220-1202 Operating Systems Study Guide for the CompTIA A+ Core Series Exam

Microsoft Windows Features and Tools

For the exam, you must be able to use common features and tools offered by the Microsoft Windows 10 OS. Questions pertaining to these features will be scenario-based.

Task Manager

The Task Manager is a utility that displays and manages running applications and services, logged-in users, and system performance. In Task Manager, you will find these tabs:

Services—This tab displays the names of running services, along with their identification information, including description, group, and status.
Startup—This tab displays the services that have been configured to run upon startup, along with their associated identifying information.
Performance—This tab shows how the CPU, memory, disk input/output (I/O), and network resources are utilized. It can be helpful in identifying a bottleneck in a computer that is running slowly.
Processes—This tab lists the currently running processes and resource consumption.
Users—This tab displays currently logged-in users, their status, and the applications they are running.

Microsoft Management Console (MMC) Snap-In

The MMC snap-in is a GUI for running these administrative and configuration tools:

Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc)—Event Viewer is used to view application error logs, system errors, and security audit records.
Disk Management (diskmgmt.msc)—Disk Management is used to view disk information on physical disks and the formatted file systems they contain.
Task Scheduler (taskschd.msc)—Task Scheduler allows you to configure automated tasks that will run on a schedule at specified times.
Device Manager (devmgmt.msc)—Device Manager enables you to view the status of devices, access their properties, and modify configuration parameters.
Certificate Manager (certmgr.msc)—Certificate Manager is used to manage and view the certificates used by the OS and web browser.
Local User and Groups (lusrmgr.msc)—As a system administrator, you need to know how to create and delete users, maintain their accounts, and establish secure passwords.
Performance Monitor (perfmon.msc)—Performance Monitor displays in real time how the computer is using memory, disk space, CPU resources, and the network, which can help you diagnose performance issues.
Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc)—Group Policy Editor is used to edit the local group policy for the OS.

Additional Tools

The MMC offers these additional tools beyond the original monitoring and configuration tools:

System Information (msinfo32. exe)—System Information displays advanced hardware and driver information.
Resource Monitor (resmon.exe)—Resource Monitor shows how resources are being used by the CPU, memory, disk, and network.
System Configuration (msconfig.exe)—Also known as MSConfig, System Configuration allows you to change how Windows boots and what programs start with Windows.
Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr.exe)—Disk Cleanup frees up space while not affecting the integrity of the files.
Disk Defragment (dfrgui.exe)—Disk Defragment relocates pieces of large files to continuous space on a disk for optimized performance.
Registry Editor (regedit.exe)—The Registry Editor allows users to view and modify the Windows registry. The registry contains some OS and application settings that may need to be changed in advanced troubleshooting.

Microsoft Command-Line Tools

Microsoft has developed command-line tools that are specific to Microsoft operating systems. Command-line tools can be accessed by interacting with the command-line interface (CLI), most commonly using the Command Prompt or Powershell. You will need to be familiar with these various command-line tools and know which is appropriate when given a scenario.

The command line enables users to navigate the file system and its directories using predefined commands. These are two essential navigation commands:

cd—The cd command allows the user to change directories (it is shorthand for the chdir command).
dir—The dir command allows the user to view a listing of files and folders/subdirectories in a directory.

Network

Command-line tools can also be used for numerous other functions, such as testing or tracing network connectivity or paths. You should be familiar with these common command-line tools:

ipconfig—The ipconfig command is used to display basic connectivity information, such as the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway. This command is highly useful in diagnosing network issues.
ping—The ping command is used to verify network connectivity by sending an Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) packet to a specified address, such as the default gateway.
netstat—The netstat command is used to display all the listening and established connections on the host network.
nslookup—The nslookup command is used to verify Domain Name System (DNS) addresses. This command can be used for an inline query or interactively.
net use—The net use command is used to map drive letters to network shares.
tracert—The tracert command is used to show the path a packet takes on a network to arrive at a specified destination.
pathping—The pathping command is a mixture of the tracert and ping commands.

Disk Management

Disk management is the process of deploying, maintaining, and managing storage drives on a computing device. These disk management commands are used to view and manipulate device disks:

chkdsk—The chkdsk command is used to view information about the hard disk, including the creation and viewing of reports, as well as to correct file system problems and disk errors.
format—The format command is used to remove data from disks and prepare disks for new use.
diskpart—The diskpart command is a tool for managing disks, partitions, and volumes.

