Visit here for our full CompTIA 220-1102 exam dumps and practice test questions.

Question 181: 

A user’s Windows 10 computer is infected with malware that prevents anti-malware software from running. Which of the following should the technician do to remove the malware?

A) Run System Restore to a point before infection

B) Boot into Safe Mode and run anti-malware software

C) Disable Windows Defender

D) Reinstall Windows while keeping personal files

Answer: B) Boot into Safe Mode and run anti-malware software

Explanation:

When malware prevents anti-malware software from running in normal Windows mode, booting into Safe Mode is the most effective approach for removing the infection. Safe Mode is a diagnostic startup mode that loads Windows with only the minimum required drivers and services, which prevents most malware from loading and executing. Since the malware is not active in Safe Mode, anti-malware tools can run effectively to scan, detect, and remove the malicious software without interference.

To boot into Safe Mode in Windows 10, the technician can use several methods. The most reliable method is to interrupt the normal boot process three times, which triggers the Windows Recovery Environment, where Safe Mode options can be accessed. Alternatively, from within Windows, the technician can hold the Shift key while clicking Restart, then navigate through Troubleshoot, Advanced options, Startup Settings, and finally select Safe Mode or Safe Mode with Networking. Safe Mode with Networking is particularly useful because it allows the computer to connect to the internet, enabling the technician to download updated malware definitions or additional security tools if needed.

Once in Safe Mode, the technician should run a thorough system scan using reputable anti-malware software with up-to-date definitions. It is often beneficial to use multiple scanning tools, as different programs may detect different types of threats. The technician should also check for suspicious programs in the startup items, scheduled tasks, and services that may indicate malware persistence mechanisms. After removing the malware, it is important to verify that the system is clean by running additional scans and checking that security software can run normally when the computer boots back into regular Windows mode.

Option A might help if a recent restore point exists from before the infection, but System Restore does not always remove all traces of malware and may not be available or functional if the malware has disabled it. Option C is counterproductive and would leave the system more vulnerable rather than helping to remove the infection. Option D is too drastic as a first approach and should only be considered if Safe Mode malware removal attempts fail, as it requires significant time and reconfiguration.

Question 182: 

A technician needs to configure a Windows 10 computer to wake from sleep mode when network activity is detected. Which of the following settings should be configured?

A) Fast Startup

B) Hibernation

C) Wake-on-LAN

D) Network Discovery

Answer: C) Wake-on-LAN

Explanation:

Wake-on-LAN is a networking standard that allows a computer to be powered on or awakened from a low-power state by receiving a special network message called a magic packet. This feature is particularly useful in enterprise environments where administrators need to remotely access computers for maintenance, updates, or troubleshooting during off-hours without requiring physical access to each machine. When properly configured, Wake-on-LAN enables the network interface card to monitor network traffic even when the computer is in sleep mode, and to trigger the system to wake up when it receives the appropriate signal.

Configuring Wake-on-LAN requires settings to be enabled in multiple locations. First, the feature must be supported by and enabled in the computer’s BIOS or UEFI firmware settings. The technician should access the BIOS setup during startup and look for Wake-on-LAN settings, which may be found under power management or network boot options. Second, the network adapter’s properties in Windows must be configured to allow the device to wake the computer. This is done through Device Manager by accessing the network adapter’s properties, navigating to the Power Management tab, and ensuring that “Allow this device to wake the computer” and “Only allow a magic packet to wake the computer” are checked. Additionally, the Advanced tab may contain specific Wake-on-LAN settings that need to be enabled.

The technician should also verify that the computer’s power plan settings do not conflict with Wake-on-LAN functionality. Some aggressive power saving settings may prevent the network adapter from remaining in a state where it can respond to wake signals. Once configured, Wake-on-LAN can be tested by putting the computer to sleep and sending a magic packet from another computer on the network using specialized Wake-on-LAN software, which broadcasts the packet to the sleeping computer’s MAC address.

Option A is incorrect because Fast Startup is a feature that speeds up boot times by hibernating the kernel but does not enable network-based waking. Option B is incorrect because Hibernation is a power state that saves system memory to disk, not a feature that enables network wake capabilities. Option D is incorrect because Network Discovery allows computers to find each other on the network but does not provide wake-from-sleep functionality.

