Podcasts about CompTIA

Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Group, you'll learn: Working at the Linux command promptBattery disposalHidden network sharesWireless network configurationsAnd more!Keep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's A+ Core 1 Study Group, you'll learn about: Network toolsCloud deployment modelsStorage drive monitoringRemote Internet connectivityAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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    Discover what tech job is paying six figures right now and the best six figure IT jobs available in 2026. In this powerful episode, Tim Staton sits down with Andres Blandon, a combat veteran who transitioned from military service to a successful corporate IT career. Andres now helps veterans, college students, and anyone stuck in a dead end job — even stuck in a dead end job with a degree — break free and land high paying tech jobs, six figure jobs tech, jobs that pay six figures, and some of the highest paying jobs and best paying jobs with no experience.      Andres shares his raw journey of overcoming post-military struggles, including foreclosure and vehicle repossession, while learning to provide for the family. He explores powerful a man should provide for his family quotes and the mindset shifts needed to succeed. If you're battling imposter syndrome meaning, searching for ways to imposter syndrome overcome, looking for an imposter syndrome cure, or need inspiring imposter syndrome quotes, this episode delivers practical strategies and motivation.      Unlock Six-Figure Careers for Veterans — and civilians too. Andres reveals his proven military-style “recon missions” framework for breaking into Tech jobs 2026, entry level tech jobs, and high paying jobs. Learn how to bridge the military-civilian credibility gap, earn industry certifications from Cisco, CompTIA, and ISC2, build a powerful network, and position yourself as the top candidate even in a volatile market with layoffs and shifting demands.      Whether you're a veteran transitioning out of service, a recent graduate feeling lost, or someone determined to escape a dead-end situation and provide for the family, this conversation gives you the exact roadmap. Hear real success stories, including a mentee who reached a six-figure salary in just one year. Key Topics Covered: Navigating imposter syndrome and building a success-driven mindset Overcoming being stuck in a dead end job Foundational high paying tech jobs that offer stability (network engineering and more) Market insights for Tech jobs 2026 Soft skills, networking, and strategic career discovery      If you want six figure IT jobs, highest paying jobs, or simply the best paying jobs with no experience in tech, this is your episode. Apply the framework, overcome obstacles, and start building the career and life you deserve.

Ashby, the all-in-one recruiting platform, today announced the upcoming  launch of its AI Interviewer at its annual Ashby One conference. The product builds on the acquisition of Talent Llama late last year, a startup focused on AI-powered interviewing technology. https://hrtechfeed.com/asby-acquires-talent-llama/ Upwork's First Quarter 2026 earnings report shows a company in the middle of a major transition. While they are making more money per client and seeing a surge in AI-related work, they are also significantly cutting costs—including a large layoff—to deal with a slowdown in overall growth.  https://hrtechfeed.com/upworks-latest-earnings-in-plain-english/ https://hrtechfeed.com/linkedin-announces-new-model-enhancements-for-hiring-assistant/ After a period of cooling and market uncertainty, the technology sector is showing powerful signs of a rebound. According to a new analysis by CompTIA, the world's leading provider of IT certifications, new job postings for tech occupations surged to a three-year high in April, signaling a shift into “positive territory” for the industry.  https://recruitingheadlines.com/tech-sector-stages-major-comeback-as-job-postings-hit-3-year-high/ LinkedIn announces new model enhancements for Hiring Assistant Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Group, you'll learn: Choosing the right Windows utilityWorking with macOS utilitiesWindows formattingBluescreen troubleshootingAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's A+ Core 1 Study Group, you'll learn about: Interface typesUnusual noisesMobile device managementCable managementAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

#353 | Tara (CMO, Optimizely), Julia (Director of AI Adoption, Optimizely), Lily (CMO, Three Play Media), Pejman (CMO, Menlo Security), and Kevin (CMO, CompTIA) join Dave for a live Exit Five session on how real marketing teams are actually using AI right now. Lily shows how she replaced two BDR headcount with a HubSpot prospecting agent and went from an 18% to 46% response rate on inbound leads. Julia walks through how Optimizely's marketing team embedded AI agents directly into their content workflow, from briefing to brand voice checking to traffic monitoring, without anyone having to leave the platform. Pejman shares the framework his team uses to map workflows and find the highest-ROI AI opportunities, plus a custom brand tone tool that turns hours of manual review into minutes. And Kevin talks through what it actually looks like to lead an AI culture change on a small team with limited resources.Timestamps(00:00) - - Intro (06:55) - - Guest intros: Tara, Julia, Lily, Pejman, and Kevin (12:04) - - Tara on why AI adoption needs an internal owner and how to govern it without squashing enthusiasm (15:02) - - Lily: why their first AI initiative failed and what they did differently (17:15) - - How Lovable kicked off team-wide AI excitement at Three Play Media (19:37) - - Lily's HubSpot prospecting agent: 18% to 46% response rate on inbound leads (23:19) - - Julia: embedding AI agents into Optimizely's content workflow (31:20) - - Using AI to monitor content performance and auto-assign optimization work (33:24) - - Pejman: mapping workflows to find the highest-ROI AI opportunities (35:55) - - Building a brand tone checker that scores and rewrites content against brand guidelines (39:55) - - Kevin: making AI a mandate on a small team and building a culture of learning (44:06) - - Group Q&A: optimizing spend vs. shipping faster, budget shifts, and new KPIs Join 50,0000 people who get Dave's Newsletter here: https://www.exitfive.com/newsletterLearn more about Exit Five's private marketing community: https://www.exitfive.com/***Brought to you by:Knak - A no-code, campaign creation platform that lets you go from idea to on-brand email and landing pages in minutes, using AI where it actually matters. Learn more at knak.com/exitfive, or check out the MCP server by clicking this link. Vector - A contact-level ads platform that lets you build audiences from actual people on your site, clicking your ads, and checking out your competitors. Learn more at vector.co, and get on the waitlist for their new MCP server by clicking here. Compound Growth Marketing - A full-funnel demand generation agency that helps high-growth cybersecurity, DevOps, and enterprise software companies drive more pipeline through AI SEO, paid media, and go-to-market engineering. Visit compoundgrowthmarketing.com and tell them Dave sent you.***Thanks to my friends at hatch.fm for producing this episode and handling all of the Exit Five podcast production.They give you unlimited podcast editing and strategy for your B2B podcast.Get unlimited podcast editing and on-demand strategy for one low monthly cost. Just upload your episode, and they take care of the rest.Visit hatch.fm to learn more

