CompTIA 220-1101 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set5 Q81-100

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Question 81:

A technician is setting up a new workstation for a user who frequently works with large datasets and runs multiple virtual machines. Which of the following upgrades would provide the MOST immediate performance improvement?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Running multiple virtual machines and handling large datasets are highly memory-intensive tasks. The primary bottleneck in this scenario is system RAM, which is consumed heavily by each virtual machine and by large data processing operations.

A) Add additional RAM is the most effective upgrade because it directly increases the system’s capacity to store and process active data in memory. When RAM is insufficient, the system relies on paging to disk, which drastically slows performance, especially when multiple VMs are running. Increasing RAM allows each VM and application to have sufficient memory, minimizing page file usage and providing smoother operation. Proper RAM allocation in virtualization ensures stability, reduces latency, and avoids crashes caused by memory exhaustion.

B) Upgrade GPU primarily benefits tasks that require graphics rendering, 3D modeling, or video processing. While some virtual machines can utilize GPU acceleration for specific workloads, general database management or standard office virtualization tasks do not heavily rely on GPU processing. Upgrading the GPU may not produce a noticeable performance improvement for memory-bound workloads.

C) Replace HDD with SSD improves storage read/write performance, boot times, and application loading. While this reduces wait times for accessing VM disk images, it does not alleviate RAM constraints that cause slowdowns when multiple virtual machines are active simultaneously. SSDs complement RAM but do not replace the need for sufficient memory.

D) Increase monitor resolution enhances user experience and workspace, allowing the user to view multiple windows simultaneously. While this can improve workflow efficiency, it does not influence system performance, memory usage, or virtualization speed. High-resolution monitors may even slightly increase GPU load, making it irrelevant to the memory bottleneck.

In summary, adding RAM is the most impactful upgrade for a workstation handling large datasets and multiple virtual machines. While storage and GPU improvements are useful for specific workloads, memory is the critical resource in virtualization-heavy environments. Monitor resolution affects usability but not actual performance.

Question 82:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains within one hour, 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 in laptops is frequently caused by unnecessary background processes consuming system resources.

A) Disable background applications is the most effective initial step because these processes often run continuously, using CPU, RAM, and network resources, which increases power consumption. Applications such as cloud synchronization tools, messaging apps, auto-updaters, and analytics software may operate silently, contributing to elevated energy use even when minimal visible applications are running. Task Manager and battery usage reports can identify resource-intensive background processes. Disabling or configuring them to run only when needed significantly improves battery life without requiring hardware changes.

B) Replace battery immediately addresses the symptom rather than the root cause. While a worn-out battery can reduce overall capacity, premature replacement may be unnecessary if software optimization can reduce power consumption. Testing the battery health first helps determine if replacement is truly needed.

C) Factory reset the device removes software misconfigurations and unwanted applications, but it is invasive and time-consuming. Disabling unnecessary background applications is a targeted, less disruptive approach and should be attempted before a full reset.

D) Enable battery saver mode is a temporary mitigation strategy. Battery saver reduces background activity and lowers screen brightness, but it does not identify or resolve the actual cause of excessive battery drain. Disabling background apps provides a more permanent and precise solution.

In conclusion, targeting background applications is the most efficient first step to address rapid battery depletion. Hardware replacement or full resets are secondary measures, while battery saver mode provides temporary relief.

Question 83:

A user reports that their workstation intermittently loses network connectivity, while 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 one workstation experiences intermittent connectivity while all other devices remain stable, the most likely cause is hardware-related.

A) Faulty NIC (Network Interface Card) is the primary suspect. A failing NIC can lead to packet loss, intermittent disconnections, and inconsistent throughput. Physical damage, loose connections, or internal component failure can cause connectivity to drop sporadically. Testing the NIC involves replacing it with a known working card or using diagnostic software to monitor network performance.

B) Malware infection may consume bandwidth or corrupt system files, but it rarely affects only one device in a network while others function normally. Malware typically has broader system impact rather than causing isolated intermittent connectivity.

C) Router malfunction affects all devices on the network. Since only one workstation is impacted, the router is functioning correctly. Router issues usually manifest as network-wide outages, not isolated problems.

D) Outdated operating system can lead to network inefficiencies or driver incompatibilities. While OS updates can improve stability and performance, they are unlikely to cause intermittent connectivity limited to a single workstation.

