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Question 91: 

A technician is troubleshooting a computer that cannot connect to the network. The network cable is securely connected and other computers on the network are working fine. What should the technician check NEXT?

A) Replace the network cable

B) Check if the network adapter is disabled

C) Restart the router

D) Run network diagnostics

Answer: B) Check if the network adapter is disabled

Explanation:

When a computer cannot connect to the network despite having a securely connected cable and other computers working properly, the next troubleshooting step should be checking if the network adapter is disabled. Network adapters can be disabled accidentally through keyboard shortcuts, Windows settings, Device Manager actions, or power management features. A disabled adapter appears to be properly connected physically but cannot communicate on the network because the operating system has turned off the device. This is a common issue that is easily verified and resolved without requiring hardware replacement or network reconfiguration.

Checking adapter status involves opening Network Connections through Control Panel or Settings, examining the network adapter icon for any disabled status indicators, or accessing Device Manager to verify the adapter appears without warning symbols and shows as enabled. Disabled adapters typically display different icons in Network Connections, often appearing grayed out or with a red X. In Device Manager, disabled devices may show with a down arrow icon overlaying the device icon, clearly indicating their disabled status.

Enabling a disabled network adapter is straightforward: right-click the adapter in Network Connections and select Enable, or in Device Manager, right-click the adapter and select Enable device. After enabling, Windows typically takes a few seconds to initialize the adapter and negotiate network connectivity. The technician should verify that the computer obtains an IP address and can communicate on the network after enabling the adapter.

Network adapters can become disabled through various mechanisms including users accidentally pressing keyboard shortcuts that toggle wireless adapters on laptops, power management settings that turn off devices to save energy and fail to turn them back on, software conflicts or driver issues causing adapters to be disabled, or deliberate disabling by other users or administrators. Understanding how the adapter became disabled helps prevent recurrence.

Troubleshooting should also examine power management settings that might automatically disable network adapters. In Device Manager, the adapter’s Properties dialog includes a Power Management tab where options like “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power” can be configured. If this setting is enabled and causing problems, disabling it prevents Windows from automatically turning off the adapter during power-saving operations.

After enabling the adapter, the technician should verify proper network configuration including confirming that the adapter is set to obtain an IP address automatically via DHCP, checking that the computer receives a valid IP address in the appropriate network range, testing connectivity by pinging the default gateway and other network resources, and verifying DNS resolution by accessing websites or network resources by name.

If the adapter was not disabled, additional troubleshooting includes updating or reinstalling network adapter drivers, checking for Windows updates that might resolve compatibility issues, examining event logs for errors related to network adapter initialization, testing the network cable with a known working device to rule out cable faults, and trying different network switch ports to eliminate switch port problems.

Question 92: 

A user’s smartphone is not receiving email notifications even though the email app is properly configured. What should be checked FIRST?

A) Email server settings

B) App notification permissions

C) Internet connectivity

D) Email account password

Answer: B) App notification permissions

Explanation:

When a smartphone fails to display email notifications despite proper email app configuration, the first item to check should be app notification permissions because mobile operating systems require explicit permission for apps to display notifications. Users sometimes inadvertently disable notification permissions during app installation or through privacy settings adjustments, preventing apps from alerting users about new emails even when the email app successfully receives messages in the background. Notification permissions are separate from email configuration settings, so the app can function properly for sending and receiving mail while being unable to display notification alerts.

Modern mobile operating systems including iOS and Android implement granular permission systems that control various app capabilities. Notification permissions specifically govern whether apps can display badges, banners, sounds, and alerts when events occur. Email apps require notification permissions to alert users about new incoming messages. If these permissions are disabled, email continues arriving and can be seen when the app is opened manually, but no proactive notifications inform users that new messages have arrived.

Checking notification permissions involves accessing device settings, locating the Apps or Notifications section, finding the email application in the list of installed apps, and reviewing notification settings. On Android devices, this typically involves Settings, then Apps, selecting the email app, and examining Notifications permissions. On iOS devices, Settings, then Notifications shows all apps with configurable notification options. Within each app’s notification settings, users can enable or disable notifications entirely and configure notification styles including sounds, badges, banners, and lock screen display.

Common reasons for disabled notifications include users dismissing permission prompts during initial app setup without fully understanding the implications, accidentally disabling notifications while exploring device settings, enabling Do Not Disturb or similar modes that suppress notifications, or battery optimization features that restrict background app activity to conserve power. Some devices include aggressive battery saving modes that disable notifications from apps not actively in use.

After verifying and enabling notification permissions, the technician should ensure that other notification-related settings support email alerts. This includes checking that Do Not Disturb mode is not active or is configured to allow notifications from the email app, verifying that the email app itself has notification settings enabled in its internal configuration, ensuring battery optimization settings do not restrict the email app’s background activity, and confirming that notification sounds or vibration patterns are configured if audible alerts are desired.

