The CompTIA A+ certification is a foundational credential for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their competence in essential IT skills. The 220-1101 Core 1 exam focuses primarily on hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting — crucial knowledge areas for entry-level IT roles. Passing the Core 1 exam, along with the Core 2 (220-1102), is required to earn the full A+ certification.
In this article, you will find 25 free sample questions designed to help you prepare for the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 exam. These questions reflect the style and content you can expect on test day, helping you evaluate your readiness and identify areas for further study.
Importance of Practicing Free Sample Questions for the CompTIA 220-1101 Exam
When preparing for the CompTIA 220-1101 exam, one of the most effective and overlooked strategies is consistently working through free sample questions. These practice questions are more than just a preparatory tool—they simulate the real exam environment, sharpen your technical skills, and offer a low-risk opportunity to assess your readiness. Engaging with practice exams and sample questions not only enhances your subject knowledge but also supports long-term retention of complex IT concepts.
Understanding the Format and Question Styles
One of the primary reasons for incorporating practice questions into your CompTIA 220-1101 study plan is the ability to become deeply familiar with the structure and tone of the real examination. The 220-1101 exam, part of the A+ certification, is known for covering a broad range of topics including hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and cloud computing. Free practice questions mirror this diversity, helping you adapt to the variety of question formats that may include multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based simulations.
Exposure to these formats repeatedly reduces test anxiety and enhances your ability to interpret and respond to each question type with precision. Instead of encountering unfamiliar styles during the actual test, you’ll navigate them with confidence built from prior experience.
Identifying Strengths and Areas Needing Improvement
Another powerful benefit of using free practice materials is the diagnostic insight they offer. After completing a set of sample questions, you can review your results to determine where you excel and where additional study is required. This data-driven approach allows you to personalize your study schedule and allocate time to the domains where you’re underperforming.
By focusing your efforts on areas of weakness—such as troubleshooting mobile device issues, understanding common hardware interfaces, or recognizing different networking standards—you streamline your preparation process. This targeted strategy not only saves time but also improves efficiency, ensuring you make the most of your study hours.
Boosting Confidence Through Realistic Practice
Test preparation is as much about mental readiness as it is about subject mastery. Practicing with sample questions under timed conditions mimics the pressure of the actual exam. Over time, this type of training cultivates a calm and confident mindset, equipping you to think clearly and make decisions quickly during the real test.
Regular exposure to practice scenarios helps reduce stress and anxiety, two major factors that can negatively affect exam performance. As you grow more familiar with the rhythm and pacing of the test, your confidence naturally increases—enabling you to approach the exam with greater composure and focus.
Strengthening Conceptual Understanding
The CompTIA 220-1101 exam demands a deep understanding of a wide array of IT principles. Free practice questions help reinforce these concepts by forcing you to apply them in practical, real-world contexts. Whether you’re interpreting troubleshooting scenarios or analyzing system specifications, each question reinforces foundational knowledge that is crucial for success in both the exam and your future IT career.
By repeatedly working through varied scenarios, you strengthen your retention of technical concepts like IP addressing, display technologies, and virtualization configurations. This method of active recall—retrieving information from memory rather than passively reading it—has been shown to be one of the most effective learning strategies available.
Cost-Effective Learning Enhancement
Exam preparation can become expensive quickly, especially when you factor in textbooks, video courses, and paid test simulators. Free sample questions offer a no-cost alternative that delivers significant educational value. These resources, often provided by reputable platforms like Exam Labs, are curated by certified professionals and subject matter experts to reflect current exam standards.
Accessible and user-friendly, free practice tools make high-quality learning attainable for everyone. Whether you’re a student just entering the IT field or a working professional looking to upgrade your credentials, these free resources provide an inclusive and efficient way to prepare for certification.
Repetition as a Path to Mastery
Incorporating frequent, consistent practice with sample questions ensures that knowledge moves from short-term understanding to long-term mastery. This process, known as spaced repetition, involves revisiting topics at gradually increasing intervals to enhance retention. It’s a technique widely used by high-performing candidates in various certification domains.
When you solve the same or similar question types multiple times over a period of weeks, your brain becomes adept at recognizing patterns, identifying traps, and recalling critical information instantly. This cognitive training is vital for tackling performance-based tasks on the exam, which demand both speed and accuracy.
