CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1001) Practice Exam Notes

Key Topics and Questions

RAM Installation

• Question 1: Technician likely to install DDR4 RAM for desktop upgrades.
  • SO-DIMM modules for laptops.
  • ECC for servers.
  • VRAM for graphics cards.

Printer Issues

• Question 2: Vertical streaks on laser printouts likely due to the drum unit.
  • Toner buildup or drum damage.

HDMI and HDCP

• Question 3: Error "HDMI content disabled" due to projector not supporting HDCP.

Wireless Network Channels

• Question 4: Inability to switch to a channel due to it being restricted for licensed band use.

Virtual Machines

• Question 5: Enable TPM for setting up a virtual machine host.

Network Connectivity Tools

• Question 6: Use a toner probe to identify network ports on patch panels.

Projector Connectivity

• Question 7: Resolve video without sound issue by using HDMI connection.

Network Cabling

• Question 8: Cat 5 cables limit to 100 Mbps; upgrade to Cat 5e or higher for gigabit.

Webcam Issues

• Question 9: Close other applications using the webcam.

NFC for Security

• Question 10: NFC (Near Field Communication) used for secure authentication.

Wireless Standards

• Question 11: 802.11n supports MIMO technology.

Monitor Input

• Question 12: "No input signal" issue resolved by changing monitor input selection.

Mobile Device Touchscreen

• Question 13: Digitizer detects input on touchscreen.

Beep Codes and RAM

• Question 14: Three beeps on boot indicate RAM issues; check RAM seating.

Print Security

• Question 15: Require PIN/badge for print release to reduce costs.

Cloud Computing

• Question 16: Rapid elasticity allows scaling resources up or down.
• Question 18: Use of private cloud for sensitive health records.
• Question 19: Metered utilization means pay-as-you-use.

Overheating and Battery Issues

• Question 20: Laptop bulge and overheating likely due to battery.

Printer Duplex Settings

• Question 21: Enable duplex setting in printer for double-sided printing.

Wireless Interference

• Question 22: Overlapping channels cause signal loss; assign non-overlapping channels.

Data Access

• Question 23: Private cloud allows data access during internet outages.

NVMe Upgrade

• Question 24: Ensure PCIe m.2 connection for NVMe drives.

Laptop Screen Issues

• Question 25: Check backlight if screen appears dim.

Hard Drive Troubleshooting

• Question 26: SMART failures suggest imminent hard drive problems.

Boot Order Issues

• Question 27: Error after a beep could indicate boot order problem.

Virtualization Settings

• Question 28: Enable VT-d in BIOS for hypervisor issues.

Smartphone Overheating

• Question 29: Overheating and charge issues typically due to a defective battery.

Secure Data Transfer

• Question 30: Use USB flash drive and BitLocker To Go for secure data.

Network Segmentation

• Question 31: Use a router to isolate traffic into different broadcast domains.

Charging Port Issues

• Question 32: Check for debris in the charging port if the cable doesn't fit.

DHCP and Network Issues

• Question 33: Check DHCP settings for network connectivity problems.

Printer Alignment

• Question 34: Adjust page orientation for proper label alignment.

Clicking Sound in Computers

• Question 35: Clicking noise often indicates hard drive failure.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Question 36: After gathering information, establish a theory of probable cause.

Cross-Platform Virtualization

• Question 37: Allows running Windows software on Mac OS.

DSL and POTS Lines

• Question 38: Both use the same phone lines; outage suggests DSL problem.

Load Balancing

• Question 39: Use load balancer to optimize server traffic.

Fingerprint Scanner Issues

• Question 40: Inquire about recent changes to troubleshoot fingerprint scanner.

Paper Jam in Printers

• Question 41: Check for obstructions in the paper path.

PaaS Cloud Model

• Question 42: Ideal for application development environments.

Dot Matrix Printer Issues

• Question 43: Faint initial copy suggests ribbon replacement.

Secure Laptop Authentication

• Question 44: Use built-in fingerprint readers for user-specific access.

Degraded RAID Discs

• Question 45: Indicates RAID failure; check RAID setup.

Missing OS Error

• Question 46: Usually due to bootable device not found.

RAID Configurations

• Question 47: RAID 1 for mirroring and redundancy.

