220-1201  CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 3 Q41-60

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Question 41:

Which type of storage device uses NAND flash memory for fast read and write operations?

A) HDD
B) SSD
C) Optical Disc
D) Tape Drive

Answer: B) SSD

Explanation:

A Solid-State Drive (SSD) is a storage device that uses NAND flash memory to store data electronically. Unlike traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, which allows for significantly faster read and write speeds, lower latency, and higher durability. SSDs are commonly used in modern desktops, laptops, and servers to improve boot times, application performance, and overall system responsiveness.

Option A, HDD, uses spinning magnetic platters and mechanical read/write heads. While cost-effective for large storage, the moving parts limit speed and reliability.

Option C, optical discs (CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray), rely on laser technology to read and write data on reflective surfaces. They are slower, have limited capacity, and are primarily used for backups or media distribution.

Option D, tape drives, are designed for long-term archival storage. They offer large storage capacity at low cost per gigabyte, but are extremely slow and impractical for frequent data access.

SSDs also use different interfaces, such as SATA, PCIe, and NVMe. NVMe SSDs connected via PCIe provide even higher speeds and lower latency by leveraging multiple lanes for data transfer. SSDs increase system performance by enabling faster file access, rapid OS booting, and reduced load times for applications and games.

In addition, SSDs are more resistant to shock and vibration compared to HDDs, making them ideal for portable devices. SSD lifespan is limited by write cycles, but wear-leveling and over-provisioning techniques help extend durability. For enterprise environments, SSDs offer high IOPS (Input/Output Operations per Second), enabling fast access to databases and virtual machines.

In summary, SSDs use NAND flash memory for fast read and write operations, making option B correct. HDDs, optical discs, and tape drives use mechanical or optical storage methods and are slower and less reliable for high-performance tasks

Question 42:

Which CPU component performs calculations and logical operations?

A) Control Unit
B) ALU
C) Cache
D) FPU

Answer: B) ALU

Explanation:

The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is the CPU component responsible for performing all arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, XOR). It is a fundamental part of the CPU’s processing capabilities and works alongside the Control Unit and registers to execute instructions efficiently.

The Control Unit (CU) is a critical component of a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) responsible for directing the operation of the processor. It does not perform actual data processing but instead manages and coordinates how data moves between the CPU, memory, and input/output devices. The CU interprets instructions from the computer’s program, generates the necessary control signals, and ensures that each component of the CPU executes its tasks in the correct sequence. By orchestrating the activities of the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), registers, memory, and other components, the CU allows the CPU to function efficiently. Essentially, the Control Unit acts as the brain within the brain, managing instruction flow, timing, and control signals to maintain the smooth operation of the processor.

The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is the part of the CPU responsible for performing arithmetic and logical operations. Arithmetic operations include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, while logical operations involve comparisons such as AND, OR, NOT, and XOR. The ALU receives input data from the CPU’s registers, executes the required operation, and stores the result back in a register or memory. It is the core component that performs actual computations, allowing the computer to process numerical and logical data efficiently. Modern CPUs often contain multiple ALUs to allow parallel processing of operations, enhancing speed and overall performance. Without the ALU, the CPU would be unable to perform even the most basic calculations or decision-making tasks, making it a fundamental building block of digital computing.

Cache is a small, high-speed memory located within or very close to the CPU that stores frequently used instructions and data. Its main purpose is to reduce the time the CPU spends accessing data from main memory (RAM), which is slower in comparison. Cache memory operates at speeds much closer to the CPU clock, allowing rapid retrieval of information that the processor needs repeatedly. Caches are organized in levels: L1, L2, and L3, with L1 being the smallest and fastest, and L3 being larger but slightly slower. By storing frequently accessed instructions and data closer to the processor, cache memory significantly improves system performance, reduces latency, and ensures more efficient execution of programs. It acts as a buffer between the CPU and the slower main memory, optimizing overall computing speed.

