CompTIA 220-1101 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set9 Q161-180

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Question 161:

A desktop PC frequently fails to boot, and POST beeps indicate memory errors. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Faulty RAM
B) Corrupted BIOS
C) Overheating CPU
D) Failing hard drive

Answer: A) Faulty RAM

Explanation:

POST (Power-On Self-Test) beeps are diagnostic signals generated by the motherboard to indicate hardware issues during boot. When POST beeps point to memory errors, the most likely cause is faulty RAM. 

A) Faulty RAM modules are responsible for temporarily storing data that the CPU accesses during operation. If a module is damaged, has loose connections, or is incompatible, the system may fail to boot or experience intermittent crashes. Testing involves reseating the memory modules, running memory diagnostics, or substituting known good RAM to isolate the issue.

B) Corrupted BIOS could prevent booting, but it usually results in complete system failure with no POST activity, or the motherboard may display error codes unrelated to memory. BIOS corruption does not usually trigger memory-specific beep codes. Flashing or resetting the BIOS may resolve firmware-related boot issues, but it does not address actual hardware RAM failures.

C) Overheating CPU can cause system instability or sudden shutdowns during operation, but it typically does not trigger POST memory error beeps. CPU thermal issues occur when the system is running, rather than immediately during POST.

D) Failing hard drive affects storage access and can prevent an operating system from loading, but it does not prevent POST from detecting RAM or motherboard functionality. Hard drive failure does not generate memory-specific beep codes.

In conclusion, faulty RAM is the most probable cause of memory-related POST errors. While BIOS, CPU, and hard drives are critical components, POST beep codes specifically identify memory issues. Diagnosing and replacing the faulty module ensures successful system boot and stability.

Question 162:

A user reports that their laptop frequently overheats and shuts down unexpectedly. Which of the following is the BEST initial step to resolve the issue?

A) Clean the cooling system
B) Replace the CPU
C) Reinstall the operating system
D) Update the GPU drivers

Answer: A) Clean the cooling system

Explanation:

A) Clean the cooling system ,Laptop overheating and unexpected shutdowns are typically caused by thermal issues, most commonly blocked or dirty cooling systems. Dust accumulation in fans, heat sinks, and vents restricts airflow, preventing the system from dissipating heat effectively. Cleaning the cooling system with compressed air, checking fan operation, and ensuring unobstructed airflow is the first step in addressing overheating. Thermal paste between the CPU and heat sink may also degrade over time and should be replaced if necessary.

B) Replacing the CPU is an extreme step. Most laptop CPUs are soldered to the motherboard and are not user-replaceable. Overheating is generally caused by cooling inefficiency rather than CPU failure. Replacing the CPU without addressing cooling issues will not resolve the problem.

C) Reinstalling the operating system may improve software-related performance or remove malware that increases CPU load, but it does not address physical overheating. While high CPU utilization due to software can contribute to heat, the root cause is often thermal design issues or dust buildup.

D) Updating GPU drivers improves graphics performance but has minimal impact on overall system temperature unless the GPU is heavily used. In laptops, GPU overheating is usually also mitigated by the same cooling system as the CPU. Cleaning fans is a more direct solution than updating drivers.

In conclusion, the best initial step for resolving laptop overheating is to clean the cooling system. Addressing dust and thermal paste ensures effective heat dissipation. While CPU replacement, OS reinstallation, and driver updates may have indirect effects, they do not target the primary cause. Regular maintenance extends the laptop’s lifespan and maintains stable performance.

Question 163:

A user reports that their laptop screen flickers intermittently. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A) Loose display cable
B) Malware infection
C) Corrupted operating system
D) Outdated antivirus software

Answer: A) Loose display cable

Explanation:

A) Loose display cable ,Intermittent screen flickering on a laptop is most commonly caused by a loose or damaged display cable. The ribbon cable connecting the motherboard to the LCD panel can become partially disconnected due to physical stress, opening and closing of the laptop lid, or manufacturing defects. Diagnosing involves checking the connection to ensure it is securely seated and inspecting the cable for wear or damage. Reseating or replacing the cable often resolves flickering issues.