In summary, a faulty NIC is the most probable cause of intermittent network loss when other devices remain unaffected. Malware, OS issues, or router problems may contribute in general, but the isolated nature of the problem points strongly to hardware failure.

Question 84:

A technician is configuring a workstation for virtualization and wants to ensure maximum performance. Which BIOS/UEFI setting is MOST critical to enable?

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

Answer: B) CPU virtualization extensions

Explanation:

Virtualization relies on hardware-assisted features to efficiently run multiple operating systems simultaneously.

A) TPM (Trusted Platform Module) provides security functions such as encryption and secure boot. While important for security, TPM does not directly affect virtualization performance. It is more relevant for compliance and secure credential storage than for running multiple virtual machines efficiently.

B) CPU virtualization extensions, such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V, are essential for allowing the hypervisor to manage virtual machines at the hardware level. Enabling these extensions reduces overhead, improves VM performance, and ensures stability. Without hardware virtualization, the system may rely on software-based emulation, which is slower and less efficient. Modern hypervisors like VMware, Hyper-V, or VirtualBox require these CPU features for optimal operation.

C) High-speed SSD support improves storage access times and VM disk performance. SSDs enhance responsiveness and reduce load times but do not influence the CPU’s ability to execute virtualization tasks. Storage speed is a secondary performance consideration.

D) Dedicated GPU acceleration can improve graphics-intensive workloads within VMs, such as 3D rendering. However, general virtualization performance is primarily dependent on CPU extensions, not GPU acceleration. GPU improvements are secondary and only affect specific workloads.

In summary, enabling CPU virtualization extensions is critical for achieving high virtualization performance. TPM, SSDs, and GPU acceleration are useful enhancements, but the CPU feature directly impacts how efficiently virtual machines operate.

Question 85:

A workstation randomly shuts down without warning, even during minimal 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:

Random shutdowns during minimal system usage are typically due to power delivery issues.

A) Faulty power supply is the most likely cause. A PSU that is failing or delivering unstable voltage can trigger system protection circuits, resulting in unexpected shutdowns to prevent component damage. Testing the PSU with a dedicated tester or swapping with a known working unit can confirm the failure. Replacing the faulty PSU restores stability and prevents damage to critical components like the motherboard, CPU, and storage.

B) Malware infection can cause system slowdowns or crashes but rarely triggers sudden power loss. While malicious software may indirectly stress the system, it does not replicate hardware-level protection mechanisms causing shutdowns.

C) Corrupted operating system can produce crashes, freezes, or blue screens but are unlikely to cause a complete power loss without warning. OS issues generally affect software operation rather than hardware-level power delivery.

D) Loose monitor cable affects display output only. A disconnected monitor cable may result in a blank screen, flickering, or loss of video signal but does not impact system power or cause shutdowns.

In conclusion, faulty PSU is the most probable cause of unexpected shutdowns. Malware, OS corruption, or monitor issues may contribute to secondary symptoms but do not directly cause immediate power loss. Proper PSU testing and replacement are essential for restoring system reliability.

Question 86:

A user reports that large files stored on a network-attached storage (NAS) are extremely slow to open on their workstation. Other devices do not experience similar slowdowns. Which of the following is the BEST solution?

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 often a network bandwidth issue.

A) Connecting via Gigabit Ethernet ensures higher, more stable throughput compared to Wi-Fi, which is subject to interference, signal fluctuations, and bandwidth limitations. Gigabit Ethernet provides consistent transfer speeds, reducing latency when accessing large datasets. This allows the workstation to fully utilize the NAS’s capabilities and reduces bottlenecks during file transfers.

B) Upgrade RAM improves local caching and allows applications to store more data in memory. While this improves responsiveness after data is loaded, network latency remains the limiting factor when transferring files over Wi-Fi.

C) Upgrade CPU accelerates local data processing but does not improve network throughput. File transfer speeds are primarily determined by network bandwidth and protocol efficiency, not CPU power.

D) Scan for malware may identify malicious processes consuming bandwidth, but since other devices on the network function normally, malware is unlikely to be the root cause. It may help as a secondary precaution, but the primary issue is network-related.

In summary, connecting the NAS via Gigabit Ethernet directly addresses the performance bottleneck, providing faster file access and reducing network latency. RAM, CPU, and malware scans may improve workflow efficiency but do not resolve the network limitation.

