll look at the Microsoft Management Console and explore some of its most popular snap-ins. You'll finish up by learning how to access, back up, and make changes to the Registry and understand the Registry's structure.

Exploring macOS and Linux

CompTIA A+ exam 220-1102 includes several objectives that deal with macOS and Linux, and this lesson prepares you for that by explaining the macOS desktop and how to use it to manage files, install and run apps, and access popular utilities such as Keychain and Boot Camp. You'll learn how to customize the desktop and protect your disks, files, and accounts. We'll round out this lesson by explaining the basics of the Linux OS, including distros, the (optional) desktop GUI, file systems, startup apps, and software updates.

Working at a Command Prompt

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the text-based command-line interface in each of the "big three" operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux. You'll explore the command prompt and find out how to use it to navigate the folder structure. You'll learn about basic commands for listing files and creating new directories, and we'll discuss advanced commands for moving and copying files. This lesson will finish up by explaining the basics of scripting using text commands.

Troubleshooting Windows Startup and System Issues

This lesson looks at the various reasons a Windows system doesn't boot normally—or isn't stable after booting up—and how to fix them. You'll learn about the Windows Recovery Environment and its many tools and features, and explore the options on the Startup Settings menu, such as Safe Mode. Then you'll take your command prompt knowledge from Lesson 7 and put it to work to troubleshoot and repair boot problems at a command line interface. Finally, we'll look at the various causes of system instability and crashes and how to troubleshoot them.

Troubleshooting Windows Performance and Application Issues

This lesson continues our look at Windows troubleshooting. It tackles some common Windows performance problems from sluggish performance to services not starting, and demonstrates some of Windows' many tools and utilities for troubleshooting various problems. Here you'll put to work many of the utilities you learned about in earlier lessons in specific troubleshooting scenarios, and access the many troubleshooting tools and wizards that Windows provides for different kinds of hardware and connectivity issues.

Virtual Machines and Remote Access

In this lesson, we'll discuss virtualization—using special software to run a second operating system within your actual OS. We'll show you what virtualization is and explain its many benefits. You'll also learn about the types of virtualization and popular virtualization software. To finish up this lesson, you'll learn about technologies that enable technicians (and also end users) to control computers remotely.

Printers and Multifunction Devices

The CompTIA A+ certification strongly stresses the area of multifunction devices (MFDs) and printing, so you'll need a high degree of technical knowledge about all types of printers. Here we'll begin our trip into printers and MFDs. You'll learn about the types of printers and scanners in common use today. We'll teach you how printers connect to PCs and networks, plus we'll talk about how they communicate with computers. Finally, we'll look at the laser printing process in detail so that you can troubleshoot like a printer technician.

Installing and Troubleshooting Printers and Multifunction Devices

In this course's final lesson, you'll learn the practical side of supporting printers and MFDs. You'll learn how to unbox and set up a printer, and how to install drivers for it to make it work in Windows. You'll then learn how to configure and maintain printers, and how to troubleshoot the many different problems that printers have, from general connectivity issues to print quality problems specific to certain printer technologies.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install, organize, maintain, and troubleshoot three different versions of Windows (explore similar features in MacOS and Linux)
• Examine and compare the features and structures of Windows Vista, 7, and 8/8.1
• Get a deeper understanding of how we use virtualization and virtual machines in modern networks
• Learn about printers and multifunction devices, from the various technologies in use to installing and troubleshooting

How you will benefit

• Master many of the techniques covered on the certification exam and feel confident on test day
• Become an integral part of any organization as you learn to install and troubleshoot new hardware, software, and MFDs
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

 Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• A Windows PC that you can experiment on. You will probably want to remove/install various devices, such as video, sound, and modems. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not the student), however, we do not require you to tear apart your own primary computer. This is a class that trains you to be a technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security course focuses on keeping our networks and systems secure from outside threats and how to troubleshoot issues as they appear.

If you want to jumpstart your career with your first tech support job, this third and final course in our CompTIA prep series is a necessary component to prepare you for the A+ certification exam successfully.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students need to complete CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software before attempting CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security to properly prepare to sit for the A+ certification exam.

Video Technologies

In this first lesson, you'll learn the details of monitors—standard desktop and projectors—and video cards. You'll learn how they work and function together to produce the display you see, and how to install and troubleshoot them.

Multimedia

In this lesson, you'll delve into the details of multimedia. You'll explore how sound works in a digital environment, examine all the components that work to record and play back video, and learn how 3D graphics work.

Portable Computing Devices

In this lesson, you'll examine the many features of portable computers. You'll explore the many ways to expand the capabilities of portables, from connecting to external monitors to docking stations. You'll also look at how to upgrade, manage, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot them.

Essentials of Networking

In this lesson, you'll be introduced to the essentials of networking. You'll explore topics such as network hardware and topologies and learn about Ethernet, coaxial and fiber cabling technologies, and more.

Local Area Networking

In this lesson, you'll delve deeper into networking. You'll learn about the TCP/IP protocol and how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a basic network.

Wireless Networking

In this lesson, you'll explore wireless technologies, starting with the basics, such as components, software, modes, security, speed, and range. You'll learn about wireless networking standards, such as radio wave and infrared networks. You'll finish the lesson with a look at installing, configuring, and troubleshooting wireless networks.

Internet Connections

Get ready to take the networking covered in previous lessons and expand it to fill the Internet. You'll start by learning how the Internet works and then examine the various connection types to get onto the Internet. The lesson will be wrapped up with a discussion of how you actually connect.