The Floating Point Unit (FPU) is a specialized part of the CPU designed to handle complex mathematical calculations involving floating-point numbers, which are numbers with decimal points. FPUs are essential for scientific computations, graphics processing, engineering simulations, and other applications that require high-precision arithmetic. While the ALU handles integer operations and basic logic, the FPU accelerates calculations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and square roots for real numbers. Modern CPUs often integrate the FPU directly into the processor, allowing parallel processing alongside integer operations and improving performance for applications that require extensive mathematical computations. FPUs play a crucial role in graphics rendering, scientific simulations, machine learning, and gaming, where accurate and fast calculations are necessary.

In summary, the Control Unit coordinates and manages the activities of the CPU, ensuring instructions are executed in the proper sequence. The ALU performs arithmetic and logical operations, acting as the computational core of the processor. Cache provides high-speed memory storage for frequently used data and instructions, reducing latency and improving overall CPU performance. The FPU specializes in floating-point arithmetic, enabling fast and accurate calculations for complex numerical tasks. Each of these components contributes uniquely to a computer’s processing capabilities, and together they ensure that modern CPUs can handle a wide range of computing tasks efficiently and reliably.

The ALU retrieves operands from registers or memory, performs the required operation, and stores the result back in a register or memory. Modern CPUs often have multiple ALUs to support parallel execution, improving performance for computational tasks. ALUs are essential in applications ranging from basic arithmetic in office software to complex calculations in gaming, simulations, and scientific computing.

Efficient ALU design reduces latency, enhances throughput, and enables CPUs to handle multiple instructions per clock cycle. It interacts with the Control Unit, which manages the execution sequence, and with cache and RAM, which provide quick access to operands.

In summary, the ALU is responsible for calculations and logical operations, making option B correct. The Control Unit, cache, and FPU serve complementary roles but do not perform the core arithmetic and logical functions.

Question 43:

Which type of network device connects multiple devices in a LAN and forwards data based on MAC addresses?

A) Hub
B) Switch
C) Router
D) Modem

Answer: B) Switch

Explanation:

A switch is a network device that connects multiple devices within a Local Area Network (LAN) and forwards data based on MAC (Media Access Control) addresses. Switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and use MAC addresses to identify source and destination devices, ensuring data reaches the correct endpoint efficiently.

Option A, a hub, broadcasts data to all connected devices, creating unnecessary traffic and network congestion.

Option C, a router, connects multiple networks and directs data between them using IP addresses rather than MAC addresses.

Option D, a modem, converts digital signals to analog or vice versa for Internet connectivity and does not manage internal LAN traffic.

Switches provide full-duplex communication, reducing collisions compared to hubs, and often include features like VLANs (Virtual LANs), Quality of Service (QoS), and port security. Managed switches allow network administrators to configure and monitor traffic, segment networks, and improve performance.

Switches are essential in modern LAN environments to maintain efficient communication between devices, optimize bandwidth usage, and ensure security and network isolation when needed. Their intelligence in handling MAC addresses distinguishes them from hubs, routers, and modems.

In summary, a switch connects devices within a LAN and forwards data based on MAC addresses, making option B correct. Hubs broadcast traffic indiscriminately, routers manage network-layer traffic, and modems provide Internet access.

Question 44:

Which type of cable is typically used for wired Ethernet connections?

A) Coaxial
B) RJ-11
C) Cat5e/Cat6
D) Fiber Optic

Answer: C) Cat5e/Cat6

Explanation:

Cat5e (Category 5 enhanced) and Cat6 (Category 6) cables are twisted-pair copper cables used for wired Ethernet connections. They transmit data electrically using twisted pairs to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and support speeds up to 1 Gbps for Cat5e and up to 10 Gbps for Cat6 over shorter distances.

Option A, coaxial cables, were used in older Ethernet networks (10BASE2 or 10BASE5) but are largely obsolete.

Option B, RJ-11, is used for telephone lines and does not support network data transmission.

Option D, fiber optic cables, transmit data using light instead of electricity and support extremely high speeds and long distances, but are more expensive and require specialized equipment.

Twisted-pair cables are easy to install, terminate, and maintain. Cat5e supports gigabit Ethernet, while Cat6 adds better insulation and stricter specifications to reduce crosstalk, enabling higher bandwidth. Proper cabling is essential for reliable network performance and minimizing packet loss. Network installers follow standards like T568A or T568B to ensure consistent wiring and interoperability.

