CompTIA IT Fundamentals (CompTIA ITF+ Exam)

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam focuses on the essential IT skills and knowledge needed to perform tasks commonly performed by advanced end-users and entry-level IT professionals alike, including:

• Using features and functions of common operating systems and establishing network connectivity
• Identifying common software applications and their purpose
• Using security and web browsing best practices

This exam is intended for candidates who are advanced end users and/or are considering a career in IT. The exam is also a good fit for individuals interested in pursuing professional-level certifications, such as A+.

CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) is an introduction to basic IT knowledge and skills that helps students decide if a career
in IT is right for them. It also helps organizations prepare non-technical teams for digital transformation. After completing
the course, students will have the ability to demonstrate their knowledge to:
• Install software
• Establish basic network connectivity
• dentify/prevent basic security breaches
• Explain troubleshooting theory and preventative maintenance of devices

What Skills Will You Learn?

IT CONCEPTS & TERMINOLOGY

Comprehend notational systems, illustrate the basics of computing and explain the value of data and troubleshooting

INFRASTRUCTURE

Know how to set up and install common peripheral devices to a laptop/PC or secure a basic wireless network

APPLICATIONS & SOFTWARE

Manage applications software, understand the various components of an operating system and explain the purpose of methods of application architecture

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

Comprehend programming language categories, interpret logic, and understand the purpose of programming concepts

DATABASE FUNDAMENTALS

Able to explain database concepts, structures, and purpose, as well as understands methods used to interface

SECURITY

Understand confidentiality, integrity, and availability concerns of secure devices and best practice methods

Who would benefit from ITF+?

• Students considering a career in IT.
• Professionals working in fields that require a broad understanding of IT.
• Marketing, sales and operations staff in IT-based organizations.

Why would you benefit from ITF+?

IT jobs are expected to grow much faster than average (11%), adding 531,200 new jobs over the 10-year period 2019-29. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Nearly three-quarters of employers worldwide rate technology as a primary factor in reaching business objectives (72%). (Source: CompTIA International Trends in Technology and Workforce) All workers need fundamental IT skills to use these technologies.

Lesson 1: Common Computing Devices

o Exam objectives covered:

 1.3 Illustrate the basics of computing and processing.

 2.6 Compare and contrast common computing devices and their purposes.

Topic A: Information Technology

o Study Task

Topic B: Personal Computers (PC)

o Study Task

Topic C: Mobile and IoT Devices

o Study Task

Lesson 1: Practice Questions (6 questions)

Lesson 1: PBQ: Using Computers

Lesson 2: Using a Workstation

o Exam objectives covered: This unit does not cover specific exam domain objectives or content

examples.

Topic A: Setting up a PC System

o Study Task, includes video: Setting up a Personal Computer

Topic B: Ergonomic Concepts

o Study Task

Topic C: Navigating an OS

o Study Task, includes videos:

 Using the Desktop and Taskbar

 Customizing the Start Screen and Taskbar

Topic D: Using Input Devices

o Study Task

Topic E: Icons and Windows

o Study Task

Lesson 2: Practice Questions (7 questions)

Lab Activity: Setting up the Computer

Lab Activity: Navigating the Windows User Interface

Lesson 3: Using an OS

o Exam objectives covered:

 3.1 Explain the purpose of operating systems.

Topic A: Functions of an Operating System

o Study Task

Topic B: Types of Operating System

o Study Task

Topic C: Virtualization

o Study Task

Topic D: Microsoft Windows

o Study Task

Topic E: Apple macOS and iOS

o Study Task

Topic F: Linux, Chrome, and Android

o Study Task

Topic G: File Explorer

o Study Task

Topic H: Windows Settings and Control Panel

o Study Task

Topic I: Using a Web Browser

o Study Task, includes video: Setting the Home Page

Lesson 3: Practice Questions (8 questions)

Lab Activity: Browsing a Website

Lab Activity: Managing User Accounts

Lesson 3 PBQ: Virtualization

Lesson 4: Managing an OS

o Exam objectives covered:

 3.1 Manage applications and software.

 3.2 Compare and contrast components of an operating system.

Topic A: Management Interfaces

o Study Task

Topic B: Process and Service Management

o Study Task

Topic C: Memory and Disk Management

o Study Task

Topic D: Command Line Interfaces

o Study Task, includes video: Command Line Interfaces

Topic E: Access Control and Protection

o Study Task, includes video: Managing User Accounts

o Lab Activity: Using Management Interfaces

Lesson 4: Practice Questions (9 questions)

Lab Activity: Managing User Accounts

Lesson 5: Troubleshooting and Support

o Exam objectives covered:

 1.6 Explain the troubleshooting methodology.

Topic A: Support and Troubleshooting

o Study Task

Topic B: Identifying the Problem

o Study Task

Topic C: Understanding the Problem

o Study Task

Topic D: Resolving and Documenting the Problem

o Study Task

Topic E: Troubleshooting PC Issues

o Study Task

Topic F: Getting Support

o Study Task

Topic G: Using a Search Engine

o Study Task, includes video: Search Selection Criteria

Lesson 5: Practice Questions (8 questions)

Lab Activity: Using a Search Engine

Lesson 5 PBQ: Troubleshooting and Support

Lesson 6: Using Data Types and Units

o Exam objectives covered:

 1.1 Compare and contrast notational systems.

 1.2 Compare and contrast fundamental data types and their characteristics.

 1.4 Explain the value of data and information.

 1.5 Compare and contrast common units of measure.

Topic A: Notational Systems

o Study Task

Topic B: Units of Measure

o Study Task

Topic C: Data Types

o Study Task

Topic D: Data Representation

o Study Task

Topic E: The Value of Data

o Study Task

Topic F: Intellectual Property

o Study Task

Topic G: Data-driven Business Decisions

o Study Task

Lesson 6: Practice Questions (8 questions)

Lesson 7: Using Apps

o Exam objectives covered:

 3.1 Manage applications and software.

 3.3 Explain the purpose and proper use of software.

 3.6 Compare and contrast general application concepts and uses.

Topic A: Installing Applications

o Study Task

Topic B: Application Management

o Study Task, includes video: Enabling and Disabling Windows Features

Topic C: Managing Software Licensing

o Study Task

Topic D: Productivity Software

o Study Task

Topic E: Collaboration Software

o Study Task

Topic F: Business Software

o Study Task

Lesson 7: Practice Questions (12 questions)

Lab Activity: Managing Software Applications

Lesson 7 PBQ: Using Apps

Lesson 8: Programming and App Development

o Exam objectives covered:

 3.4 Explain methods of application architecture and delivery models.

 3.6 Compare and contrast general application concepts and uses.

 4.1 Compare and contrast programming language categories.

 4.2 Given a scenario, use programming organizational techniques and interpret logic.

 4.3 Explain the purpose and use of programming concepts.

Topic A: Programming Logic

o Study Task

Topic B: Programming Languages

o Study Task

Topic C: Programming Concepts

o Study Task

Topic D: Object Oriented Programming

o Study Task

Topic E: Scripting Languages

o Study Task, includes videos:

 Batch Files

 Windows Powershell

 VBScript

Topic F: Application Platforms and Delivery

o Study Task

Lesson 8: Practice Questions (12 questions)

Lab Activity: Using Scripting Tools

Lab Activity: Using Programming Tools

Lesson 9: Using Databases

o Exam objectives covered:

 3.4 Explain methods of application architecture and delivery models.

 5.1 Explain database concepts and the purpose of a database.

 5.2 Compare and contrast various database structures.

 5.3 Summarize methods used to interface with databases.

Topic A: Database Concepts

o Study Task

Topic B: Database Structures

o Study Task

Topic C: Relational Methods

o Study Task

Topic D: Database Access Methods

o Study Task, includes videos:

 Query/Report Builder

 User Interface/Utility Access

Topic E: Application Architecture Models

o Study Task

Lesson 9: Practice Questions (10 questions)

Lab Activity: Creating and Using a Database

Lesson 9 PBQ: Using Databases

Lesson 10: System Components

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.3 Explain the purpose of common internal computing components.