Some email apps include internal notification settings beyond operating system permissions. The technician should open the email app’s settings menu and verify that email notifications are enabled, notification sounds are selected, and any filtering options are configured appropriately. Some apps allow notifications for all emails or only for specific accounts, folders, or priority messages, so these settings should match user expectations.

Troubleshooting persistent notification issues might involve clearing the email app’s cache and data, uninstalling and reinstalling the app, checking for app updates that might fix notification bugs, ensuring the device has adequate internet connectivity for receiving push notifications, and verifying that email servers support push notifications rather than requiring manual refresh.

Email server settings affect whether messages are delivered to the device but do not control notification display. If server settings were incorrect, the app would not receive messages at all, whereas the scenario indicates proper email functionality without notifications.

Internet connectivity is necessary for receiving email but does not specifically affect notification display. If connectivity were the issue, no new emails would arrive regardless of notification settings. The problem specifically relates to notification alerts rather than email delivery.

Email account passwords affect authentication and email access but do not control notification permissions. Incorrect passwords would prevent email from being retrieved, whereas the issue is specifically about notification display after emails are successfully received.

Question 93: 

A technician needs to prevent users from installing browser extensions on company computers. Which Group Policy setting should be configured?

A) User rights assignment

B) Software restriction policies

C) Browser extension whitelist

D) AppLocker rules

Answer: C) Browser extension whitelist

Explanation:

Configuring a browser extension whitelist through Group Policy provides the most direct and effective method for preventing users from installing unauthorized browser extensions on company computers. Modern browsers including Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge support Group Policy settings that allow administrators to specify exactly which extensions are permitted to be installed. By configuring a whitelist that includes only approved extensions, administrators prevent installation of any extensions not explicitly authorized, protecting against malicious or productivity-reducing browser add-ons while allowing necessary business tools.

Browser extensions represent significant security risks because they operate with broad access to web browsing activities, can capture credentials and sensitive information, may inject malicious code into web pages, can redirect users to phishing sites, and might communicate browsing data to unauthorized third parties. Additionally, extensions can negatively impact browser performance, cause compatibility problems with web applications, and reduce productivity through distractions and unwanted features. Controlling extension installation through Group Policy helps organizations maintain security and productivity standards.

Implementing extension control requires accessing Group Policy Editor and navigating to Computer Configuration or User Configuration, then Administrative Templates, then the appropriate browser folder such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. Within browser policies, administrators find settings for extension management including options to specify allowed extension IDs, blocked extension IDs, force-installed extensions, and extension installation sources. The whitelist approach uses allowed extension IDs to create a list of permitted extensions, blocking installation of anything not on the list.

Each browser extension has a unique identifier that administrators can obtain from browser web stores or extension information pages. These IDs are added to Group Policy settings to create the whitelist. Organizations should maintain documentation of approved extensions including business justifications, security assessments, and periodic review schedules. The approval process for new extensions should include security vetting to ensure extensions come from trusted developers and do not introduce unacceptable risks.

Group Policy settings for extensions also support force-installation, which automatically installs specified extensions on all managed computers without user intervention. This capability is useful for deploying standardized business tools, security extensions, or productivity enhancements across the organization. Force-installed extensions can be configured to prevent user removal, ensuring critical security tools remain active.

Complementary Group Policy settings control other browser behaviors including preventing installation of applications from the browser, blocking access to browser stores, enforcing safe browsing features, controlling cookie handling, managing certificates, and configuring security zones. These comprehensive browser management capabilities allow organizations to maintain security while supporting business needs.

Testing Group Policy settings in a pilot environment before broad deployment helps identify issues with legitimate business processes or necessary extensions that were not included in the initial whitelist. User feedback during pilot testing provides valuable information about business-critical extensions that need approval. After deployment, organizations should establish procedures for users to request new extensions with business justifications and security review processes.

User rights assignment controls which users can perform specific system operations like logging on locally, accessing computers from the network, or changing system time. These permissions govern system-level operations rather than browser extension installation.

Software restriction policies control which applications can execute on Windows systems based on path rules, certificate rules, hash rules, or zone rules. While these policies restrict application execution, they do not specifically control browser extension installation within browsers.

AppLocker provides application control by allowing administrators to specify which executables, scripts, installers, and DLLs can run. AppLocker is effective for controlling application launches but does not directly manage browser extensions, which are installed and managed within browser environments rather than as standalone executables.

Question 94: 

A user reports that their computer displays a “CMOS battery failure” message during startup. What should the technician do?