Podcast: PrOTect It All (LS 27 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: Breaking Into OT Cybersecurity: Closing the Skills Gap and Protecting Critical InfrastructurePub date: 2026-04-20Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationThe biggest challenge in OT cybersecurity isn't just technology - it's people. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with Mike Holcomb to explore one of the most urgent issues facing the industry today: the growing skills gap in OT and ICS cybersecurity. Mike shares his journey from IT into operational technology security and breaks down why more professionals are needed to defend the systems that power energy, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure worldwide. This conversation goes beyond awareness - it's about practical pathways into the field and how the community is stepping up to make OT cybersecurity more accessible. You'll learn: Why OT cybersecurity is one of the most in-demand and underserved fields How to transition from IT to OT cybersecurity The biggest barriers newcomers face - and how to overcome them What foundational skills and controls matter most in ICS environments The role of community initiatives like BSides ICS in closing the gap Why training, mentorship, and collaboration are critical for the future Whether you're looking to break into cybersecurity, pivot your career, or build stronger teams, this episode delivers actionable guidance and inspiration from someone actively shaping the future of OT security. Tune in to learn how to build a career while helping protect the infrastructure the world depends on - only on Protect It All. Key Moments:  03:07 Getting started in cybersecurity 06:33 Early passion for cybersecurity 11:54 Hurricane Katrina aftermath discussion 15:50 Awareness and education on OT security 17:49 First experiences with GRID class 25:07 Early challenges in OT cybersecurity 29:17 Importance of effective communication 35:11 Global expansion of cybersecurity events 39:52 Building a foundation in OT cybersecurity 43:36 Excitement for new CompTIA exam 46:48 Expressing appreciation for community involvement About the guest:  Mike Holcomb is an independent consultant focused on OT/ICS cybersecurity and an educational content creator. Prior to supporting clients full-time through UtilSec, he was the Fellow of Cybersecurity and the OT/ICS Cybersecurity Global Lead for one of the world's largest engineering and construction companies, providing him with the opportunity to work in securing some of the world's largest OT/ICS environments, from power plants and commuter rail to manufacturing facilities and refineries. As part of his community efforts, Michael founded the BSidesICS/OT with multiple events planned globally in 2026. He has his master's degree in OT/ICS cybersecurity from the SANS Technology Institute. Additionally, he maintains cyber security and OT/ICS certifications such as the CISSP, GRID, GICSP, GCIP, GPEN, GCIH, ISA 62443, and more. He was awarded the SANS Difference Maker Award for Practitioner of the Year: ICS/OT Defender for 2025 and BEER-ISAC's Community Builder Award for 2026. He posts regularly on LinkedIn and YouTube to help others learn more about securing OT/ICS and critical infrastructure.  How to connect Mike:  Main Site: mikeholcomb.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikeholcomb YouTube: youtube.com/@utilsec Instagram: instagram/_mikeholcomb/ Newsletter: utilsec.kit.com/95e31307f7 BSidesICS/OT: bsidesics.org Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co  Website: https://protectitall.co/  X: https://twitter.com/protectitall  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll  FaceBook:  https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast   To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at info@protectitall.co Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts: Apple   - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/protect-it-all/id1727211124 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1Vvi0euj3rE8xObK0yvYi4The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Aaron Crow, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide, we dive into essential Linux troubleshooting techniques vital for IT skills development and tech exam prep. Understanding how to diagnose system issues is crucial when preparing for your CompTIA exams and enhancing your practical IT abilities. We explore how to view the system as a dynamic set of processes, using tools like ps and top to monitor CPU and memory usage in real-time. Learn why process IDs (PIDs) matter and how to effectively manage problematic processes with commands like kill and kill -9. We also cover managing system services properly with systemctl to check statuses, start stopped services, and halt errant processes. Whether you're studying alone or in a study group, these insights serve as a valuable part of your CompTIA study guide, equipping you with hands-on knowledge for technology education and IT certification success.Then we zoom out to the tools that keep Linux stable in the real world: package managers like apt and dnf/yum for verified software installs, plus network troubleshooting with ping for connectivity and dig for DNS resolution. We also talk about cron automation, because scheduled tasks can be your best friend or the hidden cause of recurring issues.To round it out, we compare Linux's exposed control with macOS design choices: Finder, Dock, and Spotlight for speed, while still keeping a Unix foundation underneath. We hit key macOS security and recovery features like FileVault, Keychain, and Time Machine, and we close with CompTIA-style practice questions to lock in the concepts. Subscribe, share this with a friend studying A+, and leave a review with the command you want us to cover next.