Question 87:

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:

Intermittent blue screen errors related to memory corruption are classic symptoms of faulty RAM.

A) Faulty RAM is the most probable cause because memory modules store active data, and any errors in reading or writing data can immediately crash the system. Faulty RAM can result from manufacturing defects, physical damage, electrical issues, or degradation over time. Memory corruption can occur sporadically, which explains why errors are intermittent and not consistently reproducible. Diagnostic utilities such as Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86 can test the integrity of RAM modules, identifying which sticks are defective. Once identified, replacing the faulty RAM restores system stability and prevents future blue screen errors.

B) Corrupted operating system can also cause system crashes and blue screens, but it usually produces errors related to specific system files or drivers. Memory-specific error codes indicate hardware-level failure rather than software corruption. Reinstalling the OS may temporarily improve stability but does not resolve hardware memory errors.

C) Malware infection can cause system instability, high CPU usage, and software errors. While malware may exacerbate crashes, it is unlikely to cause memory-specific blue screen codes. Malware typically affects software-level operations and does not induce hardware-level memory failures.

D) Outdated BIOS can lead to hardware incompatibility or inefficient memory management. While a BIOS update may enhance system stability or support newer RAM modules, it cannot repair physically damaged or faulty memory. BIOS updates are preventive or corrective for compatibility, not a replacement for defective hardware.

In summary, faulty RAM is the primary suspect when memory corruption triggers intermittent blue screens. OS corruption, malware, and BIOS issues are secondary factors and should be investigated only after verifying memory health. Proper diagnosis and replacement of defective RAM ensure stable and reliable workstation operation.

Question 88:

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:

When a laptop’s built-in keyboard and trackpad fail intermittently, but an external USB keyboard works correctly, this points to a hardware-specific problem.

A) Faulty internal keyboard is the most likely cause. Common issues include damaged ribbon cables, worn keys, liquid damage, or component failure. These hardware failures can prevent input signals from being sent to the operating system. Diagnosing the issue involves testing the keyboard in BIOS, reseating internal connections, or replacing the keyboard entirely. A working external keyboard confirms that the operating system and drivers are functioning, isolating the problem to the internal hardware.

B) Malware infection can interfere with system processes, but it rarely disables only the internal keyboard and trackpad while leaving external devices fully functional. Malware typically affects multiple system functions and would not manifest as intermittent, isolated hardware failures.

C) Corrupted drivers can cause device malfunctions, including keyboards and touchpads. Driver corruption often produces consistent errors rather than intermittent failures. Updating or reinstalling the drivers may help temporarily, but if the problem persists despite driver reinstallation, hardware is the more likely cause.

D) Operating system issues may affect input device recognition or software responsiveness. However, if an external keyboard functions correctly, the OS is likely operating normally. OS corruption would generally affect multiple input devices and system functions, not exclusively the built-in keyboard.

In conclusion, the intermittent failure of the internal keyboard and trackpad strongly indicates a hardware problem. Driver and OS troubleshooting are secondary steps, but replacing or repairing the internal keyboard is the definitive solution.

Question 89:

A user reports that their desktop PC is making loud clicking noises 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 from a desktop PC combined with application loading failures are classic signs of a failing hard drive.

A) Failing hard drive is the most probable cause. Mechanical drives rely on spinning platters and read/write heads to access data. When these components begin to fail, the heads may struggle to read sectors, causing audible clicking sounds. Applications fail to load because the operating system cannot reliably access required files. Diagnostics involve running SMART monitoring utilities or replacing the drive with a known good unit. Backing up critical data immediately is essential to prevent data loss, as failing drives often degrade rapidly.

B) Faulty PSU can cause system instability or unexpected shutdowns, but it does not produce mechanical clicking noises. PSU issues are generally related to power fluctuations rather than specific storage sounds.

C) Overheating CPU may result in thermal throttling, freezes, or shutdowns. While performance may be affected, the CPU does not produce mechanical noise, making it unlikely to be the cause of audible clicking.

D) Malware infection may slow application launches but cannot cause mechanical sounds. Malware affects software operation but does not produce hardware-related noises like those described.

In summary, the combination of audible clicking and application failures indicates a failing hard drive. PSU, CPU overheating, and malware are secondary factors but do not explain the described mechanical symptoms. Immediate data backup and drive replacement are critical.

