CompTIA 220-1101 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set4 Q61-80

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Question 61:

A technician is tasked with upgrading a workstation used for virtualization. The system will run multiple virtual machines simultaneously. Which of the following hardware upgrades is MOST critical?

A) Additional RAM
B) Faster HDD
C) Larger monitor
D) Enhanced cooling system

Answer: A) Additional RAM

Explanation:

Virtualization requires running multiple operating systems at the same time, and each virtual machine (VM) consumes a portion of the system’s memory.

A) Additional RAM is the most critical hardware upgrade because insufficient memory is the primary bottleneck when running multiple VMs. Each VM needs memory for its OS, applications, and caching. If the host system lacks enough RAM, it will rely on paging to disk, significantly slowing performance and potentially causing system instability. By increasing RAM, each virtual machine can operate efficiently without overloading the system, resulting in smoother performance, reduced latency, and faster task execution. Memory monitoring tools can help identify usage patterns to determine the correct amount of RAM for the environment.

B) Faster HDD improves storage access times, particularly when reading or writing VM disk images. While this can enhance certain aspects of VM performance, the main bottleneck remains memory. Even with fast storage, insufficient RAM forces the system to page data to disk, causing significant delays. Storage upgrades complement RAM upgrades but cannot replace them as the primary performance enhancer for virtualization workloads.

C) Larger monitor increases workspace and improves user experience but has no impact on VM performance or processing capabilities. A larger display does not contribute to faster calculations, memory availability, or application execution, making it a peripheral enhancement rather than a critical system upgrade.

D) Enhanced cooling system helps maintain system stability under load by preventing CPU or GPU overheating. While proper cooling is important for long-term hardware health, it does not address the primary bottleneck caused by insufficient memory. Without additional RAM, performance will remain constrained regardless of cooling improvements.

In summary, upgrading RAM directly addresses the main limitation in virtualization environments. Storage, display, and cooling enhancements may support overall efficiency or longevity but do not solve the core performance bottleneck.

Question 62:

A user reports that their laptop is experiencing very slow performance and frequent application crashes. Task Manager shows unusually high CPU usage from unknown processes. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Malware infection
B) Failing hard drive
C) Corrupted operating system
D) Insufficient RAM

Answer: A) Malware infection

Explanation:

High CPU usage from unknown processes, combined with slow performance and frequent crashes, typically points to malware infection.

A) Malware infection is the most likely cause because malicious software often runs background tasks that consume CPU resources, sometimes without user knowledge. Malware types such as cryptocurrency miners, trojans, or spyware can execute resource-intensive operations, causing the system to slow down or crash. Proper troubleshooting involves running reputable anti-malware software, identifying suspicious processes, and removing or quarantining malware to restore normal performance.

B) Failing hard drive may lead to slow performance due to read/write delays, corrupted files, or boot issues. However, it is unlikely to cause high CPU usage from unknown processes. Drive failure usually manifests as disk errors, slow file transfers, or system freezes rather than constant CPU spikes.

C) Corrupted operating system can result in crashes, slowdowns, and application errors. While OS corruption may contribute to instability, it does not explain unusually high CPU usage from unknown processes. OS corruption primarily affects software execution rather than generating unknown CPU-intensive tasks.

D) Insufficient RAM leads to frequent paging and overall system slowdown. While low memory can exacerbate performance issues, it does not produce unknown CPU-intensive processes. Upgrading RAM may improve multitasking but will not resolve CPU spikes caused by malware.

In conclusion, the combination of high CPU usage, slow performance, and unexplained processes strongly indicates a malware infection. Other issues like hardware failure, OS corruption, or memory shortage may contribute to general slowdowns but do not explain the primary symptom of unusual CPU consumption.

Question 63:

A technician is configuring a desktop workstation for a user who works with large databases and spreadsheets. The system must allow for fast calculations and data processing. Which of the following is the MOST important upgrade?

A) Upgrade CPU to multi-core processor
B) Upgrade GPU
C) Install additional SSD storage
D) Increase monitor resolution

Answer: A) Upgrade CPU to multi-core processor

Explanation:

Database operations and spreadsheet calculations are primarily CPU-intensive, particularly with large datasets and complex formulas.

