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Master the CompTIA ITF+ Exam Objectives with This Full Guide

Tina Tran
Tina Tran
Created at May 20, 2025

Think you need years of experience to break into IT? Think again. The CompTIA ITF+ objectives outline the essential knowledge every tech beginner should have — from hardware basics to software, networks, and security. Understanding these objectives isn’t just about passing the exam; it’s about building a solid foundation for your IT journey. Whether you’re exploring a tech career or simply want to understand how IT works, this guide offers a clear breakdown of what you need to know before taking the CompTIA ITF+ exam.

CompTIA ITF+ exam objectives (domain)

The official CompTIA ITF+ exam objectives outline the essential IT knowledge for beginners, including students, career changers, and non-technical users. Spanning six domains from IT concepts to software development and security, they serve as a foundation for further learning and certifications like CompTIA A+.

CompTIA ITF+ Objectives breakdown

Domain 1: IT Concepts and Terminology 

This domain builds the foundation of IT knowledge.

Subdomain Key Topics
1.1 Notational Systems Binary, Decimal, Hexadecimal, ASCII, Unicode
1.2 Data Types & Characteristics Character (char), String, Number (Integer, Float), Boolean
1.3 Computing Basics Input → Processing → Output → Storage
1.4 Value of Data & Information Data as a business asset, Importance of security investment, Data-to-information relationship, Intellectual property (copyright, trademark, patent), Data-driven decision-making
1.5 Units of Measure Bit, Byte, KB, MB, GB, TB, PB (Storage), bps, Kbps, Mbps, Gbps, Tbps (Throughput), MHz, GHz (Processing speed)
1.6 Troubleshooting Methodology Identify problem (gather info, ask users, isolate changes), Research solutions, Establish/test theory, Create and apply action plan, Verify and document resolution

Domain 2: Infrastructure

This domain focuses on the core components of IT systems and networks.

Subdomain Key Focus
2.1 I/O Device Interfaces Networking (Wired, Wireless), Peripheral device, Graphic device
2.2 Peripheral Setup Install printers, scanners, displays, etc. (plug-and-play vs. manual setup)
2.3 Internal Components Motherboard, BIOS, RAM, CPU (32/64-bit, ARM), storage types, GPU, cooling systems
2.4 Storage Types Volatile vs. non-volatile, HDD vs. SSD, local vs. cloud storage
2.5 Internet Service Types Fiber, Cable, DSL, Satellite, Cellular, Wireless (RF)
2.6 Computing Devices Phones, Tablets, Laptops, Servers, Workstations, Gaming consoles, IoT
2.7 Networking Basics IP, MAC, DNS, HTTP/SMTP/IMAP, LAN vs. WAN, routers, switches, firewalls
2.8 Wireless Network Setup 802.11 standards, SSID settings, encryption (WPA2/WEP), best security practices

Domain 3: Applications and Software

This covers the essential software types and their roles in computing.

Subdomain Key Focus Areas
3.1 Operating systems – Interface between hardware and software
– Manages disk, memory, applications, devices, and processes
– Types of OS( Mobile, Workstation, Server, Embedded, Firmware, Hypervisor)
3.2 Components of an OS – File systems (FAT32, NTFS, HFS), file types/extensions, directories
– Process management, drivers, services, system utilities
– Interfaces (GUI vs. command line, encryption & compression)
3.3 Software Use – Productivity software (word processing, spreadsheets, presentations)
– Business & collaboration software (email, project management, diagramming tools)
3.4 Application architecture & delivery models – Application delivery (locally installed, network-hosted, cloud-based)
– Architecture models (One-tier, Two-tier, Three-tier, N-tier)
3.5 Web browsers – Manage cache, extensions, scripting, popup blockers- Use privacy modes, configure proxy & certificates
3.6 General application concepts & uses – Software types: single-platform vs. cross-platform- Licensing: open-source, proprietary, single-use, subscription- Installation best practices: reading documentation, terms, advanced setup

Domain 4: Software Development

This domain introduces basic programming concepts and logical thinking.

Subdomain Key Focus Areas
4.1 Programming language categories Interpreted languages: Scripting, Scripted, Markup (e.g., HTML, JavaScript), Compiled languages, Query languages, Assembly language
4.2 Programming organizational techniques & interpreting logic – Organizational techniques (Pseudocode, flowcharts, sequence)
– Logic components: Branching (if/else), Looping (for, while)
4.3 Programming concepts – Identifiers: Variables, constants
– Containers: Arrays, vectors
– Functions: Reusable blocks of code
– Objects: Attributes (data), methods (functions), and properties within object-oriented programming

Domain 5: Database Fundamentals

This domain teaches the structure and function of databases.

Subdomain Key Focus Areas
5.1 Explain database concepts and the purpose of a database – Database usage: Creating, inputting, querying, generating reports
– Flat file vs. database: Flat files are simple and lack scalability; databases support multiple users, offer better speed, and handle various data types
– Records: Individual entries in a database
– Storage: Ensures data persistence over time
5.2 Compare and contrast various database structures – Data formats: Structured (relational), semi-structured (XML/JSON), unstructured (text, media)
– Relational databases: Use schema, tables, rows, fields
– Keys: Primary key, foreign key
– Constraints: Rules to ensure data integrity
– Non-relational databases: Include key-value stores and document databases
5.3 Summarize methods used to interface with databases – Interface methods: Manual (direct input), programmatic (via code), user interface (tools), query/report builders
– Import/export: Database dumps, backups
– Relational operations: CRUD operations — Select, Insert, Delete, Update

Domain 6: Security

Security is a major focus of modern IT.

