220-1101 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 1 Free Practice Exam Questions (2025 Updated)

Since the hard drive appears to be functioning normally, the technician should investigate other potential causes of the issue. This could include checking the BIOS settings, verifying the connections to the hard drive, and testing the RAM. Once these steps have been completed, the technician can then take the necessary steps to resolve the issue.

A Wi-Fi analyzer is a tool that can be used to scan the local area for available wireless networks and can provide information such as signal strength, interference, and available channels. It can also be used to locate the best channel to use for a given access point, which can help to reduce latency and improve performance.

Reducing the frequency of location checks using cellular location services will consume less battery power while still allowing the user to view weather forecasts while travelling. The other options may not solve the battery drain issue while using the weather application.

Configuring less frequent location checks using cellular location services is the best option for the salesperson to view weather forecasts while traveling without draining the battery too quickly. References: https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/5-ways-improve-battery-life-android-phone/

HDMI-ARC (Audio Return Channel) is an HDMI connection that allows audio to be sent from the TV to an external sound system, such as a soundbar. If the TV's HDMI-ARC port is not being used, then the soundbar will not receive any audio from the TV and thus will not produce any sound. To resolve the issue, the technician should ensure that the TV's HDMI-ARC port is being used to connect the TV to the soundbar.

If a workstation shuts down unexpectedly during a burn-in test, overheating is the most likely cause. This is because a burn-in test is designed to stress the components of the workstation, which can generate a lot of heat. Therefore, overheating is the correct answer. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Guide, Ninth Edition, page 120

A USB to 9-pin serial adapter can be used to connect the new computer to the point-of-sale system using a USB port. USB is a common and versatile port type found on most computers.

If a technician is replacing a computer with a connected point-of-sale system using a 9-pin serial adapter and the new computer does not have a 9-pin serial port, an adapter can be installed on the USB port in order to connect to the point-of-sale system. A USB-to-serial adapter can be used to connect a serial device to a USB port on a computer.

802.11ax, also known as Wi-Fi 6, has the longest range and the highest wireless throughput of all the wireless technologies listed. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Guide, 220-1001, Chapter 3

BSoDs can be caused by poorly written device drivers or malfunctioning hardware, such as faulty memory, power supply issues, overheating of components, or hardware running beyond its specification limits. In the Windows 9x era, incompatible DLLs or bugs in the operating system kernel could also cause BSoDs.

802.11ac is the 802.11 standard that supports both 5GHz and 2.4GHz channel frequencies. 802.11ac is the latest wireless networking standard that operates in both the 5GHz and 2.4GHz frequency bands. It provides higher wireless network speeds and better reliability compared to previous standards, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g. The 802.11a standard operates exclusively in the 5GHz band, while the 802.11b and 802.11g standards operate exclusively in the 2.4GHz band.

If a computer is not booting and the onboard speaker emits beeps, it can indicate a hardware issue. One of the most common causes of beep codes is overheating, which can occur if the processor's fan is not properly installed and running. The processor's fan is responsible for cooling the processor and preventing damage to the internal components.

VDI is a technology that allows a company to provide desktop environments to third-party developers while still maintaining control over the corporate network. VDI creates virtual desktops on a remote server, and each user gets their own desktop environment that is isolated from the other users. This allows the company to maintain control over the corporate network, as the virtual desktops are not directly connected to the corporate network.

A Storage Area Network (SAN) is a dedicated, high-speed network that connects servers to data storage devices. SANs are used in server rooms to provide high-speed storage access to virtual servers.

A. Check the product manual for the procedure:

When hardware is not easily accessible, always consult the product manual for proper disassembly procedures. Forcing the cover can damage the laptop or void the warranty.

Product manuals often provide step-by-step instructions for safely accessing internal components.

Incorrect Options:

B. Use a pry tool to force the cover open: Forcing the cover can cause physical damage to the device.

C. Insert the wireless card into the M.2 slot: This step cannot be performed until the cover is properly removed.

D. Try to move the cover by sliding it in all directions: Randomly sliding the cover can cause damage if the correct removal method is not followed.

Key Takeaway: Always refer to the product manual to ensure safe and proper disassembly of laptop components.