A) Upgrade CPU to multi-core processor is the most important hardware upgrade because modern multi-core CPUs can execute multiple threads simultaneously, allowing database queries and spreadsheet calculations to complete faster. Higher clock speeds also improve single-threaded performance for operations that cannot be parallelized. Multi-core processors enhance responsiveness during data sorting, filtering, and large calculations, significantly improving workflow efficiency.

B) Upgrade GPU benefits graphics rendering and video processing, but it has minimal impact on database queries or spreadsheet calculations. GPU upgrades do not enhance the CPU-bound operations typical in database and spreadsheet workloads.

C) Install additional SSD storage improves file access times and reduces load times for large datasets. While SSDs enhance responsiveness when opening large files, they do not accelerate CPU-bound computations, which are the primary bottleneck in this scenario.

D) Increase monitor resolution expands visual workspace but does not affect computation speed or processing performance. A higher-resolution monitor may improve user comfort or efficiency when viewing multiple data sheets but does not influence calculation speed.

In summary, upgrading to a multi-core CPU addresses the primary performance bottleneck for database and spreadsheet users. Storage, GPU, and display enhancements are secondary improvements that aid workflow efficiency but cannot replace processing power.

Question 64:

A user reports that their desktop PC occasionally freezes and reboots when running multiple applications simultaneously. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Overheating CPU
B) Outdated drivers
C) Corrupted operating system
D) Malware infection

Answer: A) Overheating CPU

Explanation:

Freezes and reboots under heavy multitasking are commonly caused by CPU overheating.

A) Overheating CPU occurs when the processor temperature exceeds safe operating limits. Modern CPUs have thermal protection that throttles or shuts down the system to prevent damage. High CPU loads during multiple simultaneous applications generate heat, and inadequate cooling (dust-filled heatsinks, malfunctioning fans, or poor airflow) can exacerbate this. Cleaning fans, improving airflow, and reapplying thermal paste are effective solutions.

B) Outdated drivers can cause crashes, application instability, or blue screens. However, driver issues usually affect specific hardware components, not the CPU directly. While updating drivers is good practice, thermal stress is a more likely cause for generalized freezes and reboots under load.

C) Corrupted operating system can lead to application errors and slowdowns but rarely causes automatic shutdowns due to CPU stress. Reinstalling the OS may improve stability but will not prevent overheating.

D) Malware infection can consume resources and indirectly increase heat output. However, malware is unlikely to selectively cause thermal-triggered reboots. It may exacerbate issues but is not the root cause if CPU temperatures are already critical.

In conclusion, overheating CPU is the most probable cause of freezes and reboots during heavy multitasking. Addressing cooling systems and airflow ensures long-term stability, while drivers, OS corruption, and malware are secondary considerations.

Question 65:

A user reports that their network printer prints blank pages, but test pages from the printer itself print correctly. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Incorrect printer driver on the workstation
B) Faulty toner cartridge
C) Network cable disconnected
D) Printer offline

Answer: A) Incorrect printer driver on the workstation

Explanation:

When a network printer prints blank pages from a workstation but prints test pages correctly from its own interface, the issue is usually driver-related.

A) Incorrect printer driver on the workstation is the most likely cause because drivers translate OS print commands into instructions the printer understands. Installing the wrong or corrupted driver can result in blank pages since the printer cannot interpret the commands correctly. Reinstalling the correct driver typically resolves the issue and restores normal printing.

B) Faulty toner cartridge would prevent the printer from producing output for all jobs, including test pages. Since test pages print correctly, the toner is functioning properly.

C) Network cable disconnected would prevent any print jobs from reaching the printer. The fact that jobs reach the printer but produce blank pages indicates network connectivity is functional.

D) Printer offline stops all print jobs. Jobs would remain queued and fail to process. The problem here is content output, not connectivity or printer status.

Proper troubleshooting involves verifying driver compatibility with both the printer model and OS, reinstalling or updating drivers, and testing with multiple workstations to isolate the issue. Correct driver installation resolves communication problems and ensures printed output matches requested documents.

Question 66:

A workstation used for video editing is experiencing frequent frame drops and lag during playback of high-resolution footage. Which of the following is the BEST hardware upgrade to resolve this issue?

A) Upgrade GPU
B) Add additional RAM
C) Replace hard drive with SSD
D) Increase monitor resolution

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

High-resolution video playback and editing rely heavily on graphics processing capabilities.

