Tech+ (Episode 2): What Is on the Exam?

Hi there! Have you ever felt like technology is moving fast and you want to keep up? Or maybe you’ve thought about a deeper dive into the world of IT to increase your professional options or expand your toolkit but weren’t sure where to start? And then again, maybe you’re like me - you’re a lifelong learner and this is an area you’d like to know more about. Well, for any of these reasons or more, you’re in the right place. Today, I’m going to introduce you to the CompTIA Tech+ certification—your perfect launchpad into the world of information technology.

Stick around because not only will we break down the key objectives of the Tech+ exam, but I’ll also share a few tips to help you feel confident and ready to tackle it. I did - and if I can do it, trust me: you can too. And hey, at the end of this video, I’ll give you a sneak peek at what’s coming up next in this series to help you build a strong foundation for your IT adventures.

Let’s get started!

What Is Tech+?

The CompTIA Tech+ certification is specifically designed for individuals like you who are ready to move deeper into IT. Think of it as a foundational certification that covers the nuts and bolts of modern technology. It’s all about learning to troubleshoot, support, and manage a range of IT issues—skills that are in high demand everywhere from households to small businesses to non-profits to Fortune 500 companies.

Exam Overview

The CompTIA Tech+ exam certifies candidates on computing basics, IT infrastructure, applications, software development, database use, and security concepts.

Candidates are tested on things like installing peripherals, configuring web browsers, wireless networks, troubleshooting theory, identifying basic security risks, and more.

It’s designed as a pre-professional certification for advanced end users aiming for professional-level certifications like A+. If you’re wondering whether to take it or not, consider watching the first video in this series!

The good people at CompTIA developed this certification in close coordination with subject matter experts, workshops, and industry-wide surveys to determine what objectives provide the desired value for a certification like this. 

Quick Exam Facts

• Required Exam: FC0-U71
• Number of Questions: Maximum of 70
• Question Types: Multiple-choice
• Length: 60 minutes
• Recommended Experience: High school students or non-IT professionals
• Passing Score: 650

Structure and Scoring

The Tech+ exam is structured as a multiple-choice test, with both single- and multiple-answer questions. In addition, there are performance-based questions where you’ll be tasked with solving real-world scenarios in a simulated environment.

The exam is scored on a scale of 100 to 900, and you need at least 650 to pass. The scoring isn’t based purely on percentages; instead, different questions may be weighted differently depending on their complexity and importance. It’s designed to test both your theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills.

Time and Location

You’ll have 60 minutes to complete the Tech+ exam. That might sound tight, but with proper preparation, it’s absolutely manageable. It’s kind of like a cooking show competition—the clock is ticking, but if you’ve prepped your ingredients (or knowledge), you’ll have no problem. And plus: Gordon Ramsey won’t be yelling and cussing at you the whole time. 

The exam is available both online and in person at authorized testing centers. If you choose the online option, be aware that it requires a quiet, distraction-free environment and a webcam for monitoring. That means no barking dogs or uninvited toddler appearances during the test—it’s just you and your focus.

Registration

Registering for the Tech+ exam is simple. Head over to the official CompTIA website and create an account if you don’t already have one. From there, you can purchase a voucher for the exam. After purchasing your voucher, you’ll select a testing option—either in-person at a testing center or online—and schedule your exam at a time that works best for you. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for discounts or bundled training packages that include the voucher!

It’s like buying tickets for a big concert—plan ahead and snag the best deal you can find.

Breaking Down the Exam Objectives

The Tech+ exam focuses on six main objectives. Let’s break them down in a way that makes sense.

IT Concepts and Terminology (13%)

This section gives you the language of technology. Key topics include:

• The basics of computing: Input, processing, output, and storage.
• Understanding number systems like binary and hexadecimal (NOTE: Don't let this intimidate you!).
• Common units of measure: GHz, Mbps, and GB.
• Troubleshooting methodologies: Identify problems, test theories, and document solutions.