In Platform as a Service (PaaS), the cloud provider manages the hardware, operating system, and middleware, while the customer is responsible for managing data and applications.

Why Not B (SaaS): In SaaS, the provider manages all layers, including applications and data, leaving no responsibility for the customer.

Why Not C (IaaS): In IaaS, the customer manages the OS, data, and applications, while the provider only handles the hardware.

Why Not D (CaaS): CaaS (Container as a Service) is not a primary cloud model described in the CompTIA objectives and is less commonly referenced.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1101), Section 4.1, cloud computing models​.

Thermal printers create images using a heated print head on specially coated thermal paper. Vertical white lines indicate that part of the heating element is dirty or blocked, preventing heat transfer to the paper. Cleaning the print head (heating element) will restore full functionality.

Option A: Thermal printers do not use ink or toner, so this is not applicable.

Option B: Wrong paper could cause blank output, but consistent vertical lines point to the print head.

Option C: Maintenance kits are typically for laser printers, not thermal printers.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 3.7: Given a scenario, troubleshoot common printer problems.

A Hardware Security Module (HSM) securely manages cryptographic keys, including those used to protect credit card chips.

Why Not A (TLS): TLS secures data in transit, not encryption key storage.

Why Not B (AMD): AMD refers to processors, not security modules.

Why Not D (ARM): ARM is a processor architecture, not a cryptographic security solution.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 2 (220-1102), Section 2.5, cryptographic hardware​.

Windows Hello provides biometric authentication options, including facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris scanning, aligning with the company’s requirement for biometric identification.

Why Not A (BitLocker): BitLocker is for encrypting data, not biometric authentication.

Why Not C (Defender): Windows Defender provides antivirus and security features, not biometric functionality.

Why Not D (Trusted Platform Module): TPM is a hardware feature for secure cryptographic operations, not biometric authentication.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 2 (220-1102), Section 2.5, Windows security features​.

Fiber-optic connections offer the highest speeds and bandwidth, making it the best choice for fast data transmission between nearby locations.

Tethering refers to sharing a mobile phone’s internet connection with another device, such as a laptop, either through USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. Tethering effectively turns the mobile phone into a personal hotspot for internet access.

Option A (IR): Incorrect. Infrared (IR) is used for short-range communication, such as remote controls, but it does not support internet sharing.

Option B (NFC): Incorrect. Near-field communication (NFC) is used for close-proximity data transfer, not for internet sharing.

Option C (Wi-Fi Direct): Incorrect. Wi-Fi Direct enables device-to-device communication but does not inherently provide internet sharing.

Display burn-in occurs when a static image is left on a screen for a long time, causing the pixels to wear out unevenly and retain a ghost image even when new content is displayed. This issue can result in double images, where the "burned-in" stationary image persists alongside new, live content. This problem is more common in older displays or those used for static signage. Replacing the display cable or adjusting color settings would not address the underlying cause of uneven pixel wear, and burned-out bulbs would likely result in a loss of image clarity or brightness, not double images.

The symptoms — slow response and failed app launches — indicate that the device's memory or processing resources are overutilized. Closing unnecessary apps can free up RAM and CPU resources, improving performance.

Option A: Overheating may cause sluggishness, but that’s not indicated here.

Option C: Factory reset is a last resort, not the next logical step.

Option D: Battery health would affect uptime, not system speed.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 1.6: Given a scenario, configure basic mobile device network connectivity and application support.

Reasoning: Many docking stations provide power and functionality only when the laptop is properly powered on. If the laptop was powered off (e.g., during the vacation), docking it will not automatically turn it on. The technician should first ensure the laptop is powered on by pressing the power button.

This is a common troubleshooting step when laptops in docking stations appear non-functional.

Relevance to CompTIA A+ Core 1: This falls under Objective 5.2, which covers diagnosing and resolving common laptop and mobile device issues.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Ensure the docking station is plugged in:

While ensuring power to the docking station is important, the scenario specifies that the issue occurred after a vacation. The likelihood of the docking station losing power coincidentally during the vacation is low. Verifying the laptop's power state should be the first step.

C. Plug the laptop in and let it charge overnight:

There is no indication the laptop’s battery is drained. While charging could resolve a dead battery, the user is more likely experiencing an issue where the laptop is powered off but docked, so charging overnight is not the best first step.