A) Upgrade GPU is the most effective hardware improvement because modern video editing software offloads rendering, effects processing, and real-time playback to the GPU. Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) include dedicated cores for handling video decoding, color correction, and timeline playback. Upgrading the GPU reduces CPU load, provides smoother frame rates, and allows the software to handle high-resolution footage without dropping frames. GPUs with more VRAM can store larger textures and video data for immediate processing, which directly reduces lag during playback.

B) Add additional RAM can help when multiple large files or applications are open simultaneously. Insufficient RAM forces the system to page memory to disk, causing delays in software responsiveness. While adding RAM can indirectly improve playback performance by reducing system swapping, it does not address the real-time video decoding or rendering that is GPU-bound. Therefore, RAM alone cannot resolve the frame drops.

C) Replace hard drive with SSD improves file access speeds, project load times, and cache read/write performance. SSDs reduce latency when opening large video projects or reading video clips stored locally. While this improves overall workflow efficiency, it does not solve real-time playback issues caused by insufficient GPU power. The GPU handles processing, whereas the SSD mainly affects storage retrieval speed.

D) Increase monitor resolution enhances the display quality or workspace for editing multiple timelines. Higher resolution allows more screen real estate for editing tools but does not affect processing performance. The playback lag is related to processing limitations, not the display resolution. A higher-resolution monitor may even exacerbate GPU demand if the GPU is already underpowered.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU addresses the primary performance bottleneck in high-resolution video editing. RAM and storage upgrades enhance workflow efficiency but do not solve GPU-dependent frame drops. Increasing monitor resolution improves usability but does not impact rendering performance, making the GPU the critical component to upgrade for smooth playback.

Question 67:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains very quickly, even when minimal applications are running. Which of the following is the BEST initial troubleshooting step?

A) Disable background applications
B) Replace battery immediately
C) Factory reset the device
D) Enable battery saver mode

Answer: A) Disable background applications

Explanation:

Rapid battery drain, especially with minimal user activity, is often caused by background applications consuming system resources.

A) Disable background applications is the best initial step because it targets the root cause of excessive CPU, GPU, or network activity that drains power. Many applications, such as cloud sync tools, messaging apps, and software updaters, run in the background even when the device appears idle. These processes increase processor usage, prevent the laptop from entering low-power states, and accelerate battery depletion. Using Task Manager or battery usage analytics tools can help identify which background applications are consuming the most power and allow selective disabling.

B) Replace battery immediately may be necessary if the battery has degraded or reached end-of-life, but it is not the first troubleshooting step. Batteries have finite lifespans, and premature replacement may be unnecessary if software optimization can resolve excessive drain. Verifying whether background processes are responsible should come before a hardware replacement.

C) Factory reset the device removes software-related issues and restores default settings. While this can remove rogue applications or misconfigurations, it is invasive, time-consuming, and should be reserved for situations where other troubleshooting steps fail. Disabling background apps first is a less disruptive and targeted solution.

D) Enable battery saver mode reduces power usage by limiting background activity and reducing display brightness. While effective as a temporary solution, it does not identify or resolve the root cause of excessive battery drain. Disabling background applications provides a more precise, permanent fix.

In summary, analyzing and controlling background applications is the most efficient first step for addressing unexpected battery drain. Battery replacement, factory reset, and battery saver mode are secondary actions that may help if software adjustments do not fully resolve the issue.

Question 68:

A workstation intermittently loses network connectivity, but all other devices on the same network remain stable. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty NIC
B) Malware infection
C) Router malfunction
D) Outdated operating system

Answer: A) Faulty NIC

Explanation:

When only a single workstation experiences network connectivity issues while others remain unaffected, the problem is usually hardware-related, specifically with the Network Interface Card (NIC).

A) Faulty NIC is the most likely cause. A malfunctioning NIC can cause intermittent packet loss, connection drops, or unstable throughput. Faults may occur due to hardware wear, physical damage, or driver-related issues. Testing the NIC by replacing it with a known working card or checking connection stability can confirm the diagnosis. Replacing a defective NIC restores reliable connectivity.

B) Malware infection can cause network issues by consuming bandwidth or altering network configurations. However, malware typically affects multiple network operations, not just intermittent connectivity for a single device while others remain stable. While malware removal is important, it is less likely to be the primary cause in this case.