The Internet

In this lesson, you'll continue to dig further into the nuts and bolts of how the Internet works at the software layer, including the application and utility protocols, Internet applications, and cloud-computing services.

Security Hygiene

This lesson will teach you how to maintain security hygiene. You'll discover the many threats faced and then dive into access-control techniques. You'll also learn about topics like data classification, compliance, and reporting procedures.

Network Security

In this lesson, you'll jump into security aspects in the big bad world; specifically, threats from outside your network. You'll look at malicious software types and how to deal with them. You'll also learn what protections you should establish networkwide. The knowledge in this lesson is invaluable to you as both a tech and for the CompTIA A+ certification exams.

Understanding Mobile Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about the features and capabilities of smartphones and tablets, as well as the mobile operating systems that power them. You'll also explore common configuration techniques for working with mobile devices.

Care and Feeding of Mobile Devices

In this final lesson, you'll wrap up the trio of CompTIA A+ exam prep courses by learning how to troubleshoot and secure mobile device hardware, operating systems, and apps.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install and troubleshoot video technologies properly
• Understand how to upgrade, manage, maintain, and repair portable computing devices
• Learn the essentials of networking, including local area networking and wireless networking
• Discover the best ways to keep your network secure
• Understand how to work with mobile devices

How you will benefit

• Prepare for both the 1101/1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
• Complete the third and final course needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Gain skills and confidence in your ability to build and service networks as you prepare for CompTIA Network+ Certification. This course will teach you everything you need to take and successfully pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam (N10-007).

Network Fundamentals

In this lesson, you will examine the purpose of IT certifications, with specific emphasis on CompTIA Network+ and how it fits into the career of a network tech. You will explore how networks work in general, covering such essential concepts as servers and clients, Ethernet, switches, and LANs. In the last two sections of the lesson, you will examine two different models that technicians use to troubleshoot networks: the OSI seven-layer model and the TCP/IP model.

Network Media

In this lesson, you will learn about all kinds of network connections, such as cable types—coaxial, twisted-pair, and fiber—and wireless options. It should be fun and informative and carry you deeper into the CompTIA Network+ journey.

Network Topologies and Standards

In this lesson, you will jump into network topologies and standards, exploring Ethernet in detail. You will get a shorter look at some other standards that used to matter as well, including the star topology, so you won't be surprised by them on the CompTIA Network+ exam.

Network Hardware

Network hardware enables networking devices—nodes—to connect together into a network. In this lesson, you will learn about all the major device types, such as switches, routers, and wireless access points and how they function in modern networks.

TCP/IP

Most modern networks use TCP/IP, so it's essential knowledge for competent techs. In this lesson, you will delve into the protocol suite, looking at the many protocols included, how they work together, and what resources they require. You will also research the addressing and naming conventions used in TCP/IP networks and how computers get named.

Routing

In this lesson, you will delve into interconnecting networks, such as the Internet. Routers are the primary tools used for the job, so you will explore how they work and what routing protocols they use.

Virtualization

This lesson is about virtualization, a process of using software to handle jobs traditionally serviced with hardware. You will learn about VLANs and virtual computing and how complex networks use these technologies to accomplish specific goals.

Wide Area Networking

In this lesson, you will examine the many forms of remote connectivity, ways to interconnect a local computer or network with distant computers. You will explore everything from older-style dial-up and T-1 lines to the latest satellite and fiber connections.

Network Security

In this lesson, you will explore the many aspects of network security. You will examine threats to your network, from social engineering to cracking encryption. Then you will look at the many ways the good guys combat the bad guys through authentication and authorization standards and protocols.

The Complete Network

In this lesson, you will start to put together everything you've learned so far in this course. You will get the scoop on designing and implementing both wired and wireless SOHO networks. You will also explore categories of requirements, unified communication, specialized network devices, and industrial control systems.

Troubleshooting Networks

In this lesson, you will roll up your sleeves and plunge into network troubleshooting. You will look first at the CompTIA Network+ troubleshooting model and then examine top network hardware faults. You will explore network hardware tools and finish the lesson with a discussion on troubleshooting WAN issues.

Network Management

In this final lesson, you will look at a variety of practical concerns in network management, including emergency procedures, safety, segmentation, and network configuration and monitoring.

What you will learn

• The OSI seven-layer model to understand and troubleshoot networks
• Network connections such as cable types and wireless
• Explore the Ethernet in detail
• How major device types function
• How protocols work together and what resources they require
• How routers create interconnecting networks
• Internet security and the threats to your network
• How to design and implement both wired and wireless SOHO networks
• Network troubleshooting and top network hardware faults

How you will benefit

• Discover how Comp TIA Network + can fit into a network tech career
• Be prepared to pass the Comp TIA Network + certification exam

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Learn why you're at risk and what you can do to protect your precious personal and business data from the outside world. In this course, a security expert will teach you the fundamentals of PC and network security as you learn to install and configure a firewall to build an impenetrable moat around your computer or network.

Introduction to PC Security

In this lesson, you will learn the facts and myths about PC security. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to assess your own risk, whether you're an individual or manage a network of any size. You will also perform a self-assessment to evaluate just how vulnerable you are to security flaws.

Your PC and Network

If you ever wondered what technical gurus are speaking about when they talk about LANs, WANs, VPNs, and P2P, you will find detailed answers in this lesson. Discover the basics of networks and how your PC connects to them.