D. Connect the laptop directly to the network:

A network connection will not resolve the primary issue of the keyboard and display not working. Addressing the laptop’s power state is a higher priority.

Practical Example:

If a user returns from a vacation and places a powered-off laptop into a docking station, it may not automatically power on. Pressing the power button ensures the laptop is operational and communicating with the docking station.

CompTIA A+ Exam Objective Alignment:

Objective 5.2: Troubleshooting common laptop issues, including power, display, and peripheral connectivity.

Syslog is used to log system events and tasks performed by applications, providing a centralized record of activity.

Why Not A (Fileshare): Fileshares store files but are not designed for event logging.

Why Not C (Database): Databases can store logs but are not a logging mechanism themselves.

Why Not D (SAN): A SAN is a storage solution, not a logging tool.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1101), Section 2.6, system monitoring and logging​.

Security groups are used to manage access permissions to network resources, ensuring only authorized HR department members can access the shared materials.

Why Not B (Audit logs): Audit logs monitor activity but do not restrict access.

Why Not C (Time-of-day access): Time-of-day access limits when users can access resources but doesn’t specify user permissions.

Why Not D (Print server): A print server manages print jobs but does not control file access.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 2 (220-1102), Section 2.5, access control and permissions​.

Before creating a virtual machine (VM) on a computer, it's crucial to ensure that the CPU supports virtualization and that this feature is enabled in the BIOS (or UEFI) settings. While sufficient RAM and hard drive space are also important for running VMs effectively, and compatibility with the graphics card might be a consideration for VMs with intensive graphical requirements, the foundational step is to verify that the CPU supports virtualization and that this feature is activated in the BIOS settings. This is because virtualization technology, often referred to as VT-x (on Intel CPUs) or AMD-V (on AMD CPUs), is a prerequisite for running most virtualization software efficiently.

Clicking and grinding noises indicate mechanical drive failure.

SMART data provides insights into the health and status of drives, helping identify failing components in the RAID array.

Why Not A (Run a magnet): This would damage drives.

Why Not B (Check if one drive is not level): Physical leveling is irrelevant.

Why Not D (Check OS logs): OS logs may provide limited information for RAID arrays.

Why Not E (Update RAID controller firmware): While important, it does not diagnose drive failure.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1101), Section 3.3, storage troubleshooting​.

Reasoning: Projectors have air filters that prevent dust from entering the internal components. A clogged filter can cause the projector to overheat, resulting in shutdowns and even strange smells due to overheating components. Cleaning the filter is a standard troubleshooting step when projectors exhibit overheating symptoms.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Replace the bulb:

While a failing bulb may eventually cause issues, it would not typically result in a strange smell or repeated shutdowns after a fixed period. Bulb issues usually manifest as dim or flickering images.

B. Check the projector configuration:

Configuration settings, such as resolution or input options, would not cause overheating or shutdowns. This option does not address the described symptoms.

D. Adjust the gamma settings:

Gamma settings affect display brightness and contrast but have no impact on overheating or strange smells.

Practical Example:

Dust accumulation in projectors is a common issue, especially in environments with poor air circulation. A clogged filter causes restricted airflow, leading to overheating and automatic shutdowns to protect internal components. Cleaning the filter typically resolves this issue.

CompTIA A+ Exam Objective Alignment:

Objective 5.5: Troubleshoot common video, projector, and display issues.

After setting up a RAID 5 array, the next step is to make the storage space usable by the operating system. This involves partitioning the array to define how the storage space is organized and then formatting it with a file system that the operating system can understand, thus making it possible to copy files to the array. Decreasing the number of drives, rebuilding the array, or checking the hot spare status would not address the issue of the array not being ready to store files.

In this scenario, running a network cable over a long distance (279ft or 85m) and sharing conduit with a large power cable requires careful consideration of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and the physical distance limitations of the cable type. Fiber optic cables are immune to electromagnetic interference and can support much longer distances than copper-based cables like Cat 5e or Cat 6 without signal degradation. This makes fiber optic the most appropriate choice for this project.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides virtualized computing resources over the internet, including virtualized hardware, storage, and networking components. It offers the infrastructure on which clients can install their operating systems and applications, providing an equivalent to physical hardware environments. This allows developers and businesses to develop and run their solutions without managing physical servers. SaaS delivers software applications over the internet, PaaS provides a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications, and DBaaS offers database services in the cloud.