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide, we dive into Linux basics tailored for technicians preparing for their CompTIA exams. Linux commands and operating system instructions are essential skills for IT professionals looking to enhance their IT skills development and succeed in tech exam prep. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the terminal, we'll demystify the command line and explain why mastering Linux is crucial for passing certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+. Join us as we explore the critical mindset shift from graphical interfaces to command-line proficiency, giving you the confidence and knowledge to tackle your technology education goals with ease.We walk through the core Linux basics that show up in real troubleshooting: what the shell is, how it differs from the terminal, and how commands are built from a command, options, and arguments. We cover navigation with pwd, cd, and ls so you always know where you are before you change anything, plus file actions like cp, mv, and rm with the hard truth that Linux often has no undo. Then we level up into practical search skills using find and grep, and explain the Linux file system layout from root (/) down to the folders where problems usually live, including why mounting and /etc/fstab can make or break access to data.Finally, we get into Linux permissions and security fundamentals: users and service accounts, why root is powerful and dangerous, why sudo is safer than staying root with su, and how rwx permissions and numeric chmod values control who can read, write, and execute. We also touch on ownership with chown and why wrong ownership can break a website or service. If you want hands-on practice, we share simple ways to spin up Ubuntu in a virtual lab using VirtualBox or Hyper-V. Subscribe for part two, share this with a friend who's Linux-curious, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Group, you'll learn: More Linux command lineWorking with single sign-onTroubleshooting a slow browserDynamic browser menusAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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The central structural shift examined is the widening disconnect between the vendor-driven narrative of rapid AI monetization and the operational reality faced by MSPs, as exposed by recent research from GTIA and CompTIA. Despite pervasive messaging from technology vendors that AI features are ready for seamless integration and immediate profitability, survey data indicates that most MSPs remain in early adoption stages, lack tangible processes to operationalize AI, and are stymied by workforce and workflow constraints. Supporting evidence is drawn from CompTIA's data showing that 70% of businesses are still in early AI adoption stages, and only 55% of MSPs expect to turn a profit on AI initiatives in the near term—up from 34%, but well below vendor promises. The majority of current AI activity remains at the individual user level rather than embedded in business-wide workflows, restricting quantifiable ROI and limiting the visibility of productivity gains. Both Speaker B and Speaker C emphasized that most MSPs do not yet have the organizational capability or maturity to move beyond experimentation to operational deployment and monetization. Related developments further illustrate this operational gap. Research cited by Speaker B highlights that only a subset of larger MSPs with more resources have been able to achieve early success with AI, while most are still grappling with process integration, pricing strategies, and talent acquisition. Both GTIA and CompTIA reports suggest that optimism among firms about AI's potential is running ahead of genuine structural change, with workforce shortages, undefined internal governance, and difficulties in business model adaptation acting as durable barriers. Market sentiment remains positive, but actual organizational transition lags significantly, especially among smaller MSPs. Operationally, this environment introduces heightened risk for MSPs who overcommit on vendor promises without aligning internal processes, workforce strategy, and governance. Dependencies on vendor-supplied AI tools expose firms to pricing uncertainty and potential margin compression, especially as clients begin questioning the value proposition when human roles are replaced by automation. Without formalized internal AI governance and skill development, most MSPs face mounting challenges in demonstrating measurable ROI, adapting delivery models, and sustaining service margins. The implication for decision-makers is the need for prudent, phased adoption—prioritizing internal process maturity and realistic expectations over rapid adoption in response to vendor pressure. Supported by: CometBackUpTimeZest