A) Replace the motherboard

B) Replace the CMOS battery

C) Update BIOS firmware

D) Reset BIOS settings

Answer: B) Replace the CMOS battery

Explanation:

When a computer displays a “CMOS battery failure” message during startup, the appropriate action is replacing the CMOS battery, which is a small coin-cell battery on the motherboard that maintains BIOS settings and system clock when the computer is powered off. The CMOS battery typically lasts three to five years under normal conditions, after which it can no longer hold sufficient charge to maintain settings during power-off periods. A failing CMOS battery causes various symptoms including loss of BIOS settings requiring reconfiguration at each startup, system clock resetting to default dates and times, boot order changes requiring manual correction, and explicit battery failure warnings during POST.

The CMOS battery powers a small amount of memory that stores BIOS configuration including hardware settings, boot sequence, system time and date, and power management configurations. Without adequate battery power, this information is lost when system power is removed. Modern computers with constant power connections may operate for extended periods with dead CMOS batteries because settings persist while power is applied, but symptoms appear immediately after power loss or when computers are unplugged or experience power outages.

Replacing the CMOS battery is a straightforward hardware maintenance task. The technician should power down the computer completely, disconnect all power sources including unplugging the power cord, open the computer case following proper ESD precautions, locate the CMOS battery which is typically a CR2032 coin cell battery in a socket on the motherboard, carefully remove the old battery by releasing the retention clip, and install a new battery with correct polarity. After replacement, the computer should be powered on and BIOS settings reconfigured to appropriate values.

After replacing the CMOS battery, the technician must reconfigure BIOS settings because all settings will have reverted to factory defaults. Important configurations to check include boot device order to ensure the operating system drive is prioritized, system date and time which should be set accurately, hardware configurations such as SATA modes and power management, and security settings including supervisor passwords if used. Many systems allow saving and loading BIOS profiles, which can simplify reconfiguration after battery replacement if profiles were saved previously.

The age of the computer and battery replacement history help predict when batteries will require replacement. Computers more than three to five years old are increasingly likely to experience battery failures. Proactive battery replacement during routine maintenance prevents unexpected settings loss and system clock problems. Keeping replacement batteries on hand allows quick resolution when failures occur.

Some symptoms might initially seem unrelated to CMOS battery failure. Certificate errors in web browsers can result from incorrect system clock settings caused by dead CMOS batteries. Boot failures can occur if boot order settings are lost. Scheduled tasks may not execute correctly if the system clock is wrong. Understanding that CMOS battery failure affects system clock and settings helps technicians diagnose these seemingly unrelated problems.

Advanced motherboards in servers and workstations sometimes include battery-backed or non-volatile RAM that maintains settings without traditional CMOS batteries, reducing maintenance requirements. However, most desktop and laptop computers rely on standard CR2032 batteries that require periodic replacement.

Question 95 

(Continued): A technician is configuring a Windows 10 computer for a user who requires accessibility features due to vision impairment. Which feature should be enabled?

A) Narrator

B) Filter Keys

C) Mouse Keys

D) Sticky Keys

Answer: A) Narrator

Explanation:

Narrator is the Windows accessibility feature designed specifically for users with vision impairments, providing screen reading functionality that converts on-screen text, buttons, and other interface elements into synthesized speech or Braille output. This assistive technology enables visually impaired users to navigate and use computers effectively by providing audible descriptions of screen content, reading text in documents and web pages, announcing button labels and menu options, and describing the results of user actions. Narrator significantly improves computer accessibility for users who cannot see screens clearly or at all.

Windows Narrator includes comprehensive features that support various computing tasks. The software reads aloud text as users type, announces notifications and system messages, describes navigation within applications, provides detailed information about interface elements when requested, and supports touch gestures on touchscreen devices for navigation. Users control reading speed, voice characteristics, verbosity level, and navigation behavior through extensive configuration options. Keyboard shortcuts provide efficient control over reading commands without requiring mouse interaction.

Enabling Narrator involves pressing Windows key plus Ctrl plus Enter as a keyboard shortcut, accessing Settings then Ease of Access and selecting Narrator, or using voice commands with Cortana. Once activated, Narrator begins reading screen contents immediately and continues providing audio feedback as users interact with the computer. The feature integrates with all Windows applications and most third-party software, though some applications provide better accessibility support than others.

Narrator supports multiple languages and voices, allowing users to select preferred speech characteristics. Modern Windows versions include natural-sounding voices that improve comprehension compared to earlier robotic-sounding synthesis. Users can adjust speech rate from very slow for new users learning to navigate with audio feedback to very fast for experienced users who prefer rapid information delivery. Pitch and volume controls provide additional personalization.

Question 96: 

A user reports that their computer displays a message saying the hard drive is failing. What should the technician do FIRST?

