Best Hardware Fundamentals Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 90 — Configuring Small Wireless Network Security 12:03

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In this episode, we examine wireless network security configurations, an important topic in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how to change default SSIDs and passwords, choose encryption protocols like WPA2 or WPA3, and secure access with pre-shared keys. We’ll also discuss disabling unused services, managing guest…

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Episode 89 — Mobile and Application Encryption Use Cases 11:25

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Here, we focus on specific encryption use cases for mobile devices and applications, a topic within the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how mobile device encryption protects data if a device is lost or stolen, and how application-level encryption secures sensitive information within apps. We’ll cover examples from se…

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Episode 88 — Encryption for Data at Rest and In Transit 11:18

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Encryption is a fundamental security tool, and this episode explains its role in protecting both data at rest and data in transit for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how file-level, disk-level, and mobile device encryption protect stored data, and how protocols like HTTPS, VPN, and secure email safeguard informat…

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Episode 87 — Password Best Practices and Managers 12:00

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In this episode, we cover password best practices as outlined in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn about creating strong passwords using length, complexity, and unpredictability, as well as how to avoid common mistakes like password reuse. We’ll also discuss password managers, how they securely store credentials, a…

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Episode 86 — Safe Browsing: Certificates and Website Validity 11:28

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Safe browsing is a critical topic in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam, and this episode shows you how to verify website certificates, identify secure connections, and recognize invalid or suspicious certificates. We’ll explain how HTTPS works, the role of certificate authorities, and why expired or mismatched certificates are r…

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Episode 85 — Safe Software Installation and Licensing Models 13:06

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In this episode, we discuss safe software installation practices and licensing models, both of which are covered in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how to verify software sources, check digital signatures, and follow proper installation procedures to avoid introducing malware or vulnerabilities. We’ll also explai…

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Episode 84 — USB and Cable Lock Physical Security Practices 12:12

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Physical security is just as important as digital safeguards, and this episode examines USB and cable lock practices for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll explain how USB port locks prevent unauthorized device connections and how cable locks secure laptops, desktops, and other hardware against theft. We’ll also cover scen…

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Episode 83 — Device Security: Firewalls, Patch Management, Anti-Malware 12:17

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This episode covers device security measures that are essential knowledge for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how firewalls filter network traffic to block unauthorized access, how patch management ensures systems stay updated against vulnerabilities, and how anti-malware tools detect and remove malicious softwar…

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Episode 82 — Recognizing Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks 11:08

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Social engineering and phishing are among the most common threats you’ll need to identify for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. In this episode, we’ll explain how attackers manipulate human behavior to gain unauthorized access, from deceptive emails to fraudulent phone calls and fake websites. We’ll cover real-world examples an…

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Episode 81 — Logs, Location Data, and Browser History 12:25

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In this episode, we examine how logs, location data, and browser history are used in system monitoring and security, all of which appear in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam objectives. You’ll learn how system and application logs record activities for troubleshooting, compliance, and forensic investigations. We’ll also discuss …

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Episode 80 — Authorization and Least Privilege Explained 12:50

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In this episode, we focus on authorization, which is distinct from authentication, as tested in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. Authorization determines what resources a user can access and what actions they can perform after being authenticated. You’ll learn about permission settings, access control lists, and the concept of…

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Episode 79 — Authentication Models: Single, Multi, SSO 13:28

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Authentication models are central to IT security, and this episode covers them in detail for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn the differences between single-factor authentication, multifactor authentication (MFA), and single sign-on (SSO). We’ll explain how each model works, where it’s most appropriate, and the tr…

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Episode 78 — Understanding PII, GDPR, and Privacy Regulations 12:51

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In this episode, we discuss privacy and compliance topics that are critical for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn what constitutes personally identifiable information (PII), why it must be protected, and how regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) set legal requirements for handling personal …

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Episode 77 — CIA Triad: Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability 11:41

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This episode introduces one of the most fundamental security models tested in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam — the CIA triad. You’ll learn how confidentiality ensures that data is only accessible to authorized users, integrity guarantees that information is accurate and unaltered, and availability ensures that data and system…

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Episode 76 — Understanding Database Availability and Access Models 13:05

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Database availability and access are critical topics in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam, and this episode explains why. We’ll discuss how uptime is measured, the importance of high-availability configurations, and methods like clustering and replication that ensure databases remain accessible even in the event of hardware or n…

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Episode 75 — Storage Locations: Local, Cloud, and Portable Devices 13:30

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In this episode, we explore different storage location options as covered in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how local storage, such as internal hard drives and SSDs, offers speed and direct control but may be limited in capacity or vulnerable to hardware failure. We’ll compare this with cloud storage, which prov…

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Episode 74 — Backup Concepts: Files, Systems, and Recovery 13:41

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Backups are critical to data protection, and this episode covers the core concepts tested in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn about different backup types, including file-level, system-level, and image-based backups, as well as their respective recovery processes. We’ll also cover the importance of backup schedule…