Customizing Your Study Approach
Not all learners absorb information the same way. Some benefit from visual aids, while others learn better through hands-on experience or self-testing. Free practice questions give you the flexibility to design a study plan that works for your unique learning preferences.
By integrating sample questions into your existing materials—such as digital flashcards, instructional videos, or guided labs—you create a blended learning environment that fosters deeper comprehension. This adaptability also makes it easier to remain engaged with the material, avoiding burnout and maintaining motivation throughout your certification journey.
Building Practical Problem-Solving Skills
The real-world scenarios presented in practice questions do more than prepare you for an exam—they help cultivate the troubleshooting mindset necessary for a successful career in IT support. Understanding how to approach common issues, identify causes, and implement solutions is a skill that translates directly into workplace performance.
As you work through hardware failures, software misconfigurations, and connectivity issues within practice questions, you begin to think like a technician. This approach not only prepares you for the 220-1101 exam but also sets you up for excellence in customer-facing or technical support roles post-certification.
Simulating Real Exam Conditions for Better Outcomes
A major advantage of practice questions is the ability to simulate the environment of the actual certification test. This includes timing your responses, working through questions in sequence without external aids, and reviewing your performance afterward. Simulating these conditions trains your brain and body to perform optimally under pressure.
By using mock exams and time-restricted practice sessions, you get a realistic sense of what to expect on test day. This rehearsal builds mental stamina and sharpens your time management skills, both of which are essential for navigating the 90-minute exam window effectively.
Elevating Retention With Diverse Practice Sets
The most impactful practice resources are those that cover all the domains outlined in the CompTIA 220-1101 objectives. These typically include mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, and cloud computing. Free resources from providers like Exam Labs often include questions across all these topics, enabling you to build a well-rounded and balanced knowledge base.
Diversifying the types of questions you practice helps combat fatigue and keeps the learning experience fresh. By rotating through various topics regularly, you ensure comprehensive preparation and reduce the likelihood of being caught off guard by unfamiliar subject matter during the exam.
How Exam Labs Resources Add Value to Your Preparation
Exam Labs is a widely respected source of certification prep material, offering a vast library of up-to-date and scenario-based questions designed specifically for exams like the CompTIA A+ 220-1101. Their free question sets are developed with precision and aligned with real exam requirements, offering one of the best no-cost ways to reinforce your understanding.
The platform’s user-centric interface and community feedback mechanisms also provide added benefits. Learners can engage in discussions, clarify doubts, and benefit from shared strategies—transforming solitary study into a collaborative learning experience.
Creating a Routine That Includes Daily Practice
To make the most of practice questions, it’s essential to build them into your daily study routine. Set a consistent schedule that includes dedicated time for attempting new questions, reviewing incorrect answers, and tracking your progress over time.
Daily interaction with practice sets helps form strong neural connections, aiding long-term memory and application skills. Even dedicating just 20 to 30 minutes per day to sample questions can dramatically boost your readiness and improve exam-day performance.
Strategic Use of Free Sample Questions
Free sample questions are more than just supplementary tools—they’re a cornerstone of a comprehensive and intelligent study plan for the CompTIA 220-1101 exam. By incorporating them consistently, you gain a competitive advantage in your certification journey. These questions sharpen your focus, clarify your understanding, and prepare you for the challenges of real-world technical support roles.
Utilizing these resources effectively—particularly from platforms like Exam Labs—ensures you’re not only prepared for the exam but also equipped for professional success. Whether you’re just starting your IT career or advancing your technical skills, integrating free practice questions into your routine is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Comprehensive Breakdown of CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Core 1 Exam Objectives
The CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Core 1 exam represents a fundamental certification in the IT industry, validating a technician’s ability to manage, maintain, and troubleshoot a variety of technical systems. This certification is globally recognized and often the first step for individuals pursuing a career in IT support, technical services, or help desk operations. The Core 1 exam assesses practical skills through five essential content domains, each covering vital knowledge areas required to handle real-world IT tasks effectively.
These domains span both hardware and software topics and are intentionally structured to prepare candidates for hands-on work environments. Understanding how these domains are weighted and what they encompass is crucial for developing a focused and effective study plan.
Focus Area: Mobile Devices – 14% of the Exam
The first section of the 220-1101 exam evaluates your understanding of mobile technologies, which are increasingly central in modern workspaces. This domain focuses on configuring, installing, and troubleshooting laptops, tablets, smartphones, and wearable devices. Key topics include hardware differences between devices, display components, and mobile operating systems.