C) Router malfunction would affect all devices on the network. Since other devices maintain stable connections, the router is functioning properly. Network hardware issues that impact a single client are more likely related to that device’s NIC or drivers.

D) Outdated operating system can lead to network inefficiencies or driver compatibility problems. While it may exacerbate connectivity problems, it rarely causes intermittent connectivity in isolation. Updating the OS may help resolve minor issues, but replacing or repairing a faulty NIC addresses the root cause directly.

In conclusion, a faulty NIC is the primary suspect when a single workstation experiences intermittent network problems. Malware, OS issues, or router problems may contribute to general network instability but are secondary in isolated cases.

Question 69:

A technician is configuring a workstation for virtualization and wants to ensure the best performance. Which of the following BIOS/UEFI settings is MOST important to enable?

A) TPM
B) CPU virtualization extensions
C) High-speed SSD support
D) Dedicated GPU acceleration

Answer: B) CPU virtualization extensions

Explanation:

Running multiple virtual machines efficiently requires hardware support for virtualization, which is provided by CPU extensions.

A) TPM (Trusted Platform Module) provides hardware-based security features, such as encryption keys and secure boot. While TPM may support certain security requirements for virtual machines, it does not improve virtualization performance or enable multiple VMs. Its role is complementary rather than essential for performance.

B) CPU virtualization extensions, such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V, allow a hypervisor to directly manage virtual machines at the hardware level. This reduces overhead, improves performance, and ensures stability across VMs. Without enabling these extensions, the system may rely on software-based emulation, which is slower and less efficient. Proper BIOS configuration is critical to ensure that virtualization features are active and usable by hypervisors like VMware, Hyper-V, or VirtualBox.

C) High-speed SSD support improves storage access times and reduces delays in loading VM images. SSDs enhance workflow efficiency and responsiveness but do not enable virtualization itself. Storage speed impacts I/O performance but not CPU or memory allocation for VMs.

D) Dedicated GPU acceleration can enhance graphics-intensive workloads within virtual machines. For example, GPU acceleration is beneficial for 3D rendering or video processing in a VM, but it is not necessary for general virtualization. CPU virtualization extensions are the critical setting for enabling and optimizing VM performance.

In summary, enabling CPU virtualization extensions in BIOS/UEFI is the most important step for running multiple virtual machines efficiently. TPM, SSDs, and GPU acceleration are useful enhancements but secondary considerations.

Question 70:

A user reports that their desktop PC randomly shuts down without warning, even during light usage. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty power supply
B) Malware infection
C) Corrupted operating system
D) Loose monitor cable

Answer: A) Faulty power supply

Explanation:

Unexpected shutdowns during light system usage are almost always related to hardware power issues.

A) Faulty power supply (PSU) is the most likely cause in this scenario. A PSU that is failing or delivering unstable voltages can result in sudden system shutdowns regardless of CPU or GPU load. Even if the computer is under minimal stress, fluctuations in voltage can trigger automatic protection mechanisms, causing the system to power down to prevent component damage. Technicians can test a PSU using a power supply tester or by swapping it with a known good unit. Replacing a faulty PSU restores stable operation and prevents further potential damage to components such as the motherboard, CPU, or storage devices.

B) Malware infection can degrade system performance, cause errors, or trigger abnormal behavior. However, malware is unlikely to directly cause random shutdowns of a system that is otherwise idle. While some malware may trigger system instability, the pattern described—shutdowns even under light load—is more consistent with hardware failure than malicious software.

C) Corrupted operating system may cause crashes, freezes, or application errors. OS corruption rarely causes complete power loss without warning. While it could contribute to system instability, it does not usually result in random shutdowns independent of user activity or load. Reinstalling the OS may improve performance but would not resolve an underlying PSU failure.

D) Loose monitor cable affects only display output and does not impact the internal power delivery of the computer. While a loose or disconnected monitor may cause display flickering or blank screens, it cannot cause the PC to shut down.

In summary, the combination of random shutdowns under light load strongly indicates a faulty PSU. Malware, OS corruption, or monitor issues may affect system performance or usability, but they do not explain sudden power loss. Proper PSU testing and replacement are essential to restore reliable operation.