VLAN Technology

• Question 48: Allows single switch to manage multiple networks.

CMOS Battery

• Question 49: Replace to fix clock reset issues on startup.

Data Backup

• Question 50: Backup data when hearing clicking sound from HDD.

Internet Connectivity Solutions

• Question 51: Use mobile hotspot for quick internet access.

VDI Solutions

• Question 52: Provide controlled desktop environments with VDI.

Cable Crimping Tool

• Question 53: Use a crimper to secure RJ45 connectors.

FTP Protocol

• Question 54: Operates over TCP ports 20 and 21, unencrypted.

RAM Upgrades for Multitasking

• Question 55: Upgrade RAM to improve multitasking.

Isolation in Virtualization

• Question 56: Prevents VM issues from impacting others.

Personal Area Network

• Question 57: Network setup between smartphone and laptop.

Spam Email Solutions

• Question 58: Update keyword filtering for spam gateway.

Laser Printer Streaks

• Question 59: Clean the drum to resolve streaking issues.

Power Supply in Data Centers

• Question 60: Use a UPS for maintaining operations during outages.

Storage Device Speed

• Question 61: m.2 drives provide high-speed access.

Two-Factor Authentication

• Question 62: Use password and fingerprint for security.

Web Server Role

• Question 63: Hosts homepages and business portals.

Keystroke Issues

• Question 64: Clean keyboard to resolve unregistered keystrokes.

Mobile Device Management

• Question 65: Allows remote wipe and app control.

Printer Output Issues

• Question 66: Lower print head temperature to resolve dark streaks.

SSD Upgrade Benefits

• Question 67: Improves performance for database access.

Sandbox Environment

• Question 68: Provides isolated testing for experimental code.

Erratic Cursor

• Question 69: Recalibrate touchscreen to fix cursor movement.

Digitizer Damage

• Question 70: Likely damaged if touch input is unresponsive.

Wireless Frequency Comparison

• Question 71: 2.4 GHz signals penetrate solid objects better and have larger coverage.

RAM Upgrade Verification

• Question 72: Confirm compatibility with motherboard.

IaaS Cloud Solutions

• Question 73: Ideal for quick data center expansion.

RAID 10 Configuration

• Question 74: Provides speed and redundancy with four drives.

NFC Issues in Payment Devices

• Question 75: Check NFC functionality for contactless payments.

Desktop BSOD and Shutdowns

• Question 76: Check motherboard for swollen capacitors.

Dual Monitor Setup

• Question 77: Adjust display settings after connecting monitor.

Video Cable Issues

• Question 78: Research further if cable replacement doesn't resolve projector issues.

Dual Channel RAM Configuration

• Question 79: Requires paired installation for optimal performance.

Resource Pooling in Cloud

• Question 80: Enables dynamic resource allocation in virtual environments.

Dual-Band Wi-Fi Standard

• Question 81: 802.11ac operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

DNS Configuration Issues

• Question 82: Check DNS settings if UNC paths fail.

HDMI ARC for Soundbars

• Question 83: Connect soundbar using HDMI ARC for audio.

VPN for Secure Connections

• Question 84: Provides encrypted connection between remote users and servers.

Projector Blurring

• Question 85: Adjust lens to correct blurred images.

IP Phone Power

• Question 86: Use PoE injector if switch doesn't support PoE.

DHCP Reservations

• Question 87: Ensures consistent IP assignment based on MAC address.

Printer Driver Issues

• Question 88: Install specific drivers if printer shows as generic.

Projector Signal Issues

• Question 89: Inspect and replace video cable if necessary.

Storage Space Issues

• Question 90: Insufficient HDD space can cause slow performance.

SaaS for Cloud Services

• Question 91: Ideal for applications like email and document sharing.

Legacy Software Compatibility

• Question 92: Use virtual environment for incompatible software.

Graphics Card Power Demands

• Question 93: High power demands necessitate PSU upgrades.

Serial Connection Adapters

• Question 94: Use USB adapter for 9-pin serial connections.

Storage Area Networks

• Question 95: Links servers to high-speed storage.

Fast Data Retrieval

• Question 96: m.2 NVMe SSDs provide quickest speeds.

Private Cloud Control

• Question 97: Offers greatest data management control.

