CompTIA A+ Part 1: Computer Hardware

Get hands-on PC hardware skills for entry-level IT roles

Duration 5h 24m Rating (4.6) Price Included with subscription on Pluralsight
Last updated 2016-09-08
Platform: Pluralsight Topic: Hardware IT Certifications Skills: CompTIA A+ Computer Hardware Hardware Troubleshooting

CompTIA A+ Part 1: Computer Hardware is an entry-level online course that introduces PC hardware fundamentals and the practical skills needed for desktop support work. It focuses on hands-on topics such as operating system setup, preventative maintenance, basic networking, and systematic troubleshooting.

Ideal for career changers, entry-level technicians, and certification candidates, the course emphasizes diagnostic workflows and exam-relevant concepts to build workplace confidence with components and endpoint security. It provides a practical foundation for further CompTIA A+ exam study and real-world repair or support tasks.

At a Glance

CompTIA A+ Part 1: Computer Hardware is a foundational online course on Pluralsight that introduces the core technical skills for entry-level computer technician roles.

It is taught by an experienced IT instructor on Pluralsight and covers hardware fundamentals, preventative maintenance, core networking and security concepts, and basic troubleshooting workflows.

Level Beginner
Rating 4.6 out of 5
Duration 5+ hours
Languages English
Certificate Certificate of completion
Access Access for as long as your subscription is active
Course includes
  • Video lessons
  • Course transcript
  • Module list / table of contents
  • Certificate of completion
Price Included with subscription (monthly or annual plans)

What This Course Teaches

Outcomes are framed as practical competencies for entry-level technicians; learners will gain hands-on abilities they can measure on the job. By completion you’ll be able to install operating systems, perform preventative hardware maintenance, implement basic networking and security measures, and troubleshoot common PC problems.

OS Installation
Install and configure desktop and laptop operating systems, including driver and boot configuration.
Preventative Maintenance
Perform routine preventative maintenance tasks to extend hardware lifespan and maintain system reliability.
Networking Basics
Implement and configure basic LAN networking components and understand core networking concepts.
Security Fundamentals
Apply fundamental security measures and explain common threats and mitigation strategies for endpoints.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshoot common hardware and software issues using diagnostic workflows and stepwise problem isolation.

How the Course Is Structured

The course is delivered as a sequence of focused modules made up of short, topic-specific video lessons and supporting materials that follow the CompTIA 220-801 exam domains.

It is organized into roughly 10+ modules composed of multiple short lectures and supplemental resources, totaling about 5+ hours of instruction overall.

Audience & Requirements

The course targets people starting a career in desktop support or preparing for CompTIA A+ certification, along with hobbyists who want a structured introduction to PC hardware.

Primary audiences are career changers, entry-level IT staff, certification candidates, and self-taught technicians seeking a practical hardware foundation.

Who It’s For
  • Career changers preparing for entry-level IT support roles.
  • Learners preparing for the CompTIA A+ (220-801) exam.
  • Early-career IT/general support staff needing hardware fundamentals.
  • Tech hobbyists who repair or upgrade personal PCs.
What You’ll Need
  • No special prerequisites or prior formal training required.
  • Recommended: access to a spare PC or components for hands-on practice.
  • Recommended: commitment to follow practical labs and troubleshooting exercises.

Final Verdict

CompTIA A+ Part 1: Computer Hardware is a practical, entry-level course that delivers a focused introduction to PC hardware and core support tasks for learners targeting desktop-support roles or CompTIA A+ preparation.

Given its favorable user rating and inclusion on a subscription platform, it is a cost-effective way to gain foundational, job-relevant skills if you already use the service. The course’s certificate and clear syllabus add résumé value, but those aiming for certification should combine this course with hands-on practice and official exam study materials to ensure readiness for the credential exam.

Course Details

Platform Pluralsight
Rating (4.6)
Duration 5h 24m
Level Beginner
Language English
Price Included with subscription
View on Pluralsight