Best A Plus Prepcast Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 58: Wireless Security Settings: SSID, WPA2, and WPA3 13:51

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11d ago13:51

13:51

This episode covers the essential security settings for configuring a small wireless network. We explain how to change the default SSID, set strong passwords, and choose between encryption standards such as WPA2 and WPA3. You will learn the differences between open, pre-shared key, and enterprise-level authentication options. We also provide real-w…

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Episode 57: Encryption Use Cases: Data at Rest vs. Data in Transit 15:29

11d ago15:29

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This episode explains how encryption protects data in two primary states—when stored (data at rest) and when moving across networks (data in transit). We define plaintext and ciphertext, along with encryption methods for securing files, disks, mobile devices, emails, and web traffic. Understanding these concepts is vital for identifying when and ho…

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Episode 56: Password Management: Complexity, Rotation, and Managers 11:29

11d ago11:29

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This episode examines best practices for creating and managing secure passwords. We explain why password length, complexity, and uniqueness are essential to reducing the risk of compromise. You will learn how to implement policies for password history, expiration, and avoiding reuse across different accounts. These guidelines help maintain system s…

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Episode 55: Safe Browsing: Certificates, Sites, and AI Risks 12:10

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This episode focuses on safe browsing practices to protect user data and system integrity. We explain how to verify website security using valid certificates, recognize potentially malicious sites, and configure browser settings for safer operation. Privacy considerations include managing cookies, limiting personal information shared online, and un…

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Episode 54: Software Practices: Licensing, Sources, and Updates 13:42

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This episode covers the best practices for managing software, from verifying licensing compliance to ensuring secure sourcing and regular updates. We explain the differences between open source, proprietary, subscription, and perpetual licenses, along with the importance of product keys and serial numbers. We also emphasize downloading software fro…

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Episode 53: Device Security: Phishing, Malware, and Hardening 12:50

11d ago12:50

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This episode addresses key strategies for securing devices against common threats. We cover security awareness measures, such as recognizing phishing attempts, and the importance of anti-malware tools, firewalls, and regular patching. You will learn how to implement physical protections like cable and USB locks, as well as software-based safeguards…

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Episode 52: Authentication and Authorization: Models and Logging 11:17

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This episode focuses on the processes of authentication and authorization, explaining how they verify identity and determine permissions. We outline common authentication methods, from single-factor to multifactor, and introduce models such as least privilege and role-based access control. You will also learn how proper logging supports accounting …

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Episode 51: Security Concepts: CIA, Privacy, and Frameworks 14:07

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This episode explores the foundational concepts of information security, beginning with the CIA triad—confidentiality, integrity, and availability. We explain how each principle guides security decisions and policies, from controlling access to ensuring data accuracy and maintaining system uptime. You will also learn about privacy considerations, s…

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Episode 50: Security: Domain Overview 10:59

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This episode introduces the Security domain, which covers essential principles, best practices, and protective technologies for safeguarding systems and information. You will learn how this domain addresses confidentiality, integrity, availability, privacy, authentication, and authorization concepts. Its coverage is broad, touching areas from devic…

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Episode 49: Backup Strategies: File, System, and Storage Locations 16:29

11d ago16:29

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This episode covers the principles of data backup, including file-level backups, full system backups, and restore procedures. We explain different storage locations, from local media like external drives and SD cards to cloud-based storage solutions, and discuss the pros and cons of each approach. We also present examples of backup scheduling, such…

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Episode 48: Database Structures: Relational and Non-relational Explained 12:36

10d ago12:36

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This episode compares relational and non-relational database structures, explaining when each is most effective. We define relational components such as tables, rows, columns, and keys, as well as non-relational formats like key/value and document databases. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing how data should be organized in…

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Episode 47: Databases in Action: Usage, Speed, and Structure 14:04

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This episode focuses on the practical uses of databases, including creating, querying, and generating reports. We explain the advantages of databases over flat files, such as scalability, speed, and support for multiple concurrent users. You will also learn about data persistence, availability, and the trade-offs between cloud and local database ho…

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Episode 46: Data Value: Analytics, Reporting, and Monetization 11:18

