CompTIA 220-1101 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set8 Q141-160

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Question 141:

A technician is troubleshooting a desktop PC that fails to power on. The motherboard shows no LED activity, and the fans do not spin. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty power supply
B) Malfunctioning RAM
C) Corrupted operating system
D) Outdated BIOS

Answer: A) Faulty power supply

Explanation:

A) Faulty power supply, a desktop PC failing to power on with no LED activity or fan movement strongly indicates a hardware issue, specifically the power supply (PSU). The PSU is responsible for delivering regulated power to all components. If it fails due to degraded capacitors, short circuits, or voltage irregularities, the system may fail to start entirely. Testing the PSU with a dedicated tester or substituting a known working unit is the standard diagnostic approach. Visual inspection may reveal burnt connectors, discoloration, or a burnt smell, confirming PSU failure.

B) Malfunctioning RAM can cause POST failures, beep codes, or system crashes, but even with faulty RAM, the motherboard usually still displays LED activity or attempts to spin fans during the boot process. RAM failure alone does not typically result in a total power-off state.

C) Corrupted operating system can prevent the system from booting into the OS, but it does not affect the power delivery at the hardware level. If the PSU is functioning, the motherboard LEDs and fans would still activate even if the OS is corrupted. OS corruption is irrelevant to the system not powering on.

D) Outdated BIOS may prevent system boot with new hardware or cause incompatibilities, but the motherboard and fans would still receive power. The system’s inability to power on at all indicates a power delivery issue, not firmware. Updating the BIOS addresses compatibility or feature issues, not complete power failure.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most probable cause of the PC failing to power on. RAM issues, OS corruption, or BIOS problems would not prevent initial power delivery and motherboard activity. Ensuring a reliable PSU is critical to system functionality and hardware protection.

Question 142:

A user reports that their laptop’s touchpad is unresponsive, but an external USB mouse works perfectly. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty touchpad
B) Malware infection
C) Corrupted drivers
D) Operating system issues

Answer: A) Faulty touchpad

Explanation:

A) Faulty touchpad ,When a laptop touchpad is unresponsive while an external USB mouse works normally, the issue points to a hardware problem with the touchpad. Touchpads are typically connected to the motherboard via delicate ribbon cables, which can degrade or disconnect. Liquid spills, physical damage, or manufacturing defects can also cause intermittent or complete touchpad failure. Diagnosing this involves checking the touchpad in BIOS or using a hardware diagnostic tool to verify whether it is detected at the hardware level.

B) Malware infection can interfere with system responsiveness or control input devices. However, malware would not selectively disable the internal touchpad while leaving an external USB mouse fully functional. Malware affects processes system-wide, not just hardware-specific components.

C) Corrupted drivers can render the touchpad unresponsive within the operating system. Driver issues might cause erratic behavior, loss of gesture functionality, or complete failure. Updating or reinstalling drivers could resolve these software-level problems. However, hardware failure must be ruled out first by checking the touchpad at the BIOS or hardware level.

D) Operating system issues such as file corruption or misconfigurations can prevent input devices from working correctly. However, the OS generally does not block only the touchpad while allowing external input devices to function correctly. OS issues would likely manifest as broader input or system problems.

In conclusion, a faulty touchpad is the most probable cause of unresponsiveness when an external mouse functions normally. Driver or OS problems are secondary possibilities but should be verified after confirming the hardware functionality. Proper testing ensures the correct component is replaced or repaired.

Question 143:

A workstation used for multiple virtual machines frequently experiences freezes and high disk activity. Which of the following upgrades would provide the MOST noticeable improvement?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Running multiple virtual machines (VMs) is memory-intensive. Each VM consumes a portion of system RAM to operate efficiently. Insufficient RAM forces the host system to use disk-based paging, which is significantly slower than accessing data directly from memory. High paging leads to freezing and high disk activity.

A) Add additional RAM increases the memory available to each VM, reducing reliance on paging and improving system responsiveness. Monitoring RAM usage with Task Manager or hypervisor tools can confirm that memory is the limiting factor.

B) Upgrading GPU is beneficial for virtual machines that require GPU acceleration, such as CAD or 3D applications. For general office or server VMs, GPU upgrades provide little improvement in freezing caused by memory shortages.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD speeds up paging because SSDs offer faster read/write access than mechanical drives. While helpful, an SSD does not increase the total available memory. Excessive paging may still occur if RAM is insufficient, making SSDs a complementary solution rather than a primary one.

