CompTIA (The Computing Technology Industry Association) is the leading provider of vendor-neutral IT certifications in the world. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) is an introduction to basic IT knowledge and skills that helps professionals decide if a career in IT is right for them. It also helps organisations prepare non-technical teams for digital transformation. CompTIA  ITF+ is ideal for beginners with a basic understanding of PC functionality and compatibility as well as familiarity with technology topics, such as hardware basics, software installation, security risks and prevention, and basic networking. It’s also ideal as a career planning or development tool for individuals beginning their IT careers or those seeking to make a career change. A single exam is required to earn the credential. CompTIA launched a new IT Fundamentals+ exam (Exam FC0-U61) in September 2018. This new exam focuses on computing basics, database use, software development and IT infrastructure.

Why is it different?

• CompTIA ITF+ establishes an IT education framework for students in middle school and high school.

• ITF+ is the only pre-career certification that helps students or career changers determine if they have a competency for information technology and if it is the right career path for them.

• ITF+ is the only single certification that covers all areas of IT foundations making it ideal for nontechnical professionals.

Technical Areas Covered in the Certification

IT Concepts and Terminology 

• Compare and contrast national systems and fundamental data type characteristics.
• Illustrate the basics of computing and processing.
• Explain the value of data and information.
• Explain the troubleshooting methodology.

Infrastructure 

• Classify common types of input/output device interfaces.
• Given a scenario, set up and install common peripheral devices to a laptop/ PC or secure a basic wireless network.
• Explain the purpose of common internal computing components and basic networking concepts.
• Compare and contrast common Internet service types, storage types, and computing devices.

Applications and Software

• Manage applications software.
• Compare and contrast components of an operating system.
• Explain the purpose and proper use of software and methods of application architecture.
• Given a scenario, configure and use web browsers.

Software Development 

• Compare and contrast programming language categories.
• Given a scenario, use programming organisational techniques and interpret logic.
• Explain the purpose and use of programming concepts.

Database Fundamentals 

• Explain database concepts and the purpose of a database.
• Compare and contrast various database structures.
• Summarise methods used to interface with databases.

Security 

• Summarise confidentiality, integrity, and availability concerns.
• Explain methods to secure devices and best practices.
• Summarise behavioural security concepts.
• Compare and contrast authentication, authorisation, and accounting.
• Explain password best practices, common uses of encryption, and business continuity concepts.

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