File Management

File management is the interaction between a computing device and its attached files. These file management commands are used to access and manipulate files:

md—The md command allows the user to make a directory (it is shorthand for the mkdir command).
rmdir—The rmdir command allows the user to delete directories. The rd command is shorthand for this command.
robocopy—The robocopy command is used to copy files while keeping permissions intact.

Informational

Informational commands are used to access data associated with a computing device. You should know these commands:

hostname—The hostname command is used to pull up the identity of the computer the Command Prompt is open on.
net user—The net user command is a subcommand used to list all local accounts on the host system.
winver—The winver command is used to bring up Windows version information in a GUI dialog box. The provided information includes the current version, build number, and licensing details.
whoami—The whoami command is used to display user information, including the current user, associated group, domain, and privileges, among other data.
[command name] /?—The /? command flag is used to provide help for a specified command.

OS Management

These operating system management commands are used to provide instructions to the OS via the command line:

gpupdate—The gpupdate command is used to update group policies.
gpresult—The gpresult command is used to view the report/values of the Resultant Set of Policy (RSoP) for a remote user and the user’s computer.
sfc—The sfc command launches System File Checker, a utility that verifies and checks the version of the file system on the computer.

Microsoft Windows Settings

The Control Panel is a Windows feature for viewing, modifying, and troubleshooting system settings. Questions in this section will begin with a scenario, and you must be able to configure the settings.

Control Panel Tools

These are a variety of tools and utilities in the Control Panel, with these being some of the most important to know:

Internet Options—This is a utility that allows you to manage network settings beyond basic IP connectivity. The settings are separated into multiple tabs.
Devices and Printers—This screen lists printers, scanners, cameras, monitors, and other connected peripheral devices, and it allows you to access their settings.
Program and Features—This is used to view and uninstall desktop applications from the OS.
Network and Sharing Center—With this utility, you can configure network adapters, create new network and dial-up connections, and configure network file and printer sharing.
System—This is the Control Panel utility that shows the hardware overview.
Windows Defender Firewall—This protects the computer by controlling what applications can access the network from this computer and how this computer can be accessed over the network.
Mail—This utility allows you to configure email settings, including Microsoft Outlook. Additional data files, RSS feeds, internet calendars, address books, and SharePoint lists can also be configured here.
Sound—This screen is where you manage devices to play and record sounds. It is also where you configure sounds that Windows produces for startup, shutdown, alerts, and prompts.
Device Manager—This lists all hardware connected to the computer and provides management for drivers of the devices.
Indexing Options—This systematically indexes files, including Office documents, PDFs, text files, etc.
Administrative Tools—Administrative Tools is located in the Control Panel in the Windows Tools folder on Windows 11 and in the System and Security folder in Windows 10. This is a shortcut to tools used in the administration of the OS, such as Disk Defragment, Event Viewer, and the Task Scheduler.

File Explorer Options

File Explorer Options, which is located in the Control Panel, allows you to change how files are shown and searched:

general—The General tab of the File Explorer Options utility allows you to change the general behavior of the file browsing interface.
view options—The View tab allows you to change appearance options, including showing hidden files and file extensions.
view hidden files—Hidden is a file flag that signifies that users don’t usually need to see certain files, like system and configuration files. Windows settings can be changed to show these files if they need to be accessed.
hide extensions—In Windows, files have extensions at the end of the file name after a period (e.g., .txt, .docx, .exe). To make the file names cleaner and prevent users from making accidental changes to the extensions, these are usually hidden. This can be changed with this setting.

Power Options

You can choose what pressing the power button on the computer should do and configure the monitor and computer power to be reduced after a specified period of inactivity. These are some of the options available to you:

power plans—There are three power plans, or power schemas, that can be selected and configured to fit your needs: Power Saver, Balanced, and High Performance. The Balanced plan is the default power plan and is designed to mix performance and power consumption to fit the needs of most basic users. The Power Saver plan maximizes power efficiencies over performance, while the High Performance plan maximizes performance at the expense of power consumption.
hibernate—Hibernation is a mode that saves the computer’s current state and shuts it down. When started again, it restores to the same state, but without consuming power in the meantime.
sleep/suspend—The sleep or suspend mode doesn’t shut down the computer like hibernation does, but instead significantly reduces power to the components for a quick restart, leaving it in the same state.
standby—The term standby is sometimes used interchangeably with sleep, but it is not used in the current Windows versions.
closing the lid—On many laptops, closing the lid can trigger the device to execute a chosen command, including sleep, hibernate, shut down, or no action. This option is only available on devices that contain a lid closure sensor.
fast startup—The fast startup function enables the system to enter hibernation during shutdown, allowing it to boot more quickly. A fast startup-enabled device retains some data pertaining to the underlying kernel and drivers, allowing for quicker startup upon activation. To enable fast startup on a Windows 11 device, navigate to the Control Panel, select System and Security, followed by Power Options. Click the “Choose what power buttons do” option followed by the “Change settings that are currently unavailable” option. Check the box next to “Turn on fast startup” and click Save Changes. Fast startup is now enabled.
USB selective suspend—This function enables the administrator to suspend power to a device connected to a specified USB port.