Coaxial cable is a type of electrical cable with an inner conductor surrounded by a tubular insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating layer. It was widely used for cable television, broadband internet, and early computer networks. The metallic shield helps protect the transmitted signals from electromagnetic interference, ensuring more stable and reliable data transfer compared to simple copper wires. Coaxial cables can carry high-frequency signals over longer distances than twisted-pair cables, making them suitable for television signals and broadband internet connections. However, coaxial cables are bulkier, less flexible, and more expensive than modern twisted-pair network cables, and they are rarely used for contemporary local area networks due to limitations in speed and ease of installation.

RJ-11 is a smaller connector commonly used for telephone lines and basic voice communication. It typically has four or six positions but uses only two or four wires for most telephone connections. RJ-11 connectors are used to connect telephones, fax machines, and modems to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). While RJ-11 can also carry digital signals for DSL internet connections, it is designed primarily for voice and low-speed data transmission. It cannot provide the high-speed network performance required for modern computer networking and is generally limited to home telephony or legacy applications.

Cat5e (Category 5 Enhanced) and Cat6 (Category 6) cables are types of twisted-pair network cables designed specifically for high-speed data transmission in local area networks (LANs). Cat5e supports data speeds up to 1 Gbps over distances up to 100 meters and includes improved specifications for reducing crosstalk between wire pairs compared to Cat5. Cat6 cables support higher frequencies, up to 250 MHz, and can handle data speeds up to 10 Gbps over shorter distances, making them suitable for modern high-performance networking environments. Both types use RJ-45 connectors and consist of four twisted pairs of copper wires, with the twisting helping to reduce electromagnetic interference and signal degradation. These cables are widely used in homes, offices, and data centers to provide fast and reliable wired connectivity for computers, servers, switches, and other network devices. Cat5e and Cat6 have become the standard for modern Ethernet networks due to their balance of speed, reliability, cost, and ease of installation, making them the preferred choice for most wired networking setups.

Fiber optic cable is a high-speed networking medium that transmits data as pulses of light through thin strands of glass or plastic fibers. Fiber optics offers extremely high bandwidth, low signal loss over long distances, and immunity to electromagnetic interference. They are commonly used for internet backbone connections, enterprise networks, and data centers where high-speed and long-distance transmission is critical. Fiber optic cables can carry data over hundreds of meters to several kilometers without significant degradation, and they support multi-gigabit speeds far beyond the capability of copper cables. However, fiber optic installation is more expensive and requires specialized equipment and skills, making it less common for small-scale or home networking compared to Cat5e or Cat6 twisted-pair cables.

In summary, coaxial cables provide durable signal transmission for television and broadband, but are bulky and less suited for modern Ethernet networks. RJ-11 is designed for voice and low-speed data over telephone lines and cannot meet modern networking requirements. Cat5e and Cat6 are twisted-pair cables optimized for high-speed LAN connections, supporting speeds from 1 Gbps up to 10 Gbps, and are widely used in homes and businesses. Fiber optic cables deliver extremely high-speed data over long distances with minimal interference, ideal for backbone and enterprise-level networking. For standard wired computer networks, Cat5e and Cat6 cables are the most practical and widely adopted choice, making them the correct answer for high-speed LAN connections.

In summary, Cat5e/Cat6 cables are used for wired Ethernet connections, making option C correct. Coaxial, RJ-11, and fiber optic cables serve different purposes or specialized environments.

Question 45:

Which tool allows a technician to check if a CPU fan is spinning correctly?

A) Multimeter
B) Cable Tester
C) Visual Inspection / POST Monitor
D) Crimper

Answer: C) Visual Inspection / POST Monitor

Explanation:

A CPU fan is critical for dissipating heat and maintaining safe operating temperatures. Technicians can check if a fan is spinning properly through visual inspection or monitoring fan speed during Power-On Self-Test (POST) using BIOS or software utilities. Modern motherboards report fan RPM (Revolutions Per Minute), allowing verification of proper operation.

Option A, a multimeter, measures voltage or current but does not provide a direct way to observe mechanical fan rotation.