D) Upgrading CPU improves computational performance for CPU-bound tasks. However, CPU upgrades do not resolve memory constraints. Even a powerful CPU will idle if the system is constantly waiting for paging operations, meaning the CPU alone cannot solve freezing issues due to low RAM.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM directly addresses the performance bottleneck in virtual machine-heavy workloads. SSDs, CPUs, and GPUs can complement performance improvements but do not resolve the root cause of memory-related freezing. Proper RAM allocation ensures smooth operation of multiple VMs.

Question 144:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains rapidly, even during minimal use. Task Manager shows several unknown processes consuming high CPU resources. Which of the following is the BEST initial troubleshooting step?

A) Disable unnecessary background applications
B) Replace the battery
C) Perform a factory reset
D) Enable battery saver mode

Answer: A) Disable unnecessary background applications

Explanation:

Rapid battery depletion accompanied by high CPU usage from unknown processes indicates that background applications are consuming excessive power.

A) Disabling unnecessary background applications is the most effective initial troubleshooting step because it directly reduces CPU utilization, which in turn decreases power consumption and improves battery life. Task Manager can help identify and terminate these processes.

B) Replacing the battery addresses the symptom of a rapidly draining battery but does not fix the underlying cause if background processes continue to consume CPU resources. A new battery will also drain quickly without addressing the source of the load.

C) Performing a factory reset removes all applications and system modifications, effectively resetting the system. While this can resolve the issue, it is highly disruptive and time-consuming. Identifying and disabling unnecessary background processes is less invasive and often sufficient to restore battery performance.

D) Enabling battery saver mode reduces CPU performance, background activity, and screen brightness, which can extend battery life temporarily. However, it does not solve the root cause, which is excessive CPU usage from unnecessary processes. Battery saver mode is a mitigation strategy rather than a permanent solution.

In conclusion, disabling unnecessary background applications is the most appropriate first step. While battery replacement, factory reset, and battery saver mode can support recovery, they do not directly address the primary cause of rapid battery drain. Proper process management ensures long-term battery efficiency.

Question 145:

A user reports that their desktop PC emits a burning smell and smoke 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 odors immediately after powering on indicate a serious hardware failure.

A) Faulty power supply is the most common culprit. PSUs regulate and deliver electricity to all components. Internal failures, such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or damaged circuitry, can produce smoke and burning odors, posing a fire hazard. Immediate disconnection from power is critical to prevent further damage. Diagnosis involves inspecting the PSU visually, testing with a PSU tester, or substituting a known good unit.

B) Overheating CPU can lead to shutdowns or fan noise but does not cause smoke immediately at power-on. CPU overheating typically develops during sustained heavy workloads. Thermal issues alone cannot explain smoke and burning smells at startup.

C) Malware infection affects software and cannot produce physical smoke or odors. While malware can increase CPU or GPU usage and indirectly cause overheating, it cannot cause a component to smoke at power-on.

D) Outdated drivers can cause system instability, crashes, or errors but have no physical impact. Driver issues cannot produce smoke or burning smells.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most likely cause of smoke and burning odors at power-on. Overheating CPU, malware, and outdated drivers are secondary considerations but cannot produce the immediate, physical symptoms observed. Replacing the PSU is critical for safety and system recovery.

Question 146:

A workstation used for video editing frequently drops frames and stutters during playback of 4K footage. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

A) Upgrade GPU ,High-resolution video playback and editing, especially 4K footage, is highly dependent on GPU acceleration. Modern video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro, leverage GPU processing for real-time playback, effects rendering, and timeline scrubbing. If the GPU is underpowered or lacks sufficient VRAM, the system cannot render frames smoothly, leading to dropped frames, stuttering, and delayed responsiveness in the video timeline. Upgrading to a more powerful GPU provides increased parallel processing capabilities, higher memory bandwidth, and better support for GPU-accelerated codecs, directly improving real-time playback and rendering performance.

B) Upgrading CPU improves computational tasks such as encoding, decoding, and software-based rendering. A faster CPU may reduce rendering times for effects or encoding operations but has limited impact on real-time playback if the GPU is the limiting factor. In this scenario, dropped frames are more likely caused by insufficient GPU resources rather than CPU limitations. CPU upgrades are beneficial for render-heavy workflows, but not as impactful for playback of GPU-accelerated video.

