CompTIA IT Fundamentals

1.0 Software

1.1 Compare and contrast common Operating Systems and their functions and features

 

• • Software compatibility for different OS types and versions
  • Awareness of hardware compatibility for OS support
  • Basic functions of an operating system

 

1.2 Identify common programs, applications and their purpose

 

 

 

• • Productivity Software, Collaboration Software, Utility Software, Specialized Software
  • Common file types

 

 

 

1.3 Given a scenario, use software management best practices

 

 

• • Patching/updates for OS, drivers, applications and security software
  • Software version identification and compatibility
  • Licensing

 

 

1.4 Identify the following alternative technologies and their purpose

 

• • Virtualization
  • Cloud Computing
  • Web applications
  • VoIP
  • Telepresence
  • Gesture-based interaction

 

1.5 Explain the basic software features and functions of wireless devices

• Unlocking/security
• Bluetooth pairing
• Wireless connection setup
• Email configuration
• Screen orientation
• Airplane mode 
   

2.0 Hardware

 

2.1 Identify basic wired and wireless peripherals and their purpose

 

 

 

 

• • Output devices
  • Input devices
  • Input & Output devices

 

 

 

2.2 Compare and contrast common computer connector types

 

• • Video
  • FireWire
  • eSATA
  • Thunderbolt
  • USB
  • PS/2
  • Parallel
  • Serial
  • RJ-45 & RJ-11
  • Audio
  • Power

 

2.3 Identify the purpose of internal computer components

 

• • CPU
  • Power Supply
  • RAM
  • Storage
  • Expansion cards
  • Motherboard/mainboard
  • System cooling
     

3.0 Security

 

 

 

 

3.1 Define basic security threats

 

 

• • Malware
  • Phishing
  • Social engineering
  • Spam
  • Password cracking
  • Physical security

 

3.2 Given a scenario, use security best practices

 

• • Password management
  • Device hardening
  • Open Wi-Fi vs. secure Wi-Fi
  • Multifactor authentication
  • Suspicious emails
  • Act on security software alerts
  • Admin vs. user vs. guest account

 

3.3 Given a scenario, use web-browsing best practices

 

• • Recognize a secure connection/website
  • Recognize invalid certificate warnings
  • Recognize suspicious links
  • Recognize suspicious banner ads
  • Recognize adware symptoms
  • Limit the use of personal information (PII)
  • Update browsers and plugins
  • Disable unneeded/suspicious browser plugins, toolbars, and extensions
  • Disable autofill forms/passwords
  • Clear browser cache/history/cookies
  • Recognize untrusted source warnings
  • Risks of using public workstations
     

 

4.0 Networking

4.1 Given a scenario, set up and configure a basic SOHO router (wired / wireless)

 

 

• • Verify wired connection, if applicable
  • Set WEP vs. WPA vs. WPA2
  • Change SSID from default
  • Apply a new wireless password
  • Change admin password for router
  • Connect to the new network
  • Verify internet connectivity
  • Update firmware if necessary

 

 

4.2 Compare and contrast cellular, wireless and wired data connections

 

• • Levels of security
  • High vs. low mobility
  • High vs. low availability
  • High vs. low reliability
  • High vs. low throughput/bandwidth

 

4.3 Compare and contrast different methods of sharing and storage

 

 

• • HTTP vs. HTTPS
  • FTP vs. FTPS vs. SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol)
  • Local vs. hosted storage
  • Peer-to-peer
  • Network vs. local printing
  
  
   

5.0 Basic IT literacy

 

 

 

 

5.1 Perform appropriate steps to set up a basic workstation

 

• • Plug in cables
  • Power on computer
  • Follow initial operating system setup wizard
  • Install security software
  • Configure peripherals (if applicable)
  • Uninstall unneeded software (if applicable)
  • Configure and verify internet connection
  • Install additional software (if applicable)
  • Run software and security updates
  • Other user accounts (if applicable)
  • Basic cable management

 

5.2 Explain the basic methods of navigating an operating system

 

• • Executing programs
  • Difference between shortcuts and files
  • Manipulating files
  • Read-only vs. modifiable files
  • Navigate a file structure
  • Search, sort and display files
  • Create screen captures
  • Navigate with hotkeys
  • Folder and file size 
  • Accessibility options
  • Folder and file permissions

 

5.3 Given a scenario, implement basic support concepts

 

• • Check for external issues
  • Manufacturer documentation
  • Manufacturer websites
  • Technical community groups
  • Internet search engine
  • Contact technical support

 

5.4 Explain basic backup concepts

 

• • Importance of backups
  • Scheduling
  • Frequency
  • Storage mediums
  • Backup verification and testing

 

5.5 Describe the importance and impact of various environmental and safety concepts

 

• • Proper disposal methods
  • Power
  • Device placement
  • Electrostatic discharge concepts
  • Ergonomic concepts
  • Follow manufacturer safety guidelines