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode, we dive into a crucial decision for IT professionals and students preparing for their CompTIA exam: choosing between a clean install or an in-place upgrade of Windows. Understanding this choice is vital for effective tech exam prep and real-world IT skills development. We discuss the technician's approach to troubleshooting issues like slow laptops, pop-ups, crashes, and system instability, highlighting how an incorrect decision can lead to persistent problems such as corruption, malware, and driver conflicts. Tune in to boost your technology education and get practical insights for your CompTIA study guide journey.From there, we zoom in on the planning that makes a Windows 11 installation succeed: verifying CPU support, RAM, storage, TPM 2.0, and Secure Boot before you start; staging essential device drivers so you do not lose Wi‑Fi or audio afterward; and checking application compatibility and licensing so an upgrade does not break business-critical software. We also talk about backups the way CompTIA exams expect you to think about them, and how time constraints and data criticality shape your real-world approach.Then we get into execution: boot devices and boot order in BIOS vs UEFI, GPT vs MBR (and why a 4TB drive must use GPT), and NTFS vs FAT32 so you do not get trapped by file-size limits. We round it out with deployment methods like unattended installation, network deployment, and zero touch deployment, plus repair and recovery options that help you choose the least destructive fix first. If you're studying for CompTIA A+ or you just want to install Windows with confidence, this one gives you a clean, practical framework. Subscribe, share this with a friend who “just clicks Next,” and leave a review with your biggest Windows install lesson.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's A+ Core 1 Study Group, you'll learn about: Color standardsDisplay troubleshootingCorporate smartphone useInsecure protocolsAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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professorjrod@gmail.comChoosing the right Windows edition is a critical decision in technology education and IT skills development. In this episode, we explore the differences between Windows Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions — explaining why a seemingly simple choice can affect your ability to join domains, enforce security policies, and manage devices remotely. Whether you're prepping for CompTIA exams or looking to deepen your tech expertise, understanding Windows editions will save you from months of troubleshooting and rework. Join us as we break down these essentials to boost your tech exam prep and workplace efficiency.I explain what each edition is built to do and what it cannot do, using practical scenarios that match how IT support and small businesses actually operate. We hit the features that matter when you need centralized management and security: domain join, Group Policy, Remote Desktop, BitLocker encryption, enterprise deployment, and volume licensing. If you're studying for CompTIA A+ or supporting real users, you'll hear the exam clues and the technician mindset that separates “it boots” from “it's built right.”Then we shift into the architecture choices that cause the sneakiest performance problems: 32-bit vs 64-bit Windows. We break down the 4GB RAM limit, why a modern PC can feel mysteriously slow even with plenty of memory installed, and the compatibility rules for running 32-bit and 64-bit apps. I also cover Windows N editions and why missing media features can be about EU regulations, plus the key rule that an architecture change from 32-bit to 64-bit requires a clean install and proper backups.If you've ever wondered why one Windows install feels effortless and another becomes a constant support headache, this is the blueprint. Subscribe, share this with a friend who is setting up a new PC, and leave a review if it helps, then reply with what you're running right now: Home, Pro, or something else?Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide, we dive deep into Windows security at scale, focusing on critical points where security measures impact real network environments. Learn how small misconfigurations, like one wrong checkbox, can expose significant data risks. Whether you are part of a study group, preparing for the CompTIA exam, or aiming to develop your IT skills, this episode covers practical Windows security architecture relevant to system administration, IT support, and tech exam prep. We discuss strategies for managing shared resources, centralized identity, and enforceable policies that you'll encounter in both real-world technology education settings and certification environments. Tune in to enhance your understanding and get tips that will aid you in your IT certification journey.I walk through modern Windows authentication, including what Windows Hello is designed to fix, why passwords keep failing in the real world, and how device bound PINs, biometrics, and phishing resistant security keys change the security model. From there, we talk about reducing login chaos with single sign-on and how SAML authentication helps systems trust an identity provider without making users juggle endless credentials.Then we move into the enterprise core: Windows domains, Active Directory, and how domain controllers, organizational units, and security groups keep management scalable. I also cover Group Policy as the tool that enforces consistent security settings across hundreds or thousands of PCs, plus the commands that matter when you need to verify and refresh policy like GPUpdate and GPResult.Finally, we dig into the breach magnet: Windows shares and permissions. You'll learn the difference between share permissions and NTFS permissions, why “most restrictive wins,” how deny rules and inheritance can save you or sink you, and why least privilege is the habit that keeps sensitive data out of the wrong hands. If this helps you, subscribe, share it with a friend in IT, and leave a review with the topic you want next.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide, we dive into the fundamentals of Windows security, an essential topic for anyone preparing for IT certifications like the CompTIA A+ Core 2 exam. Understanding Windows security is critical for IT skills development and technology education, as it functions as an ongoing trust engine that verifies user identity and access permissions seamlessly.We explore the underlying architecture of Windows security, moving beyond rote memorization to help you reason through security protocols and apply them both on the job and during your tech exam prep. Whether you're studying in a group or solo, this guide will strengthen your comprehension of complex security concepts and better prepare you for your IT certification exams.We connect the CIA triad to the real Windows controls you touch every day, then break down identity and access management step by step: identification, authentication, authorization, and access control. From there, we get practical about access control lists, implicit deny, and least privilege, including why over-privileged accounts turn small mistakes into big incidents. We also clear up a common confusion that derails newer techs: hashing versus encryption, plus where symmetric encryption, asymmetric encryption, digital signatures, and TLS key exchange show up in real life.Then we move into the account and admin side of Windows: local accounts versus Microsoft accounts, the power of security groups, quick account management with Net User, and why User Account Control is both a security control and a behavior check. We close with an enterprise view of privileged access management, just-in-time admin access, Zero Trust, and modern multi-factor authentication like authenticator apps and one-time passwords. This is Act One of a two-parter, so we also preview the next step where Windows turns into a full enterprise security platform. Subscribe, share this with a friend studying IT, and leave a review with your biggest Windows security question.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