C) Adding additional RAM allows larger projects and video clips to reside in memory, reducing paging and caching delays. This is helpful for handling multiple timelines or very high-bitrate video, but insufficient GPU power will still limit frame rendering in real time. RAM improvements enhance workflow efficiency but do not eliminate GPU-related playback issues.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD improves file access speeds, reducing load times for video clips, timelines, and assets. SSDs can help avoid playback interruptions caused by slow disk reads. However, if the GPU cannot process frames quickly enough, stuttering will persist even with faster storage. SSD upgrades are complementary but do not solve the primary bottleneck of insufficient GPU performance.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU provides the most significant improvement for stuttering and dropped frames during 4K video playback. While CPU, RAM, and storage upgrades support overall workflow efficiency, only a GPU upgrade addresses the bottleneck affecting real-time rendering and smooth playback. Selecting a GPU optimized for video editing ensures high frame rates, efficient timeline scrubbing, and reliable rendering performance for professional video projects.

Question 147:

A laptop exhibits intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity, while wired Ethernet connections function properly. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty wireless adapter
B) Malware infection
C) Corrupted drivers
D) Operating system issue

Answer: A) Faulty wireless adapter

Explanation:

A) Faulty wireless adapter ,Intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity when wired Ethernet works suggests a problem localized to the wireless adapter or its physical connection. Laptops commonly use integrated Wi-Fi modules or mini PCIe/ M.2 cards connected to antennas. Issues can arise from loose connections, damaged antennas, or a failing adapter. Diagnosing involves testing the Wi-Fi adapter in Device Manager or through a hardware diagnostic tool, checking for proper recognition and testing connectivity with multiple networks. Replacement of the Wi-Fi module or repairing the antenna connections typically resolves the problem.

B) Malware infection could theoretically interfere with network connectivity by blocking network access, modifying system settings, or consuming resources. However, malware rarely causes intermittent wireless-only failures while leaving wired Ethernet fully functional. Malware would likely result in broader connectivity issues or overall system performance degradation, not a hardware-specific connectivity problem.

C) Corrupted drivers may cause wireless adapters to function improperly, including random disconnections or failure to connect. Updating or reinstalling drivers is a valid troubleshooting step. However, intermittent hardware failure of the adapter itself must be ruled out first, particularly if the device is recognized inconsistently in the operating system or fails in BIOS-level diagnostics.

D) Operating system issues like misconfigured network settings or corrupted system files can prevent proper network operation. However, these issues generally affect all network interfaces, including wired connections. Since Ethernet functions correctly, the OS is likely operating normally, pointing toward a hardware issue with the wireless adapter.

In conclusion, a faulty wireless adapter is the most likely cause of intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity when Ethernet works. Malware, driver corruption, and OS issues are secondary considerations and should be investigated if the adapter is functional. Proper hardware diagnostics, driver updates, and module replacement ensure reliable wireless network performance.

Question 148:

A user reports that their workstation becomes extremely slow when opening multiple large spreadsheets, and Task Manager shows high paging to disk. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Opening multiple large spreadsheets simultaneously requires significant memory. Each spreadsheet consumes RAM for storage, calculations, and rendering. When memory is insufficient, the operating system uses disk-based paging to temporarily store data, which is much slower than RAM. High paging activity results in system lag and slow responsiveness.

A) Add additional RAM increases memory capacity, allowing more spreadsheet data to remain in memory and reducing or eliminating reliance on slow page files. This provides a noticeable improvement in performance when working with large or multiple documents.

B) Upgrading GPU may improve graphics rendering for 3D applications, gaming, or GPU-accelerated software. Spreadsheets are not GPU-intensive, so upgrading the GPU has minimal impact on opening or working with large spreadsheets.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD improves disk read/write speeds, reducing paging delays. SSDs can help mitigate performance issues when paging occurs, but they do not increase the actual memory available. If RAM remains insufficient, the system will still rely on disk paging, meaning SSDs complement memory upgrades rather than replace them.

D) Upgrading CPU improves calculation speeds for formulas, macros, and data processing. While this can benefit spreadsheet performance, high paging due to insufficient RAM creates a larger bottleneck. A faster CPU cannot compensate for memory shortages, as it will idle while waiting for page file operations to complete.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM provides the most significant performance improvement when working with large spreadsheets. SSDs, CPUs, and GPUs can enhance performance in specific areas, but only RAM directly addresses the memory bottleneck causing excessive paging and system slowdown. Proper memory allocation ensures smooth multitasking and efficient handling of data-intensive applications.