PCs, Networks, and Software Demystified

Most people don't stop to think about how a Mac can talk to a PC and vice versa. Yet, different types of machines talk to each other on a daily basis across networks. They also talk to printers, fax machines, and a host of other devices. The OSI model for network connections lets you accomplish this, and you will learn all about it in this lesson.

Viruses, Worms, Blended Threats, and More

Get ready to investigate the world of viruses, worms, and blended threats. You'll learn what they are and the differences between all three. Of course, all this knowledge will also teach you how to protect yourself and your network from the hackers and crackers of the world.

The Family of Malware

This lesson introduces you to the ware family. What is the ware family? They are the products that download themselves onto your computer without your consent or knowledge—spyware, scumware, malware, and adware. You will meet them and learn all about where they live, places they frequent, and how to remove these unwelcome guests.

Exploits and Vulnerabilities

You may have heard of them: vulnerabilities, exploits, and exposure. But what are they? Have you ever wondered if someone really can control your computer without your knowledge? If you've been pondering these questions lately, then you will find your answers here, along with priceless information on protecting your computer and your network to keep your business and personal data private.

Network Attacks

Have you ever tried to access the web but received an error saying the page can't be displayed, you aren't connected, or you don't have access? Denial of Service attacks and SYN flooding are two types of network attacks that seem to go unnoticed on personal PCs and small networks. After this lesson, you will no longer be left wondering what happened to your Internet connection.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part One)

This lesson will introduce you to firewalls. Join me in this lesson, and you will soon start building an impenetrable moat around your network.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part Two)

Now that you have your moat built, it's time to arm up and defend yourself. In this lesson, you will learn how to configure your firewall and maximize your network security.

Laptops, Notebooks, Netbooks, and Wireless Networking

Laptops and wireless connectivity aren't as secure as they appear. You will understand why in this lesson.

Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

This lesson explores the Virtual Private Network and how it's different from standard networks, how it works, how to secure it, and how to set up your own. You can share files with family across the miles by allowing them to connect remotely to your designated shared folders. You can share music files, family pictures, and anything else you choose to give them access to.

Changing Face of Security

Now that you know what's out there, how can you possibly keep on top of security issues? There's so much information out there, how will you know what applies to you? You will learn about emerging security technology that will help make managing and securing your network easier. Finally, you can test yourself against the first security assessment to see how well you've secured your own PC or network.

What you will learn

• Learn to assess your own risk on your computer or network
• Learn the weak links of security in software and operating systems
• Learn to protect your network from hackers
• Learn priceless information on protecting your computer and keep personal data private
• Learn to build a firewall
• Learn to set up your own Virtual Private Network

How you will benefit

• Understand when your computer is being attacked
• Understand the many vulnerabilities of operating systems, software, and networks
• Know how to protect your network from hackers
• Keep your personal data private

Debbie Mahler

Debbie Mahler has worked for 15 years in the computer repair industry and runs her own IT business. She teaches on a wide range of business-related topics at the university level and has written six books on the business. She also contributes to several publications. Mahler holds a Bachelor of Art in Applied Behavioral Psychology and the title of Symantec Software Partner and Security Specialist.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
• Dual monitors are helpful but are not required.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins. Student will install the required software in the course.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
• Necessary rights (local administrative rights) to install programs on the computer.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

• SQL Server Express
• SQL Server Management Studio

Gain a solid working knowledge of the most powerful and widely used database programming language. This course will provide you the skills to write SQL queries to create tables, retrieve data from single or multiple tables, manipulate data in a database, and gather statistics from data stored in a database.

Introduction to Database Design and SQL

In this introductory lesson, you will examine database terms and concepts. Understanding the purpose of a database is foundational to writing efficient SQL queries that retrieve the right data.

SQL Server

In this lesson, you will install SQL Server Express and the SQL Server Management Studio to use throughout the course in your learn-by-doing practices. You will use SQL code to create one of the tables for the practice database in SQL Server.

Retrieving Data Result-Sets

SQL queries are the statements used to retrieve data from the database. Queries are written in a specific, logical order. In this lesson, you will explore various ways to write SQL queries to retrieve data that meet defined criteria.

Sorting Data

SQL queries are defined and written to retrieve data in a certain order. Queries are also written to limit columns and to filter data rows. In this lesson, you will practice writing queries that meet defined criteria and retrieve the expected result-sets.

Designing SQL Data Tables

This lesson is about designing SQL data tables for a database. You will explore the relationship concept and how it is used in an RDBMS. You will define tables that are structured according to RDBMS standards. You will also create the tables to add to your practice database.

Designing Data Rows

In this lesson, you will add data to your newly defined tables. You will explore several methods of adding data to a table and practice writing and executing these query statements. After adding several individual rows to the tables, you will use a SQL query to populate your tables with enough data rows to use in the learn-by-doing practices in this course.

Getting Data From Two Tables

SQL JOIN statements are used to retrieve data from more than one table. In this lesson, you will practice writing JOIN statements that retrieve data from tables that have a relationship between their PKs and FKs.

Retrieving Data From Multiple Tables

In this lesson, you will continue writing JOIN statements that retrieve data result-sets from more than one table. You will also examine how and when to use SQL subquery statements to retrieve data from multiple tables. You will practice defining and writing JOIN and subquery queries.

Keeping the Database Up to Date

The quality of the data in the database depends on its integrity, including the concepts of data accuracy and consistency. In this lesson, you will explore writing queries to maintain the database so that it is up to date with data that is accurate, consistent, and has integrity.