A) Run disk defragmentation

B) Back up important data

C) Replace the hard drive

D) Run disk cleanup

Answer: B) Back up important data

Explanation:

When a computer displays warnings that the hard drive is failing, the first and most critical action is backing up important data immediately before the drive fails completely and data becomes unrecoverable. Hard drive failure warnings typically come from SMART monitoring systems that detect predictive failure indicators such as increasing bad sectors, read/write errors, mechanical problems, or other anomalies suggesting imminent failure. These warnings should be taken seriously because drive failure can occur suddenly, resulting in permanent data loss if backups are not available.

SMART technology continuously monitors hard drive health parameters including read error rates, spin retry counts, reallocated sector counts, seek error rates, and temperature. When these parameters exceed acceptable thresholds, SMART triggers warnings through BIOS messages, operating system notifications, or disk monitoring utilities. While SMART predictions are not perfect, they provide valuable advance warning that allows data protection before catastrophic failure. Ignoring these warnings risks losing irreplaceable files, documents, photos, and other important data.

The backup process should prioritize the most important and irreplaceable data first in case the drive fails during backup operations. Personal files including documents, photos, videos, email archives, and financial records should be backed up immediately. Application data and settings may also be important depending on user needs. The backup destination should be external storage such as USB external hard drives, network storage, or cloud backup services. Creating multiple backup copies on different media provides additional protection against backup failure.

After securing critical data, the technician should verify backup integrity by checking that files copied successfully and are accessible from the backup location. Testing file restoration ensures backups are usable when needed. Some backup corruption can occur during copying from failing drives, so verification is essential. Complete system images can be created if time allows, capturing the entire operating system, applications, and data for faster recovery on replacement hardware.

Following successful data backup, the technician should plan for hard drive replacement. Purchasing a replacement drive of appropriate capacity and interface type ensures quick installation when the failing drive stops working. Solid state drives offer improved reliability and performance compared to traditional spinning drives and should be considered for replacements. The replacement process involves installing the new drive, reinstalling the operating system, installing drivers and applications, and restoring backed up data.

Some drive failures occur gradually with increasing errors over time, while others fail suddenly without additional warning after initial SMART alerts. The unpredictable nature of drive failures makes immediate backup essential. Users should not continue normal computer use without backing up data first because each additional operation on failing drives risks triggering complete failure.

Question 97: 

A technician is configuring a computer to dual-boot Windows 10 and Linux. What must be considered?

A) Both operating systems must use the same file system

B) Separate partitions are required for each operating system

C) Only one operating system can be activated at a time

D) The computer must have two hard drives

Answer: B) Separate partitions are required for each operating system

Explanation:

Dual-boot configurations require separate partitions for each operating system to prevent conflicts and ensure each OS maintains its own system files, configurations, and data independently. Each operating system needs dedicated disk space where it installs its files, creates necessary directory structures, and manages system resources without interfering with the other operating system. Partitioning divides a single physical hard drive into distinct logical volumes that appear as separate drives to operating systems, allowing multiple operating systems to coexist on one physical drive.

Creating a dual-boot system involves partitioning the hard drive to allocate space for each operating system. The Windows installation typically requires at least 64GB though more is recommended for applications and data, while Linux distributions vary in space requirements depending on the distribution and intended use. Most installations reserve additional space for a shared data partition formatted in a file system both operating systems can access, such as NTFS which Linux can read and write with appropriate drivers, or FAT32 for smaller files. Proper partition sizing considers anticipated usage patterns and storage needs for both systems.

The installation sequence matters in dual-boot scenarios. Generally, Windows should be installed first because its bootloader is less flexible than Linux bootloaders. After Windows installation completes, Linux can be installed to the second partition. During Linux installation, the GRUB bootloader detects the existing Windows installation and configures itself as the primary bootloader, providing a menu at startup allowing users to select which operating system to boot. GRUB manages the boot process for both operating systems and can be customized to set default boot choices and timeout periods.

Boot loaders are critical components in dual-boot configurations. Windows uses its own boot manager that only boots Windows, while GRUB can boot multiple operating systems including Windows and Linux. When GRUB is configured as the primary bootloader, it displays a menu during startup listing available operating systems. Users select their desired OS, and GRUB loads the appropriate kernel or chain-loads to the Windows bootloader. This process allows seamless switching between operating systems, though only one OS runs at a time.

File system compatibility affects data sharing between operating systems in dual-boot configurations. Windows natively supports NTFS and FAT file systems but cannot natively read Linux file systems like ext4. Linux can read and write NTFS partitions with appropriate drivers, allowing access to Windows files from Linux. Creating a shared partition formatted as NTFS or FAT32 provides a common space where both operating systems can store and access shared data, though FAT32 has a 4GB individual file size limitation.

