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Computer Technician (CompTIA A+) Certificate Program with Externship


Program includes National Certification & an Externship Opportunity


The Computer Technician (CompTIA A+) Professional

Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) A+training offers a standard competency for entry-level service technicians in the computer industry. Earning CompTIA A+ Certification means that an individual possesses the knowledge, skills and customer service skills necessary to be a successful computer service technician offering a nationally-recognized and industry-recognized credential for new entrants into the field. Indeed, CompTIA A+ certification is the most widely-recognized certifications available across the IT industry.


The Computer Technician (CompTIA A+) Program

The CompTIA A+ course will build upon students’ existing user-level knowledge and experience with personal computer software and hardware in order to present fundamental concepts and techniques that technicians will use every day on the job. Upon completing this course, students will gain the essential skills and technical expertise necessary to install, upgrade, configure, troubleshoot, optimize, repair and perform preventative maintenance on basic personal computer hardware and operating systems.The CompTIA A+ course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for a career in PC support. The course is designed to fully prepare students to sit for and pass the CompTIA A+ 220-801 and 220-802certification exams. Course topics include installation, configuration, preventative maintenance of PC hardware components, and the basics of networking, security, virtualization, desktop imaging, and deployment. Students will also gain knowledge of diagnostic and troubleshooting processes for various types of technical issues.


Program Objectives

At the conclusion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Hardware: Identifying, using, and connecting hardware components, devices, and connectors
  • Windows Operating System: Installing and supporting the Windows OS including command line and client support
  • Software Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting PC, laptop, and mobile device issues including application security support
  • Networking: Understanding types of networks and connections including TCP/IP, WIFI, SOHO
  • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting device and network issues
  • Identifying and protecting against security vulnerabilities for devices and network connections
  • Mobile Devices: Installing and configuring laptops and other mobile devices (wearable technology, fitness monitors, etc.) including cloud computing
  • Other OS and Technologies: Understanding the Mac OS, Linux, and mobile OS
  • Operational Procedures: Following best practices for safety, environmental impacts, communication, and professionalism

HARDWARE: PART 1

  • Explain how to access, configure, and apply BIOS settings
  • Explain motherboard components, their purposes, and properties
  • Describe various CPU types and features
  • Describe appropriate cooling methods
  • Compare RAM types and features
  • Describe the function of RAM
  • Explain how to install and configure expansion cards
  • Explain how to install and configure storage devices and use appropriate media

HARDWARE PART 2

  • Describe various connection interfaces and their purposes
  • Identify connector types and associated cables
  • Describe various power supply types
  • Describe the components needed for a custom configuration to meet customer specifications or needs
  • Describe various display devices and their features
  • Describe how to install and configure various peripheral devices

NETWORKING

  • Identify types of network cables and connectors
  • Categorize characteristics of connectors and cabling
  • Explain properties and characteristics of TCP/IP
  • Explain common TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purpose
  • Compare wireless networking standards and encryption types
  • Explain how to install, configure, and deploy a SOHO wireless/wired router using appropriate settings
  • Compare Internet connection types and features
  • Identify various types of networks
  • Compare network devices, their functions, and features
  • Describe various networking tools

LAPTOPS

  • Describe laptop expansion options
  • Explain how to remove and replace laptop hardware and components
  • Describe components within the display of a laptop
  • Explain features specific to laptops

PRINTERS AND OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

  • Explain the differences between the various printer types
  • Summarize the imaging process for printers
  • Explain how to install and configure printers
  • Explain how to perform printer maintenance
  • Identify appropriate safety procedures when repairing a system
  • Explain environmental impacts and the purpose of environmental controls
  • Describe proper communication and professionalism given a scenario
  • Explain the fundamentals of dealing with prohibited content/activity

OPERATING SYSTEMS

  • Compare the features and requirements of various Microsoft Operating Systems
  • Explain how to install and configure the operating system using the most appropriate method given a scenario
  • Use appropriate command-line tools given a scenario
  • Use appropriate operating system features and tools given a scenario
  • Identify Control Panel utilities to use given a scenario
  • Explain how to setup and configure Windows networking on a client/desktop
  • Describe how to perform preventive maintenance procedures using appropriate tools
  • Explain the differences among basic OS security settings
  • Explain the basics of client-side virtualization

SECURITY

  • Describe how to apply and use common prevention methods
  • Describe common security threats
  • Explain how to implement security best practices to secure a workstation
  • Explain how to use the appropriate data destruction/disposal method given a scenario
  • Explain how to secure a SOHO wireless network given a scenario
  • Explain how to secure a SOHO wired network given a scenario

MOBILE APPLICATIONS

  • Explain the basic features of mobile operating systems
  • Describe how to establish basic network connectivity and configure email
  • Compare and contrast methods for securing mobile devices
  • Compare and contrast hardware differences in regards to tablets and laptops
  • Explain how to execute and configure mobile device synchronization

TROUBLESHOOTING – PART 1

  • Explain the troubleshooting theory given a scenario
  • Explain how to troubleshoot common problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPU, and power with appropriate tools given a scenario
  • Explain how to troubleshoot hard drives and RAID arrays with appropriate tools given a scenario
  • Describe how to troubleshoot common video and display issues given a scenario
  • Explain how to troubleshoot wired and wireless networks with appropriate tools given a scenario

TROUBLESHOOTING - PART 2

  • Explain how to troubleshoot operating system problems with appropriate tools
  • Explain how to troubleshoot common security issues with appropriate tools and best practices given a scenario
  • Explain how to troubleshoot and repair common laptop issues while adhering to the appropriate procedures
  • Explain how to troubleshoot printers with appropriate tools given a scenario

Note: This program can be completed in 6 months. However, students will have online access to this program for a 24-month period.

Education and National Certifications

  • Students should have or be pursuing a high school diploma or GED.
  • here are no state approval and/or state requirements associated with this program.
  • There are several National Certification exams that are available to students who successfully complete this program:
    • CompTIA A+ Certification Exams Core 1 (Exam 220-1001) and Core 2 (Exam 220-1002)

National Certification

Upon successful completion of this Auburn University program, students would be eligible to sit for the CompTIA A+ Certification Exams(Core 1 and Core 2)from CompTIA® and the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) exam. Although there are no state approval, state registration or other state requirements for this program, students who complete this program at Auburn University will be prepared and are eligible to sit for the national certification exams.Students who complete this program are encouraged to complete the externship option with their program. Students who complete this program can and do sit for the CompTIA A+ and MOS national certification exams and are qualified, eligible and prepared to do so.Auburn University works with each student to complete the application and register the student to take their national certification exam.

Externship / Hands on Training / Practicum

Although not a requirement, once students complete the program, they have the ability to participate in an externship and/or hands on practicum so as to practice the skills necessary to perform the job requirements of a professional in this field. Students will be assisted with completing a resume and/or other requirements necessary to work in this field. All students who complete this program are eligible to participate in an externship and will be placed with a participating organization near their location. Auburn University works with national organizations and has the ability to place students in externship opportunities nationwide.

Note: No refunds can be issued after the start date published in your Financial Award document.