Question 71:

A user reports that their workstation is extremely slow when opening large files stored on a network-attached storage (NAS). Which of the following is the BEST solution to improve performance?

A) Connect NAS via Gigabit Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi
B) Upgrade RAM
C) Upgrade CPU
D) Scan for malware

Answer: A) Connect NAS via Gigabit Ethernet instead of Wi-Fi

Explanation:

Slow access to large files on a NAS is typically caused by network bandwidth limitations.

A) Connecting the NAS via Gigabit Ethernet provides the most direct improvement because wired connections offer higher, more stable throughput compared to wireless networks. Wi-Fi is prone to interference, signal degradation, and bandwidth limitations, which becomes especially noticeable when transferring large files. A Gigabit Ethernet connection minimizes latency, ensures consistent transfer speeds, and allows the workstation to fully utilize the NAS’s data throughput capacity.

B) Upgrade RAM may improve local application performance and caching, allowing the system to handle large files more efficiently once they are transferred. However, network latency remains the primary bottleneck in this scenario. Additional RAM does not increase network transfer speeds.

C) Upgrade CPU can accelerate data processing once files are accessed locally. However, the user is experiencing slow network access, which is an I/O-bound problem, not CPU-bound. A faster CPU will not significantly improve file transfer rates over a limited network connection.

D) Scan for malware is a good preventative measure. Malware may consume network bandwidth or system resources, potentially slowing performance. However, in a situation where other devices on the same network are not experiencing slowdowns, malware is unlikely to be the root cause. Scanning for malware is a secondary step after addressing network performance.

In conclusion, connecting the NAS over Gigabit Ethernet is the most effective solution for improving large-file access performance. RAM upgrades, CPU improvements, and malware scans may help system responsiveness or security but do not address the network bottleneck directly.

Question 72:

A technician is troubleshooting a workstation that intermittently displays blue screen errors with codes indicating memory corruption. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty RAM
B) Corrupted operating system
C) Malware infection
D) Outdated BIOS

Answer: A) Faulty RAM

Explanation:

Memory-related blue screen errors are almost always linked to hardware memory issues.

A) Faulty RAM is the primary suspect in this case. RAM errors occur when the system reads or writes data incorrectly, leading to instability and crashes. Symptoms include intermittent blue screens, random reboots, and errors during memory-intensive tasks such as opening large applications or running virtual machines. Diagnosing faulty RAM involves using memory testing utilities like Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86, reseating memory modules, and testing each stick individually. Replacing defective RAM resolves instability and restores system reliability.

B) Corrupted operating system may also cause blue screens, but memory-specific error codes indicate hardware problems rather than software corruption. While a corrupted OS can cause general crashes or freezes, it rarely produces consistent memory error codes. Reinstalling the OS may improve stability but will not correct physical memory faults.

C) Malware infection can degrade performance, cause crashes, or alter system files. However, malware rarely triggers hardware-specific memory errors. Its effects are usually broader and software-oriented, such as CPU spikes or file corruption, rather than precise memory faults causing BSODs.

D) Outdated BIOS may result in compatibility issues or unstable operation with newer memory modules. Updating the BIOS can improve stability and support newer RAM types, but it cannot fix defective RAM. BIOS updates are preventative and optimization measures rather than direct solutions for hardware failures.

In summary, faulty RAM is the most probable cause of memory-specific blue screen errors. OS corruption, malware, and BIOS updates may contribute to general instability but are secondary factors. Identifying and replacing defective memory restores reliable operation.

Question 73:

A user reports that their laptop keyboard and trackpad intermittently stop working, but an external USB keyboard works without issue. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty internal keyboard
B) Malware infection
C) Corrupted drivers
D) Operating system issue

Answer: A) Faulty internal keyboard

Explanation:

Intermittent failure of a laptop’s built-in keyboard and trackpad, while an external USB keyboard works correctly, indicates hardware failure.

A) Faulty internal keyboard is the most likely cause. Physical issues such as damaged ribbon cables, worn-out keys, or liquid exposure can prevent the keyboard or trackpad from registering input. Diagnosing the problem involves inspecting the keyboard connection internally and testing functionality using the BIOS or safe mode to isolate software issues. Replacing the internal keyboard or repairing the connection usually resolves the problem.