Question 149:

A desktop PC emits a burning smell immediately after powering on. Which of the following components is the MOST likely source of the issue?

A) Faulty power supply
B) Overheating CPU
C) Malware infection
D) Corrupted operating system

Answer: A) Faulty power supply

Explanation:

A) Faulty power supply ,a burning smell immediately upon powering on indicates hardware failure, typically originating from the power supply (PSU). The PSU provides regulated power to the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and peripherals. Internal faults, such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or electrical shorts, can produce smoke, burning odors, and pose fire hazards. Immediate disconnection from power is essential. Diagnosing involves visual inspection for burnt components, testing with a PSU tester, or replacing the unit with a known working PSU to determine if normal operation resumes.

B) Overheating CPU can lead to fan noise or thermal shutdowns, but it rarely produces smoke or burning odors immediately at power-on. CPU overheating typically occurs during sustained workload activity and is mitigated by thermal sensors and automatic shutdowns.

C) Malware infection can consume CPU resources or alter system behavior but does not produce physical smoke or burning smells. While malware can indirectly cause heat buildup, it cannot cause immediate physical hardware failure at startup.

D) Corrupted operating system affects software functionality and boot sequences but has no direct physical effect on hardware components. An OS issue cannot generate burning smells or smoke.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most probable source of smoke and burning odors at power-on. Overheating CPU, malware, and corrupted OS issues are secondary and do not produce immediate physical symptoms. Replacing the PSU restores safe operation and prevents damage to other components.

Question 150:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains quickly, even during light tasks, and Task Manager shows multiple unknown processes consuming CPU. Which of the following is the BEST initial step to troubleshoot the issue?

A) Disable unnecessary background applications
B) Replace the battery
C) Perform a factory reset
D) Enable battery saver mode

Answer: A) Disable unnecessary background applications

Explanation:

Rapid battery depletion accompanied by high CPU usage from unknown processes strongly suggests that background applications are consuming excessive system resources, leading to increased power consumption.

A) Disabling unnecessary background applications is the most effective first troubleshooting step because it directly addresses CPU utilization and battery drain. Using Task Manager, users can identify resource-intensive processes and terminate or disable them, reducing power draw and improving battery life.

B) Replacing the battery only addresses the symptom of a drained battery and does not resolve the underlying cause of high CPU usage. A new battery will also drain rapidly if the background processes continue to consume resources.

C) Performing a factory reset removes all applications, settings, and potential malware, restoring the system to its original state. While effective, it is highly disruptive and time-consuming. Disabling unnecessary background applications is less invasive and often sufficient to resolve battery drain issues.

D) Enabling battery saver mode limits CPU speed, background processes, and screen brightness, which can temporarily extend battery life. However, it does not address the root cause of high CPU utilization. Battery saver mode is a mitigation strategy rather than a permanent fix.

In conclusion, disabling unnecessary background applications is the most appropriate first troubleshooting step for rapid battery drain. Battery replacement, factory resets, and battery saver mode may support recovery but do not directly address the primary cause. Proper process management ensures efficient and long-lasting battery performance.

Question 151:

A desktop workstation used for virtual machines frequently freezes, and Task Manager shows heavy paging to disk. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Virtual machines (VMs) are memory-intensive workloads. Each VM requires a portion of the host system’s RAM to operate efficiently. When insufficient memory is available, the system uses disk-based paging to handle memory demands. This paging process is significantly slower than accessing data in RAM, causing frequent freezes, lag, and high disk activity.

A) Adding RAM directly addresses the root cause of this performance issue by increasing the available memory pool, allowing VMs to operate fully in memory without excessive reliance on paging. The result is smoother operation, faster response times, and reduced latency. Monitoring memory usage with tools like Task Manager or hypervisor-specific utilities can confirm whether memory is the primary constraint, guiding the necessary upgrade amount.

B) Upgrading CPU improves computational speed and can enhance virtual machine performance in CPU-intensive scenarios, such as complex simulations or compilation tasks. However, if the host system’s freezing is caused primarily by insufficient RAM, a faster CPU will not solve the bottleneck. The CPU can become idle while waiting for slow disk operations during paging, meaning upgrading it alone will not prevent freezes in memory-bound workloads.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD can improve paging speed because SSDs have faster read/write access than traditional mechanical drives. This may reduce the severity of freezing and improve overall responsiveness temporarily. However, an SSD does not increase the total memory available; if RAM is insufficient for the VMs running, excessive paging may still occur. Therefore, SSDs are a complementary solution rather than the primary fix.

