CompTIA A+

To get the most out of this course, students will need a personal laptop or PC for practical exercises and hands-on labs. No previous IT experience is required, although basic computer literacy and familiarity with common software applications will be beneficial.

Learners should be comfortable using web browsers, managing files and folders, and installing software. Throughout the course, students will progressively build practical skills in IT support, networking, systems administration, cloud technologies, and cybersecurity while developing professional skills required in modern technology roles.

Week 1: Introduction to Information Technology

This part of the course introduces the field of Information Technology and its role in supporting modern organisations. It covers computer hardware, software, operating systems, troubleshooting methodologies, and customer support principles. Learners explore how computer systems function, how applications are developed and executed, and how technology supports businesses and users in everyday environments.

Week 2: Computer Hardware and Technical Support Fundamentals

This part of the course focuses on computer hardware components and technical support skills. It covers processors, memory, storage devices, motherboards, peripheral devices, and system assembly. Learners gain practical knowledge of computer configuration, operating system installation, and troubleshooting techniques used by IT support professionals.

Week 3: Computer Networking Fundamentals

This part of the course introduces the foundations of computer networking and modern communication systems. It covers networking concepts using the five-layer networking model, TCP/IP communications, network protocols, network services, and internet technologies. Learners gain an understanding of how devices communicate and how modern networks support organisational operations.

Week 4: Network Services, Cloud Computing and Troubleshooting

This part of the course focuses on essential network services and cloud technologies. It covers DNS, DHCP, cloud computing models, cloud storage, and infrastructure services. Learners explore practical network troubleshooting tools and techniques used to identify and resolve connectivity issues in enterprise environments.

Week 5: Operating Systems Administration

This part of the course introduces operating systems and their role in managing computing resources. It covers Windows and Linux environments, file systems, user accounts, permissions, software installation, and system configuration. Learners gain hands-on experience managing operating system resources and supporting end users in a professional IT environment.

Week 6: Managing Systems and Enterprise Infrastructure

This part of the course focuses on systems administration and infrastructure management. It covers system processes, system logs, remote administration tools, hardware configuration, storage management, and enterprise support practices. Learners develop the skills required to maintain and troubleshoot systems within organisational environments.

Week 7: Cloud Infrastructure and Directory Services

This part of the course introduces enterprise infrastructure services and cloud-based technologies. It covers cloud infrastructure, server management, directory services, Active Directory, OpenLDAP, and user administration. Learners explore how organisations manage large-scale IT environments and support user productivity through centralised administration systems.

Week 8: IT Operations, Backup and Disaster Recovery

This part of the course focuses on operational best practices for maintaining reliable IT services. It covers infrastructure planning, vendor selection, backup strategies, disaster recovery planning, and business continuity concepts. Learners gain an understanding of how organisations protect critical systems and recover from service disruptions.

Week 9: Cybersecurity Foundations and Risk Management

This part of the course introduces cybersecurity principles and defensive security strategies. It covers security threats, attacks, encryption, authentication, authorization, network security controls, firewalls, wireless security, and risk management. Learners explore how organisations protect systems, networks, and information assets from cyber threats.

Week 10: Career Development and AI-Powered Job Search

This part of the course focuses on professional development and career readiness within the technology sector. Learners explore modern job search strategies and learn how AI-powered tools can assist with career planning, skills identification, application tracking, interview preparation, and professional branding. The course concludes with a project presentation, career portfolio, and exploration of pathways into IT support, networking, systems administration, and cybersecurity roles.

Learners will be evaluated through two final examinations aligned with the CompTIA A+ certification pathway. The examinations correspond to the two certification components: Core 1 and Core 2. Together, they assess learners’ ability to apply technical support, hardware, networking, operating system, security, troubleshooting, and operational skills in realistic workplace scenarios. Both examinations are based on CompTIA A+, and learners must complete both Core 1 and Core 2 from the same version.

Core Exam 1: Technical Support and Infrastructure Project

• Configure and document a standalone workstation and peripheral devices.
• Install and configure operating systems and device drivers.
• Design and implement a small office/home office (SOHO) network.
• Configure wired and wireless connectivity.
• Demonstrate knowledge of hardware components, mobile devices, and cloud technologies.
• Perform hardware and network troubleshooting using industry-standard tools.
• Produce technical documentation and support records.
• Assess competencies in Mobile Devices, Networking, Hardware, Virtualization and Cloud Computing, and Hardware and Network Troubleshooting.

Core Exam 2: Systems Administration, Security and Operations Portfolio

• Design and document a secure IT environment.
• Configure operating systems and administrative tools.
• Implement cybersecurity controls, access management, and malware prevention measures.
• Diagnose and resolve operating system, application, and security-related issues.
• Develop backup, recovery, and disaster recovery procedures.
• Apply operational procedures, documentation standards, and professional communication practices.
• Prepare a professional portfolio including a CV, career identity statement, job search strategy, and reflective professional development report.
• Assess competencies in Operating Systems, Security, Software Troubleshooting, and Operational Procedures.

Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• Apply technical support principles to install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain computer systems and devices.
• Configure and troubleshoot computer networks using fundamental networking concepts, protocols, and services.
• Administer Windows and Linux operating systems, including user management, software installation, and system maintenance.
• Manage enterprise infrastructure services, cloud resources, directory services, and backup solutions within organisational environments.
• Implement fundamental cybersecurity controls and best practices to protect systems, networks, and data assets.
• Develop professional career readiness skills, including CV preparation, interview techniques, job search strategies, and the use of AI-powered career development tools.

• Strong Entry-Level Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue roles such as IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Technical Support Analyst, Junior Systems Administrator, and IT Operations Support professional, with typical starting salaries ranging from €30,000 to €40,000 per year.
• Excellent Career Progression: With industry experience and certifications, professionals can progress into systems administration, cloud support, networking, cybersecurity, and infrastructure engineering roles earning €60,000 or more annually.
• Broad Industry Relevance: Every organisation relies on technology infrastructure, creating strong demand for professionals who can support users, manage systems, maintain networks, and secure digital assets.
• Practical and Accessible Career Pathway: The course focuses on hands-on technical skills, industry best practices, and career readiness, providing learners with a direct pathway into the technology sector without requiring a formal computer science degree.