Option B, a cable tester, checks network cable connectivity but cannot test CPU fans.

Option D, a crimper, attaches connectors to cables and is unrelated to fan functionality.

Monitoring fan operation is essential to prevent overheating, thermal throttling, or CPU damage. Fans may fail mechanically or electrically, and early detection helps maintain system reliability. POST monitoring often includes alerts if fan RPM drops below safe thresholds. Visual inspection ensures that fans are properly seated, free of obstructions, and spinning without wobble.

In summary, CPU fan functionality is verified through visual inspection or POST monitoring, making option C correct. Multimeters, cable testers, and crimpers are unrelated to this task.

Question 46:

Which wireless standard supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for improved flexibility and reduced interference?

A) 802.11b
B) 802.11g
C) 802.11n
D) 802.11ac

Answer: C) 802.11n

Explanation:

The 802.11n wireless standard, also known as Wi-Fi 4, operates on both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. This dual-band capability provides flexibility by allowing devices to use the less congested 5 GHz band for higher-speed transmissions while maintaining compatibility with older 2.4 GHz networks. 802.11n also introduced multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, which uses multiple antennas for simultaneous data streams, improving throughput, reliability, and range.

Option A, 802.11b, operates only on the 2.4 GHz band and provides speeds up to 11 Mbps. It is outdated and more prone to interference from devices like microwaves and cordless phones.

Option B, 802.11g, also operates on the 2.4 GHz band but improves speed up to 54 Mbps. While faster than 802.11b, it does not support dual-band operation.

Option D, 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), primarily operates on the 5 GHz band, offering higher throughput and advanced features like MU-MIMO. However, it is not dual-band in the same way as 802.11n, which provides backward compatibility for older 2.4 GHz devices.

The dual-band capability of 802.11n helps reduce congestion and interference, allowing simultaneous connections in crowded environments. Its MIMO technology enables higher data rates and better coverage by using multiple spatial streams to increase bandwidth. 802.11n can theoretically achieve speeds up to 600 Mbps, depending on the number of antennas and channel width.

In summary, 802.11n supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, making it flexible, reliable, and backward-compatible. This makes option C correct. 802.11b/g are single-band, while 802.11ac focuses on high-speed 5 GHz performance.

Question 47:

Which type of memory is non-volatile and stores firmware or BIOS instructions?

A) RAM
B) DRAM
C) ROM
D) Cache

Answer: C) ROM

Explanation:

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of non-volatile memory used to store firmware or BIOS instructions. Unlike RAM, which loses data when power is removed, ROM retains data permanently. BIOS instructions stored in ROM initialize hardware during system boot and provide a low-level interface for hardware configuration.

Option A, RAM (Random Access Memory), is volatile and loses all data when power is removed. It is used for temporary storage during active system operation.

Option B, DRAM (Dynamic RAM), is a type of volatile memory requiring constant refreshing to maintain data and cannot retain information without power.

Option D, cache, is a high-speed volatile memory used to temporarily store frequently accessed data for faster CPU performance.

ROM is essential for system stability because it contains critical startup instructions. Modern systems often use EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM) or flash-based ROM, allowing updates to firmware without replacing chips. ROM ensures that a system can boot even if RAM or storage devices are uninitialized, providing a foundation for loading the operating system.

In summary, ROM is non-volatile memory that stores firmware or BIOS instructions, making option C correct. RAM, DRAM, and cache are all volatile memory types used for temporary data storage.

Question 48:

Which expansion card allows video recording from external sources, such as cameras or consoles?

A) NIC
B) GPU
C) Sound Card
D) Capture Card

Answer: D) Capture Card

Explanation:

A capture card is an expansion card designed to record video and sometimes audio from external sources, such as cameras, gaming consoles, or HDMI devices. It converts incoming signals into a digital format that can be saved, streamed, or edited on a computer. Capture cards are widely used in content creation, live streaming, and professional video production.

Option A, NIC, connects a computer to a network but does not handle video input.

Option B, GPU, processes video and graphics for display, but does not capture external video.

Option C: Sound cards process audio signals but cannot record or convert video.

