Free and Premium CompTIA 220-1102 Dumps Questions Answers

certmgr.msc is a tool that can be used to troubleshoot issues with PKI (public key infrastructure) on a Windows machine. It allows a system administrator to view, manage and import certificates, as well as check their validity, expiration and revocation status. msconfig.exe, lusrmgr.msc and perfmon.msc are other tools that can be used for different purposes on a Windows machine, but they are not related to PKI. Verified References:

One of the possible ways to access the user’s computer remotely is to use RDP, which stands for Remote Desktop Protocol. RDP is a protocol that allows a user to connect to another computer over a network and use its graphical interface. RDP is commonly used for remote desktop software, such as Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection1. To use RDP, the user’s computer must run RDP server software, and the technician must run RDP client software. The technician can then enter the user’s IP address or hostname, and provide the appropriate credentials to log in to the user’s computer. Once connected, the technician can view and control the user’s desktop, and review the Outlook settings.

The first step in troubleshooting a Bluetooth connection issue is to check that the accessory is ready to pair with the mobile device. Some accessories may have a button or a switch that needs to be pressed or turned on to initiate pairing mode. If the accessory is not ready to pair, the mobile device will not be able to detect it.

OSX (now macOS) is an operating system that is considered closed source, meaning that its source code is not publicly available or modifiable by anyone except its developers. It is owned and maintained by Apple Inc. Ubuntu, Android and CentOS are operating systems that are considered open source, meaning that their source code is publicly available and modifiable by anyone who wants to contribute or customize them. Verified References:

The correct answer is D. Unattended installation. An unattended installation is a way of installing Windows 10 without requiring any user input or interaction. It uses a configuration file called answer file that contains the settings and preferences for the installation, such as the product key, language, partition, and network settings. An unattended installation can be performed by using a bootable USB flash drive or DVD that contains the Windows 10 installation files and the answer file1. This is the fastest way for the technician to install Windows 10 on a newly built computer, as it automates the whole process and saves time.

A factory reset is a way of restoring a computer to its original state by deleting all the data and applications and reinstalling the operating system. A factory reset can be performed by using the recovery partition or media that came with the computer, or by using the Reset this PC option in Windows 10 settings2. A factory reset is not a way of installing Windows 10 on a newly built computer, as it requires an existing operating system to be present.

A system restore is a way of undoing changes to a computer’s system files and settings by using a restore point that was created earlier. A system restore can be performed by using the System Restore option in Windows 10 settings or by using the Advanced Startup Options menu3. A system restore is not a way of installing Windows 10 on a newly built computer, as it requires an existing operating system and restore points to be present.

An in-place upgrade is a way of upgrading an existing operating system to a newer version without losing any data or applications. An in-place upgrade can be performed by using the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool or by running the Setup.exe file from the Windows 10 installation media. An in-place upgrade is not a way of installing Windows 10 on a newly built computer, as it requires an existing operating system to be present.

The correct answers are D. Restricting log-in times and E. Enabling a screen lock. These are the security measures that can be used to prevent the computers from being accessed by unsupervised contractors in the building.

Restricting log-in times means setting a policy that allows users to log in only during certain hours, such as the regular working hours of the company. This will prevent unauthorized access by contractors who work at night1.

Enabling a screen lock means setting a policy that requires users to enter a password or a PIN to unlock their screens after a period of inactivity. This will prevent unauthorized access by contractors who might try to use the computers when the users are away2.

1: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives, page 19, section 2.3. 2: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives, page 20, section 2.4.

Removing the user-installed antivirus software program is the best way to resolve the issue of extremely slow performance caused by installing additional real-time protection antivirus software on a PC. Having more than one antivirus software program running at the same time can cause conflicts, resource consumption and performance degradation. Uninstalling one antivirus software program and installing a different one, activating real-time protection on both antivirus software programs, enabling the quarantine feature on both antivirus software programs and launching Windows Update are not effective ways to resolve the issue. Verified References:

Cross-site scripting (XSS) and SQL injection are common security vulnerabilities that can be mitigated by using input validation. Input validation is a technique that checks the user input for any malicious or unexpected characters or commands before processing it. XSS is an attack that injects malicious scripts into web pages to steal cookies, session tokens or other sensitive information from users or web servers. SQL injection is an attack that injects malicious SQL statements into web applications to manipulate databases, execute commands or access unauthorized data. Verified References:

Shredding is a data destruction method that physically destroys the hard drive by cutting it into small pieces using a machine. Shredding ensures that data is completely removed from the hard drive and cannot be recovered by any means. Shredding is suitable for hard drives that contain PII (personally identifiable information), which is any information that can be used to identify, contact, or locate an individual. Degaussing, low-level formatting, and recycling are not data destruction methods that can guarantee complete data removal from a hard drive.

ACL (access control list) is a security control that describes what permissions a user or group has on a shared network folder using NTFS (New Technology File System) security settings. It can be used to grant or deny read, write, modify, delete or execute access to files and folders. SMS (short message service), MFA (multifactor authentication), MDM (mobile device management) are not security controls that apply to shared network folders. Verified References:

Uninstalling and reinstalling the application can resolve the issue of it crashing immediately on an Android tablet, as it can fix any corrupted or missing files or settings. Clearing the application storage can also resolve the issue, as it can free up space and remove any conflicting data. Gaining root access to the tablet, resetting the web browser cache, deleting the application cache and disabling mobile device management are not likely to resolve the issue, as they do not affect how the application runs. Verified References:

The best operations to do to resolve the issue of a long boot time at a minimal expense are B. Removing the applications from startup and D. Running the Disk Cleanup utility. These are two simple and effective ways to speed up your PC’s boot time without spending any money on hardware upgrades.

Removing the applications from startup means preventing unnecessary programs from launching automatically when you turn on your computer. This can reduce the load on your system resources and make the boot process faster. You can do this in Windows 10 by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Esc to open the Task Manager, and going to the Startup tab. There, you can see a list of programs that start with your computer, and their impact on the startup performance. You can disable any program that you don’t need by right-clicking on it and choosing Disable12.

Running the Disk Cleanup utility means deleting temporary files, system files, and other unnecessary data that may be taking up space and slowing down your computer. This can free up some disk space and improve the performance of your system. You can do this in Windows 10 by typing disk cleanup in the search box and selecting the Disk Cleanup app. There, you can choose which files you want to delete, such as Recycle Bin, Temporary Internet Files, Thumbnails, etc. You can also click on Clean up system files to delete more files, such as Windows Update Cleanup, Previous Windows installation(s), etc34.

Quarantining the computer means isolating it from the network and other devices to prevent the spread of malware or ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files on a computer and demands payment (usually in cryptocurrency) to restore them. If a technician sees a file that is requesting payment to a cryptocurrency address, it is likely that the computer has been infected by ransomware. Quarantining the computer should be the first step to contain the infection and prevent further damage. Disabling System Restore, updating the antivirus software definitions, and booting to safe mode are not steps that should be done before quarantining the computer.

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The correct answer is D. Internet Options. The Internet Options utility in Windows allows you to configure various settings related to your internet connection, including the proxy server settings. To access the Internet Options utility, you can either open the Control Panel and click on Internet Options, or open any web browser and click on the Tools menu and then on Internet Options. In the Internet Options window, go to the Connections tab and click on the LAN settings button. Here, you can enable or disable the use of a proxy server, as well as enter the address and port number of the proxy server you want to use12.

Security and Maintenance is a utility in Windows that allows you to view and manage the security and maintenance status of your computer, such as firewall, antivirus, backup, troubleshooting, and recovery settings. It does not have any option to configure proxy server settings.

Network and Sharing Center is a utility in Windows that allows you to view and manage your network connections, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, VPN, or dial-up. It also allows you to change network settings, such as network discovery, file and printer sharing, homegroup, and adapter settings. It does not have any option to configure proxy server settings.

Windows Defender Firewall is a utility in Windows that allows you to enable or disable the firewall protection for your computer, as well as configure firewall rules for inbound and outbound traffic. It does not have any option to configure proxy server settings.

Screen-sharing software is a tool that allows a technician to remotely view and control a user’s screen over the internet. It can be used to troubleshoot issues with accessing an online share, as well as other problems that require visual inspection or guidance. Secure shell (SSH) is a protocol that allows remote access and command execution on another device, but it does not allow screen-sharing. Virtual private network (VPN) is a protocol that creates a secure tunnel between two devices over the internet, but it does not allow remote troubleshooting. File transfer software is a tool that allows transferring files between two devices over the internet, but it does not allow screen-sharing. Verified References:

Disk Management is a tool that allows users to create, format, delete, shrink, extend, and manage partitions on hard drives. If the external hard drive is not formatted or has an incompatible filesystem type, Disk Management can be used to format it with a supported filesystem type such as NTFS, FAT32, or exFAT. Device Manager, Disk Cleanup, and Disk Defragmenter are not tools that can format a hard drive.

YUM stands for Yellowdog Updater Modified and it is a command-line tool that allows users to install, update, remove, and manage software packages in Linux. YUM can be used to add functionality to a Linux system by installing new software packages or updating existing ones. To change folder permissions, show documentation, or list file contents, other commands such as chmod, man, or ls can be used in Linux.

Incremental backups are backups that only include the changes made since the last backup, whether it was a full or an incremental backup. Incremental backups minimize the capacity of storage used and are often used in conjunction with synthetic full backups, which are backups that combine a full backup and subsequent incremental backups into a single backup set.

services.msc is a tool that can be used to resolve the issue of “The Audio Driver is not running” on a Windows machine. It allows a technician to view, start, stop and configure the services that run on the system, such as the Windows Audio service. compmgmt.msc, regedit.exe, explorer.exe, taskmgt.exe and gpmc.msc are other tools that can be used for different purposes on a Windows machine, but they are not related to audio drivers or services. Verified References:

A corporate security policy can restrict a corporate-managed mobile device from updating its OS automatically, even if the auto-update feature is turned on. This can be done to prevent compatibility issues, security risks or performance problems caused by untested or unwanted updates. The device administrator can control when and how the updates are applied to the device. The device not having enough free space, needing domain administrator confirmation or being incompatible with the newest version of the OS are not likely causes of the issue, since the user would receive an error message or a notification in those cases. Verified References:

A hardware token is a physical device that provides an additional layer of security for software authorization. Some specialized software may require a hardware token to be attached to the workstation in order to run. A hardware token may contain a cryptographic key, a password, or a one-time code that verifies the user’s identity or permission. Installing the software in safe mode, installing OS updates, and restarting the workstation after installation are not likely to resolve the issue of software authorization.

A corporate use license, also known as a volume license, is a type of software license that allows an organization to purchase and use multiple copies of a software product with a single license key. A corporate use license can help validate compliance with an application’s EULA (end-user license agreement), which is a legal contract that defines the terms and conditions of using the software. A corporate use license can also reduce the number of licenses to manage, as it eliminates the need to activate and track individual licenses for each copy of the software. Personal use license, open-source license, and non-expiring license are not types of licenses that can best accomplish this goal.

A soft token, also known as a software token or an OTP (one-time password) app, is a type of multifactor authentication that generates a temporary code or password on a user’s device, such as a smartphone or a tablet. The user must enter this code or password along with their username and password to access their account or service. A soft token can help improve security by adding an extra layer of verification and preventing unauthorized access even if the user’s credentials are compromised. A soft token can also be implemented at a minimal cost, as it does not require any additional hardware or infrastructure. Biometrics, access control lists, and smart card are not types of multifactor authentication that can be implemented at a minimal cost.

APFS stands for Apple File System and it is the default filesystem type for macOS since High Sierra (10.13) version1. APFS is optimized for flash storage and supports features such as encryption, snapshots, cloning, and space sharing1.

Browser plug-ins are software components that add functionality to a web browser, such as playing videos, displaying animations, etc. However, some browser plug-ins can also be malicious or compromised and cause unwanted pop-up advertising messages while browsing the internet. A malware scan may not be able to locate the source of the infection if it is hidden in a browser plug-in. Windows updates, DNS settings and certificate store are not likely sources of pop-up advertising messages. Verified References:

Group Policy is a feature of Windows that allows administrators to centrally manage and apply policies and settings to computers and users on a domain3. Group Policy can be used to configure network drives, printers, security settings, desktop preferences, and other configurations for all users’ workstations3. Network and Sharing Center, net use, User Accounts, and regedit are not tools that can accomplish this task.

The correct answer is D. Services. The print spooler is a service that manages the print queue and sends print jobs to the printer. To restart the print spooler, the salesperson can use the Services app, which allows them to stop and start the service. Alternatively, they can also use the Task Manager or the Command Prompt to restart the print spooler.

References and Explanation:

The Services app is a tool that displays all the services that are running on the computer. It can be accessed by typing services.msc in the Run window or by searching for Services in the Start menu. The Services app allows users to start, stop, restart, or configure any service, including the print spooler123.

The Task Manager is a tool that shows information about the processes, applications, and services that are running on the computer. It can be accessed by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc or by right-clicking on the taskbar and selecting Task Manager. The Task Manager allows users to start, stop, or restart any service by going to the Services tab and right-clicking on the service name12.

The Command Prompt is a tool that allows users to execute commands and perform tasks using text input. It can be accessed by typing cmd in the Run window or by searching for Command Prompt in the Start menu. The Command Prompt allows users to start, stop, or restart any service by using the net command with the service name. For example, to restart the print spooler, users can type net stop spooler and then net start spooler1.