B) Malware infection may impact system performance, causing lag or instability, but it does not create hardware-specific flickering. Malware affects software functionality, not the physical transmission of signals to the display.

C) Corrupted operating system can cause graphical anomalies, but intermittent flickering is usually hardware-related. OS corruption would likely produce more consistent errors, crashes, or system instability rather than sporadic flicker.

D) Outdated antivirus software protects against malware but does not affect display functionality directly. It is unrelated to the symptom of screen flickering and cannot resolve intermittent display issues.

In conclusion, a loose display cable is the most likely cause of intermittent screen flickering on a laptop. While malware, OS corruption, and outdated antivirus software may affect overall system behavior, they do not directly cause physical display signal issues. Proper hardware inspection and repair ensure stable and consistent display output.

Question 164:

A user reports that their workstation experiences slow performance when opening multiple applications simultaneously. Task Manager shows high paging to the disk. Which of the following upgrades would MOST improve performance?

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

Answer: A) Add additional RAM

Explanation:

Slow performance when running multiple applications often indicates that the system is running low on available RAM. Each application consumes memory, and when the system exceeds physical RAM, it relies on disk-based paging (page file) to temporarily store data. Disk paging is significantly slower than accessing RAM, resulting in sluggish performance.

A) Add additional RAM increases the available memory pool, allowing more data to remain in memory and reducing reliance on paging. Monitoring memory usage confirms whether RAM is the bottleneck.

B) Upgrading CPU improves computational speed but does not directly address memory limitations. Even a faster CPU will idle while waiting for paging operations if RAM is insufficient. CPU upgrades are beneficial for computation-heavy tasks, but for memory-bound slowdowns, they are less effective.

C) Upgrading GPU benefits graphics-intensive applications, such as gaming or 3D modeling. For general productivity and multitasking, the GPU does not affect system responsiveness. GPU upgrades would not alleviate paging-related slowdowns.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD increases page file read/write speeds, reducing the impact of paging on performance. However, it does not increase the total memory available. Excessive paging will continue if RAM is insufficient. SSDs complement RAM upgrades but are not a complete solution for memory-related slowdowns.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM is the most effective upgrade to improve performance when multiple applications cause high paging activity. SSDs, CPU, and GPU upgrades support overall system efficiency but cannot directly resolve memory limitations. Proper memory allocation ensures smooth multitasking and stable operation.

Question 165:

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

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

Answer: A) Faulty power supply

Explanation:

A) Faulty power supply ,Smoke and burning odors immediately after powering on indicate a severe hardware failure, most likely from the power supply unit (PSU). The PSU provides regulated electricity to all system components. Internal failures, such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or damaged circuitry, can produce smoke and burning smells. Immediate disconnection from power is critical to prevent fire hazards and further damage. Diagnosing involves visual inspection for burnt components, discoloration, melted connectors, or using a PSU tester. Replacing the PSU with a known working unit confirms the source of the problem.

B) Overheating CPU can cause system instability or thermal shutdowns, but overheating typically occurs under load and does not produce smoke immediately at power-on. Modern CPUs have thermal protection mechanisms that prevent catastrophic failure.

C) Malware infection affects software and system processes, potentially increasing CPU/GPU usage, but it cannot generate smoke or burning odors. Malware is not a plausible cause for immediate physical hardware damage.

D) Corrupted operating system impacts software functionality and boot sequences but has no direct effect on hardware components. OS corruption cannot produce smoke, burning odors, or electrical failure.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most likely source of smoke and burning odors immediately after powering on. CPU overheating, malware, and corrupted operating systems are secondary considerations but do not cause immediate physical symptoms. Replacing the PSU is essential for safety and to protect all other components from damage.