Potential complications in dual-boot setups include bootloader corruption when Windows updates sometimes overwrite GRUB with Windows bootloader, requiring GRUB repair, partition size limitations if allocated space proves insufficient for one operating system, driver compatibility issues where hardware works in one OS but not the other, and update conflicts when operating system updates affect boot configurations. Regular backups and understanding boot repair procedures help address these issues when they occur.

Question 98: 

A user’s computer is experiencing blue screen errors that mention memory. Which tool should the technician use to test the RAM?

A) Performance Monitor

B) Windows Memory Diagnostic

C) Resource Monitor

D) Task Manager

Answer: B) Windows Memory Diagnostic

Explanation:

Windows Memory Diagnostic is the built-in tool specifically designed to test system RAM for errors and defects. When blue screen errors mention memory or include error codes associated with memory problems, running comprehensive memory tests helps identify faulty RAM modules that may be causing system instability. Memory errors can result from defective RAM chips, incompatible memory configurations, incorrect BIOS settings, or physical problems with memory slots. The Memory Diagnostic tool performs extensive tests that detect various types of memory failures.

Memory problems cause various symptoms beyond blue screens including application crashes, data corruption, random system freezes, failure to boot, and unexpected reboots. Blue Screen of Death errors specifically mentioning memory indicate that Windows detected memory-related faults that caused system crashes to prevent further damage or data corruption. Common memory-related error codes include MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA, and IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, though many other stop codes can indicate memory issues.

Running Windows Memory Diagnostic involves typing “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in the Windows search box, launching the tool, and selecting either “Restart now and check for problems” for immediate testing or “Check for problems the next time I start my computer” for deferred testing. The computer restarts and boots into the diagnostic environment, which runs outside of Windows to test memory without interference from the operating system or applications. The test performs multiple passes using different test patterns to detect various types of memory errors.

The Memory Diagnostic tool provides two test modes: Basic performs fundamental memory tests that detect most common problems quickly, while Extended performs more comprehensive testing that takes longer but detects subtle or intermittent failures. During testing, the tool displays progress information and any detected errors. After testing completes, the computer automatically reboots into Windows, and test results appear in the notification area or can be viewed in Event Viewer under Windows Logs and System, searching for MemoryDiagnostics-Results events.

If Memory Diagnostic detects errors, the technician should identify which RAM module is faulty by testing modules individually if multiple modules are installed. This involves powering down the computer, removing all but one RAM module, running Memory Diagnostic, and repeating for each module. The module that produces errors is defective and should be replaced. When multiple modules show errors, other issues like motherboard problems, incorrect BIOS settings, or power supply issues might be responsible.

Question 99: 

A technician is setting up a new computer for a user who works with sensitive financial data. Which Windows feature should be enabled to protect data?

A) Windows Firewall

B) User Account Control

C) BitLocker

D) Windows Defender

Answer: C) BitLocker

Explanation:

BitLocker provides full disk encryption that protects sensitive data on computers by encrypting entire disk volumes, making data unreadable without proper authentication credentials or recovery keys. For users working with sensitive financial data, BitLocker is essential because it prevents unauthorized access to confidential information if computers are lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized individuals. The encryption operates transparently to authorized users who can access files normally while preventing data breaches from physical theft or unauthorized access attempts.

BitLocker uses strong encryption algorithms including AES with 128-bit or 256-bit keys to protect data at rest on disk drives. The encryption occurs at the volume level, automatically encrypting all files written to protected volumes and decrypting them when accessed by authorized users. This transparent operation means users do not need to manually encrypt individual files or change work habits, while all data receives comprehensive protection. BitLocker protects against various attack scenarios including theft of computers containing sensitive data, unauthorized access by removing drives and connecting them to other systems, and attacks targeting data on disposed or recycled computers.

Enabling BitLocker requires computers with Trusted Platform Module hardware, which provides secure storage for encryption keys and verification of system integrity during boot. Computers without TPM can use BitLocker with USB flash drives that store encryption keys, though this approach is less convenient and secure than TPM-based implementations. Modern business computers typically include TPM chips specifically to support security features like BitLocker. The encryption process can take several hours for large drives, though users can continue working during encryption.

Configuration involves accessing Control Panel, selecting BitLocker Drive Encryption, choosing which drives to encrypt, selecting how to unlock the drive at startup, and saving recovery keys to secure locations. Recovery keys are critical because they provide the only way to access encrypted data if primary authentication methods fail. Organizations should store recovery keys in Active Directory, Microsoft Azure, or secure offline locations, maintaining proper documentation and access controls for recovery key management.