Capture cards may connect via PCIe slots, USB, or Thunderbolt interfaces, depending on the system. They support various resolutions and frame rates, such as 1080p, 4K, and even 60 FPS. Some capture cards include hardware compression to reduce CPU load during recording or streaming.

In addition, capture cards are crucial for ensuring smooth video capture, low latency, and high-quality output. They provide professional-grade video input for editing, content creation, or broadcasting, making them indispensable tools for streamers and multimedia professionals.

In summary, a capture card enables video recording from external sources, making option D correct. NICs, GPUs, and sound cards serve different functions unrelated to video capture.

Question 49:

Which tool is used to attach RJ-45 connectors to Ethernet cables?

A) Multimeter
B) Crimper
C) Cable Tester
D) Loopback Plug

Answer: B) Crimper

Explanation:

A crimper is a tool used to attach RJ-45 connectors to Ethernet cables, ensuring proper contact between the connector pins and the cable wires. It is essential for creating custom-length network cables or repairing damaged connectors. Proper crimping ensures reliable signal transmission and reduces data loss.

Option A, a multimeter, measures electrical properties like voltage and resistance, but cannot attach connectors.

Option C, cable tester, verifies cable continuity and wiring but does not attach connectors.

Option D, loopback plug, tests network ports by looping signals back into the device, but does not attach connectors.

Using a crimper involves stripping the cable, arranging wires according to T568A or T568B standards, inserting them into the connector, and compressing the pins to establish secure connections. Proper crimping reduces crosstalk and ensures optimal network performance. Crimpers may also include wire cutters and strippers, providing an all-in-one solution for network installation and maintenance.

In summary, a crimper is the correct tool for attaching RJ-45 connectors, making option B correct. Multimeters, cable testers, and loopback plugs serve different purposes and cannot terminate cables.

Question 50:

Which type of network device converts digital signals into analog signals for Internet access over telephone lines?

A) Router
B) Hub
C) Modem
D) Switch

Answer: C) Modem

Explanation:

A modem (modulator-demodulator) is a network device that converts digital signals from a computer into analog signals suitable for transmission over telephone lines and vice versa. It enables Internet connectivity through DSL, cable, or dial-up connections. Modems are essential for bridging the digital and analog worlds, allowing devices to communicate over legacy infrastructures.

Option A, a router, directs network traffic between networks but does not convert digital signals to analog.

Option B, a hub, broadcasts data to all devices in a LAN but does not modulate signals.

Option D, a switch, connects devices within a LAN and forwards data based on MAC addresses without signal conversion.

Modems can be integrated into routers or provided as standalone devices. Modern modems support DSL, cable, or fiber broadband, offering high-speed Internet access. They often include error correction, compression, and modulation techniques to optimize signal quality over physical transmission media. Proper modem operation is crucial for maintaining reliable Internet connectivity.

In summary, a modem converts digital signals into analog signals for Internet access over telephone lines, making option C correct. Routers, hubs, and switches perform different network functions without analog conversion.

Question 51:

Which type of RAM temporarily stores data that the CPU is actively using for processing?

A) ROM
B) DRAM
C) SSD
D) Cache

Answer: B) DRAM

Explanation:

Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) is the type of volatile memory that temporarily stores data actively used by the CPU for processing. DRAM enables rapid access to operating system components, running applications, and frequently used data, which improves overall system performance and responsiveness. The data stored in DRAM is lost when power is removed, emphasizing its temporary nature.

Option A, ROM (Read-Only Memory), is non-volatile memory that stores firmware or BIOS instructions and cannot be used for temporary CPU processing.

Option C, SSD (Solid-State Drive), provides long-term non-volatile storage for files and applications but is much slower than DRAM.

Option D, cache, is a smaller, ultra-fast memory used to store frequently accessed instructions and data for the CPU. While cache complements DRAM by reducing latency, it cannot replace the larger temporary storage DRAM provides for active tasks.