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This episode explains how organizations treat data as a valuable asset, exploring its role in decision-making, reporting, and revenue generation. We cover the difference between critical and non-critical data, how data is collected, and how it is correlated to identify trends and insights. You will learn how analytics and meaningful reporting influ…

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Episode 45: Data and Database Fundamentals: Domain Overview 10:56

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This episode introduces the Data and Database Fundamentals domain, explaining how it addresses the value of data, database structures, and backup concepts. You will learn why this domain is crucial for understanding how information is stored, managed, and secured, and how it connects to other exam areas like software, networking, and security. We a…

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Episode 44: Code Organization: Pseudocode, Flowcharts, and Logic 11:04

11d ago11:04

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This episode explains organizational techniques used in programming, including pseudocode, flowcharts, and logic structures. We describe how pseudocode provides a language-agnostic plan for development, how flowcharts visually map program flow, and how logical structures like branching and looping control execution. These tools help programmers des…

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Episode 43: Programming Concepts: Variables, Functions, and Objects 11:57

11d ago11:57

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This episode covers the core concepts of programming, focusing on variables, functions, and objects. We explain how variables store and manipulate data, how functions encapsulate reusable logic, and how objects combine properties and methods to model real-world entities in code. Understanding these concepts is essential for interpreting how program…

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Episode 42: Data Types: Char, String, Integer, Float, Boolean 12:40

11d ago12:40

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This episode reviews the fundamental data types used in programming, including characters, strings, integers, floating-point numbers, and Boolean values. We define each type, explain its purpose, and describe how data types influence program behavior. This understanding is critical for writing accurate code and avoiding type-related errors, which c…

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Episode 41: Programming Language Types: Interpreted, Compiled, and More 12:21

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This episode explains the different categories of programming languages, including interpreted, compiled, scripting, markup, and query languages. We discuss how interpreted languages execute code line-by-line, compiled languages translate entire programs into machine code before execution, and how scripting and markup languages serve specific autom…

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Episode 40: Software Development Concepts: Domain Overview 13:07

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This episode provides an overview of the Software Development Concepts domain, outlining the skills and knowledge areas it covers. You will learn about programming language categories, fundamental data types, programming concepts, and organizational techniques. The domain’s focus is on helping you understand the building blocks of software and how …

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Episode 39: AI in Tech+: Chatbots, Generative Tools, and Smart Systems 12:49

12d ago12:49

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This episode introduces artificial intelligence concepts relevant to the Tech+ exam, including AI chatbots, assistants, and generative AI tools. We explain how AI can produce code, create content, and offer predictive suggestions, as well as its role in enhancing productivity and user interaction. Understanding these applications is important for r…

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Episode 38: Browser Configurations: Extensions, Privacy, and Sync 12:33

11d ago12:33

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This episode focuses on configuring web browsers for security, efficiency, and personalization. We cover the use of extensions and add-ons, private browsing modes, cache management, and pop-up blocking. You will learn how to enable, disable, and remove extensions, as well as how to set default search engines and manage bookmarks for streamlined nav…

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Episode 37: Software Use Cases: Productivity, Collaboration, and Support 11:47

11d ago11:47

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This episode reviews the main categories of software you will encounter in the exam, including productivity tools, collaboration platforms, and support utilities. We explain how word processors, spreadsheets, presentation software, and diagramming tools enable professional tasks, while collaboration tools like email clients, conferencing software, …

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Episode 36: OS Roles: Application, Task, and Device Management 11:58

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This episode explains the primary roles of an operating system, focusing on how it manages applications, tasks, and connected devices. We detail how the OS provides an interface between hardware and software, coordinates resource allocation, and ensures processes run efficiently. You will learn how features like disk management, process scheduling,…

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Episode 35: OS Components: Filesystems, Drivers, and Interfaces 12:58

11d ago12:58

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This episode explores the core components of an operating system, including filesystems, device drivers, and user interfaces. We explain how these components work together to manage hardware resources, provide application support, and deliver a functional user experience. Understanding filesystem features like compression, encryption, and file attr…

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Episode 34: Applications and Software: Domain Overview 12:25

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This episode provides an overview of the Applications and Software domain, explaining how it addresses operating systems, productivity tools, browser configuration, and AI concepts. You will learn how this domain evaluates your ability to understand, configure, and manage software environments effectively. The domain’s scope includes both end-user …