BitLocker provides multiple authentication options including TPM-only which automatically unlocks drives on trusted computers, TPM plus PIN requiring users to enter personal identification numbers during boot, TPM plus startup key requiring USB flash drives during boot, or combinations for enhanced security. Organizations select authentication methods balancing security requirements with user convenience. High-security environments might require multiple authentication factors, while standard business environments might use TPM-only authentication for user convenience.

Question 100: 

A user reports that their wireless connection frequently drops and they see many available wireless networks. What is the MOST likely cause?

A) Wireless adapter failure

B) Weak wireless signal

C) Wireless interference

D) Incorrect wireless password

Answer: C) Wireless interference

Explanation:

When a wireless connection frequently drops in an environment with many visible wireless networks, the most likely cause is wireless interference from overlapping networks operating on the same or adjacent channels. Wireless networks in the 2.4 GHz band have limited non-overlapping channels, and in crowded environments like apartment buildings or office complexes, multiple networks often operate on conflicting channels, causing interference that degrades connection quality and reliability. The abundance of visible networks indicates a congested wireless environment where radio frequency interference significantly impacts performance.

The 2.4 GHz band used by many wireless networks includes channels that overlap with each other, meaning adjacent channels interfere with transmissions. Only channels 1, 6, and 11 in the 2.4 GHz band are truly non-overlapping. When many networks operate in the same area, especially on overlapping channels, their transmissions interfere with each other, causing packet loss, retransmissions, reduced throughput, and connection drops. Wireless devices must contend for airtime in crowded environments, competing with numerous other devices and networks for access to limited radio frequency spectrum.

Diagnosing interference involves using wireless analyzer tools or smartphone apps that display nearby networks, their signal strengths, and channel usage. These tools help visualize the wireless environment, showing which channels are most congested and identifying the strongest interfering networks. Analyzers often include channel recommendations suggesting optimal channels with minimal interference. Understanding the wireless environment helps determine the best mitigation strategies.

Mitigating wireless interference includes changing the wireless router to a less congested channel, preferably channel 1, 6, or 11 in the 2.4 GHz band, switching to the 5 GHz band which offers more non-overlapping channels and typically less congestion, upgrading to routers supporting 802.11ac or 802.11ax standards that handle congestion better, adjusting router placement to optimize signal strength and reduce reliance on weak signals that are more susceptible to interference, and reducing transmit power if the network covers more area than necessary, which can actually improve performance by reducing interference with neighboring networks.

The 5 GHz band provides significant advantages in congested environments because it offers many more channels that do not overlap, supports higher data rates, and experiences less interference from non-WiFi devices. Most modern wireless devices support dual-band operation and can connect to 5 GHz networks. Configuring routers to prioritize 5 GHz connections and reserving 2.4 GHz for older devices that only support that band improves overall network performance.

Beyond WiFi network interference, other devices operating in the 2.4 GHz spectrum cause problems including microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, cordless phones, baby monitors, and wireless security cameras. These devices share the same frequency bands as WiFi and can cause interference. Moving routers away from these devices or using 5 GHz networks avoids most non-WiFi interference sources.

Question 101: 

A technician is troubleshooting a computer that randomly restarts without warning. Which component should be tested FIRST?

A) RAM

B) Power supply

C) Motherboard

D) Hard drive

Answer: B) Power supply

Explanation:

When a computer experiences random restarts without warning, the power supply should be tested first because power delivery problems frequently cause sudden system restarts without error messages or warnings. Power supplies can develop faults that prevent stable voltage delivery to computer components, causing unexpected shutdowns or restarts when power demands fluctuate or when degraded components can no longer supply adequate power. These failures often appear random because they correlate with power demand variations that may not follow predictable patterns during different activities or times.

Power supplies fail through various mechanisms including aging capacitors that lose ability to smooth voltage fluctuations, overheating from dust buildup or fan failures, voltage regulation circuit failures, and general degradation of electronic components over time. As power supplies degrade, they may still provide enough power for idle or low-demand operation but fail under load when components require maximum power. This explains why random restarts sometimes correlate with processor-intensive tasks or gaming while other times occurring during apparently idle periods.

Testing power supplies involves several approaches. Visual inspection checks for bulging or leaking capacitors, listens for unusual fan noises indicating bearing problems, and examines for excessive dust buildup blocking airflow. Using a multimeter to measure voltage rails including 12V, 5V, and 3.3V outputs reveals whether voltages fall within acceptable tolerances. Voltages should remain stable under load, typically within five percent of nominal values. Significant deviations indicate power supply problems requiring replacement.

Professional power supply testers provide more comprehensive diagnostics by checking all voltage rails simultaneously, measuring voltage stability under simulated loads, and testing protection circuits. However, the most definitive test often involves substituting a known-good power supply of adequate wattage and observing whether random restarts cease. If restarts stop with the replacement power supply, the original unit was defective. If restarts continue, other components are responsible.