Question 183: 

A user reports that their laptop’s touchpad is not responding. The cursor does not move when they touch the touchpad. Which of the following should the technician check FIRST?

A) Whether the touchpad is disabled via a function key combination

B) Whether the touchpad driver needs updating

C) Whether the laptop needs a battery replacement

D) Whether Windows needs to be reinstalled

Answer: A) Whether the touchpad is disabled via a function key combination

Explanation:

Most laptops include a keyboard shortcut that allows users to quickly enable or disable the touchpad, typically using a function key combination. This feature exists to prevent accidental cursor movement while typing, and users may inadvertently press this key combination without realizing it, causing the touchpad to become disabled. Checking whether the touchpad has been accidentally disabled is the quickest and simplest first step in troubleshooting a non-responsive touchpad.

The specific function key combination varies by laptop manufacturer. Common combinations include Fn plus F5, F7, F9, or another function key that typically displays a touchpad icon. Some laptops, particularly newer models, may also have a dedicated touchpad toggle button or a small LED indicator near the touchpad that shows whether it is enabled or disabled. When the touchpad is disabled through this method, all touchpad functionality ceases, but the laptop otherwise operates normally, including the keyboard and any external mice that may be connected.

The technician should instruct the user to try pressing the appropriate function key combination to re-enable the touchpad. If the user is unsure which key combination applies to their laptop model, the technician can help them identify it by checking the keyboard for

touchpad icons on the function keys or by consulting the laptop manufacturer’s documentation. The touchpad settings in Windows can also indicate whether the touchpad is currently enabled or disabled. These settings can be accessed through Settings, then Devices, and finally Touchpad, where users can verify the touchpad’s status and manually enable it if necessary.

Option B should be considered if the function key toggle does not resolve the issue, but it is not the first step since driver problems are less common than accidental disabling. Option C is unrelated to touchpad functionality, as battery issues would not specifically cause touchpad failure while leaving other laptop functions operational. Option D is far too drastic as a first troubleshooting step and should only be considered after all other possibilities have been exhausted and determined that a serious software corruption exists.

Question 184: 

A technician is configuring BitLocker encryption on a Windows 10 computer to protect sensitive data. Which of the following is required for BitLocker to function properly?

A) An active internet connection

B) A Trusted Platform Module chip

C) A RAID configuration

D) Administrative privileges only

Answer: B) A Trusted Platform Module chip

Explanation:

BitLocker Drive Encryption is a data protection feature built into Windows that provides full disk encryption to protect data from unauthorized access, particularly in cases of lost or stolen devices. For BitLocker to function with its highest level of security, the computer must have a Trusted Platform Module, which is a specialized security chip installed on the computer’s motherboard. The TPM chip securely stores encryption keys and provides hardware-based security features that make it extremely difficult for attackers to access encrypted data even if they remove the hard drive from the computer.

The TPM chip works in conjunction with BitLocker to provide several layers of protection. During system startup, the TPM verifies the integrity of the boot components and only releases the encryption keys if the system has not been tampered with. This prevents attacks where someone might try to bypass the operating system to access the encrypted drive. The TPM can be configured to require additional authentication factors, such as a PIN or startup key on a USB drive, providing multi-factor authentication for disk encryption. Modern computers typically include TPM version 2.0, which is the required standard for Windows 11 and provides enhanced security features compared to earlier TPM versions.

While BitLocker can technically operate without a TPM chip using software-based encryption, this configuration provides significantly less security and requires the user to insert a USB startup key every time the computer boots, which is less convenient and more prone to user error. When a TPM is present, BitLocker can automatically unlock the drive during normal startup while still providing protection against offline attacks. The technician should verify TPM availability through the TPM Management console in Windows or through the BIOS settings, where TPM must typically be enabled before BitLocker can use it.

Option A is incorrect because BitLocker operates locally and does not require internet connectivity to encrypt or decrypt drives. Option C is incorrect because RAID configurations are related to data redundancy and performance, not encryption requirements. Option D is partially true in that administrative privileges are needed to enable BitLocker, but privileges alone are not sufficient hardware requirement for BitLocker to function with proper security.

Question 185: 

A technician receives a report that a user’s smartphone has become unresponsive and the screen displays an error message demanding payment in cryptocurrency. Which type of malware has MOST likely infected the device?