B) Malware infection may disrupt system behavior, but it is highly unlikely to selectively disable only the laptop’s built-in input devices while leaving external keyboards fully functional. Malware affects broader system performance or specific software, rather than precise hardware components.

C) Corrupted drivers could cause input devices to stop working. However, driver issues typically manifest consistently rather than intermittently, and external devices often rely on the same driver framework. Updating or reinstalling drivers is a valid troubleshooting step, but the intermittent nature points more strongly to hardware.

D) Operating system issue can affect device functionality if system files or services are corrupted. OS corruption would likely impact other system functions beyond the keyboard and trackpad. Since external devices function normally, the OS is likely not the root cause.

In conclusion, the intermittent failure of a laptop keyboard and trackpad, while external input devices work, strongly indicates a faulty internal keyboard or connection problem. Software troubleshooting is secondary, but hardware inspection and repair are the definitive solution.

Question 74:

A user reports that their desktop PC is making loud clicking noises during operation, and some applications occasionally fail to load. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Failing hard drive
B) Faulty PSU
C) Overheating CPU
D) Malware infection

Answer: A) Failing hard drive

Explanation:

Clicking noises coming from a desktop PC are classic signs of hard drive failure.

A) Failing hard drive is the most likely cause. Mechanical hard drives use spinning platters and read/write heads. When the heads struggle to read data or fail to move properly, audible clicking occurs. Applications may fail to load because the system cannot access required files, leading to slow performance or crashes. Diagnosing a failing drive involves running SMART diagnostics, listening for consistent abnormal noises, and testing data access speeds. Backing up critical data immediately is essential to prevent data loss. Replacing the failing drive restores both functionality and stability.

B) Faulty PSU may cause random shutdowns or system instability, but it does not produce clicking noises. PSU issues typically manifest as power loss, flickering LEDs, or failure to start, not mechanical sounds associated with data access.

C) Overheating CPU can cause thermal throttling, system freezes, or shutdowns. While overheating can indirectly affect application performance, it does not produce mechanical clicking sounds. Cooling inspections are important but unrelated to the described noise.

D) Malware infection can degrade performance or corrupt files, but it does not cause physical mechanical noises. While malware may slow application loading, the clicking sound strongly indicates a failing hard drive rather than a software issue.

In conclusion, loud clicking noises combined with application failures strongly suggest a failing hard drive. PSU, CPU overheating, and malware may contribute to secondary symptoms, but hardware diagnostics and drive replacement are the definitive solution.

Question 75:

A user reports that their workstation boots very slowly and frequently shows a “Disk not ready” error. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Failing hard drive
B) Insufficient RAM
C) Outdated BIOS
D) Malware infection

Answer: A) Failing hard drive

Explanation:

Slow boot times accompanied by a “Disk not ready” error are classic signs of a failing hard drive.

A) Failing hard drive is the most probable cause because the system cannot reliably read or access critical boot files. Mechanical hard drives use spinning platters and read/write heads. Over time, components can wear out or suffer physical damage, resulting in inconsistent performance or failure to read sectors. Diagnostic tools like SMART monitoring utilities can help confirm impending drive failure by identifying bad sectors, high reallocated sector counts, or read/write errors. Backing up data immediately is critical to prevent permanent data loss. Replacing the failing hard drive with a new HDD or SSD restores boot reliability and overall system performance.

B) Insufficient RAM can slow system performance during boot if the OS must swap heavily to disk. However, RAM shortages do not generate “Disk not ready” errors. While adding RAM can improve overall system responsiveness, it will not resolve errors caused by failing storage hardware.

C) Outdated BIOS can lead to compatibility issues with newer storage drives or certain motherboard features. However, BIOS issues are unlikely to cause intermittent “Disk not ready” errors or severely slow boot on a system with previously stable operation. Updating BIOS is useful for long-term compatibility and stability but will not fix a physically failing drive.

D) Malware infection may slow boot times by loading malicious processes or delaying system services. While malware could theoretically interfere with disk operations, it rarely produces hardware-specific errors like “Disk not ready.” Malware removal may improve performance but will not restore reliability if the drive is physically damaged.

In conclusion, a failing hard drive is the primary cause of slow boot times and disk errors. RAM, BIOS, and malware may exacerbate performance issues but are secondary factors. Immediate data backup and replacement of the faulty drive are essential to restore system stability and prevent data loss.