You’ll also encounter questions on configuring wireless connectivity features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile hotspots. Additionally, knowledge of synchronization methods for mobile data across cloud and physical devices is essential. The ability to resolve common issues like battery problems, unresponsive touchscreens, and device overheating is also tested. Mastery of this domain prepares candidates to support a mobile-first business environment.
Networking Essentials – Comprising 20% of the Exam
The networking domain plays a critical role in the CompTIA 220-1101 exam. Covering 20% of the overall content, this section focuses on the configuration and troubleshooting of both wired and wireless networks. Candidates must demonstrate a working knowledge of networking protocols, port numbers, IP addressing (including IPv4 and IPv6), and subnetting.
Understanding common networking hardware such as routers, switches, modems, access points, and hubs is necessary. Questions often test your ability to identify connectivity issues, configure SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) networks, and recognize cable types and their appropriate use cases. Wireless encryption standards, DNS, DHCP, and VPN implementations are also frequent topics.
This domain is particularly important as nearly all IT environments depend heavily on reliable networking infrastructure. Solid performance here confirms your readiness to handle common connectivity and configuration tasks.
Deep Dive into Hardware – Accounting for 27%
Hardware is one of the most heavily weighted domains on the Core 1 exam. It encompasses 27% of the exam’s total content and emphasizes a detailed understanding of desktop and laptop components. Candidates should be comfortable with the internal structure of systems, including motherboards, CPUs, RAM, storage devices (HDDs, SSDs, NVMe), expansion cards, power supplies, and cooling systems.
Knowledge of peripheral devices like printers, displays, input devices, and external storage solutions is also necessary. This section tests your ability to choose appropriate components for specific builds, upgrade hardware effectively, and ensure compatibility between systems and their components.
Expect to encounter practical, scenario-based questions that challenge your ability to assemble, maintain, and troubleshoot both traditional PCs and modern computing systems. Your success in this domain demonstrates readiness for field-based hardware support roles and bench technician positions.
Virtualization and Cloud Technology – Representing 12% of Exam Content
As more businesses adopt cloud computing and virtualized environments, this domain has become increasingly relevant. Comprising 12% of the 220-1101 exam, this section assesses your understanding of how virtual machines operate and how cloud-based services integrate with traditional infrastructure.
Key concepts include the differences between Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS). You’ll also need to understand local vs. cloud storage, benefits of virtualization, and basic configuration of virtual desktops and remote access tools.
Though it is one of the smaller sections of the exam, virtualization and cloud knowledge are crucial for supporting modern IT environments. Many organizations rely on scalable and flexible cloud solutions, making proficiency in these concepts an asset for any technician.
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting – Making Up 27% of the Exam
The final domain—and one of the most important—focuses on diagnosing and resolving technical issues. Hardware and network troubleshooting represents 27% of the total exam, tying for the most heavily weighted section. It involves identifying, isolating, and correcting problems across various systems and devices.
Topics include troubleshooting procedures, boot failure diagnostics, power issues, video display errors, printer malfunctions, and connectivity disruptions. Candidates must know how to interpret system beeps, error messages, and BIOS/UEFI alerts. Network-specific questions may require identifying IP conflicts, misconfigured devices, DNS failures, or incorrect Wi-Fi settings.
This domain is designed to simulate the real challenges that IT support specialists face in the workplace. Your ability to methodically troubleshoot under pressure is a key indicator of your readiness to work in fast-paced technical environments.
Integrated Knowledge Across All Domains
The five domains of the 220-1101 Core 1 exam are designed to build a comprehensive skill set that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. While each domain is distinct, the exam often tests your ability to connect concepts from multiple areas to solve complex problems.
For example, resolving a network printing issue may require understanding hardware (printer), network configuration (IP addressing), and troubleshooting methodology. Being able to apply knowledge across domains is essential for success on the exam and in the field.
Strategic Study Approaches Based on Domain Weight
Understanding how the exam is structured allows you to allocate study time more effectively. Heavier domains like Hardware and Troubleshooting (each 27%) require a deeper level of study and repeated practice with real-world scenarios. Use this distribution to prioritize your learning and revisit topics that appear more frequently in sample tests.