A) Spyware

B) Adware

C) Ransomware

D) Keylogger

Answer: C) Ransomware

Explanation:

The symptoms described indicate that the smartphone has been infected with ransomware, which is a type of malicious software that restricts access to the infected device or its data and demands payment, typically in cryptocurrency, for the restriction to be removed. Mobile ransomware has become increasingly common, targeting both Android and iOS devices, though Android devices are more frequently affected due to the platform’s more open architecture. The demand for cryptocurrency payment is a hallmark of ransomware attacks because cryptocurrency transactions are difficult to trace, making it harder for law enforcement to track down the perpetrators.

Mobile ransomware typically manifests in several ways. Lock-screen ransomware, which appears to be the case in this scenario, displays a full-screen message that prevents the user from accessing any other features of the device. The message usually claims to be from a law enforcement agency or provides fabricated accusations of illegal activity to pressure the user into paying. Crypto-ransomware encrypts the data on the device’s storage, making files inaccessible without the decryption key. Some ransomware variants combine both approaches. Mobile ransomware infections commonly occur through malicious apps downloaded from untrusted sources, phishing links in text messages or emails, or compromised websites.

To address a mobile ransomware infection, the technician should not recommend paying the ransom, as this does not guarantee the device will be unlocked and only encourages further criminal activity. Instead, for Android devices, the technician can attempt to boot into Safe Mode, which prevents third-party apps from running, including the ransomware. From Safe Mode, the malicious app can be uninstalled through the device settings. If Safe Mode is inaccessible or does not resolve the issue, a factory reset may be necessary, though this will erase all data on the device. For future protection, the technician should advise the user to only download apps from official app stores, keep the device’s operating system updated, and maintain regular backups of important data.

Option A is incorrect because spyware secretly monitors user activity and collects information without displaying prominent messages or demanding payment. Option B is incorrect because adware displays unwanted advertisements but does not typically lock the device or demand ransom. Option D is incorrect because keyloggers record keystrokes to steal sensitive information like passwords and operate covertly without displaying ransom messages or locking the device.

Question 186:  

A technician is troubleshooting a Windows 10 computer that is displaying a blue screen error with the message “DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL.” What is the MOST likely cause of this error?

A) Corrupted system files

B) Faulty or incompatible device driver

C) Hard drive failure

D) Insufficient RAM

Answer: B

Explanation:

The DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL blue screen error is one of the most common stop errors in Windows operating systems and is primarily associated with driver-related issues. This particular error occurs when a device driver attempts to access a memory address that it does not have permission to access, or when a driver tries to access memory at an incorrect Interrupt Request Level. The IRQL in the error message refers to the Interrupt Request Level, which is a priority system that Windows uses to manage hardware and software interrupts.

When a driver is faulty, outdated, or incompatible with the current version of Windows, it may not properly communicate with the operating system or hardware components. This miscommunication can lead to the driver attempting to access protected memory areas or executing instructions at the wrong priority level. Common scenarios that trigger this error include recently installed or updated drivers, particularly for network adapters, graphics cards, or other hardware components. The error can also occur after a Windows update if the update introduces incompatibility with existing drivers.

To resolve this issue, technicians should first identify the problematic driver by examining the blue screen error details or using the Windows Event Viewer to check system logs. The error message often includes the name of the faulty driver file, which can help pinpoint the specific hardware component causing the problem. Once identified, the recommended course of action is to update the driver to the latest version from the manufacturer’s website, or if the error started after a recent driver update, roll back to the previous version.

While A) corrupted system files can cause various Windows errors, they typically result in different blue screen messages. C) Hard drive failure usually manifests as data corruption or slow performance rather than this specific driver error. D) Insufficient RAM generally causes performance issues or out-of-memory errors rather than IRQL violations. Therefore, a faulty or incompatible device driver is the most likely cause of this particular blue screen error.

Question 187:  

A user reports that their computer is running extremely slow and frequently freezes. Upon investigation, the technician notices that the hard drive activity light is constantly on. Which of the following tools would be MOST helpful in identifying the cause?