Free CompTIA A+ Vouchers Free IT Support Course (IT Journey, LEARN MORE)Free tech course w/ free CompTIA A+ exam vouchers: learnmore -⁠Referral Link⁠ ⁠https://perscholas.referralrock.com/l/DQXJLPH9/-Check out the pod ep for post graduation plans⁠https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/yr3Jfvn3q1b⁠-Check out the pod ep for intro to tech https://open.spotify.com/episode/6dgcPOwGVke6bZeHgu4LkZ?si=dN7HsESmQhGNQmWzrqS3nQ

Free tech course w/ free CompTIA A+ exam vouchers: learnmore -⁠Referral Link⁠ ⁠https://perscholas.referralrock.com/l/DQXJLPH9/-Check out the pod ep for post graduation plans ⁠https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/yr3Jfvn3q1b⁠-Check out the pod ep for intro to techhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/6dgcPOwGVke6bZeHgu4LkZ?si=dN7HsESmQhGNQmWzrqS3nQ

Show Notes: As the cybersecurity industry has grown, the field has struggled to answer the question: do certifications matter? In this episode of CISO Perspectives, host ⁠Kim Jones⁠ sits down with N2K's own, ⁠Simone Petrella, to answer this question and discuss why the value of certifications continue to be debated. Throughout the conversation, Simone and Kim will discuss the challenges associated with certifications, and how the industry can adjust the ways it sees and utilizes them. Got cybersecurity, IT, or project management certification goals? For the past 25 years, N2K's practice tests have helped more than half a million professionals reach certification success. Grow your career and reach your goals faster with N2K's full exam prep of practice tests, labs, and training courses for Microsoft, CompTIA, PMI, Amazon, and more at n2k.com/certify. Want more CISO Perspectives? Check out a companion ⁠⁠blog post⁠⁠ by our very own Ethan Cook, where he breaks down key insights, shares behind-the-scenes context, and highlights research that complements this episode. It's the perfect follow-up if you're curious about the cyber talent crunch and how we can reshape the ecosystem for future professionals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Group, you'll learn: Working at the Linux command lineThe malware removal processTroubleshooting Windows Safe ModeUnderstanding the order of volatilityAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's A+ Core 1 Study Group, you'll learn about: RAID configurationsAccess controlsFirewall traffic challengesErrors during startupAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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professorjrod@gmail.comLooking for effective IT certification tips to pass your CompTIA A Plus exam? In this episode, we dive into a strategy-first approach that breaks down tricky wording and performance-based questions (PBQs) into manageable steps. Our CompTIA study guide helps you think like a technician, improve your time management skills, and convert your knowledge into exam points. With no fluff, just practical tools for tech exam prep, this episode is your key to mastering the CompTIA A Plus mind shift.The book, CompTIA A+ Exam Strategy (220-1201 & 220-1202): How To Think Like a Technician and Pass With Confidence – Volume  is available on Amazonhttps://www.amazon.com/CompTIA-Exam-Strategy-220-1201-220-1202/dp/B0GQ9VL9YG/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=396ZB9UJDYR0S&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DExgbtEDLl4fyj0p2fstHpfw0zdq6Qgm-NU8ahxh-h7ynttT6Wr8ZIWJsu0HF_6oe1-OMpW2WFrET98BSxOILX08_wotR01p7Cbt-Ney-dVCW-i1tJogveM-veHLyiIROriSbBj_fS-GIEdh4tg4Y36xwgEj2UGjbl_gKZsOykj-T2VbMSBVFdS-zedc3EL1rK2FLmDH-vNE3iz9wYM5qbGpVTN9JtVYZOpBc6UjWto.HFpGq0uaMEsvR4iPSh64MAtCNSyPwsK5TBPwbS7WD-k&dib_tag=se&keywords=comptia+a%2B+exam+strategy&qid=1772465470&sprefix=%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1We start by reframing A Plus as a decision-making simulation, not a memorization test. You'll learn how to spot the four elements hidden in every scenario—symptoms, context, evidence, and action—and use them to predict answers before you even peek at the choices. We show how the six-step troubleshooting method becomes your anchor, why the correct answer often feels “boring,” and how to neutralize distractors engineered to tempt you into overkill. You'll also get clear guidance on pacing, brain dumps, and the smarter move to skip PBQs first, build momentum with multiple choice, and return with focus.From there, we get practical with a repeatable study system: the three-pass method. Pass one builds orientation across all objectives without perfection loops. Pass two converts facts into scenario skill with error logs, keyword drills, and prediction reps. Pass three simulates the real exam—timed, no notes, and thorough post-review to target time sinks and misleading keywords. We map Core 1 and Core 2 into patterns you can reason through, highlight high-yield areas using the 80/20 rule, and share readiness signals so you schedule based on consistency, not a calendar.If you're a career changer, a first-time test taker, or someone retaking after a near miss, this playbook helps you replace anxiety with structure. Subscribe for more strategy deep-dives, share this episode with a friend aiming for A Plus, and leave a review to tell us the one tactic you'll try on your next practice exam.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Meghan Henning sits down with OnWrd & UpWrd's Account Director, Roger Hughlett, for a candid, wide-ranging conversation on media, messaging, and what associations need to understand about today's newsroom realities.With more than two decades of experience spanning journalism, editorial leadership, association communications, and corporate strategy—including senior roles at CompTIA and the Wireless Infrastructure Association—Roger has seen communications from every angle: reporter, editor, in-house leader, and now agency partner.