Leverage diverse study formats such as interactive labs, video tutorials, and flashcards to deepen your understanding. Sample tests from trusted providers like Exam Labs offer valuable exposure to domain-specific questions and prepare you for the type of reasoning required on exam day.
Building a Strong Foundation With Practice and Review
To gain mastery over these domains, consistency is crucial. Engage with study guides, simulation tools, and hands-on practice kits regularly. Break down each domain into subtopics and focus on one area at a time to avoid overwhelming yourself.
Regularly reviewing your progress through quizzes and practice exams can highlight gaps in your understanding, particularly in high-stakes domains like Troubleshooting and Networking. Aim to achieve proficiency across all five areas rather than merely memorizing terms—this approach better reflects the real-life expectations of IT roles.
Mastering the Core 1 Exam Domains
The CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Core 1 exam is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to manage, maintain, and troubleshoot a wide range of IT systems. Each of the five domains plays a vital role in preparing you to meet the challenges of an evolving tech industry. Whether it’s configuring mobile devices, installing networking hardware, or resolving system crashes, the knowledge gained through this certification lays the groundwork for long-term career success.
By dedicating time to understanding each content area and engaging with real-world practice scenarios, you can approach the Core 1 exam with confidence. Utilize high-quality resources, such as those provided by Exam Labs, to reinforce your learning and build the practical experience necessary to pass the exam and thrive in the field of information technology.
25 Free Sample Questions for CompTIA A+ (220-1101) Core 1 Exam
Below are 25 practice questions designed to test your knowledge across the Core 1 exam objectives. Answers are provided at the end of the article.
Question 1: Which type of RAM is most commonly used in laptops today?
- DDR3
B. DDR4 SO-DIMM
C. SRAM
D. VRAM
Correct Answer: B. DDR4 SO-DIMM
Explanation:
In modern laptops, the most widely used memory type is DDR4 SO-DIMM (Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Module). SO-DIMM modules are smaller and more compact than standard DIMMs, making them ideal for portable devices like notebooks and ultrabooks. DDR4 is the current mainstream generation of RAM, offering improvements in speed, efficiency, and capacity over its predecessor, DDR3.
While some older laptops may still use DDR3 SO-DIMMs, most new systems have transitioned to DDR4, with DDR5 starting to emerge in premium models. SRAM (Static RAM) is typically used in CPU caches due to its speed, not system memory. VRAM (Video RAM) is dedicated to graphics processing and is found in GPUs, not main system memory.
Question 2: Which connector is used to attach a traditional hard drive to a motherboard?
- SATA
B. HDMI
C. USB
D. RJ-45
Correct Answer: A. SATA
Explanation:
SATA (Serial ATA) is the standard interface used to connect traditional hard drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) to a computer’s motherboard. SATA cables carry data between the storage device and the system, while a separate SATA power connector provides power from the power supply.
HDMI is used for video and audio output to external displays. USB is a versatile interface for peripherals and external storage but is not used for internal hard drive connections. RJ-45 is the connector used for Ethernet networking, unrelated to data storage.
Knowing the proper interface types and internal hardware connections is vital for IT professionals handling PC maintenance and upgrades, a key topic on the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 exam.
Question 3: What type of network cable uses RJ-45 connectors?
- Coaxial cable
B. Fiber optic
C. Ethernet cable
D. Serial cable
Correct Answer: C. Ethernet cable
Explanation:
RJ-45 connectors are primarily used with Ethernet cables, which form the backbone of most wired network infrastructures. These connectors fit on twisted pair cables such as Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, enabling reliable data transmission across local area networks (LANs).
Coaxial cables use different connectors like BNC, while fiber optic cables require specialized connectors such as SC, LC, or ST. Serial cables typically use DB9 or DB25 connectors, not RJ-45. Understanding these distinctions is essential for configuring and troubleshooting wired network connections, a fundamental skill for IT professionals.
Question 4: What is the maximum cable length for a standard Cat5e Ethernet cable segment?
- 100 meters
B. 10 meters
C. 1000 meters
D. 50 meters
Correct Answer: A. 100 meters
Explanation:
The maximum recommended length for a single run of Cat5e Ethernet cable is 100 meters (approximately 328 feet). This limit ensures optimal data integrity and minimizes signal degradation or latency issues.