DRAM consists of capacitors and transistors, where each memory cell stores a bit of data as an electrical charge. Because the capacitors leak charge over time, DRAM requires periodic refreshing to maintain stored data. This is why it is considered dynamic. DRAM speed, measured in MHz, and bandwidth impact system performance significantly. DDR4 and DDR5 DRAM modules provide high-speed access, supporting modern multi-core CPUs and multitasking workloads.

In addition, DRAM works in conjunction with the CPU and cache to minimize bottlenecks. The CPU fetches instructions and data from DRAM if they are not present in the cache, balancing speed and capacity. Multichannel memory configurations further increase data transfer rates, enabling higher bandwidth for memory-intensive applications such as video editing, virtualization, and gaming.

In summary, DRAM temporarily stores data that the CPU is actively using, making option B correct. ROM provides permanent storage, SSDs offer long-term storage, and cache is high-speed supplementary memory.

Question 52:

Which type of network device connects multiple networks and directs traffic using IP addresses?

A) Hub
B) Router
C) Switch
D) Modem

Answer: B) Router

Explanation:

A router is a network device that connects multiple networks and directs data packets between them using IP addresses. Routers operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and are essential for communication between local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs), including the Internet. They use routing tables and protocols like OSPF, RIP, and BGP to determine the optimal path for data transmission.

Option A, a hub, connects devices within a LAN but broadcasts data to all devices without analyzing IP addresses, resulting in inefficient traffic management.

Option C, a switch, connects devices within a LAN and forwards traffic based on MAC addresses. Switches cannot route traffic between different networks.

Option D, a modem, converts digital signals into analog signals for Internet transmission but does not manage or route network traffic.

Routers also provide Network Address Translation (NAT), which allows multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address. This is vital for conserving IP addresses and providing security by masking internal network structures. Modern routers often include firewalls, VPN support, and quality-of-service (QoS) features to enhance network performance and security.

In summary, routers direct traffic between networks using IP addresses, making option B correct. Hubs broadcast without intelligence, switches operate within LANs, and modems handle signal conversion rather than routing.

Question 53:

Which wireless security protocol provides enhanced encryption and protects against brute-force attacks?

A) WEP
B) WPA
C) WPA2
D) WPA3

Answer: D) WPA3

Explanation:

WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) is the latest wireless security protocol designed to provide enhanced encryption and protect against brute-force attacks. WPA3 uses Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE) for key exchange, which provides forward secrecy and strengthens security even if a weak password is used. It also encrypts individual sessions on open networks, protecting data from eavesdropping.

Option A, WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), is outdated and insecure due to weak RC4 encryption and predictable initialization vectors.

Option B, WPA, improved upon WEP by introducing TKIP encryption, but it remains vulnerable to modern attacks.

Option C, WPA2, is widely used and supports AES encryption. However, vulnerabilities like KRACK have exposed weaknesses, making WPA3 superior.

WPA3 simplifies secure network connections while offering advanced protection for home and enterprise networks. It is backward compatible with WPA2 for legacy devices but encourages stronger passwords and encryption techniques. WPA3 is crucial in environments with sensitive data or public Wi-Fi, as it mitigates threats such as offline dictionary attacks, eavesdropping, and session hijacking.

In summary, WPA3 provides the strongest wireless security, making option D correct. WEP and WPA are insecure, and WPA2, while secure, has known vulnerabilities.

Question 54:

Which type of cable is used for long-distance, high-speed network connections with minimal interference?

A) Cat5e
B) Coaxial
C) Fiber Optic
D) Cat6

Answer: C) Fiber Optic

Explanation:

Fiber optic cables transmit data as pulses of light through glass or plastic fibers, allowing long-distance, high-speed communication with minimal electromagnetic interference (EMI). Fiber optic networks support extremely high bandwidth, making them ideal for enterprise backbones, ISPs, and data centers.

Option A, Cat5e, is a copper twisted-pair cable for LAN connections but is limited to 1 Gbps and shorter distances.

Option B, coaxial, carries electrical signals and is susceptible to interference over long distances.

Option D, Cat6, provides higher performance than Cat5e but still uses copper and cannot match fiber optic’s speed or distance capabilities.