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Episode 33: Wireless Capabilities: Standards, Speeds, and Interference 13:48

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This episode covers the essential aspects of wireless networking, focusing on standards such as 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax. We discuss the speed capabilities, frequency bands, and range considerations for each, as well as how interference and attenuation can affect performance. Knowing these factors will help you answer exam questions on wirel…

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Episode 32: Network Types and Models: LAN, WAN, Client-Server, P2P 15:37

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This episode introduces the most common network types and architectures, including Local Area Networks, Wide Area Networks, client-server models, and peer-to-peer setups. We explain the characteristics, advantages, and limitations of each, along with their typical use cases. Understanding these distinctions will enable you to identify which configu…

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Episode 31: Network Services: Web, File Transfer, Email, and Devices 12:39

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This episode examines the essential network services you will encounter in both the exam and real-world IT environments. We cover secure web browsing, file transfer protocols, and email services, explaining how each operates and its role in modern communication and data sharing. You will learn the distinctions between services like HTTP and HTTPS, …

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Episode 30: Networking Basics: Addressing, Ports, and Communication 12:32

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This episode covers the fundamental concepts of network communication, including IP addressing, MAC addresses, and port numbers. We explain how these identifiers allow devices to locate and communicate with each other across networks. The discussion also includes the basics of protocols, network models, and common network services such as secure we…

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Episode 29: Internet Services: Fiber, DSL, Satellite, and Cellular 6:46

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This episode reviews the primary types of internet services, explaining their technologies, capabilities, and limitations. We cover wired options like fiber optic and DSL, along with wireless services such as satellite and cellular. You will learn how factors like speed, latency, availability, and cost influence the choice of service, making this k…

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Episode 28: Deployment Models: On-Prem, Cloud, and Hybrid Compared 10:58

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This episode explains the main deployment models for IT infrastructure—on-premises, cloud, and hybrid—and the scenarios in which each is most effective. We describe how on-premises models offer direct control, cloud models provide scalability and lower upfront costs, and hybrid models combine elements of both for flexibility. Understanding these di…

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Episode 27: Cloud Delivery Models: SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS 12:37

11d ago12:37

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This episode examines the three primary cloud service models—Software as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Infrastructure as a Service—outlining their purposes, advantages, and limitations. We break down how each model delivers resources to users, from fully managed software applications to complete virtualized infrastructure. You will learn to…

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Episode 26: Virtualization and Cloud: Core Concepts and Hypervisors 13:21

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This episode introduces virtualization and cloud computing concepts, explaining how they enable more efficient use of computing resources. We define key terms such as hypervisor, guest operating system, and virtual machine, as well as the distinctions between Type 1 and Type 2 hypervisors. You will learn how virtualization reduces hardware costs, i…

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Episode 25: Display Connectors: VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C 18:21

11d ago18:21

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This episode explains the features, capabilities, and differences between common display connectors, including VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. You will learn how each interface handles video, audio, resolution support, and compatibility across different devices. This understanding is essential for making informed choices in both setup and troubl…

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Episode 24: Input/Output Interfaces: USB, Thunderbolt, RF, and Bluetooth 15:25

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This episode covers the common input/output interfaces you will encounter, including USB variants, Thunderbolt, radio frequency connections, and Bluetooth. We discuss the specifications, capabilities, and typical uses of each, helping you identify the best interface for a given device or application. Recognizing these interfaces is important for bo…

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Episode 23: Plug-and-Play vs. Driver Installs: Installation Types Explained 13:53

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This episode explains the differences between plug-and-play installations, where the operating system automatically configures the device, and manual driver installations, which require user intervention. We review the benefits and limitations of each method, along with situations where one is preferred over the other. This knowledge is key for rec…

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Episode 22: Peripheral Devices: Common Installations and Setup Methods 15:14

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This episode covers the installation and configuration of common peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, webcams, external drives, and display units. We explain how different installation types—such as plug-and-play versus manual driver setup—affect ease of use and compatibility. You will learn how to follow best practices for connecting, co…

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Episode 21: Local vs. Network Storage: Flash, NAS, and Cloud Options 14:57

