A+ 1101 PM Review Day 3

Koffi is trying to fix his computer, which has suddenly stopped working. What is the first step he should take in the CompTIA troubleshooting methodology?

• Test the theory to determine the cause.

• Identify the problem.

• Establish a theory of probable cause.

• Document the findings.

Answer explanation

Explanation: The first step involves gathering information, identifying user changes, and checking environmental factors. Exam Tip: Always start by asking questions and gathering information.

What is the purpose of performing a backup before troubleshooting when Paul is trying to fix his computer?

• To ensure no data is lost if system changes cause further issues

• To check if the problem lies with the backup process itself.

• To replace corrupt files causing the issue.

• To document the system configuration.

Answer explanation

Explanation: Backups protect user data in case troubleshooting requires changes that could affect the system. Exam Tip: Data loss can have a serious impact—always prioritize backups.

During a troubleshooting session, Emma is trying to fix a computer that keeps crashing. She decides to use a "known good" duplicate of a component to see if it resolves the issue. What is the purpose of using this "known good" duplicate?

• To ensure proper backup of user data.

• To verify a suspected faulty component by substitution.

• To document the problem for escalation.

• To eliminate software as the cause of an issue.

Answer explanation

Explanation: Using a known good duplicate allows you to confirm if the suspected component is the cause of the problem. Exam Tip: Keep spare, working components (e.g., cables, RAM, drives) for substitution testing.

What should Justice do if he cannot identify the problem with his computer after multiple tests and research?

• Perform a full system restore.

• Escalate the issue to the appropriate support tier.

• Replace all hardware components.

• Use trial-and-error testing indefinitely.

Answer explanation

Explanation: Escalating the issue ensures timely resolution and avoids unnecessary time spent on a problem beyond your expertise. Exam Tip: Always document findings before escalating to the next support tier.

During a group project, Kelina encountered a software bug that prevented her from accessing important files. Since repairing the software would take too long and replacing it wasn't an option, she decided to implement a workaround. What is a workaround, and when would you use it?

• A temporary solution used when repair or replacement is not feasible.

• A method of bypassing security policies to fix the issue.

• An immediate escalation to a senior technician.

• A solution that permanently fixes the root cause of the problem.

Answer explanation

Workarounds can minimize impact while a permanent solution is identified. Exam Tip: Workarounds are acceptable when business continuity takes priority.

What is an example of implementing a preventive measure after resolving an issue in a school project that Luis and Maura worked on?

• Applying a software patch to prevent the problem from recurring.

• Documenting the findings in the incident log.

• Escalating the issue to a senior technician.

• Replacing a functioning component as a precaution.

Answer explanation

Preventive measures address the root cause to stop similar issues from happening again. Exam Tip: Preventive actions might include updates, hardware checks, or user education.

While setting up a new computer, Oscar noticed that the firmware interface was different from what he was used to. He learned that this new interface was UEFI instead of the traditional BIOS. What is one key advantage of UEFI over BIOS?

• It only supports 32-bit operation.

• It allows mouse and GUI support during setup.

• It runs exclusively in legacy mode.

• It eliminates the need for firmware updates.

Answer explanation

UEFI improves user experience with a graphical interface and mouse support. Exam Tip: UEFI offers faster boot times, Secure Boot, and 64-bit CPU support.

During a computer science class, Maura and Koffi were discussing how to ensure that only trusted operating systems can boot on their school computers. Koffi mentioned a firmware feature that helps with this security measure. What is this feature called?

• Boot priority

• Fanless mode

• Secure Boot

• Network/PXE Boot

Answer explanation

Secure Boot ensures that only bootloaders signed with trusted certificates can start the system. Exam Tip: Secure Boot is a UEFI feature designed to prevent malware during the boot process.

While discussing security measures in their computer science class, Lauren asked her classmates about the primary difference between a TPM and an HSM. Which of the following did they identify as the key distinction?

• TPM is integrated into the CPU, while HSM is software-based.

• TPM is embedded hardware, while HSM is a removable device.

• TPM encrypts data, while HSM verifies hardware integrity.

• TPM requires no user intervention, while HSM requires network access.

Answer explanation

TPM is built into the motherboard, while an HSM is an external USB drive for secure key storage. Exam Tip: Use TPM for built-in hardware encryption and HSM for portable key storage and recovery.

Justice smells burning from a PC and notices smoke coming from the case. What should they do immediately?

• Replace the PSU and continue troubleshooting.

• Turn off the power and unplug the computer.

• Run a power supply test to confirm the fault.

• Check BIOS settings for PSU errors.

Answer explanation

Any unusual signs like smoke or burning smells indicate a serious power issue. The system must be shut down to avoid further damage or fire hazards. Exam Tip: Prioritize safety—shut down and disconnect immediately if you suspect a PSU fault.