If the cable run exceeds 100 meters, network devices like switches or repeaters are required to maintain signal quality. Shorter lengths like 10 or 50 meters are common in home or office environments but are well within the maximum standard. Knowing this limit is crucial for proper network design and troubleshooting tasks.
Question 5: Which wireless standard operates at 5 GHz and provides high throughput?
- 802.11b
B. 802.11g
C. 802.11ac
D. 802.11a
Correct Answer: C. 802.11ac
Explanation:
The 802.11ac wireless standard operates primarily in the 5 GHz frequency band, delivering significantly higher data throughput compared to earlier standards. It supports wider channel bandwidths, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, and beamforming, all contributing to faster and more reliable wireless connections.
While 802.11a also uses 5 GHz, its speeds are considerably lower than 802.11ac. Standards like 802.11b and 802.11g operate on the 2.4 GHz band and offer slower performance. Familiarity with wireless standards is important for setting up and troubleshooting modern Wi-Fi networks, which is a key domain on the CompTIA 220-1101 exam.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a power supply unit (PSU) in a desktop computer?
- Connects to the network
B. Stores data
C. Converts AC power to DC power
D. Controls the motherboard
Correct Answer: C. Converts AC power to DC power
Explanation:
The power supply unit (PSU) is a critical component of any desktop computer. Its main function is to convert the alternating current (AC) electricity supplied by a wall outlet into direct current (DC) electricity that computer components require to operate. The PSU also regulates voltage to protect sensitive hardware from power surges or drops.
Without a functioning PSU, the motherboard, storage drives, and other components cannot receive the stable power they need, making the PSU fundamental for system stability and longevity.
Question 7: Which mobile device technology allows users to make contactless payments?
- NFC
B. Bluetooth
C. Wi-Fi
D. Infrared
Correct Answer: A. NFC
Explanation:
Near Field Communication (NFC) technology enables devices to communicate wirelessly over very short distances, typically a few centimeters. This makes it ideal for secure, contactless payment systems used in smartphones, smartwatches, and payment cards.
NFC allows users to tap their device near a compatible payment terminal to complete transactions quickly and securely. While Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support other forms of wireless communication, they are not commonly used for contactless payment due to security and proximity constraints.
Question 8: Which tool would you use to test Ethernet cables for continuity and wiring issues?
- Loopback plug
B. Cable tester
C. Multimeter
D. Toner probe
Correct Answer: B. Cable tester
Explanation:
A cable tester is a specialized tool designed to verify the integrity of Ethernet cables by checking continuity, identifying wiring faults like opens, shorts, or miswires, and confirming proper pinouts. It is indispensable for network technicians ensuring that cables are correctly terminated and functional before installation or troubleshooting.
While a multimeter can test electrical continuity, a cable tester is optimized specifically for networking cables. Loopback plugs are used primarily for testing ports and network adapters, and toner probes help trace cables in complex wiring environments.
Question 9: What is the primary purpose of a KVM switch?
- Connect multiple monitors
B. Control multiple computers with one keyboard, video, and mouse
C. Extend Wi-Fi signal
D. Encrypt network traffic
Correct Answer: B. Control multiple computers with one keyboard, video, and mouse
Explanation:
A KVM (Keyboard, Video, Mouse) switch allows a user to control multiple computers from a single set of peripherals — one keyboard, one monitor, and one mouse. This device is highly useful in environments where managing multiple systems efficiently is critical, such as server rooms or testing labs.
Rather than needing separate keyboards and monitors for each computer, a KVM switch streamlines workflow and saves physical space. It does not connect multiple monitors or handle network functions like encryption or Wi-Fi extension.
Question 10: What type of storage device uses NAND flash memory?
- SSD
B. HDD
C. Optical drive
D. Tape drive
Correct Answer: A. SSD
Explanation:
Solid State Drives (SSDs) use NAND flash memory as their storage medium. Unlike traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) that rely on spinning magnetic platters, SSDs store data on interconnected flash memory chips, making them faster, more durable, and more energy-efficient.
NAND flash allows for rapid data access, improved shock resistance, and lower power consumption—qualities that have made SSDs the preferred storage option for modern laptops, desktops, and servers. Optical drives use laser technology to read/write CDs or DVDs, and tape drives rely on magnetic tape for backup storage.
Question 11: Which tool is typically used to remove dust and debris from inside a computer case?