Aggregate Functions

In this lesson, you will examine the concept of aggregate functions and how they are used in query statements to examine multiple rows. Aggregate functions are a method of retrieving summarized data that is useful for analysis.

SQL Views

SQL views are an important concept in database design and in using databases. In this lesson, you will explore designing and writing queries to create views. You will also explore the reason they are valuable for database security and database access.

Maximize Database Integrity and Performance

Constraints are one way to maximize the integrity of the database and minimize the opportunity for user error. Indexes are used for increasing the performance of a data query. In this lesson, you will explore both these concepts.

What you will learn

• Use SQL to develop a relational database
• Design table and row structures that fulfill your requirements
• Write efficient SQL queries to find and organize data
• Write SQL queries to retrieve data from multiple tables
• Create updates for a secure, high-performance database

How you will benefit

• Gain confidence in your SQL ability, the standard database query language
• Open the door to opportunities as you list basic SQL programming as a skill on your resume
• Develop a new skill and learn whether or not you would like a career in IT

Mava Wilson

Mava Wilson, Ph.D., is a professor with more than 28 years of teaching experience. While she specializes in Information Systems (IS), she has taught several computer science topics, including basic computer literacy, programming, database design, and SQL. She holds a Ph.D. and master's degree in computing technology from Nova Southeastern University, as well as a bachelor's in administrative systems from Radford University.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• It's also recommended that you have a PC that you can take apart and put back together again. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not to you), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer. This is, however, a class that trains you to be a hardware technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course teaches you about the hardware common to nearly every personal computer, including microprocessors, RAM, power supplies, motherboards, UEFI/BIOS, the system setup utility, the expansion bus, and input/output devices.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: To properly prepare for your 220-1101/1102 CompTIA A+ certification exams, in addition to this course, you will need to complete the following course series: CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security.

The Art of the Tech

In Lesson 1, we'll introduce you to the course and to the CompTIA A+ certification, and then move right into essential information for every tech. You'll get the scoop on how the many components of the personal computer work together. We'll discuss how professional techs behave and interact with clients. And we'll finish with a tried-and-true troubleshooting methodology that will apply to all tech situations.

Desktop PC Basics

In Lesson 2, we'll take a tour of a desktop PC, starting with the exterior connectors. We'll go into details of the interior devices as well. Our goal is to begin teaching proper tech terminology and familiarize you with standard computer components. You'll also learn about some common computer roles, so you can better understand why desktop PCs are used in both homes and businesses.

Laptop PC Basics

This lesson looks at the ways laptops differ from desktops. You'll learn about laptop hardware, including a variety of support devices such as docking stations and port replicators. You'll find out how to manage laptop power and battery life and how to protect, maintain, and troubleshoot laptops.

Maintenance and Safety Precautions

In this lesson we dive into the important safety techniques that every good tech absolutely needs to know. These range from how to clean a computer to methods to avoid tech-induced damage to how to dispose of old parts safely.

Central Processing Units and RAM

In this lesson, we'll deliver the goods on central processing units, the core processing component in every PC. We'll explain variations in technology and then give practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs. Plus, we'll dig into the details of one of the foundations of the computer: RAM. With RAM, the CPU can make magic happen. Without it? Literally nothing can happen. You'll learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it. Then, we'll wrap up the lesson with troubleshooting RAM and memory problems.

Motherboards and Cases

In this lesson, we'll teach you about the essential programming that makes computers function, what's called the BIOS or UEFI. Plus, you'll learn about the special tools we use for storing configuration options for BIOS and UEFI. It's awesome stuff! We'll also teach you all about motherboards, the bedrock of every PC. You'll learn form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards. In this lesson, we'll also cover upgrading, installing, and troubleshooting motherboards.

Powering the PC

Today, we'll introduce you to power supplies and the basics of powering a PC. You'll learn about how electricity gets from your wall outlet into your PC, along with how to test that electricity. We'll teach you about the many power supply standards and how to install one inside your PC. Finally, we'll discuss how to troubleshoot a power supply with problems.

Input Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about devices that enable you to input data into your computer. We'll discuss standard input devices (like keyboards and mice) and multimedia devices (like digital cameras and webcams). We'll also teach you about connecting those devices to your computers using connectors like USB and Thunderbolt.

Storage Technologies

Today, we'll dig into storage technologies, including traditional hard disk drives and modern solid-state drives. You'll also learn how to install storage devices of several interface types, including SATA and M.2. We'll also explain the fundamentals of troubleshooting storage devices.

Working with Storage Devices

In Lesson 10, you'll learn how to prepare a storage device such as a hard disk drive or solid-state drive for use by an operating system. We'll teach you about partitioning and formatting. We'll also cover maintaining your data using several included Windows utilities.

Removable Media and RAID

In this lesson, you'll explore various forms of mass storage that you can take with you, such as USB flash media, memory cards, optical drives, and external drives. You'll also discover how RAID arrays improve storage performance and/or reliability.

Operational Procedures

As we wrap up the course, you'll learn about all the other stuff that goes into making IT work, such as documentation, change management, ticketing systems, and disaster prevention and recovery.