The Control Panel is a tool that provides access to various settings and options for the computer. It can be accessed by typing control panel in the Run window or by searching for Control Panel in the Start menu. The Control Panel does not allow users to restart the print spooler directly, but it can be used to access other tools such as Devices and Printers, Troubleshooting, or Administrative Tools2.

The Processes tab is a part of the Task Manager that shows information about the processes that are running on the computer. It can be accessed by opening the Task Manager and selecting the Processes tab. The Processes tab does not allow users to restart the print spooler directly, but it can be used to end any process that is related to printing or causing problems with the print spooler2.

The Startup tab is a part of the Task Manager that shows information about the programs that run automatically when the computer starts. It can be accessed by opening the Task Manager and selecting the Startup tab. The Startup tab does not allow users to restart the print spooler directly, but it can be used to disable or enable any program that affects printing or interferes with the print spooler2.

The correct answer is A. Document the date and time of change. After implementing a change, the technician should document the date and time of change in the change log or record. This helps to track the change history, monitor the change performance, and identify any issues or incidents related to the change. Documenting the date and time of change is also a good practice for auditing and compliance purposes.

Documenting the purpose of the change (B) and the risk level © are steps that should be done before implementing the change, not after. These are important information that help to justify, prioritize, and plan the change. The purpose of the change should explain why the change is needed and what benefits it will bring to the organization. The risk level should assess the potential impact and probability of the change causing any problems or disruptions to the business.

Documenting the findings of the sandbox test (D) is also a step that should be done before implementing the change, not after. A sandbox test is a way of testing the change in an isolated environment that mimics the production environment. This helps to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts with other systems or processes. The findings of the sandbox test should be documented and reviewed by the change advisory board (CAB) before approving the change for implementation.

A cryptominer is a malicious program that uses the CPU resources of a computer to generate cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. This can cause the CPU to run at 100% utilization and slow down the system. Spyware, virus and keylogger are other types of malware, but they do not necessarily cause high CPU usage. Verified References:

DNS (domain name system) is a protocol that translates domain names to IP addresses. If the computer has an incorrect DNS address assigned, it will not be able to resolve the domain names of web-based applications and access them. A firewall, a VLAN (virtual local area network) and a browser cache are not the most likely reasons for the issue, since the computer can ping known IP addresses on the internet and receive a response. Verified References:

Update and Security is the section in Windows 10 Settings that allows the user to back up their device. Backing up a device means creating a copy of the data and settings on the device and storing it in another location, such as an external drive or a cloud service. Backing up a device can help the user restore their data and settings in case of data loss, corruption, or theft. Devices and Printers, Email and Accounts, and Apps and Features are not sections in Windows 10 Settings that allow the user to back up their device.

Booting into safe mode and performing a malware scan are the steps that a technician should perform when troubleshooting an issue with pop-up advertising messages on a PC. Safe mode is a diagnostic mode that starts the PC with minimal drivers and services, which can prevent the pop-up malware from running. Malware scan is a tool that can detect and remove the pop-up malware, as well as prevent further infection or damage. Investigating how the malware was installed, reinstalling the browser and restarting the machine are possible steps that can be done after booting into safe mode and performing a malware scan, depending on the situation and the results of the scan. Verified References:

The correct answer is A. Amount of system RAM. A Type 2 hypervisor is a virtualization software that runs on top of a host operating system, which means it shares the system resources with the host OS and other applications. Therefore, increasing the amount of system RAM can improve the performance of the hypervisor and the virtual machines running on it. RAM is used to store data and instructions that are frequently accessed by the CPU, and having more RAM can reduce the need for swapping data to and from the storage device, which is slower than RAM.

NIC performance, storage IOPS, and dedicated GPU are not as relevant for improving the hypervisor’s performance in this scenario. NIC performance refers to the speed and quality of the network interface card, which is used to connect the computer to a network. Storage IOPS refers to the number of input/output operations per second that can be performed by the storage device, which is a measure of its speed and efficiency. Dedicated GPU refers to a separate graphics processing unit that can handle complex graphics tasks, such as gaming or video editing. These components may affect other aspects of the computer’s performance, but they are not directly related to the hypervisor’s ability to compile new source code.

Shoulder surfing is a threat that involves someone looking over another person’s shoulder to observe their screen, keyboard, or other sensitive information. Shoulder surfing can be used to steal passwords, personal identification numbers (PINs), credit card numbers, or other confidential data. The use of a privacy screen on a computer can help prevent shoulder surfing by limiting the viewing angle of the screen and making it harder for someone to see the screen from the side or behind. Impersonation, whaling, and tailgating are not threats that can be prevented by using a privacy screen on a computer.

Full disk encryption is a security mechanism that encrypts the entire data on a hard drive, making it unreadable without the correct decryption key or password. It can prevent the stored data from being recovered by unauthorized persons who steal or access the laptop. Biometrics, enforced strong system password and two-factor authentication are other security mechanisms, but they only protect the login access to the laptop, not the data on the hard drive. Verified References:

The aspect of forensic evidence life cycle that must be maintained when dealing with a piece of evidence is chain of custody. This is because chain of custody is the documentation of the movement of evidence from the time it is collected to the time it is presented in court, and it is important to maintain the integrity of the evidence

The smartphone’s line was not provisioned with a data plan. The user is unable to use any internet-related functions on the smartphone when it is not connected to Wi-Fi because the smartphone’s line was not provisioned with a data plan. The user can send and receive text messages and phone calls when the smartphone is not connected to Wi-Fi because these functions do not require an internet connection1

The technician should use afc to transfer a large number of files over an unreliable connection and be able to resume the process if the connection is interrupted1

 This is because a PIN is a fast and secure method of logging in to laptops, and it is more secure than a password because it is not susceptible to keyloggers.

"The user thought the company-provided antivirus software would prevent this issue."

The most likely steps to resolve the issue are to deploy an ad-blocking extension to the browser and perform a reset on the user’s web browser. Ad-blocking extensions can help to prevent pop-ups and other unwanted content from appearing in the browser, and resetting the browser can help to remove any malicious extensions or settings that may be causing the issue.

The BEST way to secure the current workflow of transferring sensitive personal information between offices when conducting business is to enable BitLocker To Go with a password that meets corporate requirements. This is because BitLocker To Go is a full-disk encryption feature that encrypts all data on a USB drive, which is what the company currently uses, and requires a password to access the data.

This is because WPA2 with AES is the most secure wireless network configuration that is available on a ten-year-old SOHO wireless router.

The systems administrator should use Settings to access Screensaver settings to configure each user’s Windows device to require a password when resuming from a period of sleep or inactivity1

The technician should quarantine the system first1

Navigate to the Windows 10 Settings menu, select the Accounts submenu, select Sign in options, select Windows Hello Fingerprint, and have the user place a fingerprint on the fingerprint reader repeatedly until Windows indicates setup is complete. Windows Hello Fingerprint can be set up by navigating to the Windows 10 Settings menu, selecting the Accounts submenu, selecting Sign in options, and then selecting Windows Hello Fingerprint. The user will then be asked to place a fingerprint on the fingerprint reader repeatedly until Windows indicates that setup is complete. Windows Hello Fingerprint allows the user to log into the laptop using just their fingerprint, providing an additional layer of security.

The type of malware that is most likely to blame for a PC running more slowly than usual and having an extremely high GPU temperature is a “cryptominer”. Cryptominers are a type of malware that use the resources of a computer to mine cryptocurrency. This can cause the computer to run more slowly than usual and can cause the GPU temperature to rise. Spyware is a type of malware that is used to spy on a user’s activities, but it does not typically cause high GPU temperatures. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a user’s files and demands payment to unlock them, but it does not typically cause high GPU temperatures. Boot sector viruses are a type of malware that infects the boot sector of a hard drive, but they do not typically cause high GPU temperatures12

The differential backup method would best address these concerns. Differential backups only back up files that have changed since the last full backup, which means that only a few files would be backed up each time. This would help to mitigate the risk of ransomware attacks, as only a few files would be affected if an attack occurred. Additionally, differential backups require less storage space than full backups.

The first step in troubleshooting is to check for any installed patches and roll them back one at a time until the issue is resolved. This can help to identify any patches that may be causing the issue and allow them to be removed.

The technician should guide the user to update Windows through the built-in "Check for Updates" feature. This can be done by having the user click in the Search field, type "Check for Updates", and then press the Enter key. This will bring up the Windows Update function, which will search for any available updates and give the user the option to install them.

The technician should add the update site to the client’s exceptions list to bypass the proxy. This can be done through the client’s web browser settings, where the proxy settings can be configured. By adding the update site to the exceptions list, the client will be able to access the site and download the software update.

 A zero-day attack is an attack that exploits a previously unknown vulnerability in a computer application, meaning that the attack occurs on “day zero” of awareness of the vulnerability

Configuring AAA Services. Retrieved from

The most effective way to check other machines on the network for this unknown threat is to manually check each machine. This can help to identify any other machines that may be infected with the unknown virus and allow them to be cleaned.

Resource Monitor is a Windows utility that can be used to monitor and analyze the system resources and processes running on a computer. It can be used to identify and troubleshoot any issues that might be causing the computer to run slowly, such as CPU usage, memory usage, disk I/O, and network usage.

 BitLocker is only available on Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions1. Therefore, the technician is unable to find the BitLocker Drive Encryption menu item in Control Panel because it is not included in the Windows 10 Home edition1.

The technician should not proceed with initiating a full scan and removal of the viruses using the presented interface or call the phone number displayed in the interface of the antivirus removal tool12

Shutting down the infected computer and swapping it with another computer is not necessary at this point12

The technician should not immediately assume that the message is legitimate or perform any actions without knowing what the interface is and what triggered it to pop up. It is important to investigate the issue further, including checking the legitimacy of the antivirus program and the message it is displaying.

The technician should have connected a proper ESD strap to prevent damage to the motherboard. ESD (electrostatic discharge) can cause damage to electronic components, and an ESD strap helps to prevent this by grounding the technician and preventing the buildup of static electricity. Removing all jewelry is also a good practice, but it is not the most likely solution to this problem.

The technician can close unnecessary applications and turn on autorotation to resolve these issues with minimal impact. Autorotation can help the device to switch between portrait and landscape modes automatically. Closing unnecessary applications can help to free up the device’s memory and reduce the device’s temperature1

Since there are no error messages on the device, the technician should check if the battery is sufficiently charged1

If the battery is low, the device may not have enough power to complete the update2

In this scenario, the technician has already determined that there are no error messages on the device. The next best step would be to check if the battery is sufficiently charged. If the battery is low, it could be preventing the device from completing the update process.

Verifying that third-party applications are disabled, determining if the device has adequate storage available, and confirming a strong internet connection are all important steps in troubleshooting issues with mobile devices. However, since the problem in this scenario is related to a failed OS update, it is important to first check the battery level before proceeding with further troubleshooting steps.

Default Apps should be used to ensure all PDF files open in Adobe Reader1

The most likely cause of the issue is a “time drift”. Time drift occurs when the clock on a computer is not synchronized with the clock on the domain controller. This can cause authentication problems when a user tries to log in to the domain. The fact that the technician is unable to browse to the secure intranet site to get troubleshooting tools suggests that there may be a problem with the network connection or the firewall settings on the desktop PC12

Installing applications directly from a vendor's website can be risky, as the application may be malicious or fraudulent. Uninstalling the application can help mitigate the issue by removing the source of the problem.

The type of backup that should be completed FIRST after installing a new backup and recovery system is a full backup. This is because a full backup is a complete backup of all data and is the foundation for all other backups. After a full backup is completed, other types of backups, such as differential and incremental backups, can be performed.

The systems administrator should clear the application cache12

If clearing the application cache does not work, the systems administrator should uninstall and reinstall the application12

Resetting the phone to factory settings is not necessary at this point12

Installing an alternative application with similar functionality is not necessary at this point12

The two safety procedures that would best protect the components in the PC are:

Utilizing an ESD strap

Placing the PSU in an antistatic bag

The most cost-effective version of Windows 10 that allows remote access through Remote Desktop is Windows 10 Pro. Windows 10 Pro includes Remote Desktop, which allows users to connect to a remote computer and access its desktop, files, and applications. Windows 10 Home does not include Remote Desktop, while Windows 10 Pro for Workstations and Windows 10 Enterprise are more expensive versions of Windows 10 that include additional features for businesses

The technician should configure the network as private to allow the user to access files on a drive shared from another desktop on the network1

A technician needs to interconnect two offices to the main branch while complying with good practices and security standards. The technician should implement VPN

To safely upgrade the Microsoft Windows 10 OS, it is essential to backup critical data (C) and ensure that you have the necessary device drivers (D). Backing up critical data protects against potential data loss during the upgrade process. Having the correct device drivers ensures that the hardware components function properly with the new OS version, preventing issues like loss of functionality or compatibility problems​​.

A rollback plan describes the process of reverting a system to its previous state after a failed upgrade or change. This ensures system stability and functionality by restoring known good configurations and is a crucial part of change management to minimize disruptions in case of unsuccessful updates.

To resolve a BSOD issue on a Windows 10 PC after installing optional Windows updates, the best approach is to Roll back the device drivers (B). BSODs can often be caused by incompatible or faulty drivers introduced during an update. Rolling back the drivers to a previous version can restore system stability and resolve the BSOD issue​​.

To prevent ransomware attacks via email, the most effective way is End user education (C). Educating users about the dangers of phishing emails, how to recognize suspicious emails, and the importance of not clicking on unknown links or attachments can significantly reduce the risk of ransomware infections. Awareness and training can empower users to act as the first line of defense against such cyber threats

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure connection over the internet to a network, allowing a user to access shared files and corporate email as if they were directly connected to the network. This makes VPN the best tool for secure remote work access, compared to the other options which do not offer the same level of secure, remote network access.