Other Functions

There are quite a few functions and utilities that you can find through the Control Panel or Settings screen. Depending on what version of Windows you are using, these may be titled and sorted differently. These are some of the most important to know:

ease of access—The Ease of Access Center allows a Windows OS to be configured for motor- and sensory-impaired users.
time and language—System changes related to date, time, and language settings can be configured under the Time & language section.
update and security—Settings related to the configuration of updates and security can be accessed through the Settings screen.
personalization—The Personalization section can be used to change the display settings of the OS, including backgrounds, colors, fonts, etc.
apps—The Apps section allows you to change the source of apps as well as uninstall apps.
privacy—You can configure your privacy settings in the Settings section.
devices—Beyond Device Manager, you can also view, configure, and control connected devices through the Settings screen.
network and internet—On the Network & internet screen, you can configure network adapters, create new network and dial-up connections, and configure network file and printer sharing.
gaming—The Gaming screen provides integration between the Xbox platform and the computer through the Xbox Game Bar.
accounts—The Accounts screen is used to manage and configure user accounts and other accounts on the OS.

Microsoft Windows Networking Features

Windows comes with many features to effectively use network resources. You must be able to configure networking features on a client or desktop. These will be presented as scenario-based questions.

Domain Joined vs. Workgroup

There are two primary networking models in the Windows 11 OS: the Workgroup and the Domain. Workgroup allows the OS to function as both a server and a client and is primarily used in small office/home office (SOHO) setups. With the domain networking model, the client must be joined to the domain.

Shared Resources

Windows allows the sharing of files and folders over the network, making it possible to have a shared space for network users. For convenience, network shares can be mapped to a drive letter. For the users and applications, the network share appears like a local disk. Other resources, such as hardware-based resources, can also be shared among the networking group.

Administrative shares are automatically created to enable remote administrators to configure the computer. These shares are not shown and are not accessible to non-administrative users.

Printers

You can use the printer sharing functionality to allow printing from other computers to the printer connected locally. To print using a shared printer on a remote computer, it needs to be mapped first. This involves installing the drivers for the printer on the remote device and then connecting to the shared computer using the appropriate network address.

File Servers

File servers may also be shared among the networking group.

Mapped Drives

Mapping drives allows for network shares to be connected to a specified drive letter for ease of access among the networking group.

Local OS Firewall Settings

Windows comes with configurable firewall rules that allow or block specific applications or network ports, enabling control over security.

Application Restrictions and Exceptions

When installing a new application that requires network access, Windows may prompt you to allow it and add an exception to the firewall. You may also apply application restrictions through the firewall.

Configuration

Windows Firewall can be manually configured to allow or deny applications and network ports. It can also be switched off completely for the type of network. This effectively allows all network traffic and must be used with extreme caution to avoid exposing the computer to potential network threats and unauthorized access.

Client Network Configuration

The client will automatically connect and configure itself to the connected router or server if the router supports the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) and provides an IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server. These configurations may also be configured manually.

Internet Protocol (IP) Addressing Scheme

The IP address of a Windows computer can be dynamically acquired from a DHCP server on the network or configured manually. The IP address must be in the same subnet as the other hosts and the gateway, but it must be unique.

Domain Name System (DNS) Settings

DNS servers are servers that resolve names (e.g., microsoft.com) to an IP address that the computer can communicate with. Multiple DNS servers can be configured for redundancy and reliability.

Subnet Mask

A subnet mask determines what hosts are on the same network as the local computer. It needs to match all the computers and network devices on the local network.

Gateway

A default gateway is a router that can forward network traffic from the local network to other remote networks. At least one of its interfaces has to be on the same local network as the computer.

Static vs. Dynamic

A static IP address is a specific IP address that is assigned to a computer on the network. A static IP address remains the same until it is manually changed. A dynamic IP address changes each time the computer connects to the network based on currently available IP addresses.

Establishing Network Connections

There are multiple ways to connect a Windows computer to a local or remote network.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN uses another underlying network, usually the internet. It allows secure access to a remote location over public infrastructure.