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode, we explore the 'Pocket Revolution' that transformed not just the phone but the entire technology landscape. Discover how the iPhone's breakthrough in multi-touch science, silicon strategy, and platform economics reshaped IT skills development and technology education. We also discuss the impact of Apple's innovation on enterprise communication and how understanding these shifts can help you in your CompTIA exam prep and tech certification journey. Whether you're studying with a group or using a CompTIA study guide, this episode connects revolutionary tech history with practical IT skills development tips to help you succeed.We dive into the hidden engine of the mobile era: the App Store. By standardizing distribution, payments, security reviews, and SDKs, Apple transformed a device into an ecosystem that seeded ridesharing, mobile banking, creator tools, and on‑demand everything. Security became everyday: sandboxing, code signing, and direct OS updates reduced risk for consumers while biometrics and secure enclaves made cryptography feel effortless. At the same time, attention and data became currency. Push notifications, infinite feeds, and engagement loops pulled us into a new marketplace where design and business models overlapped with our habits and mental health.Underneath the experience, custom silicon changed the game. We break down how Apple's SoCs integrated CPU, GPU, and neural engines to enable on‑device AI, privacy‑first biometrics, and unmatched performance per watt. Then we zoom out: supply chains as geopolitical power, BYOD reshaping workplace control, and regulation arriving as smartphones turn into infrastructure. Finally, we ask where we go from here—AR overlays, wearables, and ambient computing—or a cognitive leap where AI becomes the interface. Subscribe, share with a friend who still misses their keyboard, and leave a review telling us what you think replaces the smartphone next.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

professorjrod@gmail.comThis episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide dives into the essential networking concept of DHCP and the critical question every device asks on a network: 'Who am I?' Understanding DHCP is key for IT skills development, helping you assign IP addresses, manage subnet masks, and configure DNS settings efficiently. Whether you're preparing for your CompTIA exam or enhancing your technology education, this tech exam prep episode breaks down complex networking components into clear, digestible explanations. Join us as we explore how devices establish their identity on networks and troubleshoot connectivity challenges effectively.We map the full DORA exchange and explain what each step means on the wire. Then we take on the headaches: APIPA addresses that scream “no server answered,” scopes that quietly run dry, and VLANs where broadcasts stop at the router. You'll learn how to architect a central DHCP service with relay agents across subnets, tune lease durations for guests versus office gear, and avoid conflicts with smart exclusions. Real-world stories reveal how a rogue consumer router can hijack traffic, and we share practical defenses using DHCP snooping, trusted ports, and better inventory to shut down shadow IT before it bites.Certification seekers get a rapid-fire quiz that cements the essentials: spotting 169.254.x.x, defining a scope, choosing the correct gateway role, and using DHCP snooping to stop unauthorized offers. We also connect the dots to the cloud: how virtual machines, VPCs, and Kubernetes pods receive identities dynamically so services discover each other and policies hold. Throughout, we keep it hands-on with ipconfig tips, quick checks to confirm routing and DNS, and a simple mental model for leases that makes troubleshooting second nature.If this helped you think like a technician, tap follow, share it with a teammate who lives in ipconfig, and leave a quick review so more learners can find us. Got a DHCP war story or a tip that saves minutes under pressure? Drop it in the comments and let's compare notes.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

Global technology spending is projected to reach $5.6 trillion by 2026, with nearly two-thirds of this investment directed toward software and computer equipment, particularly servers, according to Forrester. Generative AI is cited as a primary driver of this increase, shifting the balance of power toward cloud providers such as AWS and Azure. This escalation has implications for operational margins and the position of IT service providers, as businesses increasingly migrate complex workloads to cloud infrastructure ecosystems.Supporting data shows a disconnect between tech employment trends and hiring activity. In January 2026, technology companies cut approximately 20,155 jobs, mainly in telecommunications, while job postings for tech positions rose by 13% compared to the prior month, based on CompTIA analysis. Dave Sobel interprets this as a shift away from permanent IT headcount to project-based, AI-focused engagements. This development places pressure on service providers, who must adapt to buyers reallocating spend from traditional staffing models to short-term, outcome-oriented contracts.Adjacent discussion covered two press releases: VirtuaCare launched a support offering for Windows-based MSPs needing Apple expertise, delivering an externally verifiable, Apple-certified service. In contrast, Miso announced a roadmap for an autonomous AI L1 technician but did not substantiate claims with deliverables or customer data. Dave Sobel emphasized the need for MSPs to demand piloting, outcome metrics, and auditable product maturity, warning against reliance on unproven AI solutions and highlighting the risk of outsourcing as only a temporary solution.The core implication for MSPs and IT providers is a need for tactical negotiation and operational risk management. Dave Sobel recommends using AI first to reduce internal labor costs before introducing it as a client offering, prioritizing outcome-based pricing and adjusting contracts to retain value from efficiency gains. Providers should avoid becoming displaced labor, rigorously test new technologies before adoption, and remain vigilant regarding vendor claims. The emphasis remains on capturing and defending margins through accountable operations and contract governance rather than chasing speculative innovation.Three things to know today00:00 Tech Spending Hits $5.6T but MSPs Face Margin Squeeze Without AI Pricing Reset05:31 VirtuaCare Ships Apple Support; Mizo Announces Roadmap—One's Testable Today08:17 MSPs Must Capture AI Efficiency Value or Face Margin CompressionThis is the Business of Tech.   Supported by:  Small Biz Thought CommunityCheck out Killing IT