When a user's cursor is moving on its own and unauthorized data transfer is occurring, the first step a technician should take is to Quarantine the workstation. This involves isolating the affected system from the network to prevent the spread of malware or unauthorized access to other parts of the network. Quarantining helps in containing the threat and provides a safe environment to investigate and remediate the issue without risking further contamination or data loss​​.

Scripting languages are designed for automating tasks by writing scripts that can execute a series of commands. They are typically easier to write and understand compared to compiled languages and are widely used for automating repetitive tasks, making them the best option for task automation.

For updating software on several hundred Mac laptops, the best method is Mobile Device Management (MDM). MDM solutions allow administrators to remotely manage and update software across multiple devices efficiently, making it an ideal choice for handling software updates on a large scale.

In Linux, the lp command is used to manage print jobs, including setting the default printer. The lp command allows users to send print jobs to a printer queue, check the status of print jobs, and cancel print jobs, among other functionalities. By using options and parameters with the lp command, a technician can specify a particular printer as the default for future print jobs, ensuring that documents are routed to the correct printer without needing to specify it each time.

When an Android device experiences slow boot times and application crashes after installing apps from a third-party website, scanning the system for malware is a critical first step. Third-party sources can often host malicious software that can compromise device performance and security. A malware scan can identify and remove such threats, potentially resolving the performance issues and application instability. Clearing the web browser cache, enrolling the device in an MDM system, and confirming app compatibility are useful steps but do not address the immediate concern of potential malware introduced by third-party app installations.

The "tracert" command is used to view the path that network traffic takes from a PC to a specified destination. It is helpful in identifying where along the path the traffic may be failing or experiencing delays. In the scenario where a customer service representative can't send jobs to a remote printer but can print locally, "tracert" can help diagnose if there's a network routing issue affecting the connection to the remote branch office.

The Network and Sharing Center in the Control Panel is the central place to manage network connections and settings in Windows. When facing issues with accessing a mapped drive, this utility allows users to review and adjust network settings, making it possible to resolve connectivity problems. It provides options to view network status, set up new connections, change adapter settings, and troubleshoot network problems, which can help in enabling connectivity to the mapped drive on the Windows XP machine.

The Hardware Compatibility List (HCL) is a list that indicates hardware components that are compatible with a specific software or operating system. If software installation fails due to incompliance with the HCL, it's most likely due to core hardware components like the Network Interface Card (NIC) or the Central Processing Unit (CPU) not being supported or not meeting the software's minimum hardware requirements. The PSU, KVM, RAM, and DVI are less likely to directly impact software compatibility as defined by the HCL.

The most important environmental control to maintain the safety of a data center is Temperature control (A). Proper temperature control is crucial to prevent overheating, which can lead to hardware failure, reduced performance, and shortened equipment lifespan. Data centers house high-density computing equipment that generates significant amounts of heat, making effective temperature management essential for maintaining operational stability and reliability​​.

After rebooting the phone, connecting to Wi-Fi, and disabling metered data, the next step the technician should take is to Clear the cache (D). Clearing the cache can resolve issues with the phone's performance and is often necessary before updating software to ensure that the updates can be downloaded and installed without issues. It removes temporary files that may be interfering with the update process​​.

An AUP, or Acceptable Use Policy, is a set of rules applied by the owner, creator, or administrator of a network, website, or service that restricts the ways in which the network, website, or system may be used. In this scenario, the administrator is likely referring to the company's AUP, which outlines what employees can and cannot do on the company's network, including restrictions on accessing certain types of websites, such as sports teams' sites, for non-work-related purposes.

AUP (Acceptable Use Policy): This policy typically includes rules designed to maintain the security of the network, ensure the productivity of employees, and comply with legal regulations. Blocking access to specific websites is a common practice enforced through an AUP to align with these goals.

An NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) (A) is a legal contract between at least two parties that outlines confidential material, knowledge, or information that the parties wish to share with one another for certain purposes but wish to restrict access to or by third parties. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) (C) extends a private network across a public network and enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network. SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) (D) are a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex routine operations, which wouldn't typically include website access guidelines.

For securely disposing of SSDs, physical destruction methods like shredding are considered most effective:

Shredding: This method involves physically breaking the SSD into small pieces, making data recovery practically impossible. It's a recommended practice for ensuring that sensitive data on SSDs is irretrievably destroyed.

To enforce a security policy that prohibits USB drives on user workstations, the network administrator should run the gpupdate (C) command. This command forces a Group Policy update, which can include policies to disable USB drives. Group Policy is a feature in Microsoft Windows that allows for centralized management and configuration of operating systems, applications, and users' settings in an Active Directory environment​​.

Before starting a bare-metal installation of Windows 10, ensuring that there is sufficient storage space on the system's hard drive or SSD is crucial. This is because the installation files need enough room to be copied and for the operating system to be installed and function properly. Without adequate storage, the installation process can fail or the operating system might not perform optimally. Other prerequisites like internet connection, product key, and specific firmware types might be necessary at different stages of installation or activation, but the fundamental requirement is enough storage space to accommodate the new OS.

To resolve an issue of low storage space on a Windows computer, the best approach is to Run Disk Cleanup (B). Disk Cleanup is a built-in utility that helps users free up space on their hard drives by deleting temporary files, system files, and other unnecessary files that are no longer needed, thereby resolving low storage space issues

Over time, especially with frequent opening, modification, and saving of large files, a hard disk drive (HDD) can become fragmented. Fragmentation occurs when pieces of individual files are scattered across the disk, leading to longer read and write times, which can significantly slow down the computer. Disk defragmentation reorganizes these fragmented files, placing the pieces closer together on the drive, which improves access time and overall system performance.

Disk Defragment: Using the Disk Defragment tool on a Windows 10 system with an HDD will help in reorganizing the data more efficiently, thus potentially remedying the slow performance issue.

The Registry Editor (B) is a tool that allows for the viewing and editing of the Windows registry and is generally not used for performance improvement but rather for system settings and configuration adjustments. System Information (C) provides a detailed look at the computer's hardware and system details but does not offer tools for performance improvement. Disk Cleanup (D) can help free up space on the hard drive by removing temporary files and system files that are no longer needed, which can indirectly improve performance but is not the primary tool for addressing fragmentation.

When a smartphone is unable to download and install the latest OS update and is operating slower than expected, one of the first things to check is the available storage space. Operating system updates often require a significant amount of free space for downloading and installing, and insufficient space can prevent the update process from initiating or completing.

Available Storage Space: Smartphones use their internal storage to hold the OS, apps, user data, and temporary files needed for updates. If the storage is nearly full, the device can slow down due to the lack of space for writing temporary files and may not have enough space to download and install updates. Clearing up space can resolve these issues.

Checking application permissions (A) might be relevant for specific app-related issues but is less likely to affect OS updates. The battery charge level (C) can affect the initiation of an update, as some devices require a minimum charge level to start the update process, but it doesn't typically cause slow operation. While a stable Wi-Fi connection (D) is necessary for downloading updates, it's less likely to be the cause of slowed operation and update issues compared to insufficient storage space.

When troubleshooting a Windows system that is experiencing issues during the OS loading phase at startup, enabling boot logging is a practical step. Boot logging creates a record of all drivers and services that are loaded (or attempted to be loaded) during the startup process. This record, typically named ntbtlog.txt, can be reviewed to identify any drivers or services that failed to load, which could be contributing to the startup issues. This diagnostic step helps pinpoint the problematic component(s) and facilitates targeted troubleshooting to resolve the OS loading issues.

For a company looking to transition away from face-to-face meetings, videoconferencing and screen-sharing software would be most beneficial.

Videoconferencing software allows participants to conduct virtual meetings with audio and video capabilities, effectively simulating a face-to-face interaction without the need for physical presence. This can greatly reduce travel costs and time while maintaining the personal touch of meetings.

Screen-sharing enables participants in a virtual meeting to view one another's computer screens in real time. This is particularly useful for presentations, collaborative work, and troubleshooting, as it allows for a more interactive and engaging meeting experience.

Both technologies support the company's goal of leveraging modern technology to enhance communication and collaboration while reducing reliance on physical meetings.

Windows 10 includes a set of parental controls within the "Family Options" section of the Windows settings. This feature allows parents to manage their children's computing activities, including setting time limits on device use, filtering web content, managing privacy and online safety settings, and viewing activity reports.

Family Options: By enabling and configuring Family Options, the user can set specific times when their children can use the device and access the internet, effectively limiting their overall screen time and internet usage.

Update & Security (B) mainly deals with Windows updates and security features but does not directly provide settings for time management. Ease of Access (C) is focused on accessibility settings and does not include time management options. Network & Internet (D) settings control network connectivity and do not offer parental controls or time limits. Privacy (E) settings manage which applications can access device features and user data but do not include time management options.

Disposing of SSDs (Solid State Drives) containing sensitive data requires methods that ensure the data cannot be recovered. SSDs store data on flash memory, which makes traditional data destruction methods like degaussing ineffective, as degaussing relies on demagnetizing the magnetic media found in traditional hard drives.

Incineration: This method ensures the complete destruction of the SSD by burning it at high temperatures. This process is effective as it physically destroys the flash memory chips, making data recovery impossible.

Shredding: Shredding involves physically breaking the SSD into small pieces. Specialized shredding machines designed for electronic media can cut the SSD into pieces small enough to render the data unrecoverable.

Other listed options such as Degaussing (A) is ineffective on SSDs because they don't use magnetic storage. Simple Deletion (B) and Formatting (E) are not secure methods for data destruction as the data can potentially be recovered using specialized software. Recycling (D) is environmentally friendly but does not guarantee data destruction if the drive is not physically destroyed first.

Windows Hello is a biometric-based technology that enables Windows 10 users to authenticate secure access to their devices, apps, online services, and networks with just a look or a touch. If users have difficulty using the facial recognition feature, Windows Hello also supports a Personal Identification Number (PIN) as a secondary feature for logging in. The PIN is tied to the specific device on which it is set up, adding a layer of security even if the PIN is obtained by someone else.

Personal identification number: The PIN serves as an alternative to the facial recognition feature, allowing users to quickly and securely access their devices without relying solely on biometric authentication.

Username/password (B) is the traditional method of authentication but is not specifically a secondary feature of Windows Hello. One-time-use token (C) and cryptographic device (D) could be part of an MFA setup but are not directly related to Windows Hello's alternate authentication options.

When a WAP (Wireless Access Point) mesh network is experiencing a higher than anticipated amount of traffic, leading to degraded network service, upgrading the network to a more advanced wireless standard can help alleviate the problem. The 802.11n specification, also known as Wireless-N, offers significant improvements over earlier standards like 802.11b/g in terms of speed, range, and reliability. It allows for increased data throughput and better coverage, which can support a higher number of wireless users effectively.

Upgrading to 802.11n: This involves replacing existing WAPs with those that support the 802.11n standard or higher. The upgrade can result in improved network performance by accommodating more wireless connections with higher data rates, reducing congestion and improving overall network efficiency.

Replacing non-mobile users' laptops with wired desktop systems (A) could reduce wireless traffic but may not be feasible or desirable for all users. Increasing the wireless network adapter metric (B) would affect route priority but not overall network capacity. Adding wireless repeaters (C) can extend the range but might also introduce additional latency and does not necessarily increase the network's capacity to handle more users efficiently.

When encountering a warning about antivirus protection malfunctioning, the first step should be to isolate the computer from the network to prevent potential spread of malware. Updating the endpoint protection software is also crucial to ensure the latest virus definitions and security features are in place to effectively identify and remove the threat.

The most likely reason for an error message stating "Not compatible with OS" during a software installation is that the installation requires administrative rights. Many software installations, especially those that affect system files or install drivers, require administrative privileges to execute correctly. Without these rights, the installer cannot make the necessary changes to the system, leading to such error messages​​.

For a company with geographically dispersed staff and the need to keep devices updated, using cloud-based endpoint management software is the most efficient method. This type of software allows IT administrators to remotely manage and push updates to company devices, regardless of their location. It ensures that all devices remain up to date with the latest security patches and software updates without requiring physical access or user intervention. This approach is scalable, reduces the risk of unpatched vulnerabilities, and is convenient for both the IT department and the end-users.

When handling a user support request that contains insufficient information, the first step a technician should take is to Ask the user for clarification (A). This involves gathering more details about the issue to understand the problem better and provide an accurate resolution. Effective communication and asking the right questions are essential for diagnosing and resolving IT issues efficiently​​.

To mitigate brute-force attacks, implementing a failed log-in lockout feature is effective. This security measure temporarily disables user accounts after a specified number of unsuccessful login attempts, preventing attackers from continuously trying different password combinations to gain unauthorized access.

For scripting the creation of Active Directory accounts, PowerShell (D) is used. PowerShell is a task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft, consisting of a command-line shell and the associated scripting language. It is built on the .NET framework and is particularly suited for automating and managing Windows-based systems, including Active Directory tasks​​.

For scripted network installations requiring new SSDs and keeping HDDs as backup, the necessary tools are: 'net use' to connect to network shares, 'robocopy' to copy files efficiently from the network share to the local drive, and 'diskpart' to manage disk partitions, including initializing and formatting the new SSD. The other options are not relevant to the installation process as described.

When a system administrator discovers a user's PC running slowly with 100% CPU utilization, it often indicates that the system is being used for unauthorized purposes, such as being part of a botnet attack. Here’s why:

Botnet attack: Botnets are networks of computers infected with malware and controlled by an attacker. These infected computers (bots) are often used to carry out tasks like sending spam or participating in Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. The high CPU utilization and resource usage indicate that the computer might be performing tasks dictated by the botnet controller.