Step by Step Detailed Comprehensive Explanation with All CompTIA References:

Analysis of the Problem:

eSIM is cost-effective, avoids physical SIM distribution, and provides flexibility in professional environments.

Option Evaluation:

A. Forward a company number to the employee's mobile phone: Temporary and lacks professionalism. Incorrect.

B. Offer a company SIM card: Requires physical handling and less secure than eSIM. Incorrect.

C. Give a company mobile phone: Expensive and not necessarily required. Incorrect.

D. Issue a company eSIM to the employee: Ensures cost-effectiveness and secure deployment. Correct.

ference: Domain 1.7 highlights the importance of device provisioning in corporate environments​​.

A failing power supply can cause random system crashes and degraded performance as it struggles to maintain a consistent voltage, especially as the system demands increase over time. The CMOS battery only affects system time and settings, while the video card typically causes display issues rather than system-wide crashes. System memory issues often result in specific errors or performance issues rather than gradual slowdowns. CompTIA A+ Core 1 objectives highlight troubleshooting power supply issues as part of hardware and system maintenance.

A punchdown tool is essential for connecting telephone wires to patch panels, keystone modules, and punchdown blocks, making it a critical tool for installing plain old telephone service (POTS) lines. A toner probe, on the other hand, is used for tracing and identifying specific wires within a bundle, facilitating the correct attachment of telephone lines to their respective terminals. These tools are fundamental for ensuring proper and efficient installation of POTS lines in a client's environment.

The Syslog server collects logs and system messages from devices on a network. It’s a standard protocol used to store log messages from network hardware like routers, switches, and servers for diagnostics and auditing.

Option A (DNS): Translates domain names into IP addresses, not used for logging.

Option B (Mail): Manages email communication.

Option C (Print): Manages print jobs and printer sharing.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 2.4: Compare and contrast common networking hardware.

The degraded status on Server 2 indicates a RAID-5 issue, typically due to a failed or failing drive. In RAID-5 configurations, when one drive fails, the system can still operate but with reduced performance as parity data is used to rebuild missing data on-the-fly.

Recommended Replacement Drive:

To minimize performance degradation, the replacement drive should be:

SAS HDD with the same specifications (64KB stripe size, no read-ahead, and write-back policy).

Matching the configuration exactly ensures seamless integration and optimizes recovery speed in the RAID-5 array.

In RAID-5, degraded performance is expected when one drive fails, as parity data needs to rebuild missing information during each read/write process. Replacing the failed drive restores the RAID array to optimal status, reducing the load on existing drives and returning the system to normal read/write performance. The write-back policy and disabled disk cache settings are designed to reduce latency and increase efficiency, essential for handling real-time applications.

A user reports poor performance on the

application server.

INSTRUCTIONS

Click on Server 1 and Server 2 and review

the information presented in each chart to

determine which drives need to be replaced.

Select the appropriate replacement drive

that should be used, for the least

performance degradation to the server.

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Reasoning: A cable tester capable of testing Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality can verify whether the switchport is providing the required power to the phone. This tool measures both the presence of data and the voltage or wattage being provided through the Ethernet cable.

This is the most effective way to confirm that PoE is available on the port.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Network tap:

A network tap is primarily used to monitor network traffic, not to test for PoE availability. It cannot verify if power is being supplied through the Ethernet cable.

C. Loopback plug:

A loopback plug is used to test the functionality of a network port by creating a loop for transmitted and received signals. It does not measure or verify PoE availability.

D. Toner probe:

A toner probe is used for tracing and identifying network cables. It cannot test for PoE functionality.

Practical Example:

A PoE phone might not turn on due to a misconfigured or faulty switchport. Using a cable tester capable of measuring PoE would help the technician determine if the switchport is supplying sufficient power to the phone.

CompTIA A+ Exam Objective Alignment:

Objective 2.1: Identify common networking hardware and tools, including PoE-enabled devices and cable testers.