Infrastructure (24%)

Here, you’ll get hands-on with the tools and devices that keep businesses running. Key topics include:

• Setting up and maintaining wired and wireless networks.
• Installing and managing peripherals like printers and scanners.
• Storage solutions: Optical, flash drives, SSDs, and more.
• Virtualization and cloud technologies: Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), etc.

Imagine becoming the hero who fixes grandma’s computer or the home Wi-Fi when it’s down. You’ll go from "Why isn’t Netflix working?" to "Who saved movie night?"

Applications and Software (18%)

This section ensures you’re comfortable with the tools people use every day. Key topics include:

• Operating system management: Learn the ins and outs of Windows, macOS, and Linux. Imagine being able to troubleshoot your own laptop instead of waiting hours for tech support.
• Productivity tools: Tools like word processors and spreadsheets aren’t just for office work—they help you organize your life. Think budgeting spreadsheets or creating a sleek resume for that IT job you’ve been eyeing.
• AI tools: Chatbots and assistants are becoming part of daily life. Imagine using AI to schedule appointments or write quick summaries, saving you time for what matters most.

Software Development Concepts (13%)

This section introduces you to the basics of coding and logic, unlocking the potential to create your own applications. Key topics include:

• Programming languages: Understand compiled, interpreted, and scripting languages. Think of it like learning different tools for different jobs—a screwdriver, a wrench, or a hammer.
• Logic concepts: Branching, looping, and pseudocode are the building blocks of solving complex problems. For example, you could write a simple script to automatically organize your files or calculate your monthly expenses.
• Data structures: Arrays, functions, and objects might sound intimidating, but they’re just ways to store and organize information. Picture creating a contact list app that organizes names, numbers, and addresses efficiently.

Data and Database Fundamentals (13%)

This section emphasizes how to manage and leverage data, a vital skill in the digital age. Key topics include:

• Database concepts: Learn about relational and non-relational databases. For instance, imagine managing a music playlist app where every song and artist is stored in an organized database.
• Data backup types and locations: Whether it’s backing up family photos to the cloud or ensuring critical business data is safe, you’ll learn best practices for safeguarding information.
• Data as an asset: Discover how analytics and monetization turn data into insights and opportunities. For example, tracking your YouTube channel’s performance through analytics can guide your content strategy.

Security (19%)

Cybersecurity is more important than ever. This objective teaches you the basics of:

• Recognizing and preventing threats like phishing attacks and more.
• Implementing device security measures: Authentication, anti-malware, and firewalls.
• Configuring wireless network security settings: WPA2, WPA3, and encryption protocols.
• You’ll be the gatekeeper of digital safety—the one your loved ones depend on to understand and protect against online threats. In a world where phishing scams and ransomware can impact anyone, your knowledge will make all the difference.

For your convenience, I’ve included a link to the Tech+ FC0-U71 exam objectives here. 

Why It Matters

What’s great about the Tech+ exam is how practical and hands-on it is. You’re not just memorizing information; you’re learning skills you can immediately apply in the real world. And for those of us who are diving into IT later in life, this certification proves it’s never too late to learn, grow, and succeed.

Let's Do This!

So, what do you think? Which of these objectives sounds most exciting to you? Let me know in our YouTube comment section for this video. I’d love to hear your thoughts and help answer any questions you have about the exam.

What's Next

And here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming next in this series. In our next video, we’ll dive deep into the IT Concepts and Terminology objective. I’ll share practical examples and study tips to help you master this foundational section. You won’t want to miss it.

Conclusion

If you found this video helpful, please give it a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. Don’t forget to hit the notification bell so you’ll know as soon as the next video drops. I'll be adding new videos every week until we build out this whole thing together.

Be sure to check out my YouTube channel (@k.richardlabbe), The K. Richard Labbe Podcast, and visit my website at krichardlabbe.com for more learning tools. You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, and X under the name KRichardLabbe (all one word). See you next time!

Take me to Tech+ Episode 3

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