D) Upgrading GPU benefits workloads that are GPU-accelerated, such as 3D rendering or graphical simulations running inside virtual machines. For general virtual machine operations, such as running multiple office or server VMs, the GPU is rarely the performance bottleneck. While a better GPU may enhance graphics-heavy workloads, it does not address freezing caused by low memory or excessive paging.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM is the most effective upgrade for a workstation running multiple virtual machines. It directly addresses memory limitations, reduces paging, and improves overall performance. SSDs, CPU, and GPU upgrades can complement performance but will not resolve memory-related freezes on their own. Proper RAM planning and allocation are essential to maintain stability and responsiveness in virtualized environments.

Question 152:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains rapidly even during minimal use. Task Manager shows several unknown processes consuming high CPU resources. Which of the following is the BEST initial troubleshooting step?

A) Disable unnecessary background applications
B) Replace the battery
C) Perform a factory reset
D) Enable battery saver mode

Answer: A) Disable unnecessary background applications

Explanation:

A) Disable unnecessary background applications ,Rapid battery drain, accompanied by high CPU usage from unknown processes, indicates that background applications are consuming significant system resources. The most efficient initial step is to disable unnecessary background applications, as this directly reduces CPU utilization and power consumption. Task Manager or resource monitor tools can help identify which processes are consuming the most resources. Terminating or disabling these applications reduces workload on the CPU, improves battery life, and may restore normal performance without requiring invasive procedures.

B) Replacing the battery addresses only the symptom, not the root cause. Even with a new battery, if CPU-heavy processes continue to run in the background, the laptop will continue to experience rapid battery depletion. This is an inefficient approach for troubleshooting the underlying problem.

C) Performing a factory reset removes all applications, user settings, and potential malware, effectively resetting the system to its default state. While this step could resolve the issue if misconfigured software or malware is causing high CPU usage, it is time-consuming and highly disruptive. Disabling unnecessary background processes is a less invasive approach that may resolve the issue without erasing user data.

D) Enabling battery saver mode reduces CPU performance, limits background processes, and lowers screen brightness, which can temporarily extend battery life. However, it does not solve the root cause of high CPU usage. Battery saver mode is a temporary mitigation rather than a permanent fix.

In conclusion, disabling unnecessary background applications is the most appropriate first step to troubleshoot rapid battery drain. This approach addresses the primary cause, restores normal battery performance, and avoids unnecessary disruption. Replacing the battery, performing a factory reset, or enabling battery saver mode may support recovery, but they do not directly eliminate the excessive CPU load from background processes. Proper monitoring and process management ensure efficient battery usage and prolong system lifespan.

Question 153:

A desktop PC emits a burning smell and smoke 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 odors immediately after powering on indicate a severe hardware failure.

A) Faulty power supply ,the power supply unit (PSU) is the most common culprit in these situations. The PSU regulates and distributes electricity to all components, including the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices. Failures inside the PSU, such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or other electrical malfunctions, can cause smoke and burning odors. Immediate disconnection from power is essential to prevent further damage or fire hazards. Visual inspection of the PSU may reveal burnt components, discoloration, or melted connectors. Using a PSU tester or replacing the unit with a known working one can confirm whether the PSU is the source of the problem.

B) Overheating CPU can cause the system to shut down automatically or trigger thermal throttling, but it rarely produces smoke or burning odors immediately at startup. CPU overheating generally occurs during sustained heavy workloads and is monitored by built-in thermal sensors.

C) Malware infection cannot produce physical smoke or burning odors. While malware may cause system instability or excessive CPU/GPU load, it does not affect hardware components physically to the point of smoke emission.

D) Outdated drivers may lead to system crashes or software errors, but they do not generate physical symptoms such as smoke or burning smells. Driver issues affect software communication with hardware but have no direct impact on electrical or thermal hazards.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most probable source of smoke and burning odors immediately after powering on a desktop PC. Overheating CPU, malware, and outdated drivers may contribute to performance issues, but they do not produce the immediate physical symptoms observed. Replacing the PSU is critical for safety and system recovery. Ensuring the integrity of power delivery protects all components from potential damage.