Duplex Printing Settings

• Question 98: Adjust to use less paper per job.

PSU Troubleshooting

• Question 99: Conduct research to test PSU fault theory.

VDI Setup for Remote Work

• Question 100: Provides control over remote OS environments.

Virtual Machine Sandboxing

• Question 101: Ideal for testing new applications in isolation.

Router Function in SOHO

• Question 102: Connects LAN to the internet.

Gaming PSU Requirements

• Question 103: Ensure sufficient wattage for gaming setups.

VM Escape Risks

• Question 104: Can lead to hypervisor compromise.

Coaxial Cable Connectors

• Question 105: Uses F-type connectors.

Cell Phone Overheating

• Question 106: Caused by hotspot use or many open apps.

Public IP Addresses

• Question 107: Required for router WAN ports.

Burn-In Test Failures

• Question 108: Likely due to overheating.

Laser Printer Adhesion Issues

• Question 109: Replace fuser for better toner adhesion.

Thunderbolt Cable Use

• Question 110: Commonly used with Apple laptops.

Printer Overheating Issues

• Question 111: Turn off printer if fuser overheats.

APIPA Address Issue

• Question 112: Indicates DHCP failure.

HTTP and HTTPS Ports

• Question 113: Use ports 80 and 443.

Laser Printer Transfer Issues

• Question 114: Replace transfer roller for print completeness.

Telnet Security Risks

• Question 115: Not secure due to lack of encryption.

Printer Connection Cables

• Question 116: USB commonly used for direct connections.

PoE+ Power Delivery

• Question 117: Delivers up to 30 watts.

Unresponsive Touchscreen

• Question 118: Replace digitizer after software elimination.

ESD Prevention

• Question 119: Use grounding strap when handling RAM.

Printer Calibration

• Question 120: Calibrate printer for proper alignment.

SMTP Firewall Port

• Question 121: Port 25 for SMTP traffic.

Network Monitoring Tools

• Question 122: Use network tap in SOHO.

Docking Station Functionality

• Question 123: Provides connectivity to network and peripherals.

Hub vs Switch

• Question 124: Switches direct traffic; hubs broadcast.

Load Balancing

• Question 125: Distributes traffic to avoid server overload.

Monitor Color Issues

• Question 126: Likely due to cable problems.

Network Latency Reduction

• Question 127: Assign distinct channels to minimize interference.

Laptop Antenna Location

• Question 128: Typically within display bezel.

Cable Speed Requirements

• Question 129: Cat 6 minimum for 10 Gbps throughput.

Client-Side Hypervisor

• Question 130: Useful for application testing.

Economical Server Storage

• Question 131: 15,000 RPM HDDs offer balance of cost and performance.

Printer Firmware Update Issues

• Question 132: Update print drivers post-firmware update.

Slow Smartphone Charging

• Question 133: Check Charger's power rating.

Installation File Discrepancies

• Question 134: Verify installation file sources.

Memory Testing

• Question 135: Consider other hardware issues if memory test passes.

POST Failure

• Question 136: Test RAM modules individually.

TPM and Encryption

• Question 137: Reinstall old motherboard for TPM access.

Printer Duplicate Images

• Question 138: Clean rollers and drum.

Encrypting Drives

• Question 139: Ensure TPM is included for security.

Projector Shutdowns

• Question 140: Clean filters to prevent overheating.

Cloud Migration with IaaS

• Question 141: Migrate VMs using IaaS.

Printer Ribbon Replacement

• Question 142: Impact printers use ribbons.

RAID 10 for Server Resilience

• Question 143: Combines mirroring and striping.

Smartphone Hotspot Setup

• Question 144: Use hotspot to share cellular connection.

Hard Drive Speed Upgrade

• Question 145: NVMe drives offer fastest speeds.

Printer Confirmation Prompts

• Question 146: Incorrect default paper tray settings.

Elasticity in Cloud Services

• Question 147: Allows quick resource scaling.

RJ45 Connector Issues

• Question 148: Use crimper to secure connectors.

Cellular Data Cap Issues

• Question 149: Data cap reached after extensive use.

Cooling Fan Issues

• Question 150: Variable noise suggests fan problems.

Smartphone Bluetooth Settings

• Question 151: Check Bluetooth settings if connection fails.