What you will learn

• Learn proper tech terminology and how all the components of the PC work together
• Discover important safety techniques that every good tech needs to know
• Gain practical information and advice on installing and troubleshooting CPUs
• Learn about the different varieties of RAM and proper techniques for installing it
• Obtain everything you need to know about motherboard form factors, types of expansion slots, and installation steps for expansion cards
• Gain knowledge of hard drive technologies and the fundamentals of protecting data with RAID technology

How you will benefit

• Learn the skills you need to promote yourself as a PC hardware technician capable of solving various computer issues
• Gain the confidence you need to successfully perform integral computer support in the workplace
• Become an indispensable part of any organization that uses computers daily
• Complete the first of three courses needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• Access to a Mac running macOS (in addition to the PC) is recommended.
• You should have access to a hard drive that you can install, format, and partition, and to a couple of Plug and Play devices that you can practice installing. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine), you are not required to tear apart your own primary computer.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software course teaches you about working with many different operating systems, virtual machines, and various software. In part two of our three-step series, you will learn how to operate and maintain these items on our systems.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students should previously have completed the CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware course. Upon completion of CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software, you should prepare to enroll in our final prep course, CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Network Security, to successfully prepare for both the 220-1101/1102 exams and your career as a certified technician.

Understanding Operating Systems

In this lesson, you'll learn basic operating system concepts and the various operating systems (and versions) covered on the CompTIA A+ exams. You'll explore common OS functions that enable users, software, and hardware to interact with each other. We'll also look at the primary user interfaces—the graphic user interface and the command line interface—and how the GUI manifests in recent versions of Windows, macOS, and Linux. We'll also look at basic OS security features that protect the system by authenticating users and requiring proper authorization to take certain actions.

Installing Windows

This lesson is all about Microsoft Windows. You'll learn how to prepare for installing or upgrading Windows, install the OS, and apply the post-installation finishing touches. You'll also learn how to troubleshoot any problems that might pop up during installation.

Starting Windows and Managing User Accounts

What do you do after installing Windows? Start it up, of course! Here you'll learn about sign-in options and security, and the different kinds of user accounts available and how to manage them. Then you'll discover the various ways that Windows controls access to files and other resources based on the permissions assigned to user accounts and groups.

Customizing and Configuring Windows

This lesson focuses on the two main Windows utilities that you can use to customize and configure its settings: the Settings app and the Control Panel. We'll compare the two utilities and then review how to make the most common system changes, such as changing desktop appearance settings, disabling a webcam, modifying default apps for certain file types, and more.

Using Windows Utilities

Windows includes dozens of helpful special-purpose utilities you can use to configure and troubleshoot a system. Here you'll learn about the Task Manager and its role in shutting down unresponsive apps and correcting slow startup and sluggish performance issues. Then we'll look at the Microsoft Management Console and explore some of its most popular snap-ins. You'll finish up by learning how to access, back up, and make changes to the Registry and understand the Registry's structure.

Exploring macOS and Linux

CompTIA A+ exam 220-1102 includes several objectives that deal with macOS and Linux, and this lesson prepares you for that by explaining the macOS desktop and how to use it to manage files, install and run apps, and access popular utilities such as Keychain and Boot Camp. You'll learn how to customize the desktop and protect your disks, files, and accounts. We'll round out this lesson by explaining the basics of the Linux OS, including distros, the (optional) desktop GUI, file systems, startup apps, and software updates.

Working at a Command Prompt

In this lesson, you'll learn how to use the text-based command-line interface in each of the "big three" operating systems: Windows, macOS, and Linux. You'll explore the command prompt and find out how to use it to navigate the folder structure. You'll learn about basic commands for listing files and creating new directories, and we'll discuss advanced commands for moving and copying files. This lesson will finish up by explaining the basics of scripting using text commands.

Troubleshooting Windows Startup and System Issues

This lesson looks at the various reasons a Windows system doesn't boot normally—or isn't stable after booting up—and how to fix them. You'll learn about the Windows Recovery Environment and its many tools and features, and explore the options on the Startup Settings menu, such as Safe Mode. Then you'll take your command prompt knowledge from Lesson 7 and put it to work to troubleshoot and repair boot problems at a command line interface. Finally, we'll look at the various causes of system instability and crashes and how to troubleshoot them.

Troubleshooting Windows Performance and Application Issues

This lesson continues our look at Windows troubleshooting. It tackles some common Windows performance problems from sluggish performance to services not starting, and demonstrates some of Windows' many tools and utilities for troubleshooting various problems. Here you'll put to work many of the utilities you learned about in earlier lessons in specific troubleshooting scenarios, and access the many troubleshooting tools and wizards that Windows provides for different kinds of hardware and connectivity issues.

Virtual Machines and Remote Access

In this lesson, we'll discuss virtualization—using special software to run a second operating system within your actual OS. We'll show you what virtualization is and explain its many benefits. You'll also learn about the types of virtualization and popular virtualization software. To finish up this lesson, you'll learn about technologies that enable technicians (and also end users) to control computers remotely.

Printers and Multifunction Devices

The CompTIA A+ certification strongly stresses the area of multifunction devices (MFDs) and printing, so you'll need a high degree of technical knowledge about all types of printers. Here we'll begin our trip into printers and MFDs. You'll learn about the types of printers and scanners in common use today. We'll teach you how printers connect to PCs and networks, plus we'll talk about how they communicate with computers. Finally, we'll look at the laser printing process in detail so that you can troubleshoot like a printer technician.