Question 90:

A technician is configuring a workstation for video editing and wants to minimize frame drops when working with high-resolution footage. Which of the following hardware upgrades would provide the MOST significant improvement?

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

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

High-resolution video editing relies heavily on graphics processing.

A) Upgrade GPU is the most effective upgrade because modern video editing software offloads rendering, effects processing, and real-time playback to the GPU. GPUs have dedicated cores and VRAM for handling complex tasks such as color correction, transitions, and timeline previews. Upgrading the GPU reduces CPU load, smooths frame rates, and allows the editor to work with higher resolution footage without lag. VRAM is particularly important for storing large video textures and effects data in real time, which directly reduces frame drops and playback stuttering.

B) Add additional RAM helps when working with multiple large files or layers, allowing more data to reside in memory. While this reduces disk paging and improves overall system responsiveness, the primary bottleneck for real-time rendering and high-resolution playback remains the GPU.

C) Replace HDD with SSD improves file access times, project load times, and caching, which enhances workflow efficiency. However, SSDs do not accelerate GPU-bound rendering tasks or prevent frame drops during playback. Storage improvements complement GPU upgrades but are not the primary performance factor.

D) Increase monitor resolution affects display quality and workspace, but it does not enhance rendering performance. Higher resolution displays may even increase GPU load if the GPU is underpowered, potentially worsening playback performance rather than improving it.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU directly addresses the primary performance bottleneck in video editing with high-resolution footage. RAM and SSD upgrades enhance workflow efficiency but do not solve GPU-dependent frame drops, while monitor resolution is unrelated to rendering performance.

Question 91:

A user reports that their workstation freezes during large file transfers over the network, while other devices on the same network function normally. 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 freezes during large file transfers are often caused by driver-level issues or misconfigured network settings.

A) Update network drivers is the most effective first step. Network adapters rely on drivers to manage data flow, handle packet transmissions, and maintain stable connectivity. Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to packet loss, disconnects, or system freezes, especially during high-throughput transfers. Updating drivers ensures compatibility with the operating system, fixes known bugs, and improves network efficiency.

B) Replace network cable is a possible solution if the cable is physically damaged. However, if other devices using similar cables perform normally, the cable is less likely the root cause. Physical cable issues typically produce constant connectivity problems rather than intermittent freezes during large transfers.

C) Upgrade CPU affects local computation but does not directly impact network transfer speeds. Network performance issues are primarily I/O-bound rather than CPU-bound unless the processor is severely underpowered, which is rare in modern workstations.

D) Scan for malware is a preventative measure. Malware can consume bandwidth or system resources, potentially slowing network operations. However, if other devices are unaffected and the problem is isolated to one workstation, malware is less likely to be the primary cause.

In summary, updating network drivers addresses the most probable cause of intermittent network freezes during large file transfers. Cable replacement, CPU upgrades, and malware scans are secondary troubleshooting steps if driver updates do not resolve the issue.

Question 92:

A 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 burning smells are serious hardware failure indicators and potential safety hazards.

A) Faulty power supply (PSU) is the most likely cause. PSUs distribute electricity to all components and contain high-voltage circuits. Short circuits, capacitor failures, or internal component burnout can result in smoke, burning odors, and permanent damage to other components. Immediate power disconnection is critical to prevent fire or further damage. Diagnostic steps involve inspecting the PSU for visible signs of damage, testing voltage outputs, and replacing the unit with a verified working PSU.

B) Overheating CPU can cause thermal throttling, crashes, or shutdowns, but CPUs rarely produce smoke or burning smells at power-on. Extreme damage to a CPU could result in odor, but this is less common compared to PSU failures.

C) Malware infection affects software behavior and resource consumption but cannot generate physical smoke or burning odors.

D) Outdated drivers can cause system instability or performance issues but cannot cause immediate physical hardware damage. Driver issues affect software communication but do not create electrical hazards.

In conclusion, a faulty PSU is the primary suspect when smoke and burning odors are present. Immediate disconnection, inspection, and replacement are essential. CPU overheating, malware, or drivers are secondary considerations and do not create physical hazards.

Question 93:

A technician is upgrading 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 rely heavily on GPU processing.