Fiber optic cables are immune to EMI, crosstalk, and signal degradation, allowing reliable transmission over kilometers without repeaters. Single-mode fibers support long-haul connections, while multimode fibers are used for shorter distances. Fiber optic installation requires specialized connectors and equipment but delivers unmatched speed, reliability, and future-proofing for high-demand applications.

In summary, fiber optic cables are used for long-distance, high-speed connections with minimal interference, making option C correct. Cat5e, Cat6, and coaxial cables are copper-based and less effective for these purposes.

Question 55:

Which tool is used to verify network cable wiring and detect faults?

A) Loopback Plug
B) Cable Tester
C) Multimeter
D) Crimper

Answer: B) Cable Tester

Explanation:

A cable tester is a diagnostic tool used to verify network cable wiring and detect faults such as miswiring, open circuits, shorts, and crossed pairs. Cable testers ensure that Ethernet cables meet standards like T568A or T568B, which is crucial for reliable network communication. They are widely used by network technicians during installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Option A, a loopback plug, tests network ports by looping signals back, but does not check cable integrity.

Option C, a multimeter, measures electrical properties but is not optimized for testing multiple cable pairs efficiently.

Option D, a crimper, attaches connectors to cables but cannot verify wiring correctness.

Cable testers often include features such as tone generation for tracing cables in walls, continuity testing, and pin mapping. By identifying wiring issues early, cable testers prevent network downtime, reduce troubleshooting time, and ensure high-quality installations. Proper testing ensures that data travels correctly between devices without errors caused by faulty cables.

In summary, a cable tester verifies network cable wiring and detects faults, making option B correct. Loopback plugs, multimeters, and crimpers serve other purposes.

Question 56:

Which type of connector is commonly used for fiber optic network cables?

A) RJ-45
B) LC
C) USB-C
D) HDMI

Answer: B) LC

Explanation:

LC (Lucent Connector) is a widely used connector for fiber optic network cables, particularly in high-speed LAN, data center, and enterprise networks. It is a small form-factor, easy to install, and supports single-mode and multimode fiber. The LC connector uses a latch mechanism to ensure a secure connection and precise alignment of the fiber cores, which is critical for maintaining signal integrity and minimizing loss.

Option A, RJ-45, is used for copper Ethernet cables, not fiber optic cables. It carries electrical signals and cannot transmit light.

Option C, USB-C, is a general-purpose connector for power, data transfer, and video, but is not designed for optical networking.

Option D, HDMI, is used for video and audio transmission and cannot support fiber optic networks.

Fiber optic connectors like LC convert light signals from lasers or LEDs into precise paths through fiber cores. The LC connector is particularly favored in dense environments due to its compact size and high port density. Proper installation requires careful polishing and alignment of the fiber ends, and LC connectors often pair with adapters or patch panels for structured cabling.

LC connectors are crucial in modern networks because fiber optic cabling supports extremely high bandwidths, reduces electromagnetic interference, and allows long-distance transmission. Single-mode fiber with LC connectors can transmit data over kilometers, while multimode fiber is typically used for shorter distances, like within data centers.

In summary, LC is the commonly used connector for fiber optic cables, making option B correct. RJ-45, USB-C, and HDMI serve entirely different purposes.

Question 57:

Which network protocol is used to automatically assign IP addresses to devices on a network?

A) DNS
B) DHCP
C) FTP
D) HTTP

Answer: B) DHCP

Explanation:

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network. It simplifies network administration by managing IP address allocation, reducing conflicts, and ensuring each device has a valid address. DHCP servers can also provide additional configuration information, such as default gateway, subnet mask, and DNS servers, enabling devices to communicate effectively on the network.

Option A, DNS (Domain Name System), translates domain names into IP addresses but does not assign addresses to devices.

Option C, FTP (File Transfer Protocol), transfers files over a network but does not manage IP addressing.

Option D, HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), is used for web communication and also does not assign IP addresses.

DHCP works by leasing IP addresses to clients for a specified period. When a device connects to the network, it sends a DHCP request, and the server responds with an available IP address along with network configuration parameters. DHCP reduces administrative overhead, avoids manual configuration errors, and allows efficient reuse of IP addresses.