A) Device Manager

B) Task Manager

C) System Configuration utility

D) Disk Cleanup

Answer: B

Explanation:

Task Manager is the most effective tool for diagnosing performance issues related to constant hard drive activity and system slowdowns in Windows. This built-in utility provides real-time monitoring of system resources including CPU usage, memory consumption, disk activity, and network utilization. When a computer experiences constant hard drive activity indicated by the drive light remaining illuminated, Task Manager allows technicians to quickly identify which processes or applications are consuming excessive disk resources.

The Performance tab in Task Manager displays detailed graphs and statistics for all system resources, with the Disk section showing the percentage of disk activity and transfer speeds. The Processes tab is particularly valuable as it lists all running applications and background processes along with their individual resource consumption. By sorting processes by disk usage, technicians can immediately identify which programs are causing the excessive hard drive activity. This information is crucial for determining whether the issue is caused by a specific application, a Windows service, malware, or system maintenance tasks running in the background.

Common causes of constant disk activity that Task Manager can help identify include Windows Update downloading or installing updates, Windows Search indexing files, antivirus software performing scans, disk defragmentation processes, or malware consuming system resources. Task Manager also provides the ability to end problematic processes or applications that are not responding, offering immediate relief while a permanent solution is implemented. Additionally, the Startup tab shows programs configured to launch at boot time, which may be contributing to slow performance.

A) Device Manager would be useful for identifying hardware conflicts or driver issues but does not provide real-time resource monitoring. C) System Configuration utility helps manage startup programs and services but lacks the detailed performance metrics needed for immediate diagnosis. D) Disk Cleanup is useful for freeing up disk space but does not help identify which processes are causing excessive disk activity. Therefore, Task Manager provides the most comprehensive information needed to diagnose the performance issues.

Question 188:  

A company is implementing a new security policy that requires all users to use complex passwords that must be changed every 60 days. Which Windows utility should the administrator use to configure these password requirements?

A) User Accounts in Control Panel

B) Local Security Policy

C) Computer Management

D) Registry Editor

Answer: B

Explanation:

Local Security Policy is the appropriate Windows utility for configuring password complexity requirements and expiration settings across a system. This administrative tool provides centralized access to security-related settings and policies that govern user authentication, password standards, account lockout policies, and various other security configurations. It is specifically designed to manage security policies that affect all users on a local computer or within a domain environment when accessed through Group Policy.

Within Local Security Policy, administrators can navigate to Account Policies and then Password Policy to configure specific requirements for password management. This section contains settings for minimum password length, password complexity requirements, password history, maximum password age, and minimum password age. The password complexity requirement, when enabled, forces users to create passwords that include a combination of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. The maximum password age setting allows administrators to specify exactly how many days a password remains valid before users must change it, which in this scenario would be set to 60 days.

Local Security Policy also provides additional password-related settings such as minimum password length, which determines how many characters a password must contain, and enforce password history, which prevents users from reusing their previous passwords. These settings work together to create a comprehensive password security framework that meets organizational security requirements. The utility is accessible through the Administrative Tools in Control Panel or by running secpol.msc from the Run dialog, making it easy for administrators to locate and configure.

A) User Accounts in Control Panel allows basic user account management but lacks the granular policy controls needed for enterprise password requirements. C) Computer Management provides access to various administrative tools but requires navigating to Local Users and Groups for basic account management without centralized policy controls. D) Registry Editor can technically modify security settings but is not recommended for this purpose as it requires manual editing of registry keys and carries risk of system damage. Local Security Policy provides the proper interface for managing password requirements efficiently and safely.

Question 189: 

A technician needs to prevent a specific application from running on a Windows computer. Which of the following methods would be the MOST effective way to accomplish this?

A) Remove the application shortcut from the desktop

B) Disable the application in Task Manager

C) Use AppLocker to create a deny rule

D) Uninstall the application completely

Answer: C

Explanation:

AppLocker is a Windows security feature that provides administrators with the ability to control which applications and files users can run on their systems. Creating a deny rule in AppLocker is the most effective method for preventing a specific application from running because it blocks execution at the system level regardless of how the user attempts to launch the application. This approach provides comprehensive protection by preventing the application from running even if a user tries to execute it from different locations, rename it, or launch it through various methods.

AppLocker works by creating rules based on file path, publisher, or file hash. When a deny rule is created for a specific application, Windows will prevent that application from executing anywhere on the system, displaying an error message to users who attempt to run it. This is particularly useful in corporate environments where administrators need to enforce software policies and prevent unauthorized or potentially harmful applications from running. AppLocker rules can be configured through the Local Security Policy or Group Policy, making them easy to deploy across multiple computers in a domain environment.