A) Upgrade GPU provides the most noticeable improvement because modern 3D software offloads rendering, lighting, shading, and real-time previews to the GPU. A powerful GPU accelerates render times, improves viewport responsiveness, and allows for higher resolution textures and complex models. VRAM capacity is critical for handling large textures and assets without stuttering.

B) Upgrade CPU affects general computations, physics simulations, and multi-threaded rendering. While important, the GPU handles most of the graphics workload, so CPU upgrades yield less noticeable improvement for typical 3D rendering tasks.

C) Increase RAM allows larger projects to load without swapping to disk, improving workflow efficiency. However, RAM does not directly accelerate GPU-bound rendering operations.

D) Replace hard drive with SSD improves project load times and caching but does not enhance rendering performance. Storage upgrades complement GPU performance but are secondary in terms of noticeable rendering speed.

In summary, GPU upgrades provide the most dramatic improvement in 3D rendering performance. CPU, RAM, and SSD improvements support workflow efficiency but do not deliver the same rendering acceleration as a high-end GPU.

Question 94:

A user reports that their laptop runs slowly and the system fan constantly operates 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:

A) Malware infection constant high CPU usage under minimal load often indicates malware infection. Malicious software, such as cryptominers, spyware, or trojans, can run covertly in the background, consuming CPU cycles continuously. High CPU usage forces the system fan to operate at maximum speed to manage heat. Diagnosis involves reviewing Task Manager for unknown processes, running reputable anti-malware scans, and removing infected files. Malware can also impact system responsiveness, causing slow application launches and degraded performance.

B) Insufficient RAM can lead to paging and slow response times but does not typically result in sustained 100% CPU usage. RAM shortages affect memory-bound tasks rather than CPU-bound background processes.

C) Failing hard drive may slow file access or cause freezes but does not directly increase CPU utilization. While disk errors can contribute to system stress, high CPU usage is more consistent with malware activity.

D) Outdated BIOS may cause hardware inefficiencies or compatibility issues but cannot create hidden processes that consume CPU. Updating BIOS optimizes stability but does not resolve malware-induced CPU load.

In conclusion, malware is the most probable cause of sustained high CPU usage and fan activity. Addressing this through scanning and removal restores normal operation, while RAM, hard drive, and BIOS may contribute to secondary performance issues.

Question 95:

A workstation intermittently loses video signal on a connected monitor, but other monitors and cables work fine. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

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

Answer: B) Failing GPU

Explanation:

Intermittent video loss with verified working cables and monitors indicates a GPU-specific hardware problem.

A) Faulty video cable is unlikely since other cables and monitors function correctly. Cable issues generally cause consistent signal loss or flickering, not intermittent problems isolated to one GPU.

B) Failing GPU is the primary suspect. Overheating, damaged components, or failing VRAM can cause unstable display output. Testing the GPU in a different system or running stress tests can confirm failure. Reseating or replacing the GPU typically resolves the issue.

C) Loose PSU connection could affect the GPU, but if other components function normally and the issue is only video-related, the GPU itself is more likely the root cause.

D) Outdated OS might affect driver compatibility, but it cannot cause hardware-specific, intermittent signal loss. Driver updates may help but do not address failing hardware.

In summary, a failing GPU is the most probable cause of intermittent video loss when cables and monitors are verified. PSU connections, OS, and cables are secondary considerations.

Question 96:

A workstation freezes when opening multiple large applications simultaneously. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Freezing when running multiple large applications is usually caused by insufficient RAM.

A) Adding RAM increases the system’s ability to store active data, reducing reliance on page files and preventing slowdowns or freezes. Multi-tasking performance improves significantly when the OS can keep application data in memory instead of constantly swapping to disk.

B) Upgrade GPU primarily benefits graphics-intensive tasks such as 3D rendering, video editing, gaming, or machine learning workloads that leverage GPU acceleration. For general productivity tasks or multitasking between standard applications like web browsers, office software, or lightweight development tools, the GPU has minimal impact. Performance improvements in these scenarios are more effectively achieved through increasing RAM, optimizing CPU utilization, or improving storage speed. Investing in a GPU upgrade would not address slow application response or high memory usage during everyday multitasking, making it an inefficient solution for general performance enhancement in typical workstation environments

C) Replace HDD with SSD significantly improves file access speeds, application load times, and overall system responsiveness due to faster read/write performance. However, if the system is constrained by insufficient RAM, heavy multitasking or memory-intensive applications will still lead to freezes, slowdowns, or excessive paging. SSDs cannot compensate for limited memory, as RAM is the primary factor for holding active data and program instructions. While upgrading to an SSD enhances storage performance, addressing memory limitations through additional RAM is necessary to fully resolve performance issues and maintain smooth operation under heavy workloads.