Topic A: Selecting a Computer

o Study Task

Topic B: Motherboard Components

o Study Task

Topic C: Processors

o Study Task

Topic D: Features of Processors

o Study Task, includes video: Multiprocessing and Dual-core

Topic E: Expansion Bus

o Study Task

Topic F: System Cooling

o Study Task

Topic G: BIOS and UEFI System Firmware

o Study Task

Lesson 10: Practice Questions (8 questions)

Lab Activity: Specifying PC Systems

Lesson 11: Using Device Interfaces

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.1 Classify common types of input/output device interfaces.

 2.2 Given a scenario, set up and install common peripheral devices to a laptop/PC.

Topic A: Computer Connector Types

o Study Task

Topic B: USB and Firewire

o Study Task

Topic C: Graphic Devices

o Study Task

Topic D: Graphic Device Interfaces

o Study Task

Topic E: Input Devices

o Study Task

Topic F: Configuring Peripherals

o Study Task

Topic G: Bluetooth and NFC

o Study Task

Topic H: Networking Interfaces

o Study Task

Lesson 11: Practice Questions (9 questions)

Lab Activity: Configuring Input Devices

Lesson 11 PBQ: Computer Port and Connector Types

Lesson 12: Using Peripheral Devices

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.2 Given a scenario, set up and install common peripheral devices to a laptop/PC.

 3.1 Manage applications and software.

 3.2 Compare and contrast components of an operating system.

Topic A: Installing and Uninstalling Peripherals

o Study Task

Topic B: Display Devices

o Study Task

Topic C: Display Settings

o Study Task

Topic D: Multimedia Ports and Devices

o Study Task, includes video: Changing the Volume

Topic E: Printer Types

o Study Task

Topic F: Installing and Configuring a Printer

o Study Task

Topic G: Scanners and Cameras

o Study Task

Lesson 12: Practice Questions (15 questions)

Lab Activity: Playing Audio

Lab Activity: Using a Printer

Lesson 13: Using Storage Devices

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.2 Given a scenario, set up and install common peripheral devices to a laptop/PC.

 2.5 Compare and contrast storage types.

Topic A: System Memory

o Study Task

Topic B: Mass Storage Devices

o Study Task

Topic C: Optical Discs and Drives

o Study Task, include video: Removable Flash Memory Devices

Lesson 13: Practice Questions (8 questions)

Lab Activity: Adding a Removable Drive

Lesson 13 PBQ: Using Storage Devices

Lesson 14: Using File Systems

o Exam objectives covered:

 3.2 Compare and contrast components of an operating system.

Topic A: Managing the File System

o Study Task, includes video: File System Features

Topic B: Folders and Directories

o Study Task

Topic C: File Explorer

o Study Task

Topic D: Files

o Study Task, includes videos:

 Copying and Moving Files

 Deleting Files and the Recycle Bin

Topic E: File Attributes and Permissions

o Study Task

Topic F: Searching for Folders and Files

o Study Task, includes video: View, Group, and Filter Options

Topic G: File Types and Extensions

o Study Task, includes video: Compression Formats

Lesson 14: Practice Questions (10 questions)

Lab Activity: Using File Explorer

Lesson 15: Networking Concepts

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.7 Explain basic networking concepts.

Topic A: Network Components

o Study Task

Topic B: TCP/IP

o Study Task

Topic C: Internet Protocol

o Study Task

Topic D: Address Resolution Protocol

o Study Task

Topic E: DNS and URLs

o Study Task

Topic F: Internet Application Services

o Study Task

Lesson 15: Practice Problems (10 questions)

Lesson 15 PBQ: Networking Concepts

Lesson 16: Connecting to a Network

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.4 Compare and contrast common Internet service types.

 2.7 Explain basic networking concepts.

 2.8 Given a scenario, install, configure and secure a basic wireless network.

Topic A: Internet Service Types

o Study Task

Topic B: Wireless Internet Services

o Study Task

Topic C: Setting Up a Wireless Network

o Study Task

Topic D: Configuring a Wireless Client

o Study Task, includes video: Configuring a Wireless Client

Topic E: Connecting to an Enterprise Network

o Study Task

Lesson 16: Practice Problems (7 questions)

Lab Activity: Network Settings

Lesson 17: Secure Web Browsing

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.7 Explain basic networking concepts.