Subdomain Key Focus Areas
6.1 Confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA) – Confidentiality: Snooping, wiretapping, social engineering, dumpster diving
– Integrity: Man-in-the-middle, impersonation, replay attacks
– Availability: DoS attacks, hardware failure, service outages
6.2 Secure devices and follow best practices – Device security tools: Antivirus, firewalls, updates, safe browsing
– Best practices: Use OEM sources, remove unnecessary/malicious software, and validate trusted software origins
6.3 Behavioral security concepts – Privacy expectations: Internet, email, social media, corporate networks
– Policies and procedures: Handling of sensitive data like passwords, personal, and company information
6.4 Authentication, Authorization, Accounting, Non-repudiation (AAAN) – Authentication: Single/multifactor, tokens, biometrics, SSO
– Authorization: Role-based, least privilege, MAC, DAC
– Accounting: Logs, browser history, access tracking
– Non-repudiation: Signatures, receipts, biometrics
6.5 Password best practices – Use strong, unique passwords
– Avoid reuse, set expiration periods
– Use password managers
– Secure password reset processes
6.6 Encryption uses – Encryption types: Data at rest (files, disks), data in transit (VPN, HTTPS)
– Plaintext vs. Ciphertext
6.7 Business continuity concepts – Fault tolerance: Prevent data loss
– Disaster recovery: Backup (on-site, off-site, cloud), restoration, redundancy
– Contingency planning: Restore critical services and access quickly

Common Mistakes When Studying CompTIA ITF+ Objectives

Even though the CompTIA ITF+ exam is considered entry-level, many test-takers struggle, not because of the content, but because of how they prepare. Misinterpreting the exam objectives or skipping strategic steps can cost you valuable points. Below are the most common mistakes learners make and how you can avoid them:

1. Memorizing Terms Without Context

Why it hurts: Simply knowing definitions isn’t enough. CompTIA wants to test if you can apply the concepts.

Fix it:  Use the objectives to study in scenarios. For example, don’t just memorize what “Boolean” means—understand when and why you’d use it.

2. Ignoring the Weight of Each Domain

Why it hurts: Not all domains are created equal. “IT Concepts and Terminology” covers more questions than “Database Fundamentals.”

Fix it: Prioritize your study time according to each domain’s weight. Spend more time on heavily tested areas.

3. Studying Only the Theory Without Practicing

Why it hurts: You might feel like you understand the material after reading through the objectives, but without hands-on practice, that knowledge won’t stick when it matters.

Fix it: After studying objectives, use practice tests to reinforce learning, practice questions help you identify gaps, build confidence, and prepare for how the real exam presents problems.

4. Not Reviewing Your Weak Points

Why it hurts: People tend to re-study what they already know, creating a false sense of readiness.

Fix it: Use a progress tracker (like a worksheet or digital checklist) to mark off mastered topics and return to the areas where you’re struggling.

FAQs

1. Why should you study the CompTIA ITF+ exam objectives?

Before diving into practice questions or memorizing technical terms, it’s essential to start with a clear understanding of the CompTIA ITF+ exam objectives. These objectives aren’t just a checklist—they’re a roadmap that reveals exactly what you’ll be tested on, how deeply you need to understand each concept, and where to focus your time.

Here’s how mastering the objectives boosts your study efficiency:

  • Targeted Learning: Instead of guessing what might be important, you’ll know precisely which topics matter most in each domain, like the difference between binary vs. hexadecimal in IT Concepts or the basics of input-processing-output in computing models.
  •  Better Time Management: Each domain carries a different weight in the exam. Spending more time on heavily weighted domains (like “IT Concepts and Terminology”) ensures a higher return on your study investment.
  •  Identify Knowledge Gaps Early:  By reviewing the full objective list upfront, you can quickly assess which areas are familiar and which need deeper review, saving you time and frustration later.
  •  Boost Retention Through Context: Studying with the objectives in mind helps your brain understand why each topic matters, making it easier to retain and apply the information during the exam.

2. What is the summary of the CompTIA ITF+ exam?

  • Exam code: FC0-U61
  • Number of questions: 75 multiple-choice questions
  • Length: 60 minutes
  • Passing score: 650 on a scale of 900
  • Target audience: Beginners, career switchers, students, and non-technical professionals

It’s designed to validate your basic digital literacy and help you decide if a career in IT is right for you.

Final thoughts

The CompTIA ITF+ is more than just a beginner-friendly certification, it’s a strategic starting point for anyone curious about the IT world. By studying the CompTIA ITF+ objectives, you gain not only foundational tech skills but also clarity about your potential career path. Whether you aim to become a technician, analyst, or developer, ITF+ helps you speak the language of technology and approach your future with confidence. If you’re serious about exploring IT, take the time to study intentionally and use high-quality resources.