D) Increase monitor resolution provides a larger workspace and allows more content to be displayed simultaneously, improving usability for tasks such as design, coding, or data analysis. However, it does not affect system performance, memory usage, or multitasking capabilities. Higher resolution only changes how content is rendered on the screen and may slightly increase GPU load, but for general productivity applications, it has negligible impact on CPU or RAM utilization. Therefore, adjusting monitor resolution enhances user experience and visual clarity but does not resolve performance issues caused by insufficient memory or processor bottlenecks.

In conclusion, adding RAM directly addresses the memory bottleneck causing freezes during heavy multi-tasking. Other upgrades improve specific areas but do not resolve the underlying issue.

Question 97:

A user reports that their workstation runs very slowly, and the system fan is constantly operating at high speed. Task Manager shows CPU at near 100% usage. Which of the following is the BEST first step?

A) Scan for malware
B) Upgrade CPU
C) Add RAM
D) Replace hard drive

Answer: A) Scan for malware

Explanation:

High CPU usage during minimal activity is often caused by malware.

A) Scan for malware is the best first step because malicious software can run hidden processes that consume CPU, causing fan activity and slow performance. Identifying and removing malware restores normal CPU utilization.

B) Upgrade CPU can provide greater processing power, faster computation, and improved performance for CPU-intensive applications, such as video rendering, simulations, or large-scale computations. However, it does not address the root cause of continuous high CPU usage if the problem is related to software inefficiencies, misconfigured applications, or background processes consuming excessive resources. Simply installing a faster processor will not resolve performance bottlenecks caused by poorly optimized programs, memory constraints, or persistent background tasks. Proper diagnosis, process optimization, and workload management are necessary to effectively reduce sustained CPU usage. Therefore, a CPU upgrade alone is unlikely to fix ongoing high utilization issues without addressing the underlying software or configuration problems.

C) Add RAM Adding RAM increases the system’s ability to handle multiple applications simultaneously by providing more memory for active processes, reducing paging to disk, and improving overall responsiveness. However, it does not reduce CPU consumption caused by malware or resource-heavy background processes. If malicious software is running, it can continue to use CPU cycles, generate network traffic, and degrade system performance regardless of available memory. Therefore, while upgrading RAM enhances multitasking and memory-intensive operations, it must be combined with malware detection and removal to fully restore system performance and prevent CPU bottlenecks caused by malicious activity.

D) Replace hard drive, especially upgrading from an HDD to an SSD, primarily addresses storage-related issues such as slow file access, long boot times, and delays in loading applications. While this can significantly improve overall system responsiveness and user experience, it does not impact CPU usage caused by hidden or background processes, malware, or poorly optimized software. High CPU utilization stems from tasks consuming processor cycles, not from slow storage. Therefore, even after installing a faster drive, the system may continue to experience lag, freezes, or high CPU load if underlying processes remain unchecked. Resolving CPU-related performance bottlenecks requires identifying and addressing the specific processes, optimizing software, or removing malware, rather than relying on a storage upgrade alone. Storage improvements complement performance but do not substitute for proper CPU and process management.

Scanning for malware resolves the primary cause, while hardware upgrades address secondary performance factors.

Question 98:

A user reports that their desktop PC boots very slowly and shows “Disk not ready” errors. 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 with “Disk not ready” errors indicate a failing hard drive.

A) Failing hard drive is the most probable cause, as it cannot reliably read critical boot files. Mechanical wear, bad sectors, or physical damage can prevent consistent disk access. Backing up data and replacing the drive restores system stability.