Question 166:

A user reports that their laptop is extremely slow when opening multiple large spreadsheets. Task Manager shows excessive 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:

Working with multiple large spreadsheets is highly memory-intensive. Each spreadsheet consumes RAM for storing formulas, data, and calculations. When the system lacks sufficient RAM, it relies on disk-based paging to temporarily store data, which is significantly slower than accessing data in memory. Task Manager showing excessive paging indicates that the system is attempting to compensate for insufficient RAM, leading to sluggish performance and delayed responsiveness.

A) Adding additional RAM increases the available memory pool, allowing more spreadsheet data to reside in memory simultaneously and reducing the system’s reliance on the slower page file. This results in faster loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved overall system responsiveness.

B) Upgrading GPU improves graphics performance in tasks like gaming, 3D rendering, and video editing. Spreadsheets, however, are primarily CPU- and memory-dependent applications with minimal GPU utilization. Upgrading the GPU would have a negligible impact on spreadsheet performance. It is not the appropriate solution for addressing paging-related slowdowns.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD improves read/write speeds and can reduce delays caused by paging. While this may partially alleviate performance bottlenecks, it does not increase the system’s available memory. If RAM remains insufficient, paging will still occur, and the system may continue to experience slow performance. SSDs complement RAM upgrades but cannot replace the need for sufficient memory.

D) Upgrading CPU improves processing speed for calculations and formula computations. A faster CPU can enhance performance for complex calculations or large datasets, but it cannot compensate for memory shortages. When the system is heavily paging due to insufficient RAM, the CPU may remain underutilized while waiting for slower disk operations.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM is the most effective solution for improving performance when working with multiple large spreadsheets. SSDs, CPU upgrades, and GPU upgrades may enhance specific aspects of system performance, but only additional RAM directly addresses the memory bottleneck causing excessive paging and slow application responsiveness. Proper memory planning ensures smooth multitasking and efficient handling of data-intensive applications.

Question 167:

A user reports that their laptop Wi-Fi disconnects intermittently, while wired Ethernet works without issues. 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 while wired Ethernet functions properly indicates a problem localized to the wireless adapter or its connections. Laptops typically use integrated Wi-Fi modules or mini PCIe/M.2 cards that connect to antennas. Physical damage, loose connections, or failing modules can cause the adapter to function inconsistently. Diagnosing the problem involves checking if the adapter is recognized in the operating system, testing it with multiple networks, and inspecting antenna connections. Replacing the adapter often resolves the issue.

B) Malware infection can affect network performance or cause unexpected disconnections by interfering with network processes. However, malware typically affects overall system functionality, and it is unlikely to cause Wi-Fi-specific failures while leaving wired Ethernet fully functional. Malware may be a secondary consideration but is not the primary cause in this scenario.

C) Corrupted drivers may cause the adapter to malfunction or disconnect intermittently. Updating or reinstalling drivers is a valid troubleshooting step. However, if the hardware itself is failing, driver updates will not resolve the issue. Therefore, hardware inspection is the first step before assuming driver corruption is the cause.

D) Operating system issue can affect network settings and connectivity, but it typically impacts all network interfaces. Since Ethernet works normally, the operating system is likely functioning properly. OS-related network issues are unlikely to manifest solely as Wi-Fi instability.

In conclusion, a faulty wireless adapter is the most probable cause of intermittent Wi-Fi when wired Ethernet functions correctly. Malware, driver issues, and OS problems should be considered only if the adapter is functioning properly. Ensuring proper hardware diagnostics and repair or replacement of the Wi-Fi module is the most effective resolution.

Question 168:

A desktop PC exhibits stuttering when using multiple virtual machines simultaneously. Task Manager shows high paging 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:

Virtual machines (VMs) consume significant amounts of memory. Each VM requires a portion of the host system’s RAM to operate efficiently. When the total memory demand exceeds physical RAM, the system relies on disk-based paging. Paging is far slower than RAM access, leading to stuttering, high disk activity, and degraded performance.