- Vacuum cleaner
B. Compressed air can
C. Wire brush
D. Magnet
Correct Answer: B. Compressed air can
Explanation:
A compressed air can is the safest and most effective tool for removing dust and debris from the interior of a computer case. It can blow away dust from delicate components such as fans, heat sinks, circuit boards, and power supplies without making physical contact, which helps avoid static damage or component dislodging.
Using a vacuum cleaner inside a computer case is discouraged due to the risk of static electricity buildup. Wire brushes and magnets are inappropriate because they can physically damage components or disrupt magnetic data storage.
Question 12: Which of the following is an example of an input device?
- Monitor
B. Printer
C. Keyboard
D. Speakers
Correct Answer: C. Keyboard
Explanation:
An input device is hardware used to send data and control signals into a computer. A keyboard allows users to input text and commands. Other input devices include a mouse, scanner, microphone, and touchscreen.
A monitor and speakers are output devices that display or play data from the computer. A printer is also an output device that produces physical copies of documents or images.
Question 13: A user reports that their laptop’s battery no longer holds a charge. What is the most likely cause?
- Battery failure
B. Malware infection
C. Overheating CPU
D. Network adapter issue
Correct Answer: A. Battery failure
Explanation:
The most common reason a laptop battery stops holding a charge is battery failure due to age or excessive charging cycles. Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time and lose their ability to store energy efficiently.
While malware or CPU overheating can cause performance issues, they don’t typically affect battery capacity. Network adapter issues are unrelated to power management. Replacing the battery is often necessary to restore normal operation.
Question 14: What type of expansion slot is commonly used for graphics cards?
- PCI
B. PCIe x16
C. AGP
D. ISA
Correct Answer: B. PCIe x16
Explanation:
The PCI Express (PCIe) x16 slot is the modern standard for installing graphics cards. It provides a high-speed connection between the GPU and the motherboard, allowing for the large data throughput required for graphic-intensive applications like gaming, 3D rendering, and video editing.
Older standards like AGP have been phased out, and PCI or ISA slots do not provide the necessary bandwidth for contemporary graphics cards. Knowing slot types is important for hardware upgrades and troubleshooting.
Question 15: Which device is required to connect a wired LAN to a wireless LAN?
- Router
B. Switch
C. Access point
D. Hub
Correct Answer: C. Access point
Explanation:
An access point bridges a wired Local Area Network (LAN) to wireless clients, allowing wireless devices to connect to the wired network. Access points extend network coverage and facilitate wireless communication within the LAN infrastructure.
While a router manages traffic between networks and may include wireless capabilities, the access point specifically handles wireless connectivity. Switches and hubs connect wired devices but do not provide wireless access.
Question 16: What is the default IP address class for 192.168.1.1?
- Class A
B. Class B
C. Class C
D. Class D
Correct Answer: C. Class C
Explanation:
The IP address 192.168.1.1 belongs to Class C, which covers the range from 192.0.0.0 to 223.255.255.255. Class C addresses are commonly used for small to medium-sized networks and are often assigned in private network environments.
This address is also part of the private IP space reserved for internal use, making it a typical default gateway address in many home routers.
Question 17: Which Windows utility allows you to view device drivers and hardware status?
- Device Manager
B. Disk Management
C. Task Manager
D. System Information
Correct Answer: A. Device Manager
Explanation:
Device Manager is a Windows utility that displays all hardware installed on the system along with their respective drivers and statuses. It helps troubleshoot hardware issues by showing if devices are working properly, have driver problems, or are disabled.
Disk Management handles storage devices, Task Manager monitors running processes, and System Information provides detailed system hardware and software information but not device driver management.
Question 18: Which command-line tool can be used to verify network connectivity?
- ipconfig
B. ping
C. tracert
D. netstat
Correct Answer: B. ping
Explanation:
The ping command is used to test the reachability of a host on an IP network by sending ICMP Echo Request messages and waiting for replies. It helps verify network connectivity between devices.
While ipconfig shows IP configuration, tracert traces the route to a network host, and netstat displays active network connections, ping is the primary tool for basic connectivity tests.
Question 19: What is the primary function of a switch in a network?