The deny rule in AppLocker takes precedence over allow rules, ensuring that even if other policies would normally permit the application to run, the specific deny rule will block it. This granular control allows administrators to maintain security while still permitting users to run other necessary applications. AppLocker also generates events in the Windows Event Log whenever blocked applications are attempted to be executed, providing audit trails for security monitoring and compliance purposes.

A) Removing the application shortcut from the desktop only removes convenient access but does not prevent users from launching the application through other means such as the Start menu, File Explorer, or command line. B) Disabling an application in Task Manager only stops currently running instances and does not prevent the application from being launched again. D) Uninstalling the application completely would prevent it from running, but users with appropriate permissions could reinstall it, making this less effective than a policy-based approach. AppLocker provides the most robust and manageable solution for preventing application execution.

Question 190: 

A user complains that pop-up advertisements keep appearing on their computer even when the web browser is closed. What is the MOST likely cause of this issue?

A) Browser cookies need to be cleared

B) Adware is installed on the system

C) Windows Defender is disabled

D) DNS settings are incorrect

Answer: B

Explanation:

Adware installed on the system is the most likely cause of pop-up advertisements appearing even when the web browser is closed. Adware is a type of potentially unwanted program that displays advertisements on a computer, often in intrusive and persistent ways. Unlike browser-based pop-ups that only appear when browsing websites, adware runs as a separate application or service on the operating system and can generate advertisements independently of any browser activity. This malicious software typically gets installed through software bundling, where users unknowingly agree to install additional programs when downloading free software from untrusted sources.

When adware infects a system, it often installs itself as a background process or service that launches automatically at startup. This allows it to display advertisements at any time, regardless of what applications are running. The advertisements may appear as pop-up windows, banner ads overlaid on the desktop, or notifications that mimic legitimate system messages. Adware can significantly degrade system performance by consuming memory and CPU resources, and it may also track user browsing habits to display targeted advertisements or sell this information to third parties.

To address adware infections, technicians should run a thorough malware scan using reputable anti-malware software. Multiple scanning tools may be necessary as some adware can evade detection by certain security programs. After identifying and removing the adware, technicians should check the browser extensions and installed programs list for any remaining suspicious items. It is also recommended to review the startup programs and services to ensure no adware components are set to launch automatically. Educating users about safe download practices and avoiding untrusted software sources can help prevent future infections.

A) Browser cookies need to be cleared would only affect browser-based tracking and advertisements, not system-level pop-ups appearing outside the browser. C) Windows Defender being disabled might make the system more vulnerable to infections, but it is not the direct cause of existing pop-ups. D) DNS settings being incorrect would affect website resolution and connectivity but would not cause advertisement pop-ups to appear on the desktop. Therefore, adware installation is the most likely explanation for this specific symptom pattern.

Question 191: 

A technician is setting up a new Windows 10 workstation and needs to join it to the company domain. Which edition of Windows 10 is required to perform this task?

A) Windows 10 Home

B) Windows 10 Pro

C) Windows 10 Education

D) Both B and C

Answer: D

Explanation:

Both Windows 10 Pro and Windows 10 Education editions support domain joining capabilities, making them suitable for enterprise and educational environments where centralized management is required. Domain joining is a feature that allows a computer to become part of an Active Directory domain, enabling centralized user authentication, group policy management, and network resource access control. This functionality is essential for organizations that need to manage multiple computers and users from a central location while maintaining consistent security policies and access controls across the network.

Windows 10 Pro is designed for business users and includes features necessary for professional environments, including domain join capabilities, Group Policy management, BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop hosting, and Hyper-V virtualization. When a Windows 10 Pro computer joins a domain, it can be managed by domain administrators who can deploy software, configure security settings, and control user permissions through Active Directory and Group Policy Objects. This edition is commonly used in small to medium-sized businesses and corporate environments where centralized management is essential but enterprise-level features are not required.