A) Adding additional RAM increases available memory for the host and all running VMs, reducing or eliminating paging and ensuring smoother operation. Monitoring RAM usage confirms whether memory is the bottleneck and guides the necessary upgrade.

B) Upgrading CPU improves processing speed for CPU-intensive operations inside VMs, such as encoding or simulations. However, if stuttering is caused by insufficient memory, a faster CPU will be idle while waiting for slower page file operations. CPU upgrades do not directly resolve memory constraints and will have minimal impact on stuttering caused by paging.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD accelerates paging because SSDs have faster read/write speeds than mechanical drives. While this reduces the severity of stuttering, it does not address the root cause: insufficient RAM. SSDs complement memory upgrades but cannot replace them.

D) Upgrading GPU improves performance for graphics-intensive applications. Most VMs, such as server or productivity environments, do not heavily rely on GPU resources. GPU upgrades have little to no impact on stuttering caused by memory shortages or excessive paging.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM is the most effective upgrade to improve performance when running multiple virtual machines. SSDs, CPUs, and GPUs may enhance overall system efficiency but do not address the primary memory-related bottleneck. Proper memory allocation ensures smooth multitasking and stable VM operation.

Question 169:

A workstation used for video editing drops frames 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 editing, particularly 4K content, relies heavily on GPU acceleration. Modern editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve, uses the GPU for real-time playback, effects rendering, and timeline scrubbing. An underpowered GPU or insufficient VRAM leads to dropped frames, stuttering, and delayed responsiveness. Upgrading the GPU provides additional processing cores, faster memory bandwidth, and enhanced GPU-accelerated codec support, resulting in smoother playback and faster rendering.

B) Upgrading CPU improves software-based encoding and rendering speeds. However, real-time playback performance is often GPU-bound. A faster CPU may reduce export times but has limited impact on dropped frames during GPU-accelerated playback.

C) Adding additional RAM supports larger projects and reduces paging but does not directly address the bottleneck caused by insufficient GPU resources. RAM is important for multitasking and caching assets, but GPU power determines frame rendering in real time.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD improves file access and load times. While beneficial for large media projects, an SSD does not improve real-time frame rendering if the GPU cannot keep up. SSDs complement GPU upgrades but do not replace them as the primary solution.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU provides the most significant improvement in 4K video editing performance. CPU, RAM, and storage enhancements support workflow efficiency but do not directly resolve real-time playback bottlenecks caused by GPU limitations. Selecting a workstation GPU optimized for video editing ensures smooth, responsive performance for high-resolution projects.

Question 170:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains extremely fast even under light use. Task Manager shows high CPU usage from unknown processes. 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 depletion accompanied by high CPU utilization from unknown processes indicates that background applications are consuming excessive system resources. The most effective first step is to disable unnecessary background applications. Task Manager or resource monitor tools can identify processes that consume significant CPU resources. Terminating or disabling these applications reduces CPU load, power consumption, and restores normal battery performance.

B) Replacing the battery addresses only the symptom of rapid depletion. If the root cause—excessive CPU usage by background processes—remains, a new battery will also drain quickly. This is an inefficient troubleshooting approach.

C) Performing a factory reset removes all user-installed applications, settings, and potential malware. While effective, it is highly disruptive and time-consuming. Disabling background processes first is a less invasive approach that may resolve the issue without data loss.

D) Enabling battery saver mode reduces CPU speed, background activity, and screen brightness, temporarily extending battery life. However, it does not address the underlying cause of excessive CPU usage. It is a temporary mitigation rather than a permanent fix.

In conclusion, disabling unnecessary background applications is the most appropriate initial step to troubleshoot rapid battery drain. This directly addresses the root cause, avoids unnecessary disruption, and provides immediate improvement in battery life. Other measures like battery replacement, factory reset, or battery saver mode may complement recovery but do not eliminate the excessive CPU usage driving rapid depletion.