Question 76:

A technician is troubleshooting a workstation that intermittently loses video signal on a connected monitor. Other monitors and cables work fine on the same workstation. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty video cable
B) Failing GPU
C) Loose power supply connection
D) Outdated operating system

Answer: B) Failing GPU

Explanation:

Intermittent loss of video signal when other monitors and cables work indicates a hardware-specific problem, most likely the GPU.

A) Faulty video cable can cause signal loss, but in this scenario, other cables work with the same GPU and monitor, ruling out the cable as the problem. Cable issues usually result in static, flickering, or no display consistently, not intermittent failure specific to a single GPU.

B) Failing GPU is the primary suspect. GPUs have components such as VRAM, cooling systems, and display output circuits that can degrade over time. Overheating, driver conflicts, or physical damage may cause the video signal to drop intermittently. Testing the GPU with a known-working system or running stress tests can confirm failure. Replacing or reseating the GPU often resolves signal instability and restores reliable display output.

C) Loose power supply connection could cause system instability or prevent components from receiving sufficient power. However, intermittent video loss while the rest of the system functions typically points to the GPU itself, rather than a power issue affecting only the video signal. Checking PCIe power connections is still important but is secondary to GPU failure.

D) Outdated operating system might cause driver incompatibility or software-related display issues. While updating the OS and GPU drivers is a good troubleshooting step, OS issues are unlikely to result in intermittent signal loss if the hardware functions properly under other conditions. The problem is hardware-specific rather than software-driven.

In summary, a failing GPU is the most probable cause of intermittent video signal loss when cables and monitors are verified to be functional. Loose power connections, outdated OS, or cables may contribute but are less likely to produce the described symptoms.

Question 77:

A user reports that their workstation freezes during large file transfers over the network, but other devices do not experience slowdowns. Which of the following is the BEST initial troubleshooting step?

A) Update network drivers
B) Replace network cable
C) Upgrade CPU
D) Scan for malware

Answer: A) Update network drivers

Explanation:

Network-related freezes during large file transfers are often caused by driver-level issues or compatibility problems.

A) Update network drivers is the most effective initial troubleshooting step because outdated or corrupt drivers can cause packet loss, disconnects, or system freezes. Network adapters rely on proper driver implementation to manage data flow efficiently. Modern operating systems periodically update drivers, but sometimes OEM or manual updates are necessary to resolve performance issues. Updating the driver ensures that the workstation uses the latest protocols, optimizations, and fixes for known network adapter issues.

B) Replace network cable may resolve issues if the cable is physically damaged or incompatible with the network speed. However, if other devices using similar cables and ports function normally, the likelihood of a cable being the cause is lower. Physical connection issues typically result in constant connectivity problems, not intermittent freezes specific to one device.

C) Upgrade CPU generally improves processing-intensive tasks but does not directly affect network throughput unless the CPU is severely underpowered for the transfer workload. In typical workstation scenarios, network freezes are rarely CPU-bound; they are more likely related to driver or hardware communication issues.

D) Scan for malware is a preventative step. Malware may consume network bandwidth or resources, potentially contributing to slowdowns. However, if other devices experience normal network performance, malware is less likely to be the root cause of isolated freezes during file transfers.

In conclusion, updating network drivers addresses the primary software-related cause for network freezes on a single workstation. Cable replacement, CPU upgrades, and malware scans are secondary steps and should only be pursued if driver updates do not resolve the issue.

Question 78:

A user reports that their workstation emits smoke and a burning smell immediately after powering on. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty power supply
B) Overheating CPU
C) Malware infection
D) Outdated drivers

Answer: A) Faulty power supply

Explanation:

Smoke and a burning smell are clear signs of hardware failure and pose immediate safety hazards.

A) Faulty power supply (PSU) is the most likely cause because PSUs handle the distribution of electricity to all components. A short circuit, capacitor failure, or internal component burnout can result in smoke, burning smells, and potential permanent damage to connected components. In such scenarios, the workstation should be powered off immediately, and the PSU should not be used again. Diagnosing involves inspecting the PSU for visible damage, testing voltages, and replacing it with a reliable unit. Safety precautions are critical to prevent fire or electric shock.