Windows 10 Education is specifically designed for educational institutions and includes all the features of Windows 10 Enterprise, including domain join capabilities. This edition provides schools and universities with the tools needed to manage large numbers of computers across campus environments. It includes the same management and security features as Windows 10 Pro but adds additional enterprise-level capabilities that are beneficial for educational settings. Educational institutions typically receive this edition through volume licensing agreements at discounted rates.

A) Windows 10 Home edition does not support joining a domain, as it is designed for personal and home use where centralized management is not necessary. Users with Windows 10 Home can only join a workgroup or homegroup for basic file and printer sharing. To join a domain, the computer must be running Windows 10 Pro, Education, or Enterprise editions. Therefore, both Windows 10 Pro and Education are correct answers for domain joining capabilities.

Question 192: 

A user is unable to access a shared network printer. The technician verifies that the printer is powered on and connected to the network. What should the technician check NEXT?

A) Printer driver installation on the user’s computer

B) Network cable connection to the printer

C) Paper tray and toner levels

D) BIOS settings on the user’s computer

Answer: A

Explanation:

Checking the printer driver installation on the user’s computer is the next logical troubleshooting step after verifying that the printer is powered on and connected to the network. Printer drivers are essential software components that allow the operating system to communicate with and control the printer hardware. Without the correct driver installed or if the driver is corrupted, the computer cannot send print jobs to the printer even if the printer is functioning properly on the network. This is one of the most common causes of printer connectivity issues in networked environments.

When troubleshooting network printer access issues, verifying driver installation involves checking whether the printer appears in the Devices and Printers section of Control Panel and whether it is set as an available printer. If the printer is not listed, the driver needs to be installed using either the manufacturer’s installation software, Windows Update, or by manually adding the network printer through the Add Printer wizard. If the printer is listed but not functioning, the driver may be corrupted or outdated and should be updated or reinstalled. Technicians should ensure they are using the correct driver version that matches both the printer model and the operating system version.

Driver-related issues can manifest in various ways, including the inability to see the printer in the list of available devices, print jobs getting stuck in the queue, error messages when attempting to print, or the printer appearing offline even though it is powered on and connected. Reinstalling or updating the printer driver often resolves these issues. Additionally, technicians should verify that the printer is shared correctly on the network and that the user has appropriate permissions to access it through network sharing settings and Active Directory group policies in domain environments.

B) Network cable connection to the printer has already been verified as part of confirming the printer is connected to the network. C) Paper tray and toner levels would affect print quality or the ability to complete print jobs but would not prevent the user from accessing or seeing the printer on the network. D) BIOS settings on the user’s computer are unrelated to network printer connectivity, as BIOS controls hardware initialization at boot time and does not affect operating system-level printer connections. Therefore, checking the printer driver installation is the most appropriate next step.

Question 193: 

A technician needs to configure a Windows computer to automatically receive an IP address from the network. Which protocol is responsible for this function?

A) DNS

B) DHCP

C) FTP

D) HTTP

Answer: B

Explanation:

DHCP, which stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, is the network protocol responsible for automatically assigning IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network. When a computer is configured to obtain an IP address automatically, it sends out a DHCP discover message when it connects to the network. A DHCP server responds with an offer containing an available IP address from its address pool, along with additional configuration information such as subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses. This automated process eliminates the need for manual IP address configuration and reduces the likelihood of address conflicts and configuration errors.

The DHCP process follows a four-step sequence known as DORA: Discover, Offer, Request, and Acknowledge. First, the client broadcasts a discover message to locate available DHCP servers. Second, one or more DHCP servers respond with an offer containing an available IP address. Third, the client requests the offered IP address from the chosen server. Finally, the server acknowledges the request and assigns the IP address to the client for a specified lease period. This lease period determines how long the client can use the assigned IP address before needing to renew it with the DHCP server.

DHCP provides several advantages in network management, including centralized control of IP address allocation, efficient use of available IP addresses through address recycling, simplified network administration, and automatic updates to network configuration parameters. In Windows, computers are configured to use DHCP by default, with the network adapter settings set to obtain an IP address automatically. Administrators can view current DHCP-assigned information using the ipconfig command in Command Prompt, which displays the assigned IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and lease information.

A) DNS (Domain Name System) is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses but does not assign IP addresses to devices. C) FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used for transferring files between computers over a network and is unrelated to IP address assignment. D) HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is used for transmitting web pages and web content but does not handle IP address configuration. Therefore, DHCP is the correct protocol for automatic IP address assignment.