Firewall activities: While firewall activities can use some resources, they generally do not cause sustained high CPU utilization.

DDoS attack: DDoS attacks target external systems by overwhelming them with traffic. A system participating in a DDoS might have high network usage, but the primary symptom on the user’s PC would be high network activity, not necessarily CPU usage.

Keylogger attack: Keyloggers record keystrokes and generally do not cause high CPU utilization. They are more stealthy and have minimal resource footprints.

To configure a new SSD, the technician would use diskmgmt.msc (Disk Management) and diskpart.msc (Diskpart). These tools allow for partitioning, formatting, and managing the SSD. Disk Management is a graphical utility that provides easy access to these tasks, while Diskpart is a command-line tool with advanced features for disk configuration.

Diskmgmt.msc: A GUI-based tool used to manage disk partitions.

Diskpart.msc: A command-line utility used for advanced disk configuration.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:A "No OS found" message often occurs if the PC is trying to boot from an external storage device that does not contain an OS. Removing any external devices and rebooting can resolve this issue. This approach is part of troubleshooting boot-related problems, as emphasized in Core 2 (Core 2 Objective 3.1)​.

When troubleshooting a printer that was previously working but is no longer recognized by a workstation, Event Viewer is the most appropriate tool to check for historical logs and events related to the printer and the system.

Option A: Performance MonitorPerformance Monitor is used for monitoring system performance and resources in real-time and does not provide specific historical event logs related to device failures.

Option B: Devices and PrintersDevices and Printers show the status and properties of connected devices but do not provide a historical log of events or errors.

Option C: Task SchedulerTask Scheduler manages and monitors scheduled tasks but does not log hardware events or errors.

Option D: Event ViewerEvent Viewer logs system events, including errors, warnings, and information related to hardware and software. It is ideal for checking what happened prior to the printer failure.

XFS is a high-performance filesystem created by Silicon Graphics in 1994 and is commonly used by Linux operating systems. It supports large files and directories and is known for its robustness and scalability. Other filesystems like NTFS (Windows), APFS (macOS), and HFS (macOS) are used on different platforms.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:The ipconfig command displays the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway for all network adapters in a Windows computer. This output specifically shows details about an Ethernet adapter, which is directly tied to ipconfig. According to Core 2, understanding command-line tools like ipconfig is essential for network troubleshooting (Core 2 Objective 1.2)​.

If time is of the essence and the workstation is mission-critical (e.g., the only access point to a corporate database), the quickest and most reliable recovery method is to restore from the last backup. This will return the system to a known working state with minimal downtime.

Option B (Reinstall the OS): Time-consuming and not ideal if a backup is available.

Option C (System File Checker): Can help if the problem is limited to corrupted system files, but doesn’t guarantee complete recovery of user data or configurations.

Option D (Hardware Diagnostics): Not relevant unless there's a known or suspected hardware failure.

? Reference:

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Exam Objective 2.5 – "Given a scenario, use best practices associated with types of backups."

Microsoft Docs: Restore from a system image backup

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

This is a scareware scam that attempts to trick users into installing malicious applications. The best action is to close the website and ignore the pop-up.

B. Replace the smartphone – Incorrect. The phone is likely not compromised; it is just displaying a fake warning.

C. Download and install the application to resolve the issue – Incorrect. Doing so could infect the device with malware.

D. Analyze the smartphone to find the source of the breach – Unnecessary, as there is no real breach.

For rendering video, the most critical component a customer should prioritize in a desktop is:

GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): The GPU is specifically designed to handle complex graphics and video rendering tasks. A powerful GPU will significantly improve performance in video rendering applications.

NIC (Network Interface Card): Important for network connectivity but irrelevant for video rendering.

USB: Useful for peripherals but does not impact video rendering capabilities.

HDMI: An important output interface for connecting monitors but not crucial for the rendering process itself.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:Incremental backups only save changes made since the last backup, significantly reducing storage space requirements compared to full backups. This approach is consistent with the Core 2 objective of understanding various backup methods and their space requirements (Core 2 Objective 4.3)​.

When a customer experiences display issues such as large icons and inaccurate colors after a Windows upgrade, the most appropriate Control Panel option to address these issues is "Device Manager." The technician can use Device Manager to check and update display drivers, which are often the cause of such problems after an OS upgrade. Updating or reinstalling the correct drivers can help resolve display resolution and color issues.

A. Ease of Access focuses on accessibility features and does not directly address display driver issues.

C. Network and Sharing Center is related to network settings and does not affect display settings.

D. Programs and Features is used for managing installed programs and features but is not relevant for updating display drivers.

Rootkits are particularly dangerous because they modify the operating system to hide their presence and can disable antivirus software like Windows Defender. Ransomware (A) encrypts files, but usually does not disable antivirus software. Spyware (C) and Keyloggers (D) typically do not directly disable antivirus programs either.

Journaling is a feature that helps maintain the integrity of the filesystem by keeping a record of changes not yet committed to the main file system. This feature is supported by various filesystems, but not all.

Option A: NTFSNTFS (New Technology File System) is a filesystem used by Windows that supports journaling. This makes it resilient to corruption from unexpected shutdowns or crashes by keeping a log of file changes.

Option B: exFATexFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) does not support journaling. It is optimized for flash drives and large files but lacks advanced features like journaling.

Option C: HFSHFS (Hierarchical File System) is an older filesystem used by Apple. HFS+ (also known as Mac OS Extended) supports journaling, but HFS itself does not.

Option D: ext2ext2 (Second Extended File System) is a filesystem for Linux that does not support journaling. Its successor, ext3, introduced journaling.

The ext4 (fourth extended filesystem) is a journaling file system for Linux. It is widely used in many Linux distributions due to its performance, robustness, and advanced features like large file and volume support.

macOS: Uses filesystems like HFS+ or APFS.

iOS: Uses APFS (Apple File System).

Linux: Uses ext4 among other filesystems like ext3, XFS, Btrfs, etc.

Windows: Uses NTFS, FAT32, and exFAT, not ext4.

The ipconfig /all output shows the following:

IPv4 Address............ 192.168.0.74Subnet Mask............. 255.255.255.255Default Gateway......... 192.168.0.1

The issue with the subnet mask being set to 255.255.255.255 is that it specifies a single host subnet, meaning the device cannot communicate with other devices on the network or access the internet. The correct subnet mask for a typical home network should be:

Subnet mask of 255.255.255.0: This allows for communication within the same local network (192.168.0.0/24).

Default gateway 192.168.0.1: Correct, this is the typical address for the router.

IPv4 Address 192.168.0.74: Correct, within the correct subnet range.

Changing the subnet mask to 255.255.255.0 will resolve the connectivity issue.

The correct answer is B. Put the phone on silent.

IT professionals must maintain professionalism and minimize distractions while on the job.

Putting the phone on silent ensures that the technician stays focused without causing disruptions to their work environment.

If necessary, the technician can check and respond during an appropriate break.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Step aside and answer – This is unprofessional unless it is an emergency. Taking personal calls in front of a client can give a bad impression.

C. Text a reply – While this may seem reasonable, texting in front of a client still creates an unprofessional image.

D. Ignore the phone and continue working – While ignoring calls prevents distractions, a silent mode ensures that notifications do not cause disturbances (e.g., vibrations or sounds).

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Exam Reference:

Objective 5.1 – Given a scenario, use the best practice procedures for documentation, privacy, and professionalism.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

To configure an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server, navigate to Time and Language > Date & Time settings in Windows 10.

A. System – Incorrect. This manages system settings but not time synchronization.

B. Update and Security – Incorrect. This controls Windows updates and security settings.

C. Network and Internet – Incorrect. This is for networking settings, not time sync.

User awareness education is the most effective method for reducing phishing attacks. Training users to recognize suspicious emails, links, and attachments can prevent them from falling for phishing attempts. Technical solutions like SMTP filtering (C) and restricting emails (D) can help but are not as effective without user vigilance. A BYOD policy (B) does not directly address phishing email threats.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files and demands payment (usually in cryptocurrency) to decrypt them.

B. Keylogger – Tracks keystrokes but does not demand payment.

C. Cryptomining – Uses system resources to mine cryptocurrency without the user’s consent.

D. Rootkit – Hides malicious software but does not demand payment.

When a smartphone is lost, especially one that might contain sensitive or private data, the primary concern is to ensure that any data on the device cannot be accessed by unauthorized persons. Among the options provided:

Remote lock: This option will lock the device remotely, preventing access. However, it does not remove the data and might not be effective if the device is powered off or reset.

Remote wipe: This is the best option as it allows the technician to erase all data from the device remotely, ensuring that sensitive information is not accessible to anyone who finds or steals the device.

Remote access: This option would allow a technician to access the device remotely, but it would not directly prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.

Remote encrypt: Encrypting the device remotely might not be possible if the device is not accessible or turned on, and it does not remove existing data which could be at risk.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Device encryption ensures that even if someone gains physical access to the smartphone, they cannot access its contents without the encryption key.

A. Remote backups – Useful for data recovery but does not prevent unauthorized access.

B. Location tracking – Helps locate the device but does not protect its data.

C. PIN code screen lock – Adds security but is less effective than full encryption.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) monitor network traffic for malicious activities and alert administrators, helping to prevent malware infections before they can impact the network significantly. CompTIA Core 2 emphasizes the importance of implementing preventive measures like IDS to proactively detect and respond to potential threats (Core 2 Objective 2.3)​.

Enabling an allow list (Option D) will limit access to the wireless network by only allowing devices with specified MAC addresses to connect. This is an effective method for minimizing Wi-Fi access in a crowded environment.

Port forwarding (Option A) controls traffic through specific ports but doesn't minimize wireless access.

Unused ports (Option B) could refer to physical network ports or firewall settings, unrelated to controlling Wi-Fi access.

Disabling SSID broadcast (Option C) might hide the network name but doesn't secure access.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

2.9 - Configure security settings for SOHO networks, including MAC filtering .

The .dmg file type in macOS requires mounting before installation. .dmg files are disk image files used to distribute software on macOS. When opened, they mount a virtual disk on the desktop, from which the application can be installed. Other file types like .pkg, .zip, and .app have different processes for installation and do not require mounting in the same way.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:Configuring a proxy server in Windows 10 can be done through the Internet Options under LAN settings, where the user can enable and enter a proxy server's address. This aligns with Core 2’s objectives of configuring network settings in a Windows environment (Core 2 Objective 1.4)​.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The Programs and Features utility allows users to view, modify, or uninstall applications that may be consuming excessive disk space. This is the best option when addressing low disk space issues.

A. Internet Options – Incorrect. This controls browser settings and has no impact on disk space.

B. System – Incorrect. System settings provide general system information but do not manage disk space.

D. Device Manager – Incorrect. Device Manager is used for managing hardware devices, not disk space.

Additional Troubleshooting Steps:

Use Disk Cleanup to remove temporary files.

Check the Downloads folder and delete unused files.

Move data to external or cloud storage.

For securing mobile devices with two authentication methods, combining something the user knows (a PIN) with something the user is (biometrics) enhances security by implementing multi-factor authentication.

Smart card: Generally requires additional hardware and is not commonly used in mobile devices.

Biometrics: Uses unique biological traits such as fingerprints or facial recognition, providing a convenient and secure second method of authentication.

Hard token: Involves additional physical devices which might not be practical for mobile devices.

One-time password: Usually used for specific applications rather than as a general device authentication method.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

A rogue wireless access point is an unauthorized wireless network set up by an attacker or mistakenly by an employee. If the rogue AP has the same SSID as the legitimate network, users may unknowingly connect to it, causing security risks and preventing access to internal network resources.

A. Unreachable DNS server – Incorrect. A DNS issue would prevent access to websites, not just file share servers.

B. Virtual local area network (VLAN) misconfiguration – Incorrect. VLAN misconfiguration could restrict network access, but it would not involve an unsecured network with the same name.

C. Incorrect IP address – Incorrect. An incorrect IP could prevent network access but would not explain the presence of an unsecured network.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

To minimize costs and user disruption, the technician should:

B. Configure the backup to run after peak hours – This prevents slowdowns during working hours.

D. Use the built-in OS backup utility – This avoids additional licensing costs.

A. Configure the backup to run when the user logs in – Incorrect. This could slow down startup and affect productivity.

C. Use third-party licensed backup software – Incorrect. This would increase expenses.

E. Configure the backup job to run every hour – Incorrect. Frequent backups may slow down the system unnecessarily.

F. Use an external storage device – Incorrect. While useful, it may require additional costs and maintenance.

The Ease of Access feature in Windows that allows a user to press keyboard shortcuts one key at a time is called "Sticky Keys." Sticky Keys is designed to assist users with disabilities who have difficulty pressing multiple keys simultaneously. To enable Sticky Keys:

Press the Shift key five times in a row: This is the quickest method to activate Sticky Keys. When you press the Shift key five times, a dialog box appears, asking if you want to turn on Sticky Keys. This method is widely documented as the default shortcut for enabling this feature.

Confirmation dialog: A confirmation dialog will appear asking if you want to turn on Sticky Keys. Click "Yes" to enable it.

Control Panel or Settings: Alternatively, you can enable Sticky Keys through the Control Panel or the Settings app. Go to "Ease of Access" settings, find the "Keyboard" section, and turn on Sticky Keys from there.

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is known to be the weakest wireless security protocol due to its vulnerabilities and ease of being compromised.