Installing and Troubleshooting Printers and Multifunction Devices

In this course's final lesson, you'll learn the practical side of supporting printers and MFDs. You'll learn how to unbox and set up a printer, and how to install drivers for it to make it work in Windows. You'll then learn how to configure and maintain printers, and how to troubleshoot the many different problems that printers have, from general connectivity issues to print quality problems specific to certain printer technologies.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install, organize, maintain, and troubleshoot three different versions of Windows (explore similar features in MacOS and Linux)
• Examine and compare the features and structures of Windows Vista, 7, and 8/8.1
• Get a deeper understanding of how we use virtualization and virtual machines in modern networks
• Learn about printers and multifunction devices, from the various technologies in use to installing and troubleshooting

How you will benefit

• Master many of the techniques covered on the certification exam and feel confident on test day
• Become an integral part of any organization as you learn to install and troubleshoot new hardware, software, and MFDs
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

 Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Requirements:

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC, Mac, or Chromebook.
• A Windows PC that you can experiment on. You will probably want to remove/install various devices, such as video, sound, and modems. Because of the dangers of electro-static discharge (to the machine, not the student), however, we do not require you to tear apart your own primary computer. This is a class that trains you to be a technician - having a machine to play with greatly helps your learning.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

The CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security course focuses on keeping our networks and systems secure from outside threats and how to troubleshoot issues as they appear.

If you want to jumpstart your career with your first tech support job, this third and final course in our CompTIA prep series is a necessary component to prepare you for the A+ certification exam successfully.

According to CompTIA, getting your A+ certification can lead to a rewarding IT career—with average salaries ranging from $45,000-$60,000, depending on the role you pursue.

Note: Students need to complete CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 1: Hardware and CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 2: Software before attempting CompTIA A+ Certification Prep 3: Networking/Security to properly prepare to sit for the A+ certification exam.

Video Technologies

In this first lesson, you'll learn the details of monitors—standard desktop and projectors—and video cards. You'll learn how they work and function together to produce the display you see, and how to install and troubleshoot them.

Multimedia

In this lesson, you'll delve into the details of multimedia. You'll explore how sound works in a digital environment, examine all the components that work to record and play back video, and learn how 3D graphics work.

Portable Computing Devices

In this lesson, you'll examine the many features of portable computers. You'll explore the many ways to expand the capabilities of portables, from connecting to external monitors to docking stations. You'll also look at how to upgrade, manage, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot them.

Essentials of Networking

In this lesson, you'll be introduced to the essentials of networking. You'll explore topics such as network hardware and topologies and learn about Ethernet, coaxial and fiber cabling technologies, and more.

Local Area Networking

In this lesson, you'll delve deeper into networking. You'll learn about the TCP/IP protocol and how to install, configure, and troubleshoot a basic network.

Wireless Networking

In this lesson, you'll explore wireless technologies, starting with the basics, such as components, software, modes, security, speed, and range. You'll learn about wireless networking standards, such as radio wave and infrared networks. You'll finish the lesson with a look at installing, configuring, and troubleshooting wireless networks.

Internet Connections

Get ready to take the networking covered in previous lessons and expand it to fill the Internet. You'll start by learning how the Internet works and then examine the various connection types to get onto the Internet. The lesson will be wrapped up with a discussion of how you actually connect.

The Internet

In this lesson, you'll continue to dig further into the nuts and bolts of how the Internet works at the software layer, including the application and utility protocols, Internet applications, and cloud-computing services.

Security Hygiene

This lesson will teach you how to maintain security hygiene. You'll discover the many threats faced and then dive into access-control techniques. You'll also learn about topics like data classification, compliance, and reporting procedures.

Network Security

In this lesson, you'll jump into security aspects in the big bad world; specifically, threats from outside your network. You'll look at malicious software types and how to deal with them. You'll also learn what protections you should establish networkwide. The knowledge in this lesson is invaluable to you as both a tech and for the CompTIA A+ certification exams.

Understanding Mobile Devices

In this lesson, you'll learn about the features and capabilities of smartphones and tablets, as well as the mobile operating systems that power them. You'll also explore common configuration techniques for working with mobile devices.

Care and Feeding of Mobile Devices

In this final lesson, you'll wrap up the trio of CompTIA A+ exam prep courses by learning how to troubleshoot and secure mobile device hardware, operating systems, and apps.

What you will learn

• Learn how to install and troubleshoot video technologies properly
• Understand how to upgrade, manage, maintain, and repair portable computing devices
• Learn the essentials of networking, including local area networking and wireless networking
• Discover the best ways to keep your network secure
• Understand how to work with mobile devices

How you will benefit

• Prepare for both the 1101/1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
• Complete the third and final course needed to prepare for your CompTIA A+ certification
• Open the door to new opportunities as a technician once certification is achieved

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Gain skills and confidence in your ability to build and service networks as you prepare for CompTIA Network+ Certification. This course will teach you everything you need to take and successfully pass the CompTIA Network+ certification exam (N10-007).

Network Fundamentals

In this lesson, you will examine the purpose of IT certifications, with specific emphasis on CompTIA Network+ and how it fits into the career of a network tech. You will explore how networks work in general, covering such essential concepts as servers and clients, Ethernet, switches, and LANs. In the last two sections of the lesson, you will examine two different models that technicians use to troubleshoot networks: the OSI seven-layer model and the TCP/IP model.

Network Media

In this lesson, you will learn about all kinds of network connections, such as cable types—coaxial, twisted-pair, and fiber—and wireless options. It should be fun and informative and carry you deeper into the CompTIA Network+ journey.