Wired

Wired connections usually come in the form of Ethernet to the computers. It requires cabling to every computer and may require other network devices like switches and routers.

Wireless

Wireless network connections use Wi-Fi technology to establish a connection. Because it is not physically restricted in the area, the network will typically have an additional layer of security, such as a password or more complex authentication. Once connected, the functionality is similar to a wired connection.

Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN)/Cellular Network

A cellular network is the infrastructure that supports cellular communications, including towers and equipment that transmits and receives radio frequencies. WWAN is a wireless network that covers a large geographical area using a cellular network, which can be used to connect to the internet. Some tablets and laptops come with built-in cellular-compatible hardware.

Proxy Settings

A proxy server is a form of a gateway. A common example is a web proxy set up to filter internet access from a local network, thereby improving security.

Public Network vs. Private Network

A public network is one that is accessible to everyone within range, while a private network is protected and limited to those who have proper authentication. For example, a medical facility may provide network access through an open public network that any guest or user may connect to when in range, while it may also have a private network that is only accessible to specific users such as employees.

File Explorer Navigation–Network Paths

Within a network, File Explorer navigation is achieved through pre-configured network paths. The Universal Naming Convention (UNC) path is the standard way to navigate to the server and share files in the Windows OS.

Metered Connections and Limitations

Metered connections are based on usage and come with usage limitations. When using a metered connection, updates for the OS, an application, or system security will not download or install.

macOS Desktop

macOS and Linux operating systems come with similar utilities, tools, and commands for configuration and maintenance. You must be able to identify common features and tools of the macOS/desktop OS.

Installation and Uninstallation of Applications

Installing and uninstalling applications on macOS is similar to those processes on Windows OS. The application must be provided to the OS, mounted to the OS, and then installed on the OS. Applications on macOS are available through Apple’s proprietary App Store.

There are several common file types for macOS, including ZIP, ISO, DMG, PKG, and APP:

.dmg—A .dmg file is a disk imaging file and acts just like an ISO or ZIP file.
.pkg—A .pkg file is an automated package installer file and can be found in a DMG or ZIP file as well as on physical media.
.app—An .app file contains applications and includes files and resources the application needs, as well as the executable code.

App Store

The App Store is where applications for macOS can be downloaded and purchased with a valid Apple ID.

Uninstallation Process

Uninstallation of an application can only occur while the application is inactive. Applications that need to be uninstalled can be located using the Finder menu in the Application folder. The application being deleted is moved to Trash and may require user authentication depending on security settings. Alternatively, you can simply select the application and press the “Command” and “Delete” keys. For complete uninstallation, empty Trash after removal.

System Folders

System files on the macOS store the directories and associated data required for OS functionality. Each folder contains data pertaining to the associated system.

/Applications

The /Applications folder is the repository for all installed applications. This folder is used to simplify the management of applications for launch, management, and uninstallation.

/Users

The /Users folder stores each individual user’s data and directories, including user files, settings, and configurations. Each user folder is kept separate from one another, ensuring data isolation and security.

/Library

The /Library folder is the central storage space for system-wide files, including frameworks and application support files. This folder stores files essential to the OS’s functionality and the functionality of installed applications.

/System

The /System folder contains the data required for the underlying OS, including kernel-related data, system libraries, and resource files. This folder is read-only to prevent tampering with an unalterable name and location.

/Users/Library

The /Users/Library folder, not to be confused with the /Library folder, stores user-specific files, including personal settings and preferences, caches, and cookies. Each individual user will have a unique /Users/Library folder.

Apple ID and Corporate Restrictions

The Apple ID is the digital identity of the user associated with a device. One Apple ID can be used on multiple devices and is linked to the Apple Wallet and App Store for purchases. Apple retains complete control over what is published to the App Store via corporate restrictions. Open-source applications are not available on macOS unless submitted to and approved by Apple.

Best Practices

There are some best practices for maintaining the system, data, and performance. These are the most important ones.

Backups

Scheduled backups create a copy of data and configuration that can be restored later if needed. The best practice is to frequently create backups of files and have a copy of important files at a remote location. This remote location can be cloud storage that is accessible over the internet.

Antivirus

Antivirus software often depends on the signatures of viruses and other malicious software that needs to be regularly updated. Ensure that the security software is configured to receive frequent updates after installation.

Updates/Patches

In macOS, the System Preferences for the App Store provide the configuration for system updates. You can choose to either manually download and install the updates or have them installed automatically.

Patches are smaller updates that usually address specific functions, features, security issues, and bugs. These are managed similarly to system updates. The best practice is to allow automatic installation of patches to improve security, provided the environment can tolerate this disruption.