Advanced DHCP features include reservations (assigning a fixed IP to a specific device), scope options (defining address ranges), and support for both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. DHCP ensures seamless network connectivity in environments ranging from small offices to large enterprise networks, providing both convenience and reliability.

In summary, DHCP automatically assigns IP addresses, making option B correct. DNS, FTP, and HTTP serve different networking functions.

Question 58:

Which type of expansion card improves graphical performance for gaming or design applications?

A) NIC
B) GPU
C) Sound Card
D) Capture Card

Answer: B) GPU

Explanation:

A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is an expansion card designed to handle complex graphics calculations and rendering. GPUs improve graphical performance for gaming, video editing, 3D modeling, and design applications. They offload intensive graphical computations from the CPU, enabling smoother visuals, higher frame rates, and advanced graphical effects such as ray tracing.

Option A, NIC, manages network connectivity and does not process graphics.

Option C, sound card, enhances audio output but has no impact on visuals.

Option D, capture card, records video from external sources but does not render graphics internally.

Modern GPUs contain thousands of cores optimized for parallel processing, which is essential for rendering large graphical workloads. GPUs support technologies such as DirectX, OpenGL, Vulkan, and CUDA for specialized computation in games, AI, and simulations. Dedicated GPU memory (VRAM) stores textures, frame buffers, and shaders, reducing bottlenecks and improving performance.

High-end GPUs are essential for professional design and gaming systems, supporting multiple monitors, 4K resolutions, and immersive experiences. Integrated graphics in CPUs are sufficient for basic tasks but lack the processing power required for demanding graphics applications.

In summary, GPUs improve graphical performance, making option B correct. NICs, sound cards, and capture cards serve networking, audio, and video capture functions, respectively.

Question 59:

Which network cable standard supports up to 10 Gbps over short distances?

A) Cat5
B) Cat5e
C) Cat6
D) Cat3

Answer: C) Cat6

Explanation:

Cat6 (Category 6) twisted-pair cables support data transmission up to 10 Gbps over distances up to 55 meters. Cat6 cables feature stricter specifications for crosstalk and system noise compared to Cat5e, ensuring higher performance in high-speed LAN environments. They are widely used in enterprise networks, data centers, and high-performance applications.

Option A, Cat5, is an older standard that supports up to 100 Mbps and is largely obsolete.

Option B, Cat5e, supports gigabit speeds (1 Gbps) over standard distances but cannot reliably handle 10 Gbps.

Option D, Cat3, is an older telephone cable standard used for 10 Mbps Ethernet and is unsuitable for modern networks.

Cat6 cables use tighter twists, thicker gauge conductors, and improved shielding to reduce interference. Installation follows standards such as T568A or T568B to ensure consistency. Proper termination and testing are essential to achieve maximum performance.

In summary, Cat6 cables support 10 Gbps over short distances, making option C correct. Cat5, Cat5e, and Cat3 do not provide the same high-speed capability.

Question 60:

Which tool allows technicians to measure voltage, current, and resistance in a circuit?

A) Multimeter
B) Cable Tester
C) Loopback Plug
D) Crimper

Answer: A) Multimeter

Explanation:

A multimeter is a versatile tool used to measure electrical properties, including voltage (AC/DC), current, and resistance. It is essential for troubleshooting circuits, testing power supplies, verifying connectivity, and diagnosing hardware issues. Multimeters may also include continuity testing, diode testing, and other functions to assess electrical components comprehensively.

Option B, cable testers, verify network cable wiring, but do not measure electrical properties.

Option C, loopback plugs, test network ports, but cannot measure voltage, current, or resistance.

Option D, crimpers, attach connectors to cables, and do not provide diagnostic measurement capabilities.

Technicians use multimeters by connecting probes to a circuit or component and selecting the appropriate measurement mode. Multimeters can detect issues such as shorts, open circuits, low voltage, or excessive resistance, ensuring safe and reliable operation of hardware. They are indispensable tools in IT, electronics, and electrical work for both troubleshooting and preventive maintenance.

In summary, a multimeter measures voltage, current, and resistance, making option A correct. Cable testers, loopback plugs, and crimpers serve other specific networking tasks and cannot measure electrical parameters.