Question 171:

A desktop PC fails to boot, and the motherboard displays continuous POST beeps indicating a memory error. Which of the following should be checked FIRST?
A) RAM modules
B) Power supply
C) CPU
D) Hard drive

Answer: A) RAM modules

Explanation:

POST (Power-On Self-Test) beeps provide diagnostic information about hardware issues during the boot process. Continuous or specific beep codes often indicate memory-related problems.

A) RAM modules are the first component to check in such a scenario as the RAM modules, as these are the primary contributors to memory errors during POST. Faulty or improperly seated RAM modules prevent the motherboard from completing POST successfully, resulting in failure to boot. Troubleshooting involves reseating RAM sticks, testing each module individually, or replacing them with known good modules. Using diagnostic tools like MemTest86 can also verify the integrity of the memory.

B) Power supply is critical for providing stable voltage to all components. A failing PSU can lead to random shutdowns, instability, or boot failures. However, power supply issues rarely generate memory-specific POST beep codes. They usually cause the system to fail POST completely or display broader error signals rather than beeping codes related to RAM.

C) CPU problems can prevent booting or result in overheating. Faulty CPUs typically produce no POST output or display more generic error codes. While the CPU interacts closely with RAM, continuous POST beeps specifically referencing memory indicate that RAM is the more probable cause. Replacing the CPU without checking RAM would be premature and inefficient.

D) Hard drive issues affect operating system loading, file access, and storage operations but do not generate memory-specific POST errors. A failing hard drive may prevent the OS from booting but will not stop POST from completing if memory and CPU are functional.

In conclusion, RAM modules should be checked first when POST beeps indicate memory errors. While power supply, CPU, and hard drives are critical to overall system operation, POST diagnostics specifically identify RAM issues. Ensuring RAM integrity by reseating, testing, or replacing modules is the most effective initial troubleshooting step.

Question 172:

A laptop screen flickers intermittently, but external displays function correctly. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?
A) Loose internal display cable
B) Malware infection
C) Outdated operating system
D) Corrupted GPU drivers

Answer: A) Loose internal display cable

Explanation:

A) Loose internal display cable ,Intermittent screen flickering limited to the laptop’s internal display typically points to a hardware issue. The most likely cause is a loose or damaged internal display cable connecting the motherboard to the LCD panel. Over time, frequent opening and closing of the laptop lid can loosen or partially disconnect the ribbon cable, leading to flickering, ghosting, or dimming. Diagnosing involves inspecting the internal connections, reseating the cable, and ensuring there are no visible tears or frayed sections. If necessary, replacing the cable can fully resolve the flickering issue.

B) Malware infection can affect system performance, cause crashes, or trigger abnormal application behavior. However, malware does not directly affect the physical transmission of display signals to the internal LCD. Flickering that is isolated to the internal screen is almost certainly hardware-related rather than software-related.

C) Outdated operating system may cause compatibility or stability issues with software, but it does not produce intermittent physical flickering on a laptop display. OS-related problems would likely manifest as application crashes, errors, or system freezes, not as display inconsistencies isolated to the internal screen.

D) Corrupted GPU drivers could theoretically cause graphical anomalies. However, if external displays work correctly, the GPU and its drivers are likely functioning properly. Corrupted drivers usually affect all connected displays, not just the internal panel. Therefore, the problem is more likely a physical connection issue rather than a software problem.

In conclusion, a loose internal display cable is the most probable cause of intermittent laptop screen flickering when external displays function normally. While malware, OS issues, and GPU driver corruption are potential considerations, they do not match the symptom profile. Inspecting and reseating the display cable ensures stable screen performance.

Question 173:

A workstation used for 3D modeling exhibits stuttering in the viewport 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, particularly with high-polygon models, is heavily reliant on the GPU for real-time rendering and viewport manipulation. Modern GPUs offer parallel processing capabilities, high memory bandwidth, and specialized rendering features that allow smooth interactions with complex models. When the GPU is underpowered, stuttering, dropped frames, and delayed response occur, affecting workflow efficiency. Upgrading the GPU enhances rendering performance, increases VRAM capacity, and enables smoother real-time display of textures, lighting, and shading effects. This is particularly critical for applications like Blender, SolidWorks, or Maya, which leverage GPU acceleration for viewport rendering.