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Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Group, you'll learn: Working at the Windows command lineMemory leaks on a mobile appManaging the backup processTroubleshooting device slowdownsAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

professorjrod@gmail.comAre you preparing for the CompTIA exam or looking to boost your IT skills development? This episode dives deep into Windows troubleshooting with a focus on network diagnostics — a crucial topic for any tech exam prep. We guide you through validating a Windows machine's network identity using IPConfig, performing a strict ping sequence to verify communication scope, and utilizing NSLookup to troubleshoot DNS issues. Following this disciplined order ensures clarity and efficiency, making every fix both defensible and effective. Whether you're studying solo or in a study group, this step-by-step approach to Windows networking will enhance your technology education and help you succeed in your IT certification journey.We dig into why a 169.254 APIPA address narrows the culprit to DHCP or network infrastructure, not the NIC or OS. Then we connect the dots between ports and services using Netstat, making it clear when a service is misconfigured rather than the network being “down.” From web ports 80 and 443 to SMB 445 and RDP 3389, you'll see how listening states reveal the true problem fast.Powerful remote access demands restraint. We break down when RDP makes sense, why Network Level Authentication should be non-negotiable, and how consent-based Remote Assist reduces risk when users need to stay in control. For scale, we highlight WinRM over HTTPS and SSH as secure, script-friendly options that keep credentials protected and GUIs out of the attack surface.Performance complaints need evidence, not guesswork. We show how Task Manager, Resource Monitor, Performance Monitor, and Event Viewer combine to reveal bottlenecks, crashes, and policy blocks. When things get critical—no boot, blue screens—we map BIOS vs UEFI realities, then use WinRE tools in the safest order to recover without data loss. By the end, you'll have a repeatable framework: identity, routing, names, services, performance, platform, recovery. Subscribe, share with a teammate who still starts with the browser, and tell us: what's your first command when “nothing works”?Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's A+ Core 1 Study Group, you'll learn about: Protocols and portsWorking with tone generatorsRAID typesVirtualization and hypervisorsAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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professorjrod@gmail.comData protection didn't fail because encryption was weak; it faltered when trust was broken. In this episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide, we explore how scattered systems, third-party vendors, and cloud replication complicate the question, “Where is our data right now?” We discuss why the true solution starts with people, not just technology. Whether you're a professor leading a study group, an IT professional preparing for your CompTIA exam, or anyone invested in IT skills development, this episode offers a practical map to not just pass tech exams but to uphold your promises in data security. Tune in for expert insights on technology education and effective tech exam prep strategies.We break down the crucial difference between data types and classifications, showing why labels don't override laws and how sensitivity should drive controls. You'll hear how data inventories, retention policies, and deletion-by-default strategies reduce both breach blast radius and legal exposure. We get specific about data states—at rest, in motion, in use—and the matching controls that actually hold up under pressure. Then we confront data sovereignty: how cross‑region replicas can quietly violate GDPR and how region‑restricted storage, geofencing, and vendor due diligence keep you on the right side of the border and the law.Privacy takes center stage as we clarify the roles of data subject, controller, and processor, and why documentation beats intention when regulators come calling. We outline what changes when a privacy breach occurs: tight timelines, mandated notifications, and the high cost of silence. Finally, we center the human layer with policies that guide behavior—acceptable use, social media, BYOD, clean desk—and an awareness training lifecycle that adapts to roles and evolving threats. Phishing drills, password hygiene, insider threat cues, and speak‑up culture turn security from slides into habits that stick.If this helped you think differently about compliance, data governance, and human risk, follow the show, share it with a teammate, and leave a quick review telling us which control you'll strengthen first. Your feedback helps more listeners protect what matters most.Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

professorjrod@gmail.comIn this episode of Technology Tap: CompTIA Study Guide, we dive deep into the concept of cybersecurity risk and why it's a critical factor in your IT skills development. Forget common myths and technical jargon — this episode breaks down risk into understandable elements: threat, vulnerability, likelihood, and impact. Perfect for CompTIA exam candidates, we provide practical IT certification tips that turn abstract fears into concrete strategies to protect your digital assets. Whether you're prepping for your CompTIA exam or interested in technology education, this discussion equips you with essential knowledge for effective tech exam prep.We walk through inherited risk (your baseline exposure) and residual risk (what remains after controls), and explain why zero risk is a dangerous fantasy. From there, we unpack the four response strategies—avoidance, mitigation, transfer, and acceptance—using clear examples you can bring to your Sec+, Net+, or A+ studies and your day job. You'll learn when quantitative numbers help, when qualitative scales are more honest, and how heat maps can mislead when assumptions go unchallenged.Because modern exposure doesn't end at your perimeter, we dive into vendor risk management: evaluating partners before you sign, setting expectations with NDAs, MSAs, SLAs, SOWs, and rules of engagement, and keeping continuous oversight to match changing realities. We also connect the dots to business impact analysis, translating risk into recovery targets with MTD, RTO, RPO, and WRT so you prioritize mission essential functions instead of treating every system the same. Finally, we clarify the role of internal and external assessments and demystify penetration testing as a snapshot that challenges assumptions rather than a guarantee of safety.If you want security that aligns with real-world priorities, this conversation gives you the mental model and vocabulary to make better decisions under uncertainty. Subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a review with one insight you're taking back to your org. What risk will you accept—and why?Support the showArt By Sarah/DesmondMusic by Joakim KarudLittle chacha ProductionsJuan Rodriguez can be reached atTikTok @ProfessorJrodProfessorJRod@gmail.com@Prof_JRodInstagram ProfessorJRod