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This episode explains the differences between local storage options such as USB flash drives, SD cards, and internal drives, versus network-based storage solutions like NAS devices and cloud services. We review the advantages and limitations of each, including speed, capacity, accessibility, and security considerations. Understanding these differen…

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Episode 20: Storage Technologies: HDD, SSD, NVMe, and Optical Compared 16:19

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This episode compares the major types of storage technologies you need to understand for the exam. We explain the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of HDDs, SSDs, NVMe drives, and optical media. You will learn how these storage options differ in speed, capacity, durability, and cost, enabling you to make informed recommendations in bot…

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Episode 19: Internal Components: CPU, RAM, GPU, and Motherboards 15:06

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This episode examines the core internal components that power computing devices. We detail the functions of the CPU, RAM, GPU, and the motherboard, along with supporting elements such as firmware and expansion cards. Understanding how these parts work together is essential for diagnosing hardware performance issues and selecting appropriate upgrade…

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Episode 18: Home and Connected Devices: From Doorbells to Medical Equipment 13:54

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This episode focuses on the expanding category of connected devices, from home automation systems and video doorbells to medical monitoring tools and exercise equipment. We discuss the technologies that enable these devices, including wireless connectivity standards, integrated sensors, and smart assistants. This knowledge is critical for recognizi…

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Episode 17: Computing Devices: Smartphones to IoT and Their Purposes 15:52

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This episode explores the wide range of computing devices covered in the Tech+ exam, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, workstations, servers, gaming consoles, and IoT devices. We explain the intended purposes of each device type, their strengths, and their limitations. Understanding these distinctions is essential for determining which devic…

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Episode 16: Infrastructure: Domain Overview 18:52

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This episode introduces the Infrastructure domain, which makes up a significant portion of the Tech+ exam and covers the hardware, devices, and technologies that form the backbone of computing environments. You will gain an understanding of the scope of topics included, from end-user devices and internal components to networking hardware, storage s…

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Episode 15: Troubleshooting Steps: The Structured IT Methodology 12:32

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This episode outlines the standard troubleshooting methodology used in IT to systematically identify and resolve issues. We walk through each step, from identifying the problem and forming a theory, to testing, implementing a solution, verifying functionality, and documenting results. This structured approach ensures that problems are resolved effi…

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Episode 14: Measuring IT: Storage, Throughput, and Processing Speed Units 14:52

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This episode covers the common units of measure used to describe storage capacity, data transfer rates, and processing speeds. We explain units such as bytes, kilobytes, gigabytes, and petabytes for storage, as well as bits per second and its variations for throughput. Processing speeds are also addressed, with an emphasis on megahertz and gigahert…

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Episode 13: Notational Systems: Binary, Hexadecimal, Decimal, and Octal 14:42

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This episode explains the core notational systems used in computing, including binary, hexadecimal, decimal, and octal. We describe how each system works, why it is used, and the relationships between them. Understanding these systems is critical for interpreting system settings, memory addresses, and color values, as well as for reading and writin…

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Episode 12: Computing Basics: Input, Processing, Output, and Storage 14:55

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This episode examines the four primary stages of computing—input, processing, output, and storage—breaking down how each interacts within a computing system. We explain the role of devices and components in each stage, from keyboards and sensors in input, to CPUs in processing, to monitors and printers in output, and various storage media. By under…

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Episode 11: IT Concepts and Terminology: Domain Overview 14:27

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This episode introduces the IT Concepts and Terminology domain, outlining its purpose and how it fits into the overall Tech+ exam structure. We review the types of topics you will encounter here, including notational systems, computing basics, units of measurement, and the troubleshooting methodology. You will learn why this domain is essential for…

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Episode 10: Glossary Deep Dive: Security, Networking, and Cloud Concepts 17:30

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This episode concludes the glossary series by covering essential terminology from the Security, Networking, and Cloud domains. We define critical security principles, networking protocols, and cloud service models, making clear how each fits into the broader IT landscape. Understanding these terms is vital for navigating scenario-based questions wh…

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Episode 9: Glossary Deep Dive: Software, Development, and Databases 12:44

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This episode continues the glossary focus, shifting to terminology from the Applications, Software Development, and Data domains. We define terms related to operating systems, productivity tools, programming concepts, and database structures, explaining how they are used in both exam scenarios and workplace tasks. Understanding these definitions is…