B) Upgrading CPU improves performance for software-based rendering, simulations, and calculations. However, viewport stuttering is primarily GPU-bound. A faster CPU cannot compensate for insufficient GPU power when rendering complex scenes in real-time. CPU upgrades may help with background rendering tasks but have minimal impact on viewport responsiveness.

C) Adding additional RAM is useful for managing larger scenes, textures, and multiple open projects. More memory reduces paging and caching delays, but if the GPU cannot process graphical data efficiently, viewport stuttering persists. RAM is complementary to GPU upgrades but is not the primary solution.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD improves file access, load times, and project opening speeds. However, stuttering during real-time interaction with high-polygon models is not caused by storage limitations. SSDs enhance workflow efficiency but do not address the primary rendering bottleneck.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU is the most effective method to resolve viewport stuttering in 3D modeling. CPU, RAM, and storage improvements support workflow efficiency but do not directly address GPU-related performance limitations. Selecting a GPU optimized for professional 3D applications ensures smooth, responsive performance for complex scenes.

Question 174:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains rapidly even during light usage. 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:

Rapid battery drain, combined with high CPU usage from unknown processes, strongly indicates that background applications are consuming excessive system resources.

A) Disabling unnecessary background applications is the most effective first step. Tools like Task Manager or Resource Monitor can identify resource-intensive processes, which can then be terminated or disabled to reduce CPU usage and power consumption. This directly addresses the root cause and provides immediate improvement in battery performance.

B) Replacing the battery addresses the symptom but not the underlying cause. If excessive CPU usage persists, a new battery will also drain quickly. Battery replacement without resolving background process issues is inefficient and unnecessary at this stage.

C) Performing a factory reset removes installed applications, settings, and potential malware. While effective in extreme cases, it is highly disruptive, time-consuming, and often unnecessary if background process management resolves the problem. This step should be considered only if simpler troubleshooting fails.

D) Enabling battery saver mode reduces CPU speed, limits background activity, and dims the display. While it may temporarily improve battery life, it does not eliminate the root cause of high CPU usage. Battery saver mode acts as a temporary mitigation rather than a permanent fix.

In conclusion, disabling unnecessary background applications is the most appropriate first step for troubleshooting rapid battery drain. This approach directly targets the primary cause, avoids unnecessary disruption, and provides immediate improvement. Other options, such as battery replacement, factory reset, or battery saver mode, may complement recovery but do not resolve excessive CPU usage. Proper monitoring and management of background processes ensure efficient battery usage and prolonged system life.

Question 175:

A desktop PC emits smoke and a burning smell immediately after powering 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 ,Smoke and burning odors immediately after powering on indicate severe hardware failure, most commonly originating from the power supply unit (PSU). The PSU delivers regulated electricity to all components, including the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices. Internal faults such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or damaged circuitry can cause smoke and burning odors. Immediate disconnection from power is critical to prevent fire hazards or further damage. Diagnosing the issue involves visual inspection for burnt components, discoloration, or melted connectors, and using a PSU tester or known working replacement to confirm the problem.

B) Overheating CPU may cause instability or automatic shutdowns, but it rarely produces smoke immediately at power-on. Modern CPUs have thermal protection mechanisms to prevent catastrophic damage. CPU overheating typically occurs under sustained workloads, not instantaneously during power-on.

C) Malware infection affects software and may increase CPU or GPU usage, but it cannot generate smoke or burning odors. Malware is irrelevant as a cause for immediate physical hardware failure.

D) Corrupted operating system impacts software functionality and boot processes but does not cause physical hardware symptoms such as smoke or burning odors. OS issues cannot produce immediate physical hazards.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most likely source of smoke and burning odors immediately after powering on a desktop PC. CPU overheating, malware, and OS corruption do not match the observed symptoms. Replacing the PSU is essential for safety and to prevent damage to other components. Ensuring stable power delivery protects the system and restores safe operation.