 3.5 Given a scenario, configure and use web browsers.

 6.2 Explain methods to secure devices and best practices.

Topic A: Safe Browsing Practices

o Study Task

Topic B: Configuring Browser Security

o Study Task, includes video: Managing Add-ons

Topic C: Managing Cookies and PII

o Study Task, includes video: Private Browsing Mode

Topic D: Digital Certificates and Anti-phishing

o Study Task

Topic E: Enabling a Firewall

o Study Task

Lesson 17: Practice Questions (8 questions)

Lab Activity: Web Security

Lesson 17 PBQ: Secure Web Browsing

Lesson 18: Using Shared Storage

o Exam objectives covered:

 2.5 Compare and contrast storage types.

 6.7 Explain business continuity concepts.

Topic A: Local Sharing and Storage

o Study Task

Topic B: Windows File Sharing

o Study Task, includes video: Browsing Network Shares and Drives

Topic C: Hosted Sharing and Storage

o Study Task

Topic D: Backups

o Study Task

Topic E: Windows Backup

o Study Task

Lesson 18: Practice Problems (8 questions)

Lab Activity: File Sharing

Lesson 19: Using Mobile Devices

o Exam objectives covered: This unit does not cover specific exam domain objectives or content

examples.

Topic A: Using a Mobile Device

o Study Task

Topic B: Mobile Applications and App Stores

o Study Task

Topic C: Network Connectivity

o Study Task

Topic D: Email Configuration

o Study Task

Topic E: Synchronization and Data Transfer

o Study Task

Lesson 19: Practice Questions (5 questions)

Lesson 19 PBQ: Using Mobile Devices

Lesson 20: Security Concerns

o Exam objectives covered:

 6.1 Summarize confidentiality, integrity, and availability concerns.

 6.7 Explain business continuity concepts.

Topic A: Computer Security Basics

o Study Task

Topic B: Social Engineering

o Study Task

Topic C: Business Continuity

o Study Task

Topic D: Disaster Recovery

o Study Task

Lesson 20: Practice Questions (10 questions)

Lesson 21: Using Best Practices

o Exam objectives covered:

 6.2 Explain methods to secure devices and best practices.

Topic A: Securing Devices

o Study Task

Topic B: Malware

o Study Task

Topic C: Preventing Malware Infections

o Study Task, includes video: Quarantining and Remediating Infected Systems

Topic D: Spam

o Study Task

Topic E: Software Sources and Patch Management

o Study Task

Lesson 21: Practice Questions (10 questions)

Lab Activity: Using Windows Defender and Windows Update

Lesson 21 PBQ: Using Best Practices

Lesson 22: Using Access Controls

o Exam objectives covered:

 6.4 Compare and contrast authentication, authorization, accounting, and non-repudiation

concepts.

 6.5 Explain password best practices.

 6.6 Explain common uses of encryption.

Topic A: Access Controls

o Study Task

Topic B: User Account Types

o Study Task

Topic C: Authentication Factors

o Study Task

Topic D: Uses of Encryption

o Study Task

Topic E: Password Cracking and Management

o Study Task

Lesson 22: Practice Questions (10 questions)

Lesson 23: Behavioral Security Concepts

o Exam objectives covered:

 6.3 Summarize behavioral security concepts.

Topic A: Policies and Procedures

o Study Task

Topic B: Handling Confidential Information

o Study Task

Topic C: Acceptable Use Policies

o Study Task

Topic D: Expectations of Privacy

o Study Task

Lesson 23: Practice Questions (4 questions)

Lesson 23 PBQ: Behavioral Security Concepts

Final Assessment (75 questions)

Next Steps: Additional Preparation and Taking the Exam

Additional Resources:

Resources (student)

• Mapping Course Content to CompTIA ITF+ Exam FCO-U61 (pdf)

• Student PowerPoint Presentations for ITF+ FCO-U61 (zip)

Instructor Resources (found in the Boost Dashboard)

• Setup Guide for ITF+ FCO-U61 (docx)

• Instructor PowerPoint Presentations for ITF+ FCO-U61 (zip)

• Presentation Planners for ITF+ FCO-U61 (docx)

• Mapping Course Content to CompTIA ITF+ Exam FCO-U61 (pdf)