B) Insufficient RAM can significantly slow overall system performance by forcing the operating system to rely heavily on disk-based virtual memory or paging files. When active applications exceed the available physical memory, data must be constantly swapped between RAM and the slower hard drive or SSD, leading to lag, slow response times, and stuttering during multitasking. However, a lack of RAM does not cause disk errors, file corruption, or hardware-level storage failures. Disk errors are typically related to physical media issues, file system corruption, or storage controller problems, and are independent of memory availability. Therefore, adding RAM can alleviate performance bottlenecks caused by memory shortages but will not prevent or fix disk errors, which require separate diagnostic and repair procedures. Proper system maintenance involves addressing both memory limitations and storage integrity to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

C) Outdated BIOS can create compatibility issues with newer hardware components, such as CPUs, RAM modules, or storage devices, potentially leading to boot failures, instability, or limited functionality. However, it rarely causes specific errors like “Disk not ready,” which are typically indicative of storage device failures, loose connections, corrupted file systems, or faulty storage controllers. While updating the BIOS can resolve compatibility problems and occasionally improve system stability or performance, it does not directly address disk readiness or accessibility errors. Diagnosing a “Disk not ready” issue generally requires inspecting cables, power supply, drive health, or running diagnostic tools rather than relying solely on a BIOS update. BIOS updates should be performed carefully, as improper flashing can itself render a system unbootable.

D) Malware infection can indeed slow system boot times by loading malicious processes, modifying startup configurations, or consuming system resources. They can also interfere with normal system operations and degrade overall performance. However, when the system displays disk-specific errors, such as “Disk not ready” or read/write failures, this typically points to hardware-related issues rather than software causes. Common culprits include failing hard drives, SSD wear-out, corrupted sectors, loose connections, or faulty storage controllers. While malware can indirectly affect system performance, it does not physically prevent the disk from initializing or being recognized by the BIOS or operating system. Proper diagnosis involves testing the disk’s health using manufacturer tools or SMART diagnostics, checking cabling and connections, and replacing defective hardware if necessary, rather than focusing solely on malware removal. Addressing the hardware issue directly ensures system stability and data integrity.

In conclusion, replacing the failing hard drive resolves the boot issues. RAM, BIOS, and malware are secondary considerations.

Question 99:

A user reports that their workstation intermittently loses network connectivity, while other devices are 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:

Intermittent connectivity affecting only one workstation points to a hardware problem.

A) Faulty NIC is most likely, as damaged components, loose connections, or driver issues can cause sporadic disconnections. Testing with a known working NIC can confirm the diagnosis.

B) Malware infection, such as worms, trojans, or spyware, can significantly impact network performance by consuming bandwidth, generating excessive traffic, or interfering with legitimate processes. This can lead to slow internet access, degraded application performance, or intermittent connectivity issues across multiple devices. However, it is uncommon for malware to isolate network connectivity to a single workstation while leaving other devices fully operational. If only one device is unable to access network resources, while others on the same network function normally, the root cause is more likely to be a local configuration issue, hardware failure, or driver problem on that specific machine. Therefore, troubleshooting should focus on device-specific network settings, NIC drivers, firewall rules, or misconfigurations rather than attributing the problem solely to malware infection, which tends to produce broader network-wide symptoms rather than isolated failures.

C) Router malfunction typically impacts all devices connected to the network, causing widespread connectivity issues such as loss of internet access, failure to communicate with network resources, or interrupted services. Since only a single device is experiencing problems while others operate normally, the router is functioning correctly. This suggests the issue is isolated to the specific workstation, likely due to local network configuration errors, faulty network adapters, or software-related settings rather than a hardware failure in the router itself. Therefore, troubleshooting should focus on the affected device rather than the network infrastructure.

D) Outdated OS may impact driver compatibility, but the isolated nature suggests hardware failure rather than system software.

In summary, a faulty NIC is the primary cause, with malware, OS, and router issues as secondary considerations.

Question 100:

A technician is upgrading a workstation for high-performance video editing. Which of the following hardware upgrades would provide the MOST noticeable improvement?

A) Upgrade GPU
B) Upgrade CPU
C) Add RAM
D) Replace HDD with SSD

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

High-resolution video editing relies heavily on GPU performance.

A) Upgrade GPU is most impactful, as modern editing software offloads rendering, effects, and playback tasks to the GPU. A powerful GPU with sufficient VRAM ensures smooth real-time previews and faster render times.

B) Upgrade CPU aids in encoding and computation but has less impact on real-time editing if GPU is underpowered.

C) Add RAM improves project handling but does not enhance render speed directly.

D) Replace HDD with SSD reduces load times but does not improve GPU-bound tasks.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU delivers the most noticeable performance improvement for video editing. CPU, RAM, and SSD upgrades enhance workflow efficiency but do not directly accelerate rendering or real-time playback.