B) Overheating CPU can cause thermal throttling, freezes, or shutdowns, but CPUs do not generally emit smoke unless extreme catastrophic damage occurs. The CPU is less likely to fail in this manner compared to a PSU. Thermal issues alone would not produce immediate burning smells at power-on.

C) Malware infection cannot produce smoke or physical burning odors. Malware affects software and system behavior but does not generate electrical or thermal hazards.

D) Outdated drivers may cause system instability, freezes, or crashes. However, drivers cannot cause physical burning or smoke, as they only influence software communication with hardware.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the primary cause of smoke and burning odors. Immediate power disconnection, visual inspection, and PSU replacement are critical. CPU overheating, malware, or outdated drivers may cause performance issues but cannot create immediate physical hazards.

Question 79:

A technician is tasked with improving a workstation used for 3D rendering and animation. Which of the following upgrades would provide the MOST noticeable improvement?

A) Upgrade GPU
B) Upgrade CPU
C) Increase RAM
D) Replace hard drive with SSD

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

3D rendering and animation are highly GPU-intensive tasks.

A) Upgrade GPU is the most noticeable improvement because modern 3D applications offload rendering calculations, lighting, textures, and real-time viewport previews to the GPU. A powerful GPU accelerates rendering times, enables smoother previews, and supports complex shading and high-resolution assets. GPUs with higher VRAM can handle larger textures and multiple models without causing lag or stuttering. This upgrade directly improves workflow efficiency and reduces wait times in rendering pipelines.

B) Upgrade CPU affects overall system computation and multi-threaded calculations. While the CPU contributes to physics simulations, scene preparation, and some rendering tasks, most modern 3D software relies heavily on GPU acceleration. CPU upgrades improve performance but do not deliver the same noticeable improvement as a high-end GPU.

C) Increase RAM ensures that large projects and multiple assets can be loaded into memory, reducing swapping to disk. While important, adding RAM beyond what is already sufficient yields diminishing returns and does not significantly improve rendering speed if the GPU is underpowered.

D) Replace hard drive with SSD improves load times, caching, and project opening speeds. While this reduces wait time when loading large assets, it does not enhance real-time rendering performance, which is GPU-dependent.

In summary, GPU upgrades deliver the most significant performance improvement for 3D rendering and animation. CPU, RAM, and SSD upgrades are secondary enhancements that improve workflow efficiency but cannot match the direct impact of a powerful GPU on rendering performance.

Question 80:

A user reports that their laptop runs very slowly and the system fan is constantly at high speed. Task Manager shows the CPU at near 100% usage even with minimal applications running. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Malware infection
B) Insufficient RAM
C) Failing hard drive
D) Outdated BIOS

Answer: A) Malware infection

Explanation:

Constant high CPU usage with minimal applications is a classic symptom of malware infection.

A) Malware infection is the most likely cause because malicious software can run hidden processes in the background, consuming CPU resources continuously. Common culprits include cryptocurrency miners, spyware, or trojans that execute CPU-intensive tasks without user knowledge. The high system load causes the fan to run at maximum speed to dissipate heat, leading to increased noise and reduced system efficiency. Proper diagnosis involves running reputable antivirus or anti-malware software to detect and remove malicious processes. Monitoring Task Manager for unusual CPU usage and identifying unfamiliar processes can confirm malware presence.

B) Insufficient RAM can cause heavy paging to disk, but this primarily affects system responsiveness and memory usage rather than driving CPU to 100% under minimal load. RAM shortages slow down multitasking but do not explain persistent high CPU usage from background processes.

C) Failing hard drive may result in slow file access, read/write errors, or occasional application freezes. However, a failing drive does not directly cause sustained 100% CPU usage. While a failing drive can indirectly stress the CPU, the primary issue in this scenario is CPU-intensive software running covertly.

D) Outdated BIOS can lead to hardware compatibility issues or inefficient power management, but it does not create hidden processes that drive CPU usage to maximum. BIOS updates optimize performance and stability but do not resolve malware-induced CPU overloads.

In conclusion, the combination of high CPU usage, slow performance, and constant fan activity strongly indicates a malware infection. Addressing this through scanning, removal, and system hardening restores normal CPU usage. RAM, hard drive, and BIOS may be secondary considerations but are unlikely to be the root cause.