- Amplify signal
B. Connect multiple networks
C. Forward data packets between devices on the same network
D. Assign IP addresses
Correct Answer: C. Forward data packets between devices on the same network
Explanation:
A network switch operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) to forward data packets between devices within the same local area network. It uses MAC addresses to intelligently direct traffic, reducing collisions and improving network efficiency.
Routers connect different networks, while DHCP servers assign IP addresses. Amplifiers or repeaters boost signal strength but don’t route data packets.
Question 20: Which type of printer uses toner?
- Inkjet printer
B. Dot matrix printer
C. Laser printer
D. Thermal printer
Correct Answer: C. Laser printer
Explanation:
Laser printers use toner, a fine powder, to produce images on paper through a combination of static electricity and heat. This technology allows for fast printing with high-quality text and graphics.
Inkjet printers use liquid ink, dot matrix printers use impact pins and ink ribbons, and thermal printers rely on heat-sensitive paper.
Question 21: Which type of cable is used for long-distance fiber optic connections?
- Single-mode fiber
B. Multi-mode fiber
C. Coaxial
D. Shielded twisted pair
Correct Answer: A. Single-mode fiber
Explanation:
Single-mode fiber optic cable is designed for long-distance communication, capable of transmitting data over several kilometers with minimal signal loss due to its narrow core diameter and use of laser light.
Multi-mode fiber is used for shorter distances. Coaxial and shielded twisted pair cables are copper-based and do not offer the bandwidth or range of fiber optics.
Question 22: Which Windows feature allows you to boot into safe mode?
- msconfig
B. regedit
C. chkdsk
D. gpedit.msc
Correct Answer: A. msconfig
Explanation:
The msconfig utility in Windows allows users to configure system startup options, including booting into Safe Mode for troubleshooting. It provides options to enable minimal boot, networking, or command prompt-only safe mode.
Regedit edits the registry, chkdsk checks disk integrity, and gpedit.msc manages group policy settings.
Question 23: What mobile device feature allows synchronization of data over the internet?
- Bluetooth
B. Cloud services
C. NFC
D. Hotspot
Correct Answer: B. Cloud services
Explanation:
Cloud services enable mobile devices to synchronize data such as contacts, emails, calendars, and files over the internet, providing seamless access across multiple devices.
Bluetooth and NFC are short-range wireless technologies, and a hotspot shares internet connectivity but does not inherently synchronize data.
Question 24: Which BIOS setting allows you to change the boot order?
- System time
B. Boot priority
C. CPU clock speed
D. Virtualization support
Correct Answer: B. Boot priority
Explanation:
The boot priority setting in BIOS determines the sequence of devices from which the system attempts to boot. Adjusting this allows you to boot from a USB drive, CD/DVD, or network device before the internal hard drive.
System time sets the clock, CPU clock speed adjusts processor frequency, and virtualization support enables or disables virtualization technologies.
Question 25: Which component is responsible for processing data in a computer?
- RAM
B. CPU
C. Hard drive
D. GPU
Correct Answer: B. CPU
Explanation:
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer responsible for executing instructions and processing data. It performs calculations, controls system operations, and manages communication between hardware components.
RAM temporarily stores data for quick access, the hard drive provides long-term storage, and the GPU processes graphics-related data.
How to Use These Questions for Exam Preparation
To maximize the benefit from these practice questions, try the following approach:
- Time Yourself: Simulate exam conditions by answering the questions within a set time.
- Review Answers Thoroughly: After completing the questions, study the answers and understand why each option is correct or incorrect.
- Identify Weak Areas: Take note of topics where you struggle and revisit those areas in your study materials.
- Practice Consistently: Regular practice over weeks or months will improve retention and reduce test anxiety.
Additional Resources for CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Preparation
Besides practicing free questions, it is essential to explore other study resources:
- Official CompTIA Study Guides: Detailed books that cover all exam objectives.
- Video Training: Platforms like YouTube and Udemy offer video tutorials.
- Virtual Labs: Hands-on labs help build practical experience.
- Practice Exams: Full-length simulated exams test your readiness.
Conclusion
Preparing for the CompTIA A+ (220-1101) Core 1 exam requires dedication, practice, and the right resources. These 25 free questions offer a helpful starting point to assess your knowledge and improve your skills in hardware, networking, and troubleshooting. Use these questions alongside other study tools to build confidence and ensure success on exam day.
With consistent effort, you can achieve the CompTIA A+ certification and take the first step toward a rewarding career in IT.