Power supplies are sized based on maximum system power requirements. Computers with insufficient power supply wattage for their component configurations may restart when power demands exceed supply capacity. Adding graphics cards, additional drives, or other components without upgrading power supplies can create this situation. Calculating total system power requirements and ensuring power supplies provide adequate capacity with headroom prevents power-related stability problems.

Quality differences among power supplies significantly impact reliability. Inexpensive no-name power supplies often use inferior components, provide poor voltage regulation, and fail prematurely. Quality power supplies from reputable manufacturers include better capacitors, more robust voltage regulation, proper safety protections, and longer warranties. Organizations should specify quality power supplies for business computers to ensure reliability and avoid premature failures.

Question 102: 

A user needs to access their work computer from home. Which Windows feature allows this functionality?

A) Remote Assistance

B) Remote Desktop

C) Quick Assist

D) Virtual Desktop

Answer: B) Remote Desktop

Explanation:

Remote Desktop is the Windows feature that allows users to access and control their work computers from remote locations such as home. This technology creates a connection over the internet or network that transmits the work computer’s display to the remote device while sending keyboard and mouse input back to the work computer. Users see and interact with their work desktop as if sitting at the office, accessing all files, applications, and resources available on the work computer. Remote Desktop provides the functionality necessary for remote work scenarios where employees need full access to their office computers.

Remote Desktop operates using the Remote Desktop Protocol that efficiently compresses screen updates for transmission over network connections. The protocol supports various optimization features including adjusting image quality based on bandwidth, prioritizing important screen regions, caching common interface elements, and adapting to network conditions. These optimizations allow usable performance even over moderate internet connections though faster connections provide better responsiveness and image quality.

Enabling Remote Desktop requires configuring the work computer to accept remote connections. This involves accessing System Properties, selecting the Remote tab, enabling Remote Desktop, and configuring which users are allowed to connect. Computers must remain powered on and connected to networks to accept remote connections. Organizations typically configure computers to prevent sleep when Remote Desktop is enabled, ensuring availability for remote access. Firewall rules must permit Remote Desktop traffic on TCP port 3389.

Security considerations for Remote Desktop include requiring strong authentication to prevent unauthorized access, implementing Network Level Authentication that verifies user identity before establishing full remote sessions, using complex passwords or preferably certificate-based authentication, enabling account lockout policies to prevent brute-force password attacks, and considering VPN requirements for additional security. Organizations should never expose Remote Desktop directly to the internet without VPN protection due to security risks from automated attacks targeting exposed RDP services.

Question 103: 

A technician is configuring Windows Update to download updates automatically but install them only when the user approves. Which setting should be selected?

A) Download updates but let me choose whether to install them

B) Never check for updates

C) Notify me but don’t automatically download or install them

D) Install updates automatically

Answer: A) Download updates but let me choose whether to install them

Explanation:

The setting “Download updates but let me choose whether to install them” provides the configuration where Windows automatically downloads available updates in the background but requires user approval before installation. This setting balances the need to keep systems secure with updated patches while giving users or administrators control over when installations occur to avoid disrupting work or causing potential compatibility issues with critical applications. Automatic downloading ensures updates are immediately available when approved, eliminating delays for large update files to transfer before installation can begin.

This configuration is valuable in business environments where system stability and uptime are priorities. Automatic installation of updates can occasionally cause unexpected problems including application compatibility issues, driver conflicts, or system instability that disrupts business operations. By downloading updates automatically but requiring approval before installation, IT administrators can review available updates, research known issues, test updates in non-production environments, and schedule installation during maintenance windows when disruption is acceptable.

When this setting is configured, Windows downloads updates as they become available and displays notifications informing users that updates are ready for installation. Administrators or authorized users can then review pending updates, decide which updates to install, and choose appropriate timing for the installation process. Critical security updates can be prioritized for immediate installation while optional updates or feature updates can be deferred until more convenient times or skipped entirely if not needed.

Configuring this setting involves accessing Windows Update settings through Settings, then Update & Security, and Windows Update. In older Windows versions, this setting appears in Control Panel under Windows Update. Organizations should establish clear policies and procedures for reviewing and approving updates in timely manner. While controlled deployment is valuable, excessive delays in installing security updates create vulnerability windows that attackers can exploit.

The automatic download component ensures that updates are immediately available when installation is approved, which is especially important for security updates that need prompt deployment after testing. Organizations can maintain security posture by keeping current with patches while exercising due diligence through controlled deployment. This approach allows implementing staggered update deployment strategies where IT departments install and test updates on subset of systems first, monitoring for problems before deploying to the broader organization.