Question 194: 

A user reports that their laptop screen is very dim and difficult to read. The technician notices that increasing the brightness settings has no effect. What is the MOST likely cause of this issue?

A) Failed graphics card

B) Failed backlight or inverter

C) Loose video cable

D) Incorrect display resolution

Answer: B

Explanation:

A failed backlight or inverter is the most likely cause of a laptop screen that appears very dim and does not respond to brightness adjustments. The backlight is a component behind the LCD panel that illuminates the screen, making the displayed content visible to the user. In older laptops with CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp) backlights, the inverter is a small circuit board that converts DC power to AC power needed to operate the backlight. In newer laptops with LED backlights, the backlight system is typically more reliable but can still fail due to power supply issues or hardware defects.

When the backlight or inverter fails, the laptop screen will still display an image because the LCD panel itself continues to function, but the image will be extremely dim and difficult to see. A useful diagnostic test is to shine a bright flashlight at an angle on the screen while the laptop is powered on. If an image is visible under the flashlight, this confirms that the LCD panel is working but the backlight is not functioning. This symptom pattern is characteristic of backlight or inverter failure rather than other display-related problems that would affect image quality or prevent any display output.

Backlight and inverter failures can occur due to several factors, including component age and wear, power surges, physical damage from drops or impacts, or manufacturing defects. In many cases, replacing the failed component can restore normal screen brightness. However, for modern thin laptops where the backlight is integrated into the display assembly, the entire screen panel may need replacement. Technicians should also check for any BIOS settings related to display brightness and verify that power management settings are not limiting brightness, though these would typically respond to user brightness adjustments unlike hardware failures.

A) A failed graphics card would typically result in no display output, distorted images, artifacts, or complete system failure rather than just a dim screen that still displays content. C) A loose video cable might cause flickering, intermittent display, or no image at all, but would not cause a consistently dim screen. D) Incorrect display resolution would affect image clarity and scaling but would not cause the screen to be dim or unresponsive to brightness controls. Therefore, backlight or inverter failure best explains the described symptoms.

Question 195: 

A technician is troubleshooting a computer that displays an error message stating “Operating System Not Found” during boot. Which of the following is the FIRST step the technician should take?

A) Reinstall the operating system

B) Check the BIOS boot order settings

C) Replace the hard drive

D) Run a disk repair utility

Answer: B

Explanation:

Checking the BIOS boot order settings is the first and most appropriate troubleshooting step when encountering an “Operating System Not Found” error message. The boot order, also called boot sequence, determines which storage devices the computer checks when searching for bootable operating system files during startup. If the boot order is configured incorrectly, the system may attempt to boot from a device that does not contain an operating system, such as a USB drive, optical drive, or network location, rather than the hard drive where the OS is actually installed. This is a configuration issue rather than a hardware or software failure and can be quickly verified and corrected without any invasive procedures.

The BIOS or UEFI firmware contains the boot order settings that can be accessed during system startup by pressing a specific key such as F2, F12, Delete, or ESC depending on the manufacturer. Once in the BIOS setup utility, technicians can navigate to the boot menu and verify that the primary hard drive containing the operating system is listed as the first boot device. Sometimes boot order settings can change due to BIOS updates, battery failures that reset CMOS settings, or user modifications. Additionally, if removable media such as a USB drive or optical disc is connected during boot, the system may attempt to boot from these devices first if they are higher in the boot priority.

This diagnostic approach follows the principle of starting with the simplest and least invasive troubleshooting steps before progressing to more complex or destructive solutions. Checking boot order settings takes only a few minutes and does not risk data loss or require additional hardware or software. If the boot order is correct and the hard drive is properly recognized in BIOS but the error persists, then technicians can proceed to check physical connections, run diagnostic utilities, or investigate potential hard drive failures or corrupted boot files.

A) Reinstalling the operating system should only be considered after ruling out simpler causes and would result in data loss if not backed up properly. C) Replacing the hard drive is premature without first verifying that the drive has actually failed and that simpler configuration issues are not the cause. D) Running a disk repair utility assumes the system can at least partially access the drive, which may not be possible if boot order is preventing the system from even attempting to read the correct drive. Therefore, checking BIOS boot order is the appropriate first step.