Network Topologies and Standards

In this lesson, you will jump into network topologies and standards, exploring Ethernet in detail. You will get a shorter look at some other standards that used to matter as well, including the star topology, so you won't be surprised by them on the CompTIA Network+ exam.

Network Hardware

Network hardware enables networking devices—nodes—to connect together into a network. In this lesson, you will learn about all the major device types, such as switches, routers, and wireless access points and how they function in modern networks.

TCP/IP

Most modern networks use TCP/IP, so it's essential knowledge for competent techs. In this lesson, you will delve into the protocol suite, looking at the many protocols included, how they work together, and what resources they require. You will also research the addressing and naming conventions used in TCP/IP networks and how computers get named.

Routing

In this lesson, you will delve into interconnecting networks, such as the Internet. Routers are the primary tools used for the job, so you will explore how they work and what routing protocols they use.

Virtualization

This lesson is about virtualization, a process of using software to handle jobs traditionally serviced with hardware. You will learn about VLANs and virtual computing and how complex networks use these technologies to accomplish specific goals.

Wide Area Networking

In this lesson, you will examine the many forms of remote connectivity, ways to interconnect a local computer or network with distant computers. You will explore everything from older-style dial-up and T-1 lines to the latest satellite and fiber connections.

Network Security

In this lesson, you will explore the many aspects of network security. You will examine threats to your network, from social engineering to cracking encryption. Then you will look at the many ways the good guys combat the bad guys through authentication and authorization standards and protocols.

The Complete Network

In this lesson, you will start to put together everything you've learned so far in this course. You will get the scoop on designing and implementing both wired and wireless SOHO networks. You will also explore categories of requirements, unified communication, specialized network devices, and industrial control systems.

Troubleshooting Networks

In this lesson, you will roll up your sleeves and plunge into network troubleshooting. You will look first at the CompTIA Network+ troubleshooting model and then examine top network hardware faults. You will explore network hardware tools and finish the lesson with a discussion on troubleshooting WAN issues.

Network Management

In this final lesson, you will look at a variety of practical concerns in network management, including emergency procedures, safety, segmentation, and network configuration and monitoring.

What you will learn

• The OSI seven-layer model to understand and troubleshoot networks
• Network connections such as cable types and wireless
• Explore the Ethernet in detail
• How major device types function
• How protocols work together and what resources they require
• How routers create interconnecting networks
• Internet security and the threats to your network
• How to design and implement both wired and wireless SOHO networks
• Network troubleshooting and top network hardware faults

How you will benefit

• Discover how Comp TIA Network + can fit into a network tech career
• Be prepared to pass the Comp TIA Network + certification exam

Mike Meyers

Mike Meyers, also known as the "Alpha Geek," is widely recognized as the leading authority on CompTIA Certifications in the industry. He co-founded Total Seminars, LLC and National Cyber Group, LLC, and has been providing PC and network repair seminars, books, videos, and courseware to thousands of organizations worldwide. With his extensive experience in the computer and network repair industry since 1987, Mike has worked as a technician, instructor, author, consultant, and speaker.

Mike is the author of several popular PC books and videos, including the best-selling CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide and CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide. He also serves as the series editor for the highly successful Mike Meyers' Certification Passport series and the Mike Meyers' Guide to series. Mike has sold over a million IT and certification books.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

Learn why you're at risk and what you can do to protect your precious personal and business data from the outside world. In this course, a security expert will teach you the fundamentals of PC and network security as you learn to install and configure a firewall to build an impenetrable moat around your computer or network.

Introduction to PC Security

In this lesson, you will learn the facts and myths about PC security. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to assess your own risk, whether you're an individual or manage a network of any size. You will also perform a self-assessment to evaluate just how vulnerable you are to security flaws.

Your PC and Network

If you ever wondered what technical gurus are speaking about when they talk about LANs, WANs, VPNs, and P2P, you will find detailed answers in this lesson. Discover the basics of networks and how your PC connects to them.

PCs, Networks, and Software Demystified

Most people don't stop to think about how a Mac can talk to a PC and vice versa. Yet, different types of machines talk to each other on a daily basis across networks. They also talk to printers, fax machines, and a host of other devices. The OSI model for network connections lets you accomplish this, and you will learn all about it in this lesson.

Viruses, Worms, Blended Threats, and More

Get ready to investigate the world of viruses, worms, and blended threats. You'll learn what they are and the differences between all three. Of course, all this knowledge will also teach you how to protect yourself and your network from the hackers and crackers of the world.

The Family of Malware

This lesson introduces you to the ware family. What is the ware family? They are the products that download themselves onto your computer without your consent or knowledge—spyware, scumware, malware, and adware. You will meet them and learn all about where they live, places they frequent, and how to remove these unwelcome guests.

Exploits and Vulnerabilities

You may have heard of them: vulnerabilities, exploits, and exposure. But what are they? Have you ever wondered if someone really can control your computer without your knowledge? If you've been pondering these questions lately, then you will find your answers here, along with priceless information on protecting your computer and your network to keep your business and personal data private.

Network Attacks

Have you ever tried to access the web but received an error saying the page can't be displayed, you aren't connected, or you don't have access? Denial of Service attacks and SYN flooding are two types of network attacks that seem to go unnoticed on personal PCs and small networks. After this lesson, you will no longer be left wondering what happened to your Internet connection.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part One)

This lesson will introduce you to firewalls. Join me in this lesson, and you will soon start building an impenetrable moat around your network.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part Two)

Now that you have your moat built, it's time to arm up and defend yourself. In this lesson, you will learn how to configure your firewall and maximize your network security.