Question 154:

A workstation used for 3D modeling exhibits stuttering in the viewport when rendering high-polygon models. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

A) Upgrade GPU ,3D modeling and viewport rendering rely heavily on GPU processing power. High-polygon models, complex textures, and real-time lighting calculations require significant parallel processing, which is the strength of modern graphics cards. If the GPU is underpowered, viewport performance suffers, resulting in stuttering, dropped frames, and delayed interactions with the model. Upgrading to a more powerful GPU provides additional cores, higher memory bandwidth, and increased VRAM capacity, enabling smooth rendering of complex scenes in real time. Professionals working with CAD, animation, or 3D modeling benefit significantly from GPUs designed for workstation tasks, as they support optimized drivers and GPU-accelerated software features.

B) Upgrading CPU improves computational performance for physics calculations, simulations, and software-based rendering tasks. While CPU power is important for certain modeling tasks, viewport stuttering is generally GPU-bound. A faster CPU cannot compensate for an underpowered GPU when rendering complex models in real time.

C) Adding additional RAM allows larger scenes and textures to reside in memory, reducing paging and loading delays. RAM is critical for handling multiple complex assets simultaneously, but insufficient GPU power will still limit viewport performance. RAM improvements complement GPU upgrades but cannot eliminate stuttering caused by graphical limitations alone.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD speeds up asset loading and reduces delays when opening projects or importing large files. SSDs do not affect real-time rendering or frame rates within the viewport. While an SSD improves workflow efficiency, it does not resolve stuttering caused by GPU constraints.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU is the most effective solution to eliminate viewport stuttering in high-polygon 3D modeling tasks. CPU, RAM, and storage upgrades can enhance workflow and efficiency, but GPU performance directly impacts real-time rendering and smooth interaction with complex models. Selecting a workstation GPU optimized for 3D workloads ensures consistent, responsive performance.

Question 155:

A desktop PC used for multiple virtual machines frequently experiences freezes and high disk activity. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Running multiple virtual machines (VMs) simultaneously places significant demands on system memory. Each VM consumes a portion of the host’s RAM to operate efficiently. When memory is insufficient, the host system resorts to disk-based paging to handle the workload. Disk paging is substantially slower than RAM, causing frequent freezes, high disk activity, and system lag.

A) Adding additional RAM increases the memory available for both the host system and VMs, allowing data to be held entirely in memory without frequent paging. This reduces latency, improves responsiveness, and allows multiple VMs to operate simultaneously without performance degradation. Monitoring tools can confirm RAM utilization and guide the appropriate upgrade amount for optimal performance.

B) Upgrading CPU improves computational performance for CPU-intensive tasks, such as compiling code or processing large datasets within VMs. However, if the freezes are caused primarily by insufficient memory, a faster CPU will not resolve the bottleneck. The CPU may idle while waiting for slow disk paging, meaning the upgrade will have minimal impact on VM performance in memory-bound scenarios.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD accelerates paging operations by offering faster read/write speeds compared to mechanical drives. While this may reduce the severity of freezing and disk activity, it does not increase the total available memory. If RAM remains insufficient, excessive paging will continue, making SSDs a secondary solution rather than a primary fix.

D) Upgrading GPU benefits workloads that are GPU-accelerated. General office or server-based VMs rarely utilize GPU resources, making GPU upgrades largely irrelevant for freezing issues caused by low memory. While GPU upgrades improve graphics-intensive tasks, they do not address memory bottlenecks.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM is the most effective upgrade for virtual machine-heavy workloads. SSDs, CPUs, and GPUs can complement performance improvements, but only RAM directly addresses memory-related freezing and high paging activity. Proper memory allocation ensures smooth operation and stable performance for multiple VMs.

Question 156:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains quickly even during minimal tasks, and Task Manager shows multiple unknown processes consuming high CPU. Which of the following is the BEST initial troubleshooting step?

A) Disable unnecessary background applications
B) Replace the battery
C) Perform a factory reset
D) Enable battery saver mode

Answer: A) Disable unnecessary background applications

Explanation:

A) Disable unnecessary background applications ,rapid battery drain in a laptop during minimal use often points to excessive CPU usage from background processes. When Task Manager shows multiple unknown processes consuming significant CPU resources, the system is likely overworked by unnecessary software or potential malware, even when performing light tasks. The most effective first troubleshooting step is to disable unnecessary background applications. By doing so, CPU utilization is immediately reduced, which in turn decreases power consumption and improves battery life. Using tools like Task Manager or Resource Monitor allows the user to identify which processes are consuming the most resources and to terminate or disable them. This method directly addresses the root cause rather than merely addressing the symptom, making it both efficient and non-invasive.