WEP: The oldest and weakest protocol, susceptible to various attacks and easily cracked.

WPA2: Much stronger security with AES encryption, currently one of the most secure standards.

TKIP: Used with WPA, stronger than WEP but weaker than WPA2 with AES.

AES: Advanced Encryption Standard, used in WPA2 and known for strong security.

Creating a domain and joining the workstations to it provides centralized management and control over the computers, making the environment much more manageable.

Here's why a domain is beneficial:

Centralized administration: Manage user accounts, security policies, software installations, and updates from a single location (the domain controller).

Group Policy: Implement and enforce security policies, configure system settings, and control user access to resources.

Simplified updates: Deploy software updates and patches to multiple computers simultaneously.

Improved security: Enforce stronger password policies, control access to sensitive data, and enhance overall network security.

Here's why the other options are less suitable:

A. Downgrade all workstations from the Pro version to the Home version of the OS: The Home version has fewer features and management capabilities than the Pro version, making it less suitable for a business environment.

B. Upgrade all workstations from the Pro version to Pro for Workstations: While Pro for Workstations has advanced features, it's designed for high-performance tasks and might not be necessary for all users.

D. Make sure all workstations are operating under the same workgroup name: While being in the same workgroup allows for basic network sharing, it doesn't provide the centralized management capabilities of a domain.

To confirm whether a network printer has connectivity issues, the technician should use:

ping: This command checks the connectivity to the printer by sending packets and measuring the response time. It helps determine if the printer is reachable on the network.

netstat: Provides statistics and current network connections but does not directly confirm connectivity to a specific device.

net: Used for network resources management but not specifically for checking connectivity.

nslookup: Used for querying DNS to obtain domain name or IP address mapping, not for checking connectivity.

A knowledge base is a centralized repository of information that can be used by technicians to find solutions to common problems, best practices, troubleshooting guides, and other useful resources12. Updating the knowledge base with the details of the issue and the resolution can help other technicians who encounter similar issues in the future. It can also reduce the number of tickets and improve customer satisfaction3.

References1: The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Student Guide (Exam 220-1102), page 10-11 2: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 13 3: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Certification Study Guide, page 10-12

Some electronic items require special e-waste recycling because they contain hazardous materials that can harm the environment and human health if disposed of improperly12. Laptop batteries and CRT monitors are examples of such items.

Laptop batteries are usually made of lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride, which are both toxic and flammable substances34. If laptop batteries are thrown in the trash, they can leak, catch fire, or explode, causing pollution and injuries5 . Therefore, laptop batteries should be recycled at authorized collection centers or through manufacturer take-back programs .

CRT monitors are old types of display devices that use cathode ray tubes, which are glass tubes that emit electrons to create images on the screen . CRT monitors contain lead, mercury, cadmium, and phosphor, which are all harmful metals that can contaminate the soil, water, and air if dumped in landfills . Therefore, CRT monitors should be recycled at certified e-waste facilities or through retailer or manufacturer trade-in programs .

References1: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 13 2: Environmental Impacts – CompTIA A+ 220-1102 – 4.53 3: The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Instructor Guide (Exam 220-1102), page 10-12 4: CompTIA CertMaster Learn for A+ Core 2 (220-1102) - Student Access Key5 5: [Why You Should Recycle Your Old Laptop Battery] : [How to Recycle Laptop Batteries] : [Laptop Battery Recycling] : [How to Recycle Laptop Batteries] : The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Instructor Guide (Exam 220-1102), page 10-12 : CompTIA CertMaster Learn for A+ Core 2 (220-1102) - Student Access Key : [What is a CRT Monitor?] : [How to Recycle CRT Monitors] : [CRT Monitor Recycling] : [How to Recycle CRT Monitors]

Mobile device multifactor authentication (MFA) is a method of verifying a user’s identity by requiring two or more factors, such as something the user knows (e.g., password, PIN, security question), something the user has (e.g., smartphone, OTP app, security key), or something the user is (e.g., fingerprint, face, iris)12. The combination of fingerprint and password meets the requirements for mobile device MFA because it uses two different factors: something the user is (fingerprint) and something the user knows (password). The other combinations do not meet the requirements because they use only one factor: something the user knows (password or PIN) or something the user does (swipe).

References1: Set up the Microsoft Authenticator app as your verification method2: What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)? | OneLogin

The first step in troubleshooting a hardware issue is to identify the hardware device that is causing the problem. Asking the user for the model number of the hardware can help the help desk technician to find the specifications, manuals, drivers, and other relevant information for the device. This can also help the technician to determine if the device is compatible with the user’s system, if it has any known issues or defects, and if it is covered by warranty or support contract. Asking the user for the model number of the hardware is a help desk best practice that can save time and effort in resolving the issue

A technician needs to reimage a desktop in an area without network access, which means that the technician cannot use network-based methods such as PXE or SMB to deploy the image. Therefore, the technician should use offline methods that involve removable media such as USB or optical media. USB and optical media are common ways to store and transfer system images, and they can be used to boot the desktop and initiate the reimaging process. The technician will need to create a bootable USB or optical media that contains the system image and the imaging software, and then insert it into the desktop and change the boot order in the BIOS or UEFI settings. The technician can then follow the instructions on the screen to reimage the desktop

Classification: a) Phishing

This email is a phishing attempt, as it tries to trick the user into clicking on a malicious link that could compromise their account or personal information. Some suspicious items in this email are:

The email has a generic greeting and does not address the user by name.

The email has spelling errors, such as “unusal” and “Locaked”.

The email uses a sense of urgency and fear to pressure the user into clicking on the link.

The email does not match the official format or domain of the IT Help Desk at CompTIA.

The email has two black bat icons, which are not related to CompTIA or IT support.

The appropriate resolution for this email is A. Report email to Information Security. The user should not click on the link, reply to the email, or provide any personal or account information. The user should forward the email to the Information Security team or use a professional email form to report the phishing attempt. The user should also delete the email from their inbox and trash folder.

The suspicious items to select are:

b) From address

d) Hyperlinks

These items indicate that the email is not from a legitimate source and that the link is potentially malicious. The other items are not suspicious in this case, as the to address is the user’s own email and there are no attachments.

Classification: b) Spam

This email is a spam email, as it is an unsolicited and unwanted message that tries to persuade the user to participate in a survey and claim a reward. Some suspicious items in this email are:

The email offers a free wireless headphone as an incentive, which is too good to be true.

The email does not provide any details about the survey company, such as its name, address, or contact information.

The email contains an external survey link, which may lead to a malicious or fraudulent website.

The email does not have an unsubscribe option, which is required by law for commercial emails.

The appropriate resolution for this email is C. Unsubscribe. The user should look for an unsubscribe link or button at the bottom of the email and follow the instructions to opt out of receiving future emails from the sender. The user should also mark the email as spam or junk in their email client, which will help filter out similar emails in the future. The user should not click on the survey link, reply to the email, or provide any personal or financial information.

Classification: c) Legitimate

This email is a legitimate email, as it is from a trusted source and has a valid purpose. There are no suspicious items in this email, as the from address, the to address, the attachment, and the email body are all consistent and relevant. The appropriate resolution for this email is B. Perform no additional actions. The user can open the attachment and review the orientation material as instructed. The user does not need to report, unsubscribe, or delete this email.

Classification: a) Phishing

This email is a phishing attempt, as it tries to deceive the user into downloading and running a malicious attachment that could compromise their system or data. Some suspicious items in this email are:

The email has a generic greeting and does not address the user by name or username.

The email has an urgent tone and claims that a security patch needs to be installed immediately.

The email has an attachment named “patch1.exe”, which is an executable file that could contain malware or ransomware.

The email does not match the official format or domain of CompTIA Information Security.

The appropriate resolution for this email is A. Report email to Information Security. The user should not open the attachment, reply to the email, or provide any personal or account information. The user should forward the email to the Information Security team or use a professional email form to report the phishing attempt. The user should also delete the email from their inbox and trash folder.

Classification: c) Legitimate

This email is a legitimate email, as it is from a trusted source and has a valid purpose. There are no suspicious items in this email, as the from address, the to address, and the email body are all consistent and relevant. The appropriate resolution for this email is B. Perform no additional actions. The user can reply to the email and thank the sender for the interview opportunity. The user does not need to report, unsubscribe, or delete this email.

A software firewall is a program that monitors and controls the incoming and outgoing network traffic on a computer or a server. A software firewall can help prevent unauthorized LAN devices from accessing stored files on a company file server by applying rules and policies that filter the network packets based on their source, destination, protocol, port, or content. A software firewall can also block or allow specific applications or services from communicating with the network, and alert the administrator of any suspicious or malicious activity12.

A software firewall is a better option than the other choices because:

Password complexity (B) is a good practice to protect the file server from unauthorized access, but it is not sufficient by itself. Password complexity refers to the use of strong passwords that are hard to guess or crack by attackers, and that are changed frequently and securely. Password complexity can prevent brute force attacks or credential theft, but it cannot stop network attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in the file server software or hardware, or that bypass the authentication process34.

Antivirus application © and anti-malware scans (D) are important tools to protect the file server from viruses and malware that can infect, damage, or encrypt the stored files. However, they are not effective in preventing unauthorized LAN devices from accessing the files in the first place. Antivirus and anti-malware tools can only detect and remove known threats, and they may not be able to stop zero-day attacks or advanced persistent threats that can evade or disable them. Moreover, antivirus and anti-malware tools cannot control the network traffic or the file server permissions, and they may not be compatible with all file server platforms or configurations56.

Least privilege is the principle that is used to ensure users have the appropriate level of access to perform their job functions. Least privilege means granting users only the minimum amount of access rights and permissions they need to perform their tasks, and nothing more. Least privilege reduces the risk of unauthorized access, data leakage, malware infection, or accidental damage by limiting what users can do on the system or network. Access control list, multifactor authentication, and mobile device management are not principles, but rather mechanisms or methods that can implement least privilege. Access control list is a list that specifies the users or groups that are allowed or denied access to a resource, such as a file, folder, or printer. Multifactor authentication is a method that requires users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to prove their identity, such as a password, a token, or a biometric factor. Mobile device management is a tool that allows managing and securing mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, that are used by employees to access corporate data or applications. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 25

[CompTIA Security+ SY0-601 Certification Study Guide], page 1003

Low-level wiping is the best data destruction method for recycling old hard drives for reuse. Low-level wiping is a process that overwrites every bit of data on a hard drive with zeros or random patterns, making it impossible to recover any data from the drive. Low-level wiping also restores the drive to its factory state, removing any bad sectors or errors that may have accumulated over time. Low-level wiping can be done using specialized software tools or hardware devices that connect to the drive. Degaussing, standard formatting, and deleting are not suitable data destruction methods for recycling old hard drives for reuse. Degaussing is a process that exposes a hard drive to a strong magnetic field, destroying both the data and the drive itself. Degaussing renders the drive unusable for reuse. Standard formatting is a process that erases the data on a hard drive by removing the file system structure, but it does not overwrite the data itself. Standard formatting leaves some data recoverable using forensic tools or software utilities. Deleting is a process that removes the data from a hard drive by marking it as free space, but it does not erase or overwrite the data itself. Deleting leaves most data recoverable using undelete tools or software utilities. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 15

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 105

The first step in removing a virus from a computer is to update the antivirus software with the latest virus definitions. Virus definitions are files that contain information about the characteristics and behavior of known viruses and malware. They help the antivirus software to identify and remove the malicious threats from the computer. Without the latest virus definitions, the antivirus software may not be able to detect or remove the virus that infected the user’s computer. Therefore, the technician should download the latest virus definitions from the antivirus vendor’s website or use the update feature in the antivirus program before scanning the computer for viruses.

The best tool to use to assist the user with viewing the email is RMM, which stands for remote monitoring and management. This is a software that allows the technician to remotely access, monitor, and manage the user’s computer and applications. The technician can use RMM to view the user’s screen, control the mouse and keyboard, and troubleshoot the email issue. The other tools are not suitable for this task. VNC is a software that allows remote desktop sharing, but it requires the user to install and configure it on their computer, which may not be feasible or convenient. SSH is a protocol that allows secure remote access to a command-line interface, but it is not useful for viewing graphical applications such as email. VPN is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public network, but it does not provide remote access or control of the user’s computer.

One of the common reasons for a slow smartphone performance is having too many apps installed and running in the background. These apps consume the device’s memory (RAM) and CPU resources, which can affect the speed and responsiveness of the phone. Rebooting the phone can temporarily clear the RAM and stop some background processes, but they may resume after a while. Connecting to a different network does not affect the performance of the phone, unless the network is congested or has a poor signal. The user can improve the phone’s performance by uninstalling unused apps, clearing app caches, and restricting background activities12. Malware can also slow down a phone, but it is not the most likely cause in this scenario, as the user does not report any other symptoms of infection, such as pop-ups, battery drain, or data usage spikes3. Jailbreaking a phone can also affect its performance, but it is not a cause, rather a consequence, of the user’s actions. Jailbreaking is the process of removing the manufacturer’s restrictions on a phone, which allows the user to install unauthorized apps, customize the system, and access root privileges4. However, jailbreaking also exposes the phone to security risks, voids the warranty, and may cause instability or compatibility issues5.