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Episode 73 — Non-Relational Databases: Key/Value and Document Models 13:11

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In this episode, we examine non-relational databases and their importance in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. Key/value stores and document databases offer flexible structures ideal for handling unstructured or semi-structured data, such as logs, multimedia content, or JSON documents. We’ll compare these models to relational s…

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Episode 72 — Relational Database Concepts: Tables, Fields, Keys 13:51

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This episode breaks down relational database structure for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how data is organized into tables, with each table consisting of fields (columns) and records (rows). We’ll explain the roles of primary keys, which uniquely identify records, and foreign keys, which establish relationships…

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Episode 71 — Scalability and Multi-User Environments 14:03

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Scalability and multi-user support are essential features in modern databases, and the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam expects you to know how they work. We’ll explain how scalability allows a database to handle increasing amounts of data or users without performance loss, and how multi-user environments ensure that multiple peopl…

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Episode 70 — Flat Files vs. Relational Databases 12:13

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In this episode, we compare flat file systems with relational databases for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. Flat files store data in plain text or spreadsheet formats, making them simple but limited in flexibility and scalability. Relational databases, on the other hand, organize data into tables with defined relationships, e…

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Episode 69 — What Is a Database? Inputs, Queries, and Reports 13:00

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This episode focuses on the fundamentals of databases, a core topic in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn what a database is, how data is entered through inputs, retrieved using queries, and organized into meaningful reports. We’ll explain the role of database management systems (DBMS) in ensuring accuracy, consiste…

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Episode 68 — Big Data, Monetization, and Analytics 12:13

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Here, we dive into the world of big data, monetization, and analytics, all of which are topics in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn what makes data “big,” from its massive volume and variety to the speed at which it is generated. We’ll discuss how organizations leverage analytics to discover patterns, predict trend…

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Episode 67 — Why Data Matters: Value, Privacy, and Business Use 13:07

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In this episode, we explore why data is considered one of the most valuable resources in modern technology, as emphasized in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how organizations use data to make strategic decisions, improve operations, and deliver better products and services. We’ll examine the difference between cr…

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Episode 66 — Debugging and Interpreting Program Logic 11:01

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In this episode, we cover debugging and logic interpretation skills required for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn systematic approaches to finding and fixing errors, from syntax mistakes to logical flaws that cause unexpected results. We’ll explain how to use debugging tools, log output, and step-through execution…

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Episode 65 — Sequence, Branching, and Looping in Code 12:55

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Here, we focus on three fundamental logic structures for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam — sequence, branching, and looping. Sequence refers to code executing in order, branching uses conditions to determine which code path to follow, and looping repeats actions until a condition is met. We’ll provide practical examples for ea…

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Episode 64 — Object-Oriented Methods in Simple Terms 13:09

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This episode breaks down object-oriented methods into simple, understandable concepts as they appear in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll explain key principles like encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism, using clear examples to show how each works in real-world applications. You’ll see how these principles make co…

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Episode 63 — Pseudo Code and Documentation Techniques 13:02

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In this episode, we explore pseudo code and documentation practices, both important for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. Pseudo code is a simplified, human-readable representation of a program’s logic that omits strict syntax rules, allowing developers to focus on the algorithm before coding. You’ll learn how pseudo code helps…

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Episode 62 — Flowcharts, Logic, and Programming Structure 13:59

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In this episode, we examine flowcharts, logic, and programming structure, all core topics in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. Flowcharts provide a visual representation of a program’s workflow, helping developers map processes before writing code. Logic structures — including sequences, decisions, and loops — determine how pro…

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Episode 61 — Objects Continued: Properties, Methods, Attributes 13:32

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Here, we go deeper into object-oriented concepts required for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how properties store object-specific data, methods define behaviors, and attributes provide additional metadata. We’ll also discuss how these components interact in real-world programming scenarios, from building interac…

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Episode 60 — Functions, Arrays, and Object Basics 13:36

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This episode introduces three major programming elements tested on the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam — functions, arrays, and the basics of objects. Functions encapsulate reusable code blocks, arrays organize multiple values into indexed lists, and objects group related data and behaviors together. We’ll explore examples of each…

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Episode 59 — Programming Concepts: Variables and Constants 13:54

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In this episode, we look at two of the most important programming building blocks — variables and constants — as outlined in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. Variables are used to store values that can change during program execution, while constants hold values that remain fixed. We’ll explain when to use each, how they are d…

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Episode 58 — String Operations and Manipulating Text 14:36

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This episode focuses on string operations, a key programming concept in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll explain what strings are, how they store sequences of characters, and common operations such as concatenation, substring extraction, and case conversion. You’ll also learn how to search and replace text, split strings…

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Episode 57 — Fundamental Data Types: Char, Int, Float, Boolean 11:49

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In this episode, we explain the fundamental data types every programmer must know for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn about character (char) types that store single letters or symbols, integer (int) types for whole numbers, floating-point (float) types for decimal values, and Boolean types for true/false logic. W…