B) Replacing the battery addresses the symptom of battery depletion but does not solve the underlying problem of high CPU usage. If the background processes remain active, a new battery will also drain rapidly. This approach is not an optimal first step because it does not tackle the root cause, and the user may end up spending unnecessary resources.

C) Performing a factory reset is a more extreme approach that restores the system to its original state, removing all installed applications, user settings, and potential malware. While effective in some cases, this solution is highly disruptive, time-consuming, and often unnecessary if the root cause can be resolved by managing background processes. Disabling unnecessary applications is far less intrusive and may resolve the problem entirely without requiring data loss or extensive reconfiguration.

D) Enabling battery saver mode is a mitigation strategy that reduces CPU speed, limits background activity, and lowers display brightness to extend battery life temporarily. While it may improve battery longevity in the short term, it does not address the actual cause of rapid depletion. The unknown background processes will continue to consume resources, and once battery saver is disabled or limited, the problem may reoccur.

In conclusion, the most appropriate first troubleshooting step for rapid battery drain with high CPU usage is disabling unnecessary background applications. This solution directly targets the primary cause, avoids disruption, and provides immediate improvement in battery life. While replacing the battery, performing a factory reset, or enabling battery saver mode may support recovery or temporarily mitigate the problem, they do not resolve the underlying resource usage. Effective process management, monitoring, and identifying unnecessary or malicious software ensure efficient power usage and prolong battery lifespan.

Question 157:

A desktop PC emits smoke and a burning smell immediately after being powered on. Which of the following components is MOST likely responsible?

A) Faulty power supply
B) Overheating CPU
C) Malware infection
D) Corrupted operating system

Answer: A) Faulty power supply

Explanation:

A) Faulty power supply a desktop PC emits smoke or a burning odor immediately after powering on, the most probable cause is hardware failure, typically involving the power supply unit (PSU). The PSU distributes regulated electricity to all components, including the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices. Internal faults such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or damaged circuitry can produce smoke and odor, creating a severe safety hazard. Immediate disconnection from power is critical to prevent further damage or potential fire. Diagnosing a faulty PSU involves a visual inspection for burnt components, discoloration, or melted connectors, and testing with a PSU tester or known working replacement unit.

B) Overheating CPU can lead to thermal shutdowns or throttling under heavy workloads. However, CPU overheating is typically gradual and occurs during sustained processing tasks. It rarely produces smoke or a burning smell at power-on. Modern CPUs have thermal protection mechanisms to prevent catastrophic failure, making it an unlikely source of immediate smoke.

C) Malware infection affects software processes and can increase CPU or GPU utilization, indirectly generating heat. However, malware cannot physically damage hardware to the point of emitting smoke or burning odors. It is not a plausible cause for immediate physical symptoms upon powering the system.

D) Corrupted operating system can prevent booting, cause crashes, or affect application performance. OS corruption affects software behavior only and has no direct physical impact on hardware components. It cannot generate smoke, burning odors, or electrical failure.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most likely source of smoke and burning odors immediately upon powering a desktop PC. Overheating CPUs, malware, and corrupted operating systems may contribute to performance issues, but they do not cause the immediate physical symptoms observed. Replacing the PSU is essential for safety and system recovery. Ensuring proper power delivery protects all other components and prevents potential fire hazards.

Question 158:

A workstation used for 3D modeling exhibits frequent stuttering when manipulating high-polygon models. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Upgrade GPU

Explanation:

A) Upgrade GPU ,3D modeling and viewport manipulation of high-polygon models rely heavily on GPU capabilities. Modern GPUs provide parallel processing, high memory bandwidth, and specialized rendering features that allow real-time display of complex models. If the GPU is underpowered, stuttering, dropped frames, and delayed interaction occur, reducing workflow efficiency. Upgrading the GPU enhances rendering performance, increases VRAM capacity for complex models, and ensures smoother interaction with textures, lighting, and shading. Professional 3D modeling software, such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and SolidWorks, often leverages GPU acceleration to optimize viewport performance.

B) Upgrading CPU improves computational power for calculations, simulations, and software-based rendering tasks. While a faster CPU can enhance performance in tasks like physics simulations or model calculations, viewport stuttering is primarily GPU-bound. A more powerful CPU cannot compensate for a GPU that lacks rendering capacity.