Drivers and hardware firmware sometimes get updated too. These are managed similarly to system updates. Again, the best practice is to install driver updates as soon as possible after they’re released to improve hardware performance, provided there are no compatibility issues.

Rapid Security Response (RSR)

The RSR is an Apple security feature that automatically installs security updates and patches released between full software updates. RSR delivers bug fixes, security improvements, and vulnerability mitigation with minimal effect on end-user experience and the underlying OS.

System Settings

macOS is highly customizable through System Preferences and can be personalized to fit individual preferences and requirements. These are some of the available settings options:

display—In the Displays preference section, you can adjust display resolution and brightness as well as color tone and AirPlay preferences.
network—The Networks preference section controls the network connectivity of the device, such as Wi-Fi preferences, as well as geographically controlled network preferences.
printers—To configure or adjust printer settings on macOS, open the Apple menu, click System Settings, then Printers and Scanners. In the Printers section, available printers can be managed, and new printers can be added or deleted.
scanners—In the Printers and Scanners section, associated scanners can be managed, including scanner type, such as flatbed or document feeder, color mode, DPI, and size.
privacy—The Security & Privacy section contains numerous settings and preferences to ensure the device’s security, including the lock screen, FileVault, and the firewall.
accessibility—The Accessibility section allows for customization of preferences to accommodate users with visual, hearing, and motor skills impairments.
backups—Time Machine is macOS’s automated backup feature and can be set to make specified backups, both incremental and full.

Features

macOS comes with many features that are unique to this specific operating system. It’s essential to understand these features so that you can maximize your experience with a Mac:

Multiple Desktops—The Multiple Desktop feature enables you to create multiple Spaces, allowing you to organize your work effectively. These multiple desktops can be switched back and forth as needed.
Mission Control—Mission Control is a program that allows you to view everything that is open and also quickly switch between programs. Mission Control also allows you to create multiple desktops.
Keychain—The Keychain feature in macOS is a tool used for password management. Items that can be stored in Keychain include passwords, private keys, certificates, and secure notes.
Spotlight—Spotlight is a search feature on macOS. It creates an index of all items and files on your system, allowing you to look up items easily.

iCloud**—The iCloud program comes pre-installed on all Apple products. It is a method for storing data in the cloud. This is beneficial as a backup method for Mac users.

iMessage

iMessage is an Apple feature that allows communication between all Apple devices over an internet connection. iMessage can sync across all Apple devices connected to the Apple ID and is used to send data, images, media, and text files, all of which are encrypted end-to-end. iMessage is also cross-compatible with short message service (SMS) and multimedia messaging service (MMS).

FaceTime

FaceTime is an Apple feature that provides free video calling across Apple devices via an internet connection. FaceTime can create one-to-one video calls or group calls with up to 32 distinct participants. Non-Apple users can join a FaceTime call via a web browser FaceTime link but cannot initiate a FaceTime call.

Drive

Drive on macOS, also known as Google Drive for desktop, is a feature that provides synchronization between a macOS and Google Drive storage. Drive uses the File Provider technology of macOS for cloud files, allowing seamless compatibility and access.

Gestures

Apple’s gestures are small motions that a user can make using the trackpad to complete simple tasks. For example, to move between pages of a document, swipe left or right with two fingers. All the gestures for Mac devices can be found under System Preferences by selecting Trackpad.

Finder

Finder is the default file manager for macOSs, similar to the File Explorer program in Windows. Finder allows users to search for, open, and delete files from one location.

Dock

Dock in macOS is similar to the taskbar in Windows. It is the launching pad for all applications on Mac computers.

Continuity

Continuity is used for integration and interaction between all connected Apple devices. Continuity includes features such as a universal clipboard, AirDrop, AirPlay, Universal control, and handoff, which allows an action to be started on one device and continued on another, such as an email or text message.

Other Features

Unlike the Windows and Linux OS, the macOS does not rely on the use of a command-line interface for common device interaction. You should, however, be familiar with these additional unique features on the macOS:

Disk Utility—Disk Utility can be used to create and restore disk images. It can also be used to check for disk errors.
FileVault—FileVault allows you to configure disk-level encryption for files and set user authentication for access.
Terminal—Terminal is where the user can run command lines on the macOS.
force quit—If an application becomes unresponsive and needs to be closed, you may need to force quit. It will terminate the application and you will lose unsaved work. It can be accomplished by selecting the application and pressing the quit button in the Activity Monitor or by pressing Option/Alt, Command, and Esc simultaneously.