Windows 10 and later versions include additional update control options including active hours that specify when the computer is typically in use and updates should not be installed, the ability to pause updates temporarily, and detailed update history showing what has been installed. These features provide flexibility in managing update deployment while maintaining security through timely patch application.

Question 104: 

A user’s computer cannot connect to any websites but can ping IP addresses successfully. Which command should the technician run to flush the DNS cache?

A) ipconfig /release

B) ipconfig /renew

C) ipconfig /flushdns

D) ipconfig /registerdns

Answer: C) ipconfig /flushdns

Explanation:

The ipconfig /flushdns command clears the DNS resolver cache, removing all cached DNS entries that map domain names to IP addresses. When a computer can successfully ping IP addresses directly but cannot access websites by name, DNS resolution problems are indicated, and flushing the DNS cache often resolves issues caused by corrupted, outdated, or incorrect cached DNS entries. The DNS cache improves performance by storing previously resolved domain names, but cached entries can become problematic if they contain wrong information, point to incorrect IP addresses, or become corrupted through various means.

DNS cache corruption can occur through several mechanisms including malware that poisons cache with malicious entries to redirect users to phishing sites, network problems during DNS queries resulting in incorrect cached data, DNS server changes where cached entries point to outdated server addresses, or software conflicts that corrupt cache contents. Cached entries have Time To Live values determining how long they remain valid, but corrupted entries may persist beyond appropriate timeframes causing ongoing problems.

Executing the ipconfig /flushdns command requires opening Command Prompt with administrator privileges, typing the command, and pressing Enter. Windows confirms successful cache flushing with a message stating “Successfully flushed the DNS Resolver Cache.” After flushing, the computer must perform fresh DNS queries for all domain names, resolving them from DNS servers rather than using cached data. This process eliminates any corrupted or outdated cached entries that were preventing proper name resolution.

After flushing DNS cache, the technician should test connectivity by accessing websites in web browsers or using ping with domain names to verify DNS resolution works correctly. If problems persist after flushing cache, additional DNS troubleshooting includes verifying DNS server addresses in network adapter configuration, testing alternative DNS servers such as public DNS services, checking for network connectivity problems to DNS servers, and examining whether malware is actively interfering with DNS resolution.

Question 105: 

A technician is installing software that requires .NET Framework 3.5, but it is not installed on the Windows 10 computer. Where can this feature be enabled?

A) Device Manager

B) Programs and Features

C) Windows Features

D) Services

Answer: C) Windows Features

Explanation:

Windows Features is the configuration interface where optional Windows components including .NET Framework versions can be enabled or disabled. .NET Framework 3.5 is not installed by default on Windows 10 but is available as an optional feature that can be enabled when applications require it. Many legacy applications and specific software packages require .NET Framework 3.5 for proper operation, necessitating its installation before those applications can run successfully. Windows provides straightforward methods for enabling this and other optional features without requiring separate downloads or installations.

Accessing Windows Features involves opening Control Panel, selecting Programs and Features, and clicking “Turn Windows features on or off” in the left panel. This displays a dialog listing all available optional Windows features with checkboxes indicating enabled status. Users scroll to find .NET Framework 3.5, check the box to enable it, and click OK to begin installation. Windows retrieves necessary files from Windows Update or installation media and installs the feature. The process may require an internet connection for downloading required components and typically completes within several minutes depending on connection speed.

.NET Framework is a software development platform created by Microsoft that provides libraries and runtime environments for applications built using .NET technologies. Multiple versions of .NET Framework exist, with different applications requiring specific versions. Windows 10 includes .NET Framework 4.x by default, which is not backward compatible with applications requiring version 3.5. When software specifies .NET Framework 3.5 requirements, that specific version must be installed even if newer versions are already present.

During .NET Framework 3.5 installation, Windows may prompt for installation source locations if it cannot download required files from Windows Update. This occurs when Group Policy restricts Windows Update access or when computers lack internet connectivity. In such cases, technicians can specify Windows installation media as the source by using DISM command-line tools with appropriate source parameters pointing to Windows installation files.

Alternative installation methods include using DISM commands directly from Command Prompt with administrator privileges. The command “DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:NetFx3 /All” enables .NET Framework 3.5 from Windows Update. If installation media is required, the command includes source parameters pointing to the SxS folder on installation media. These command-line methods are useful for scripted installations across multiple computers or troubleshooting when GUI methods fail.

After installing .NET Framework 3.5, the technician should verify installation success by checking Windows Features to confirm the feature shows as enabled, attempting to launch the application that required it, and checking for any error messages during application startup. Applications should run normally once required .NET Framework versions are installed. Some applications may require computer restarts after .NET Framework installation to complete registration and configuration.