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Episode 56 — Scripting, Query, Markup, and Assembly Languages 12:07

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Here, we dive deeper into language categories tested in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam, including scripting, query, markup, and assembly languages. Scripting languages like Bash or PowerShell automate repetitive tasks, query languages like SQL retrieve and manage database data, markup languages like HTML structure web content…

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Episode 55 — Programming Language Models: Interpreted vs. Compiled 12:17

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In this episode, we explore one of the foundational software development topics you’ll encounter on the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam — the difference between interpreted and compiled programming languages. We’ll explain how compiled languages, like C++ and Java, translate source code into machine code before execution, often re…

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Episode 54 — AI in Applications: Chatbots, Generators, and Predictions 12:48

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Artificial intelligence is becoming a core part of software applications, and the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam now includes basic AI concepts in its objectives. In this episode, we explain what AI-powered tools are and how they appear in everyday applications. You’ll learn about AI chatbots used in customer service, generative …

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Episode 53 — Browser Accessibility and Interface Customization 10:58

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In this episode, we cover browser accessibility features and customization options, a key part of the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam under user interface configuration. We’ll explore features like zoom controls, high-contrast modes, screen reader compatibility, and keyboard shortcuts that make browsers more usable for individuals…

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Episode 52 — Managing Extensions, Passwords, and Default Settings 11:53

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This episode focuses on advanced browser management tasks, all of which are tested in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll start with how to install, enable, disable, and remove browser extensions, discussing both the productivity enhancements they can provide and the security risks they may introduce. You’ll learn how to as…

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Episode 51 — Web Browser Configuration: Privacy and Syncing 12:20

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In this episode, we take an in-depth look at web browser configuration, a topic specifically included in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam objectives. You’ll learn how to adjust privacy settings to control cookies, block third-party tracking, and manage location permissions. We’ll walk through the importance of clearing browsing…

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Episode 50 — Remote Support, Messaging, and Web Browsing Software 12:14

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In this episode, we focus on remote support applications, instant messaging platforms, and web browsers as covered in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how remote support tools allow technicians to diagnose and fix issues from afar, how messaging platforms facilitate quick communication, and how browsers provide ac…

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Episode 49 — Collaboration Tools: Email, Conferencing, File Sharing 12:48

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Collaboration tools are vital in modern workplaces and a significant part of the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll discuss email clients, video conferencing platforms, shared document spaces, and secure file transfer methods, explaining their roles in enabling teamwork across distances. We’ll also address integration between …

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Episode 48 — Productivity Software: Word Processing to Diagramming 13:26

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This episode covers the productivity applications you’ll need to know for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam, from word processors and spreadsheets to presentation tools and diagramming software. We’ll explain how each supports different business and personal tasks, along with the file formats and features that define them. We’ll…

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Episode 47 — Different OS Types: Mobile, Server, Embedded, Desktop 13:24

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Here, we explore the various operating system types included in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam objectives. You’ll learn how mobile OSs are optimized for touch input and battery efficiency, how server OSs manage multiple users and resources, and how embedded OSs power dedicated devices like routers and smart appliances. We’ll …

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Episode 46 — Application and Task Management in Operating Systems 12:59

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This episode focuses on how operating systems manage running applications and background tasks, a key topic in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll explain how to monitor processes, end unresponsive programs, and prioritize resources for performance optimization. We’ll also cover built-in OS tools like Task Manager and Activ…

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Episode 45 — Managing Access, Permissions, and User Roles 12:23

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Access control is a core IT security concept, and this episode covers its fundamentals for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. We’ll explain how permissions determine who can read, write, or execute files and how user roles define what actions individuals can take within a system. You’ll also learn about administrative versus sta…

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Episode 44 — User Interfaces: CLI, GUI, and File Properties 13:26

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In this episode, we look at user interfaces (UIs) and their importance in both daily IT use and the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn the differences between command-line interfaces (CLI) and graphical user interfaces (GUI), the strengths and weaknesses of each, and the contexts where one might be preferred over the ot…

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Episode 43 — System Applications, Utilities, Services, and Drivers 13:36

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Here, we examine the various system-level tools and processes covered in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam. You’ll learn how system applications and utilities perform maintenance tasks, how services run in the background to support core functions, and how drivers act as translators between the OS and hardware. We’ll also discuss…

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Episode 42 — Filesystem Concepts: Compression, Encryption, and Types 13:29

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This episode focuses on filesystem concepts you’ll encounter in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam, from the basics of directory structures to advanced features like compression and encryption. You’ll learn how filesystems store and organize data, the differences between FAT32, NTFS, ext4, and other formats, and how these affect …

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Episode 41 — What Is an Operating System? Purpose and Role 13:41

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In this episode, we break down what an operating system (OS) is and why it’s central to modern computing, as outlined in the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification exam objectives. You’ll learn how the OS serves as a bridge between hardware and software, managing system resources, enabling user interaction, and providing the platform on which…