C) Adding additional RAM is beneficial for handling larger models, textures, or multiple projects simultaneously. More memory reduces paging and enables larger scenes to be cached, but if the GPU cannot process the graphical data efficiently, viewport performance will still suffer. RAM complements GPU upgrades but does not replace the need for a capable graphics processor.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD speeds up file access, loading large models, and opening project files. SSDs reduce waiting times for asset retrieval, but they do not affect real-time rendering or frame rates. Stuttering caused by insufficient GPU power is unaffected by storage performance.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU provides the most significant improvement for 3D modeling workloads, eliminating viewport stuttering and ensuring smooth interaction with complex high-polygon models. CPU, RAM, and storage improvements support workflow efficiency but do not directly address GPU-related performance issues. Selecting a GPU optimized for professional 3D applications ensures reliable and responsive performance in demanding modeling tasks.

Question 159:

A laptop’s Wi-Fi connection drops intermittently while wired Ethernet functions normally. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty wireless adapter
B) Malware infection
C) Corrupted drivers
D) Operating system issue

Answer: A) Faulty wireless adapter

Explanation:

A) Faulty wireless adapter ,Intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity when wired Ethernet functions correctly suggests a problem with the wireless adapter or its connection. Laptops typically have integrated Wi-Fi modules or mini PCIe/M.2 cards connected to antennas. Hardware issues, such as a loose connector, damaged antenna, or failing module, often result in unstable connections. Diagnosing this involves checking if the wireless adapter is recognized in BIOS or the operating system, testing connectivity with multiple networks, or replacing the module. Antenna inspection is also necessary, as physical damage can impair signal reception.

B) Malware infection can interfere with network performance or block access, but it rarely causes issues isolated to the wireless adapter while leaving wired connections unaffected. Malware typically results in broader connectivity or system performance problems, making it an unlikely cause in this scenario.

C) Corrupted drivers can prevent proper operation of the Wi-Fi adapter, causing disconnections or failures to connect. Updating or reinstalling drivers is a valid troubleshooting step. However, persistent hardware malfunction must be ruled out first, especially if the adapter is inconsistently detected or fails in BIOS diagnostics.

D) Operating system issue may affect network configurations, but OS problems generally affect all network interfaces. Since wired Ethernet functions normally, the OS is likely operating correctly. This indicates that the problem is localized to the wireless hardware.

In conclusion, a faulty wireless adapter is the most likely cause of intermittent Wi-Fi when wired Ethernet works. Malware, driver corruption, and OS issues are secondary considerations and should be investigated only if the hardware is functional. Proper hardware diagnostics, driver updates, and potential module replacement ensure stable wireless network performance.

Question 160:

A workstation running multiple virtual machines experiences frequent freezes and high disk activity. Which of the following upgrades would provide the MOST noticeable improvement?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Virtual machines (VMs) are memory-intensive. Each VM requires a portion of the host system’s RAM to operate efficiently. Insufficient RAM forces the system to rely on disk-based paging, which is significantly slower than accessing data in memory. High paging leads to system freezes, high disk activity, and lag when switching between VMs or running multiple workloads.

A) Adding RAM increases the memory available to the host system and its virtual machines, reducing reliance on paging and improving overall responsiveness. This upgrade directly addresses the bottleneck, ensuring smoother operation and better multitasking performance. Monitoring RAM usage can confirm if memory is the limiting factor, helping to determine the appropriate upgrade amount.

B) Upgrading CPU enhances computational performance for CPU-intensive operations such as calculations or encoding inside VMs. While a faster CPU can improve performance, it does not resolve memory limitations. Freezes caused by paging will persist even with a high-speed processor.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD accelerates disk-based paging due to faster read/write speeds, reducing the severity of freezes and disk activity. However, it does not increase available memory. SSDs complement RAM upgrades but cannot replace the need for sufficient memory in memory-bound workloads.

D) Upgrading GPU benefits workloads with graphics acceleration. For most VM use cases such as office applications or server simulations, GPU upgrades have minimal impact. While GPU resources may improve graphics-intensive tasks inside VMs, memory remains the primary bottleneck in freezing scenarios.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM is the most effective upgrade for virtual machine-heavy workloads. SSDs, CPUs, and GPUs can complement performance improvements but do not resolve memory-related freezes. Proper memory allocation ensures stability, responsiveness, and efficient multitasking when running multiple VMs simultaneously.