Question 176:

A workstation used for video editing drops frames 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 ,Video editing, particularly with high-resolution 4K footage, relies heavily on GPU acceleration for real-time playback, rendering, and effects processing. Modern video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro, leverages GPU cores for parallel processing of frames and effects, significantly reducing dropped frames and stuttering. An underpowered GPU or insufficient VRAM can lead to laggy playback, slow timeline scrubbing, and delays when applying visual effects. Upgrading the GPU enhances rendering throughput, increases VRAM to handle larger frames and textures, and ensures smoother playback of 4K or higher-resolution footage, which is critical for professional video editing workflows.

B) Upgrading CPU improves software-based encoding, decoding, and rendering tasks. While this can accelerate export times and complex simulations, real-time playback is often GPU-bound. A faster CPU may not resolve dropped frames caused by inadequate GPU performance. CPU upgrades are beneficial for tasks that do not leverage GPU acceleration but have limited impact on playback in GPU-intensive workflows.

C) Adding additional RAM allows larger projects and multiple assets to be cached in memory, reducing reliance on disk-based paging. RAM improvements complement GPU upgrades by preventing system bottlenecks due to insufficient memory. However, without adequate GPU performance, viewport playback of 4K footage will remain choppy, making RAM less critical for this specific issue.

D) Replacing HDD with SSD improves file access times, reducing delays when loading projects or media assets. While this helps overall workflow efficiency, SSDs do not directly impact real-time playback performance if the GPU is unable to render frames quickly. SSDs complement the GPU by ensuring media is readily accessible but cannot replace the need for a strong graphics processor.

In conclusion, upgrading the GPU provides the most significant improvement for 4K video playback. While CPU, RAM, and storage upgrades support workflow efficiency, GPU performance is the primary bottleneck in real-time video rendering and playback. Selecting a workstation GPU optimized for video editing ensures smooth, responsive performance, faster effects processing, and a reliable editing experience for high-resolution projects.

Question 177:

A user reports that their laptop battery drains rapidly despite minimal usage. Task Manager shows several 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 combined with high CPU usage from unknown processes indicates that background applications are consuming excessive system resources. The most effective first troubleshooting step is to disable unnecessary background applications. Task Manager or Resource Monitor allows identification of processes that consume high CPU or memory. Terminating these processes reduces CPU load, lowers power consumption, and restores normal battery life. This approach directly addresses the root cause, is non-disruptive, and often provides immediate improvement.

B) Replacing the battery only addresses the symptom of rapid depletion. If high CPU usage persists due to background processes, a new battery will also drain quickly. Replacing the battery without addressing the root cause is inefficient and may result in unnecessary expense.

C) Performing a factory reset removes all installed applications, user settings, and potential malware. While effective in extreme cases, it is highly disruptive and time-consuming. Disabling background processes first may solve the issue without resorting to a complete reset, making it a less intrusive and more practical approach.

D) Enabling battery saver mode reduces CPU speed, background activity, and screen brightness to temporarily extend battery life. While this may mitigate battery drain in the short term, it does not eliminate the underlying problem of excessive CPU usage from unknown processes. Battery saver mode is a temporary workaround rather than a permanent fix.

In conclusion, disabling unnecessary background applications is the most appropriate initial step. This solution directly targets the cause of excessive power consumption, avoids unnecessary disruption, and provides immediate improvement. Battery replacement, factory reset, or battery saver mode may support recovery but do not resolve the root cause. Proper monitoring and management of background processes ensure efficient CPU utilization and prolonged battery life.

Question 178:

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 ,Smoke and burning odors immediately after powering on indicate severe hardware failure, most often originating from the power supply unit (PSU). The PSU delivers regulated power to all components, including the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices. Internal failures such as shorted capacitors, arcing, or damaged circuitry can produce smoke and odors. Immediate disconnection from power is crucial to prevent fire hazards or further damage. Diagnosing the PSU involves visual inspection for burnt components, discoloration, melted connectors, and testing with a PSU tester or replacement unit.