References1: Speed up a slow Android device - Android Help - Google Help2: Why your phone slows down over time and what you can do to stop it | TechRadar3: How to tell if your phone has a virus | Norton4: What is Jailbreaking? - Definition from Techopedia5: What is Jailbreaking an iPhone? – Lifewire

Malware is malicious software that can cause damage or harm to a computer system or network4. A technician has verified a computer is infected with malware by observing unusual behavior, such as slow performance, pop-ups, or unwanted ads. The technician isolates the system and updates the anti-malware software to prevent further infection or spread of the malware. The next step is to run repeated remediation scans until the malware is removed. A remediation scan is a scan that detects and removes malware from the system. Running one scan may not be enough to remove all traces of malware, as some malware may hide or regenerate itself.

BitLocker is a Windows security feature that provides encryption for entire volumes, addressing the threats of data theft or exposure from lost, stolen, or inappropriately decommissioned devices1. BitLocker is available on supported devices running Windows 10 or 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education2. Windows 10 Home does not support BitLocker3, and Windows 10 Embedded is designed for specialized devices and does not offer BitLocker as a feature4. Therefore, the most appropriate Windows 10 edition for a single user who wants to encrypt a hard drive with BitLocker is Professional.

References1: BitLocker overview - Windows Security | Microsoft Learn2: Device encryption in Windows - Microsoft Support3: Can You Turn on BitLocker on Windows 10 Home?4: How to enable device encryption on Windows 10 Home

Maintaining the chain of custody is important to control evidence and maintain integrity. The chain of custody is a process that documents who handled, accessed, or modified a piece of evidence, when, where, how, and why. The chain of custody ensures that the evidence is preserved, protected, and authenticated throughout the incident response process. Maintaining the chain of custody can help prevent tampering, alteration, or loss of evidence, as well as establish its reliability and validity in legal proceedings. Maintaining an information security policy, properly identifying the issue, and gathering as much information as possible are not reasons why maintaining the chain of custody is important. Maintaining an information security policy is a general practice that defines the rules and guidelines for securing an organization’s information assets and resources. Properly identifying the issue is a step in the incident response process that involves analyzing and classifying the incident based on its severity, impact, and scope. Gathering as much information as possible is a step in the incident response process that involves collecting and documenting relevant data and evidence from various sources, such as logs, alerts, or witnesses. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 26

Remotely wiping the device is the best option to prevent unauthorized access to the company data stored on the phone. A low-level format, degaussing, or providing the GPS location of the device are not feasible or effective actions to take in this scenario.

Recovery mode is a special boot option that allows the user to access advanced tools and features to troubleshoot and remove malware from the device. Recovery mode can also restore the system to a previous state or reset the device to factory settings. Running System Restore, scheduling a scan, or restarting the PC may not be effective in removing the malware, as it may still be active or hidden in the system files.

Loading the system in safe mode is a common troubleshooting step that allows the technician to isolate the problem by disabling unnecessary drivers and services. This can help determine if the issue is caused by a faulty device, a corrupted system file, or a malware infection.

Ease of Access is a utility in the Control Panel that allows users to adjust various accessibility settings on Windows, such as the on-screen keyboard, magnifier, narrator, high contrast, etc. The on-screen keyboard can be turned on by going to Ease of Access > Keyboard and toggling the switch to On12. Alternatively, the on-screen keyboard can be opened by pressing Windows + Ctrl + O keys or by typing osk.exe in the Run dialog box3.

The scenario described in the question suggests that the workstation has been infected by a ransomware, which is a type of malware that encrypts the files on the target system and demands a ransom for the decryption key12. The file extension .enc is commonly used by some ransomware variants to mark the encrypted files34. The developer is unable to open the database files manually because they are encrypted and require the decryption key, which is usually held by the attacker.

The best option for recovering the data is to utilize the backups, assuming that the backups are recent, valid, and not affected by the ransomware. Backups are copies of the data that are stored in a separate location or device, and can be used to restore the data in case of a disaster, such as a ransomware attack . By restoring the data from the backups, the developer can avoid paying the ransom and losing the data permanently.

Accessing a restore point is not a good option, because restore points are snapshots of the system settings and configuration, not the data files. Restore points can help to undo some system changes, such as installing a faulty driver or software, but they cannot recover the encrypted data files .

Rebooting into safe mode is also not a good option, because safe mode is a diagnostic mode that allows the system to run with minimal drivers and services, but it does not affect the data files. Safe mode can help to troubleshoot some system issues, such as malware infections, but it cannot decrypt the data files .

Using an AV to scan the affected files is also not a good option, because an AV is a software that can detect and remove some malware, but it cannot decrypt the data files. An AV can help to prevent or remove some ransomware infections, but it cannot recover the encrypted data files .

References1: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 10 2: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Complete Video Course, Lesson 26 Documentation 3: How to remove .enc file virus (Ransomware virus removal guide) 4: Enc File Extension - What is an .enc file and how do I open it? : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 13 : CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Complete Video Course, Lesson 26 Documentation : What is a restore point? : How to use System Restore on Windows 10 : [What is Safe Mode?] : [How to boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10] : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 10 : [Can antivirus software remove ransomware?]

RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol, which is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft that allows a user to remotely access and control another computer over a network. RDP provides a secure session that encrypts the data between the client and the host, and allows the user to see and interact with the desktop and applications of the remote computer as if they were sitting in front of it. RDP also supports features such as audio, video, clipboard, printer, and file sharing, as well as multiple monitor support and session recording. To use RDP, the host computer must have Remote Desktop enabled and configured, and the client computer must have a Remote Desktop client software installed. The client can connect to the host by entering its IP address, hostname, or domain name, and providing the login credentials of a user account on the host. RDP is commonly used for remote administration, technical support, and remote work scenarios

The most effective clarifying question for the help desk technician to ask the user in order to understand the issue is A. What is the error message? This question will help the technician to identify the possible cause and solution of the problem, as the error message will provide specific information about the nature and location of the error, such as the server name, the port number, the protocol, the authentication method, or the network status. The error message will also help the technician to troubleshoot the issue by following the suggested steps or searching for the error code online.

This question is more effective than the other choices because:

B. Does the program work on another computer? is not a very helpful question, as it will not reveal the source of the error or how to fix it. The program may work on another computer for various reasons, such as different network settings, firewall rules, permissions, or software versions. However, this question will not tell the technician what is wrong with the user’s computer or the remote server, or what needs to be changed or updated to make the program work.

C. Did the program ever work? is not a very relevant question, as it will not address the current issue or how to resolve it. The program may have worked in the past, but it may have stopped working due to changes in the network configuration, the server status, the software updates, or the user credentials. However, this question will not tell the technician what has changed or how to restore the program functionality.

D. Is anyone else having this issue? is not a very useful question, as it will not explain the reason or the solution for the error. The issue may affect only the user, or multiple users, depending on the scope and the impact of the error. However, this question will not tell the technician what is causing the error or how to fix it for the user or the others.

Chain of custody documentation is a record of the sequence of custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical or electronic evidence. It is important to maintain a chain of custody to ensure the integrity and authenticity of the evidence, and to prevent tampering or contamination. If a laptop that was in the evidence room of a police station is missing, the best reason to refer to chain of custody documentation is to determine which party had the machine and when. This can help to identify the possible suspects, locate the missing laptop, and verify if the evidence on the laptop was compromised or not

The best way to fix the issue of slow cellular connection in the office is to connect to the company’s Wi-Fi network. This will allow the user’s mobile phone to access the internet through a faster and more reliable wireless network, instead of relying on the cellular network. Connecting to the Wi-Fi network will also save the user’s data usage and battery life.

Some of the factors that can affect the cellular connection speed are the distance from the cell tower, the obstructions between the phone and the tower, the network congestion, the network technology, and the features of the phone12. In the office, the user may experience a weak or unstable cellular signal due to the building structure, the location, or the interference from other devices. Therefore, switching to the Wi-Fi network can improve the performance of the phone’s applications and web browsing.

Temperature and humidity levels are the most important environmental factors to consider when planning the configuration of a data center, as they directly affect the performance, reliability, and energy efficiency of the IT equipment. Excessive heat or moisture can cause overheating, corrosion, condensation, or static electricity, which can damage the hardware and lead to data loss or service disruption. Therefore, data centers need to monitor and control the temperature and humidity levels within the recommended ranges by using various cooling systems, airflow management, and sensors12.

 GPT is the correct answer for this question. GPT stands for GUID Partition Table, and it is a partition style that supports up to 128 primary partitions and up to 18 exabytes of disk size per partition. GPT also uses a unique identifier for each partition and provides better data protection and recovery. GPT is suitable for partitioning a hard disk that has five primary partitions with 4TB of free space each. EFS, MBR, and FAT32 are not correct answers for this question. EFS stands for Encrypting File System, and it is a feature that allows encrypting files and folders on NTFS volumes. EFS is not a partition style, but rather a file system attribute. MBR stands for Master Boot Record, and it is an older partition style that supports up to four primary partitions and up to 2TB of disk size per partition. MBR cannot handle five primary partitions with 4TB of free space each. FAT32 stands for File Allocation Table 32, and it is a file system that supports up to 32GB of disk size per partition and up to 4GB of file size. FAT32 is not a partition style, but rather a file system type. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 14

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 105

Remote network installation is the best option for configuring a new server that requires a bare-metal installation without installation media on site. A remote network installation is a method of installing an operating system or an application over a network connection, such as LAN, WAN, or Internet. A remote network installation can use various protocols, such as PXE, HTTP, FTP, or SMB, to access the installation files from a server or a cloud service. A remote network installation can also use various tools, such as Windows Deployment Services, Microsoft Deployment Toolkit, or Red Hat Kickstart, to automate and customize the installation process. A remote network installation can save time and resources by eliminating the need for physical media and allowing centralized management of multiple installations. Image deployment, recovery partition installation, and repair installation are not correct answers for this question. Image deployment is a method of installing an operating system or an application by copying a preconfigured image file to a target device. Image deployment requires an existing image file and a compatible device. Recovery partition installation is a method of restoring an operating system or an application from a hidden partition on the hard disk that contains the original factory settings. Recovery partition installation requires an existing recovery partition and a functional hard disk. Repair installation is a method of fixing an operating system or an application that is corrupted or damaged by replacing or repairing the system files without affecting the user data or settings. Repair installation requires an existing operating system or application and a working device. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 16

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 106

Jailbreaking a device exposes it to various security risks, such as malware, data theft, network attacks, and service disruption1234. Running an antivirus and enabling encryption may not be enough to remove the threats and restore the device’s functionality. Undoing the jailbreak may not be possible or effective, depending on the method used. Backing up the files and doing a system restore may preserve the jailbreak and the associated problems. The best option is to erase the device and reinstall the original operating system that is compatible with the corporate policies and standards. This will ensure that the device is clean, secure, and compliant25.

The msconfig.exe tool, also known as the System Configuration utility, is a tool that allows users to modify various system settings, such as startup options, services, boot options, and more. One of the features of msconfig.exe is the ability to disable or enable device drivers that are loaded during the system startup. By using msconfig.exe, a technician can prevent a driver from being loaded and used by the system, which will allow them to uninstall it without any errors. To use msconfig.exe to disable a driver, the technician can follow these steps:

Open the Run dialog box by pressing the Windows key + R.

Type msconfig.exe and press Enter.

Click on the Boot tab and then click on Advanced options.

Check the box next to No GUI boot and click OK. This will prevent the graphical user interface from loading during the boot process, which will also prevent some drivers from loading.

Click on the Services tab and check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services. This will show only the third-party services and drivers that are running on the system.

Find the service or driver that corresponds to the device that the technician wants to uninstall and uncheck the box next to it. This will disable the service or driver from starting during the system startup.

Click Apply and OK and then restart the computer.

After the computer restarts, the technician can use the Device Manager or the Control Panel to uninstall the driver that was previously in use.

Windows is widely used in industrial and business environments due to its major market presence, extensive support from the industry, and a broad selection of operating system options. It supports a wide variety of software, making it suitable for running complex systems like an inventory management system in a factory. Other options such as Chrome OS, Android, and iOS are either more consumer-oriented or designed for specific types of devices, making them less likely choices for an industrial application like inventory management.References: Professor Messer’s CompTIA 220-1102 A+ Course Notes​​.

The best way to deal with an angry customer who is yelling at a technician is to wait until the customer is done speaking and offer assistance. This shows respect, empathy, and professionalism, and allows the technician to understand the customer’s problem and find a solution. According to the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Certification Study Guide1, some of the steps to handle angry customers are:

Stay calm and do not take it personally.

Listen actively and acknowledge the customer’s feelings.

Apologize sincerely and offer to help.

Restate the customer’s issue and ask for clarification if needed.

Explain the possible causes and solutions for the problem.

Provide clear and realistic expectations for the resolution.

Follow up with the customer until the issue is resolved.

The other options are not appropriate ways to deal with angry customers, as they may worsen the situation or damage the customer relationship. Placing the customer on hold may make them feel ignored or dismissed. Disconnecting the call may make them feel disrespected or abandoned. Escalating the issue to a supervisor may make them feel frustrated or powerless, unless the technician cannot resolve the issue or the customer requests to speak to a supervisor.

The Network & Internet settings in Windows 10 allow the user to input the SSID and password of a Wi-Fi network, as well as manage other network-related options, such as airplane mode, mobile hotspot, VPN, proxy, etc1. To access the Network & Internet settings, the user can select the Start button, then select Settings > Network & Internet2. Alternatively, the user can right-click the Wi-Fi icon on the taskbar and click "Open Network & Internet Settings"3.

The System settings in Windows 10 allow the user to configure the display, sound, notifications, power, storage, and other system-related options1. The Personalization settings in Windows 10 allow the user to customize the background, colors, lock screen, themes, fonts, and other appearance-related options1. The Accounts settings in Windows 10 allow the user to manage the user accounts, sign-in options, sync settings, and other account-related options1. None of these settings can be used to input the SSID and password of a Wi-Fi network.