HAPPY MLK DAY 2026! Beginner CompTIA A+ Lab (see description for FREE full video)My first lab video post: https://youtu.be/qCS-QFgkZxY?si=I7yOQuEksOp6KnoR

Slowing U.S. job growth alongside rising labor productivity highlights how organizations are replacing hiring with automation and AI-driven systems. Government labor data shows job growth in 2025 fell to roughly 584,000 positions, while productivity rose nearly five percent in the third quarter, allowing output to increase without additional staff. According to CompTIA, demand for AI-related skills rose more than 100 percent year over year, even as overall tech employment declined. For MSPs, this signals a shift where customers rely less on internal teams and more on external providers to absorb operational responsibility when automated systems fail.Survey data from TechAisle indicates that small and midmarket businesses are redirecting technology spending away from basic digitization toward autonomous, outcome-driven systems. The research, based on responses from 5,500 firms, shows profitable growth and cost control as top priorities for 2026, with increased adoption of generative AI, agentic automation, and managed security services. At the same time, rising RAM and storage prices—driven by AI data center demand, according to TrendForce—are delaying PC refresh cycles and pushing workloads into cloud environments, changing where performance, security, and cost risks surface.Vendor signals remain mixed. Kaseya reported layoffs affecting five percent of its workforce, following earlier reductions, while TD Synnex and Samsung reported strong revenue growth tied to AI infrastructure, memory, and server demand. Distributors cite continued hardware refresh activity, yet repeated workforce cuts at vendors suggest internal cost corrections rather than demand collapse. For MSPs, this combination increases environmental complexity, with longer device lifecycles, higher component costs, and more heterogeneous platforms to support.Operational AI announcements further extend decision-making authority into automated systems. New healthcare, printing, and service desk tools embed AI into intake, routing, authorization, and workflow execution, often acting before human review. For MSPs and IT service providers, the central issue is not efficiency gains but accountability: when AI-driven processes misroute work, generate compliance errors, or escalate incidents incorrectly, responsibility frequently defaults to the operator. The episode underscores the need for clearer governance, pricing, and contractual boundaries as AI assumes functional authority inside managed environments. Four things to know today 00:00 Slowing Job Growth, Rising Productivity, and AI Adoption Shift Operational Responsibility to Providers05:26 TechAisle Data Shows SMB Focus Moving From Digitization to Autonomous, Outcome-Driven Systems09:19 Kaseya Cuts Staff as Distributors and Chipmakers Report Strong AI-Driven Demand14:27 Operational AI Advances as Vendors Embed Automation Into Intake, Routing, and Authorization This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship

Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Group, you'll learn: Using the best Windows utility when troubleshootingFinding the source of a browser redirectionScripting in Windows, Linux and macOSWorking with the dnf utilityAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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Are you ready to get A+ certified? Watch our free training course:In this month's A+ Core 1 Study Group, you'll learn about: Troubleshooting DNS recordsCloud deployment modelsPrinter tray issuesLightning cable connectionsAnd moreKeep the study process going! Watch additional A+ Study Group video replays on the Professor Messer website.

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Send us a textRecorded live at IT Nation, MJ Shoer (Chief Community Officer, GTIA) breaks down how the newly branded Global Technology Industry Association is delivering practical wins for MSPs. We cover the GTIA ISAO (built with ConnectWise) for actionable threat intelligence, the cybersecurity Trust Mark that validates your internal controls against your chosen framework, and how GTIA's unbiased research can be co-branded for QBRs to boost credibility and close rates. MJ also unpacks workforce strategy with “NowGen”—supporting both youth and mid-career changers—plus global mentorship, learning libraries, and why ConnectWise-sponsored memberships are a fast on-ramp. We close with GTIA's growing foundation work and MJ's personal take on discipline, recovery, and building routines after injury. If you run an MSP and want immediate ROI from a trade association, this one's loaded with specifics you can apply this quarter.Top 3 highlightsClear, fast ROI: GTIA ISAO access, co-brandable research, and ConnectWise-sponsored memberships for partners.Security you can show: the GTIA Cybersecurity Trust Mark validates your practices against your chosen framework.Talent + growth: NowGen pathways, global mentorship, and a learning library spanning soft skills to leadership.  #JoeyPinz #MSPInfluencer #ForzaDash #ITNation #ITN25 #MSP #GTIA #Cybersecurity #ThreatIntelligence #CompTIA #Mentorship #QBR --- Join us for enlightening discussions that spark growth and exploration. Hosted by Joey Pinz, this Discipline Conversations Podcast offers insights and inspiration. 

Send us a textIn this insightful conversation, Carolyn April, Senior Researcher at GTIA and longtime CompTIA veteran, shares how her journalism roots shaped her passion for unbiased channel research. From designing surveys that reveal real market truth to helping MSPs adapt to AI disruption and cybersecurity complexity, Carolyn explains how data can empower strategic decisions. She also opens up about her personal discipline through running, her journey from CompTIA to GTIA, and her belief that curiosity and credibility are the lifeblood of the tech industry.