Laptops, Notebooks, Netbooks, and Wireless Networking

Laptops and wireless connectivity aren't as secure as they appear. You will understand why in this lesson.

Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

This lesson explores the Virtual Private Network and how it's different from standard networks, how it works, how to secure it, and how to set up your own. You can share files with family across the miles by allowing them to connect remotely to your designated shared folders. You can share music files, family pictures, and anything else you choose to give them access to.

Changing Face of Security

Now that you know what's out there, how can you possibly keep on top of security issues? There's so much information out there, how will you know what applies to you? You will learn about emerging security technology that will help make managing and securing your network easier. Finally, you can test yourself against the first security assessment to see how well you've secured your own PC or network.

What you will learn

• Learn to assess your own risk on your computer or network
• Learn the weak links of security in software and operating systems
• Learn to protect your network from hackers
• Learn priceless information on protecting your computer and keep personal data private
• Learn to build a firewall
• Learn to set up your own Virtual Private Network

How you will benefit

• Understand when your computer is being attacked
• Understand the many vulnerabilities of operating systems, software, and networks
• Know how to protect your network from hackers
• Keep your personal data private

Debbie Mahler

Debbie Mahler has worked for 15 years in the computer repair industry and runs her own IT business. She teaches on a wide range of business-related topics at the university level and has written six books on the business. She also contributes to several publications. Mahler holds a Bachelor of Art in Applied Behavioral Psychology and the title of Symantec Software Partner and Security Specialist.

Hardware Requirements:

• This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.
• Dual monitors are helpful but are not required.

Software Requirements:

• PC: Windows 8 or later.
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
• Adobe Acrobat Reader.
• Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins. Student will install the required software in the course.

Other:

• Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
• Necessary rights (local administrative rights) to install programs on the computer.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.

• SQL Server Express
• SQL Server Management Studio

Gain a solid working knowledge of the most powerful and widely used database programming language. This course will provide you the skills to write SQL queries to create tables, retrieve data from single or multiple tables, manipulate data in a database, and gather statistics from data stored in a database.

Introduction to Database Design and SQL

In this introductory lesson, you will examine database terms and concepts. Understanding the purpose of a database is foundational to writing efficient SQL queries that retrieve the right data.

SQL Server

In this lesson, you will install SQL Server Express and the SQL Server Management Studio to use throughout the course in your learn-by-doing practices. You will use SQL code to create one of the tables for the practice database in SQL Server.

Retrieving Data Result-Sets

SQL queries are the statements used to retrieve data from the database. Queries are written in a specific, logical order. In this lesson, you will explore various ways to write SQL queries to retrieve data that meet defined criteria.

Sorting Data

SQL queries are defined and written to retrieve data in a certain order. Queries are also written to limit columns and to filter data rows. In this lesson, you will practice writing queries that meet defined criteria and retrieve the expected result-sets.

Designing SQL Data Tables

This lesson is about designing SQL data tables for a database. You will explore the relationship concept and how it is used in an RDBMS. You will define tables that are structured according to RDBMS standards. You will also create the tables to add to your practice database.

Designing Data Rows

In this lesson, you will add data to your newly defined tables. You will explore several methods of adding data to a table and practice writing and executing these query statements. After adding several individual rows to the tables, you will use a SQL query to populate your tables with enough data rows to use in the learn-by-doing practices in this course.

Getting Data From Two Tables

SQL JOIN statements are used to retrieve data from more than one table. In this lesson, you will practice writing JOIN statements that retrieve data from tables that have a relationship between their PKs and FKs.

Retrieving Data From Multiple Tables

In this lesson, you will continue writing JOIN statements that retrieve data result-sets from more than one table. You will also examine how and when to use SQL subquery statements to retrieve data from multiple tables. You will practice defining and writing JOIN and subquery queries.

Keeping the Database Up to Date

The quality of the data in the database depends on its integrity, including the concepts of data accuracy and consistency. In this lesson, you will explore writing queries to maintain the database so that it is up to date with data that is accurate, consistent, and has integrity.

Aggregate Functions

In this lesson, you will examine the concept of aggregate functions and how they are used in query statements to examine multiple rows. Aggregate functions are a method of retrieving summarized data that is useful for analysis.

SQL Views

SQL views are an important concept in database design and in using databases. In this lesson, you will explore designing and writing queries to create views. You will also explore the reason they are valuable for database security and database access.

Maximize Database Integrity and Performance

Constraints are one way to maximize the integrity of the database and minimize the opportunity for user error. Indexes are used for increasing the performance of a data query. In this lesson, you will explore both these concepts.

What you will learn

• Use SQL to develop a relational database
• Design table and row structures that fulfill your requirements
• Write efficient SQL queries to find and organize data
• Write SQL queries to retrieve data from multiple tables
• Create updates for a secure, high-performance database

How you will benefit

• Gain confidence in your SQL ability, the standard database query language
• Open the door to opportunities as you list basic SQL programming as a skill on your resume
• Develop a new skill and learn whether or not you would like a career in IT

Mava Wilson

Mava Wilson, Ph.D., is a professor with more than 28 years of teaching experience. While she specializes in Information Systems (IS), she has taught several computer science topics, including basic computer literacy, programming, database design, and SQL. She holds a Ph.D. and master's degree in computing technology from Nova Southeastern University, as well as a bachelor's in administrative systems from Radford University.