B) Overheating CPU can cause system instability or shutdowns, but it rarely produces smoke immediately upon power-on. Modern CPUs have thermal protection mechanisms to prevent catastrophic damage, and overheating usually occurs under load rather than instantly.

C) Malware infection may cause software-related issues, high CPU usage, or system crashes. However, malware cannot cause immediate physical damage that results in smoke or burning smells. It is irrelevant as a cause for hardware failure.

D) Corrupted operating system affect software and boot processes but cannot produce physical hardware symptoms. While OS corruption may prevent the system from booting or functioning properly, it does not cause smoke or odors.

In conclusion, a faulty power supply is the most likely cause of smoke and burning odors immediately upon powering on a desktop PC. CPU overheating, malware, and OS corruption do not match the symptoms. Replacing the PSU is essential to ensure safety, protect other components, and restore proper system operation. Proper power regulation prevents catastrophic hardware failure.

Question 179:

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 are highly memory-intensive. Each VM requires a dedicated portion of RAM to operate efficiently. When total memory demand exceeds physical RAM, the system relies on disk-based paging, which is significantly slower than accessing RAM. This results in frequent freezes, high disk activity, and overall sluggish performance.

A) Adding additional RAM increases available memory, reduces reliance on paging, and improves stability when running multiple VMs simultaneously. Monitoring RAM usage can confirm whether memory is the limiting factor and guide the amount of RAM required.

B) Upgrading CPU improves performance for CPU-intensive calculations within VMs, but memory shortages still cause the system to page excessively. A faster CPU does not resolve freezing caused by insufficient RAM. CPU upgrades are beneficial for computational tasks but cannot replace memory requirements.

C) Replacing HDD with SSD speeds up paging because SSDs are faster than traditional hard drives. While this can reduce the severity of freezes, it does not address the root cause: insufficient RAM. SSDs complement RAM upgrades but do not solve memory shortages alone.

D) Upgrading GPU improves graphics performance, but most VMs do not rely heavily on GPU resources. GPU upgrades have little to no effect on freezes caused by memory limitations or high paging activity.

In conclusion, adding additional RAM provides the most noticeable improvement for running multiple virtual machines. CPU, SSD, and GPU upgrades can complement performance, but memory is the primary limiting factor. Proper RAM allocation ensures stable operation, smooth multitasking, and reduced reliance on slow paging.

Question 180:

A user reports that their laptop Wi-Fi connection drops intermittently, while wired Ethernet works without issues. 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 while wired Ethernet works normally indicates a localized issue with the wireless adapter or its antenna connections. Laptops often use integrated or removable wireless modules (mini PCIe or M.2 cards). Hardware damage, loose connections, or failing modules can result in inconsistent signal reception and connection drops. Diagnosing the problem involves verifying the adapter in Device Manager, checking network functionality with multiple SSIDs, and inspecting antenna connections. Replacement of the wireless module often resolves the issue.

B) Malware infection can interfere with network processes and cause disconnections. However, malware rarely affects only Wi-Fi while leaving wired Ethernet unaffected. Malware is an unlikely cause in this scenario.

C) Corrupted drivers may cause the wireless adapter to malfunction. Reinstalling or updating drivers is a valid troubleshooting step. However, if the hardware is failing, driver updates will not fix intermittent disconnections. Hardware inspection should precede driver troubleshooting.

D) Operating system issues can affect network configuration and settings. However, since wired Ethernet works correctly, the OS is likely functioning properly. OS issues generally affect all network interfaces, not just Wi-Fi.

In conclusion, a faulty wireless adapter is the most probable cause of intermittent Wi-Fi when wired Ethernet works correctly. Malware, driver corruption, and OS issues are secondary considerations but should be investigated only if hardware is verified to be functional. Proper diagnostics and replacement ensure stable wireless connectivity.