Community Cloud Model

• Question 152: Shared infrastructure for similar organizations.

Wireless Standard Efficiency

• Question 153: 802.11ax offers best range and speed combination.

Lightning Cable

• Question 154: Replaced Apple 30-pin connector.

RAM Recognition Issues

• Question 155: Adjust BIOS settings for new memory.

Internet Connectivity Troubleshooting

• Question 156: Investigate internet connection if local access works.

ECC Memory for Servers

• Question 157: Prioritize ECC for VM hosts.

RAID 5 Drive Replacement

• Question 158: Replace and rebuild array after failure.

External Storage Interface

• Question 159: Use eSATA for high-speed external storage.

PSU Selection for Upgrades

• Question 160: Choose modular PSU for potential expansions.

Cellular Connectivity Issues

• Question 161: Ensure valid SIM card for cloud access.

POST Error Beep

• Question 162: Check graphics card connection and power.

Email Spoofing Prevention

• Question 163: Implement SPF to verify sending servers.

Ethernet Cabling Standards

• Question 164: T568A vs T568B differ in wire pair placement.

APIPA Address Assignment

• Question 165: Indicates DHCP server unreachability.

Copier Scan Glass Issues

• Question 166: Scratches cause lines on copies.

Video Conference Audio Issue

• Question 167: Check audio input device settings.

Windows Device Manager

• Question 168: Enable audio device if disabled.

DHCP Functionality

• Question 169: Assigns IP addresses to network devices.

HDMI Capabilities

• Question 170: Transmits audio and video signals.

Dual Graphics Card Setup

• Question 171: Use 1000W PSU for dual graphics.

Printer Paper Cut-off Issues

• Question 172: Confirm correct paper tray settings.

CPU Overheating Prevention

• Question 173: Ensure proper thermal paste application.

Policy Adherence

• Question 174: Follow procedures to avoid disruptions.

Wireless NIC Installation

• Question 175: Required for connecting to Wi-Fi network.

HDMI to DVI Connection

• Question 176: Use DVI to HDMI cable for compatibility.

Projector Overheating Solution

• Question 177: Clean air filter to improve cooling.

NIC Testing

• Question 178: Use loopback plug to check NIC.

Mobile Hotspot Utility

• Question 179: Verify wireless NIC function via hotspot.

PSU Failure

• Question 180: Likely cause of computer not turning on.

SOHO Router Placement

• Question 181: Positioned between ISP and LAN.

Hard Drive Encryption

• Question 182: Use TPM for secure encryption.

RAID 5 Operation

• Question 183: Data remains accessible in degraded mode.

ITX Motherboard Compatibility

• Question 184: SATA drives for RAID on ITX builds.

PSU Upgrade Steps

• Question 185: Ensure wattage suffices for components.

RAM Allocation in VMs

• Question 186: Adjust via hypervisor settings.

USB Hub Replacement

• Question 187: Resolve peripheral issues by replacing hub.

Cross-Platform Virtualization

• Question 188: Supports different OS on same hardware.

Wi-Fi Credentials Verification

• Question 189: Check SSID and password after gateway change.

LCD Screen Issues

• Question 190: Discoloration often due to display damage.

Satellite Internet

• Question 191: Best for remote areas without cell service.

CPU Cooling Fan Issues

• Question 192: Ensure connection for proper startup.

Wi-Fi Channel Analysis

• Question 193: Use Wi-Fi analyzer for optimal channel selection.

Direct Storage Connection

• Question 194: M.2 drives connect directly to motherboard.

DNS Server Configuration

• Question 195: Filter harmful sites by configuring DNS server.

Projector Bulb Replacement

• Question 196: Replace bulb if projector fails to display.

Computer Virus Concerns

• Question 197: Gather symptom information initially.

NFC Payment Options

• Question 198: Enables transactions without physical cards.

Android Tablet Connections

• Question 199: Bluetooth and USB-C for keyboard connections.

Browser Testing

• Question 200: Use application virtualization for testing various browsers.

RDP Firewall Port

• Question 2011: Open port 3389 for RDP access.

Conclusion

• Completing practice exams is crucial for preparing for certification.
• Review key concepts and practice frequently to ensure proficiency.