In order to connect to a user’s laptop via RDP, the technician should open port 3389 on the Windows firewall. This is because RDP uses port 3389 for communication12. The other options are not necessary or relevant for establishing an RDP connection.

Confirming the user can ping the default gateway is not required for RDP, as it only tests the network connectivity between the user’s laptop and the router. RDP works over the internet, so the technician should be able to ping the user’s laptop directly using its IP address3.

Changing the IP address on the user’s laptop is not needed for RDP, as long as the IP address is valid and not conflicting with another device on the network. The user’s laptop has a valid IP address of 192.168.0.45, which belongs to the same subnet as the gateway (192.168.0.1) and the subnet mask (255.255.255.0)4.

Changing the subnet mask on the user’s laptop is not required for RDP, as long as the subnet mask matches the network configuration. The user’s laptop has a correct subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, which defines a network with 254 possible hosts4.

A certificate warning is a message that appears when a web browser cannot verify the identity or security of a website. It usually means that there is a problem with the website’s SSL certificate, such as expiration, invalidity, or mismatch. A certificate warning can indicate that the website is unsafe or compromised, and that the user’s connection is not private123.

PowerShell is a scripting language that can interact with Active Directory and other Windows components. It has a built-in cmdlet called New-ADUser that can create user accounts in Active Directory. PowerShell can also use the Active Directory module to access other AD-related functions and attributes. Other languages, such as Bash, SQL, and PHP, are not designed for creating Active Directory accounts and would require additional tools or libraries to do so.

The 32-bit operating system can only run 32-bit applications, so the technician should execute the 32-bit installer. The “x86” in the file name refers to the 32-bit architecture. 

The filesystem that is supported by both Macs and Windows PCs is D. exFAT. exFAT is a file system that is designed to be used on flash drives like USB sticks and SD cards. It is supported by both Macs and Windows PCs, and it can handle large files and volumes

BitLocker is a disk encryption tool that can be used to encrypt the hard drive of a Windows laptop. This will protect the data stored on the drive in the event that the laptop is lost or stolen, and will help to reduce the risk of data loss. Additionally, BitLocker can be configured to require a PIN or other authentication in order to unlock the drive, providing an additional layer of security.

The strongest wireless configuration is B. WPA3. WPA3 is the most up-to-date wireless encryption protocol and is the most secure choice. It replaces PSK with SAE, a more secure way to do the initial key exchange. At the same time, the session key size of WPA3 increases to 128-bit in WPA3-Personal mode and 192-bit in WPA3-Enterprise, which makes the password harder to crack than the previous Wi-Fi security standards

Local Users and Groups is a Microsoft Management Console (MMC) snap-in that allows you to manage user accounts or groups on your computer1. If you cannot find it in the MMC console, you can add it manually by following these steps2:

Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, or open the Command Prompt.

Type mmc and hit Enter. This will open a blank MMC console.

Click File and then Add/Remove Snap-in.

In the Add or Remove Snap-ins window, select Local Users and Groups from the Available snap-ins list, and click Add.

In the Select Computer window, choose Local computer or Another computer, depending on which computer you want to manage, and click Finish.

Click OK to close the Add or Remove Snap-ins window. You should now see Local Users and Groups in the MMC console.

educating the user on the solution that was performed is a good next step after resolving an issue. This can help prevent similar issues from happening again and empower users to solve problems on their own.

NFC stands for Near Field Communication, and it is a wireless technology that allows your phone to act as a contactless payment device, among other things2. Payment applications that allow payments to be made with a mobile device usually rely on NFC to communicate with the payment terminal1. Therefore, if NFC is disabled on the phone, the payment will not work. To enable NFC on an Android phone, you need to follow these steps3:

On your Android device, open the Settings app.

Select Connected devices.

Tap on Connection preferences.

You should see the NFC option. Toggle it on.

The other options are not directly related to using a payment application with a mobile device. Airplane mode is a setting that disables all wireless communication on the phone, including NFC4, but it also affects calls, texts, and internet access. Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to connect your phone with other devices such as headphones or speakers, but it is not used for contactless payments. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that allows you to access the internet or a local network, but it is also not used for contactless payments. Location services are a feature that allows your phone to determine your geographic location using GPS or other methods, but they are not required for contactless payments.

Apple Remote Desktop is a remote access solution that allows a user to access and control another macOS computer from their Windows workstation. It provides a graphical user interface so that the analyst can easily access the server software running on the macOS server. Apple Remote Desktop also supports file transfers, so the analyst can easily transfer files between the two computers. Additionally, Apple Remote Desktop supports encryption, so data is secure during transmission.

When a user experiences unexpected or erratic behavior while browsing the internet, it could be caused by the DNS servers. DNS translates human-readable domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses, which computers can use to communicate with web servers. If the DNS servers are not functioning correctly or have been compromised, it can result in the browser being redirected to unintended websites.

The most basic version of Windows that includes BitLocker is Windows Pro. BitLocker is a feature of Windows Pro that provides full disk encryption for all data on a storage drive [1]. It helps protect data from unauthorized access or theft and can help secure data from malicious attacks. Pro for Workstations includes this feature, as well as other features such as support for up to 6 TB of RAM and ReFS.

The most likely agreement in use here is a EULA (End User License Agreement). This is a legally binding agreement between the user and the software developer, outlining the terms and conditions that the user must agree to in order to use the software. It is important that the user understands and agrees to the EULA before they can proceed with downloading and installing the software. As stated in the CompTIA A+ Core 2 exam objectives, users should be aware of the EULA before downloading any software.

When a user reports that their workstation is behaving strangely after opening a suspicious email, the first step a technician should take is to run a virus scan on the computer. This is because opening a suspicious email is a common way for viruses and malware to infect a computer. Running a virus scan can help identify and remove any infections that may be causing the computer to behave strangely.

The OS utility used to change the color of the cursor in Windows is Ease of Access Center12

The user can change the cursor color by opening the Settings app, selecting Accessibility in the left sidebar, selecting Mouse pointer and touch under Vision, and choosing one of the cursor options. The user can select Custom to pick a color and use the Size slider to make the cursor larger or smaller12

The Ease of Access Center in the Windows OS provides accessibility options for users with disabilities or impairments. One of these options allows the user to change the color and size of the cursor, making it more visible and easier to locate on the screen. The Keyboard and Touchpad settings do not offer the option to change cursor color, and Display Settings are used to adjust the resolution and other properties of the display. Therefore, C is the best answer. This information is covered in the Comptia A+ Core2 documents/guide under the Accessibility section.

The correct answer is B. Swapping the cables for the monitors. When the second monitor is connected with the HDMI port, it is necessary to swap the cables for the monitors so that the mouse can move from the original monitor to the new monitor. This is because the HDMI port is designed to only support one monitor, and the mouse will not be able to move from one to the other without the cables being swapped.

According to CompTIA A+ Core 2 documents, "When connecting multiple displays to a system, the cables used to connect the displays must be swapped between the displays. For example, if a monitor is connected to a system using a VGA cable, the VGA cable must be moved to the next display to allow the mouse to move between the two displays."

 If a technician suspects high disk I/O, the technician should use the Resource Monitor (resmon.exe) to identify the process that is causing the high disk I/O1. Resource Monitor provides detailed information about the system’s resource usage, including disk I/O1. The technician can use this information to identify the process that is causing the high disk I/O and take appropriate action1.

 The administrator can use Virtual Network Computing (VNC) to troubleshoot the server effectively. VNC is a graphical desktop sharing system that allows the administrator to remotely control the desktop of a Linux server. 

Changing the network channel is the best solution to minimize the issue of employees and patients not being the only people on the Wi-Fi network5

The newly installed OS is x86. The x86 version of Windows 10 can only use up to 4GB of RAM. The x64 version of Windows 10 can use up to 2TB of RAM1.

ifconfig is a command-line utility that allows you to configure network interfaces on macOS and other Unix-like systems1. To set an IP address using ifconfig, you need to know the name of the network interface you want to configure (such as en0 or en1), and the IP address you want to assign (such as 192.168.0.150). You also need to use sudo to run the command with administrative privileges2. The syntax of the command is:

sudo ifconfig interface address

For example, to set the IP address of en1 to 192.168.0.150, you would type:

sudo ifconfig en1 192.168.0.150

You may also need to specify other parameters such as subnet mask, gateway, or DNS servers, depending on your network configuration3. The other commands are not directly related to setting an IP address on macOS. ipconfig is a similar command for Windows systems4, arpa is a domain name used for reverse DNS lookup, and ping is a command for testing network connectivity.

Smart card and password is an example of two-factor authentication (2FA), not multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires two or more authentication factors. Smart card and password is an example of two-factor authentication (2FA)2

To create a secondary login with different permissions in Windows 10, the user should utilize the Accounts setting. Here are the steps to create a new user account with different permissions:

Right-click the Windows Start menu button.

Select Control Panel.

Select User Accounts.

Select Manage another account.

Select Add a new user in PC settings.

Use the Accounts dialog box to configure a new account.1

Vishing, also known as voice phishing, is a type of social engineering attack where the attacker tricks the victim into divulging sensitive information over the phone. In this case, the attacker tricked the user into providing login credentials for a website.

 If customers are unable to access the company-hosted public website after installing a new SOHO router, the company should check for firmware updates1. Firmware updates can fix bugs and compatibility issues that may be preventing customers from accessing the website1. The company should also ensure that the router is properly configured to allow traffic to the website1. If the router is blocking traffic to the website, the company should configure the router to allow traffic to the website1.

application that will allow a macOS user to create another virtual desktop space is Mission Control Mission Control lets you create additional desktops, called spaces, to organize the windows of your apps. You can create a space by entering Mission Control and clicking the Add button in the Spaces bar1. You can also assign apps to specific spaces and move between them easily1.

 .pkg and .dmg are files used to distribute and install applications on macOS. .pkg files are installer packages that may contain multiple files and executable code, while .dmg files are disk images that can contain a single bundled application or multiple applications. .app files are typically the main executable files for macOS applications. The other options listed are file extensions for applications or installers on other platforms (such as .deb for Debian-based Linux systems, .msi for Windows, and .apk for Android). This information is covered in the Comptia A+ Core2 documents/guide under the Mac OS section.

The technician opens the Apple icon menu, selects Force Quit, selects the frozen application in the list, and clicks Force Quit. This is the most common method of force quitting a program in macOS. This can be done by clicking on the Apple icon in the top left of the screen, selecting Force Quit, selecting the frozen application in the list, and then clicking Force Quit. This will force the application to quit and the spinning round cursor will disappear.

change management process can help ensure that owners are notified of changes being made and can monitor them for performance impact (A). This can help prevent unexpected issues from arising.

Before making any changes to the system, it is important to assess the risks associated with the change and determine whether it is worth implementing. Risk analysis involves identifying potential risks, assessing their likelihood and impact, and determining what steps can be taken to mitigate them. It is important to perform this step before making any changes, as this allows the administrator to make an informed decision about whether or not the change should be implemented. Once the risks have been assessed and the administrator has decided to go ahead with the change, the next step is to implement the deployment.

 The company is experiencing a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack. A DDoS attack is a type of cyber attack in which multiple compromised systems are used to target a single system, causing a denial of service for users of the targeted system.

To delete an empty directory, enter rd Directory or rmdir Directory . If the directory is not empty, you can remove files and subdirectories from it using the /s switch. You can also use the /q switch to suppress confirmation messages (quiet mode).

The change management document that includes how to uninstall a patch is called the “rollback plan”. The rollback plan is a document that outlines the steps that should be taken to undo a change that has been made to a system. In the case of a patch, the rollback plan would include instructions on how to uninstall the patch if it causes problems or conflicts with other software12

A technician setting up a new laptop must ensure that users cannot install virtual machines as the company's security policy states  One way to prevent users from enabling virtual technology is by implementing Secure Boot. Secure Boot is a feature of UEFI firmware that ensures the system only boots using firmware that is trusted by the manufacturer. It verifies the signature of all bootloaders, operating systems, and drivers before running them, preventing any unauthorized modifications to the boot process. This will help prevent users from installing virtual machines on the laptop without authorization.

The GPS application contains malware. The third-party GPS application is likely the cause of the slow performance of the phone. The application may contain malware that is using up system resources and slowing down the phone. The user should uninstall the application and run a malware scan on the phone1

A battery backup, also known as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), is a device that provides backup power during a power outage. When the power goes out, the battery backup provides a short amount of time (usually a few minutes up to an hour, depending on the capacity of the device) to save any work and safely shut down the equipment.

The BEST way to secure the workstation quickly when walking away is to use a key combination to lock the computer when leaving1

Open-ended questions are questions that require more than a yes or no answer and encourage the customer to provide more details and information. Using open-ended questions can help the support technician to understand the problem better, identify the root cause, and find a suitable solution. Some examples of open-ended questions are:

What exactly is not working on your machine?

When did you notice the problem?

How often does the problem occur?

What were you doing when the problem happened?

What have you tried to fix the problem?

Offering to wipe and reset the device for the customer is not a good option, as it may result in data loss and inconvenience for the customer. It should be used as a last resort only if other troubleshooting steps fail. Advising that the help desk will investigate and follow up at a later date is not a good option, as it may leave the customer unsatisfied and frustrated. It should be used only if the problem requires further research or escalation and cannot be resolved on the first call. Putting the customer on hold and escalating the call to a manager is not a good option, as it may waste time and resources. It should be used only if the problem is beyond the support technician’s scope or authority and requires managerial intervention.

MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) is a security measure that often uses an SMS or third-party application as a secondary method to access a system. MFA requires the user to provide two or more pieces of evidence to prove their identity, such as something they know (e.g., password), something they have (e.g., phone), or something they are (e.g., fingerprint)2. WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) is a security protocol for wireless networks that does not use SMS or third-party applications. AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) is a symmetric encryption algorithm that does not use SMS or third-party applications. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is a network protocol that provides centralized authentication and authorization for remote access clients, but does not use SMS or third-party applications.

The error message “Your connection is not private. Authority invalid.” means that the web browser cannot verify the identity or security of the website’s SSL certificate. This could indicate that the website has been compromised, has a configuration error, or has an expired or invalid certificate. The user should not proceed to the site or use a different browser, as this could expose their sensitive information to potential attackers. The user should also not reinstall the browser, as this is unlikely to fix the error and could cause data loss. The best action for the user to take is to report the error to the bank and wait for them to resolve it.

Flashing the BIOS, reformatting the drive, and then reinstalling the OS is the best method for returning a computer with a malware infection to service. Flashing the BIOS updates the firmware of the motherboard and can remove any malware that may have infected it. Reformatting the drive erases all data on it and can remove any malware that may have infected it. Reinstalling the OS restores the system files and settings to their original state and can remove any malware that may have modified them. Scanning the system with a Linux live disc may not detect or remove all malware infections. Degaussing the hard drive is an extreme method of destroying data that may damage the drive beyond repair. Reinstalling the OS before flashing the BIOS or scanning with antivirus may not remove malware infections that persist in the BIOS or other files.

 If this file is missing or corrupted, it can cause application crashes or errors when trying to open websites in a browser. To fix this, the technician can perform a system file check, which is a utility that scans and repairs corrupted or missing system files1. To perform a system file check, the technician can follow these steps:

Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, type cmd in the search box on the taskbar, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and hit Enter. This will start the scanning and repairing process, which may take some time.

Wait for the process to complete. If any problems are found and fixed, you will see a message saying Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them. If no problems are found, you will see a message saying Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.

Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

Regionally diverse backups are backups that are stored in different geographic locations, preferably far away from the primary site1. This way, if a disaster such as a hurricane or a power outage affects one location, the backups in another location will still be available and accessible2. Regionally diverse backups can help ensure business continuity and data recovery in case of a disaster3. The other options are not the best backup solutions for a site in an area that has frequent hurricanes and an unstable power grid. High availability is a feature that allows a system to remain operational and accessible even if one or more components fail, but it does not protect against data loss or corruption4. On-site backups are backups that are stored in the same location as the primary site, which means they are vulnerable to the same disasters that can affect the primary site. Incremental backups are backups that only store the changes made since the last backup, which means they require less storage space and bandwidth, but they also depend on previous backups to restore data and may not be sufficient for disaster recovery.

The first thing that the specialist should do to protect the company’s data on an insecure network with open authentication is to connect to the vendor’s network using a VPN. A VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public or untrusted network. A VPN can protect the company’s data by preventing eavesdropping, interception or modification of the network traffic by unauthorized parties. A VPN can also provide access to the company’s internal network and resources remotely. Manually configuring an IP address, a subnet mask and a default gateway may not be necessary or possible if the vendor’s network uses DHCP to assign network configuration parameters automatically. Manually configuring an IP address, a subnet mask and a default gateway does not protect the company’s data from network attacks or threats. Changing the network location to private may not be advisable or effective if the vendor’s network is a public or untrusted network. Changing the network location to private does not protect the company’s data from network attacks or threats. Configuring MFA on the network may not be feasible or sufficient if the vendor’s network has open authentication and does not support or require MFA. Configuring MFA on the network does not protect the company’s data from network attacks or threats. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 3.3

After implementing a change authorized by the change advisory board (CAB), the technician should document the date and time of change as part of the post-implementation review. This helps to track the change history, verify the success of the change, and identify any issues or incidents caused by the change1. Documenting the purpose of the change, the risk level, and the findings of the sandbox test are all part of the pre-implementation activities that should be done before submitting the change request to the CAB2.

Content filtering is a process that manages or screens access to specific emails or webpages based on their content categories1. Content filtering can be used by organizations to control content access through their firewalls and enforce corporate policies around information system management2. A SOHO client may have content filtering enabled on their network and may need to adjust it to allow access to a corporate website that is blocked by default. The client can use a software program, a hardware device, or a subscription service to configure the content filtering settings and whitelist the desired website2.

 Mission Control is the macOS feature that provides the user with a high-level view of all open windows. Mission Control allows the user to see and switch between multiple desktops, full-screen apps, and windows in a single screen. Mission Control can be accessed by swiping up with three or four fingers on the trackpad, pressing F3 on the keyboard, or moving the cursor to a hot corner

The technician would most likely use Settings > Accounts > Family and Other Users to add an individual as a local administrator on a Windows home PC. Settings > Accounts > Family and Other Users allows users to add and manage other user accounts on their Windows PC. The technician can add an individual as a local administrator by selecting Add someone else to this PC under Other users and following the steps to create a new user account with administrator privileges. Settings > Personalization allows users to customize the appearance and behavior of their desktop, such as themes, colors, backgrounds, lock screen and screensaver. Settings > Personalization is not related to adding an individual as a local administrator on a Windows home PC but to configuring desktop settings and preferences. Control Panel > Credential Manager allows users to view and manage their web credentials and Windows credentials stored on their Windows PC. Control Panel > Credential Manager is not related to adding

A. Disable the SSID broadcast1: The SSID broadcast is a feature that allows a Wi-Fi network to be visible to nearby devices. Disabling the SSID broadcast can make the network harder to find by unauthorized users, but it does not prevent them from accessing it if they know the network name and password.

A. Device drivers23: Device drivers are software components that enable the operating system to communicate with hardware devices. Different devices may require different drivers, so the desktop engineer should include the appropriate drivers in the master image or configure the deployment process to install them automatically.

C. Installed application license keys2: Installed application license keys are codes that activate or authenticate software applications. Some applications may require license keys to be entered during installation or after deployment. The desktop engineer should include the license keys in the master image or configure the deployment process to apply them automatically.

Shredding is the best method to use for the physical destruction of SSDs because it reduces them to small pieces that cannot be recovered or accessed. Wiping, low-level formatting, and erasing are not effective methods for destroying SSDs because they do not physically damage the flash memory chips that store data1.

Resetting the network adapter is the best way to apply the changes made to the hosts file on a few PCs. The hosts file is a text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses and can be used to block certain domains by redirecting them to invalid or local addresses. Resetting the network adapter will clear the DNS cache and force the PC to use the new entries in the hosts file. 

An access control list (ACL) is a list of permissions associated with a system resource (object), such as a website. An ACL specifies which users or system processes are granted access to objects, as well as what operations are allowed on given objects1. A systems administrator can create an ACL to define the list of websites that users are allowed to access.

The first thing that a support technician should check to resolve the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling is the data plan coverage. The data plan coverage determines how much data and where the user can use on the smartphone’s cellular network. The data plan coverage may vary depending on the user’s location, carrier and subscription. The data plan coverage may not include or support certain areas or countries that the user is traveling to, or may charge extra fees or limit the speed or amount of data that the user can use. The data plan coverage does not affect text messages and phone calls, which use different network services and protocols. User account status is not likely to cause the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling, unless the user account has been suspended or terminated by the carrier or the email provider. Mobile OS version is not likely to cause the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling, unless the mobile OS has a major bug or compatibility problem with the network or the email app. Network traffic outages may cause the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling, but they are less likely and less common than data plan coverage issues, and they should also affect text messages and phone calls. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.5

The user is experiencing a system error that prevents them from using the Testing program. The error message indicates that the file MSVCP100.dll is missing from the computer. This file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package, which is required by some applications to run properly. The error may have occurred due to a corrupted or incomplete software deployment.

To resolve this issue, the user needs to restore the missing file and register it in the system. One possible way to do this is to copy the file from another computer that has the Testing program installed and working, and then use the regsvr32 command to register it. The steps are as follows:

On another computer (User-PC02) that has the Testing program installed and working, locate the file MSVCP100.dll in the folder C:\Program Files\Testing.

Share the folder C:\Windows\System32 on User-PC02 by right-clicking on it, selecting Properties, then Sharing, then Advanced Sharing, then checking Share this folder, then clicking OK.

On the user’s computer (User-PC01), open a command prompt as an administrator by clicking Start, typing cmd, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.

In the command prompt, type the following command to copy the file MSVCP100.dll from User-PC02 to User-PC01: copy "C:\Program Files\Testing\msvcp100.dll" "\\User-PC02\C$\Windows\System32"

After the file is copied, type the following command to register it in the system: regsvr32 msvcp100.dll

Restart the user’s computer and try to run the Testing program again.

Therefore, based on the instructions given by the user, the correct answers are:

Select Event Viewer Issue: 2187

Select First Command: copy "C:\Program Files\Testing\msvcp100.dll" "\\User-PC02\C$\Windows\System32"

Select Second Command: regsvr32 msvcp100.dll

Screen lock is a feature that returns a computer to the login screen after a period of inactivity, requiring the user to enter their credentials to resume their session. Screen lock can be configured using Group Policy settings, such as Screen saver timeout and Interactive logon: Machine inactivity limit. Screen lock can help prevent unauthorized access to a computer when the user is away from their desk. Login times are not a feature that returns a computer to the login screen, but a measure of how long it takes for a user to log in to a system. User permission is not a feature that returns a computer to the login screen, but a set of rights and privileges that determine what a user can do on a system. Login lockout attempts are not a feature that returns a computer to the login screen, but a security policy that locks out a user account after a number of failed login attempts. 

The best filesystem format to ensure read and write compatibility of USB flash drives across several generations of Microsoft operating systems is FAT32. FAT32 stands for File Allocation Table 32-bit and is a filesystem format that organizes and manages files and folders on storage devices using 32-bit clusters. FAT32 is compatible with most Microsoft operating systems since Windows 95 OSR2, as well as other operating systems such as Linux and Mac OS X. FAT32 can support storage devices up to 2TB in size and files up to 4GB in size. APFS stands for Apple File System and is a filesystem format that organizes and manages files and folders on storage devices using encryption, snapshots and cloning features. APFS is compatible with Mac OS X 10.13 High Sierra and later versions but not with Microsoft operating systems natively. Ext4 stands for Fourth Extended File System and is a filesystem format that organizes and manages files and folders on storage devices using journaling, extents and delayed allocation features. Ext4 is compatible with Linux operating systems but not with Microsoft operating systems natively.

When it comes to disposing of used printer consumables , it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines for proper disposal, as different types of consumables may require different disposal procedures. Some manufacturers provide specific instructions for proper disposal, such as sending the used consumables back to the manufacturer or using special recycling programs.

Therefore, the proper way for a technician to dispose of used printer consumables is to proceed with the custom manufacturer's procedure , if provided. This option ensures that the disposal is handled in an environmentally friendly and safe manner.

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a protocol that allows a technician to simultaneously view and control a user’s screen remotely. VNC uses a server-client model, where the user’s computer runs a VNC server and the technician’s computer runs a VNC client. VNC can work across different platforms and operating systems3. SSH (Secure Shell) is a protocol that allows a technician to access a user’s command-line interface remotely, but not their graphical user interface. VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public network, but does not allow screen sharing. RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is a protocol that allows a technician to access a user’s desktop remotely, but not simultaneously with the user.

The piece of hardware that the technician should replace to resolve the issue of the screen failing to rotate on a mobile device that was dropped is the accelerometer. The accelerometer is a sensor that detects the orientation and movement of the mobile device by measuring the acceleration forces acting on it. The accelerometer allows the screen to rotate automatically according to the position and angle of the device. If the accelerometer is damaged or malfunctioning, the screen may not rotate properly or at all, even if the settings are correctly applied. LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display and is a type of display that uses liquid crystals and backlight to produce images on the screen. LCD is not related to the screen rotation feature but to the quality and brightness of the display. Battery is a component that provides power to the mobile device by storing and releasing electrical energy. Battery is not related to the screen rotation feature but to the battery life and performance of the device. Digitizer is a component that converts touch inputs into digital signals that can be processed by the mobile device. Digitizer is not related to the screen rotation feature but to the touch sensitivity and accuracy of the display. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.5

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol and it is used to assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network automatically. This is useful for devices that do not require the same private address each time they connect to the internet. 

The script type that is used with the Python language by default is .py. .py is a file extension that indicates a Python script file that contains Python code that can be executed by a Python interpreter or compiler. Python is a high-level, general-purpose and interpreted programming language that can be used for various applications, such as web development, data analysis, machine learning and automation. .ps1 is a file extension that indicates a PowerShell script file that contains PowerShell code that can be executed by a PowerShell interpreter or compiler. PowerShell is a task-based, command-line and scripting language that can be used for system administration and automation on Windows systems. .vbs is a file extension that indicates a VBScript file that contains VBScript code that can be executed by a VBScript interpreter or compiler. VBScript is an Active Scripting language that can be used for web development and automation on Windows systems. .bat is a file extension that indicates a batch file that contains a series of commands that can be executed by a command-line interpreter or shell on Windows systems. Batch files can be used for system administration and automation on Windows systems. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 4.3

MSRA stands for Microsoft Remote Assistance, and it is a feature that allows a technician to remotely view and control another user’s Windows PC with their permission. MSRA is built-in to Windows and does not require any additional software installation. To use MSRA, the technician and the user need to follow these steps:

On the user’s PC, type msra in the search box on the taskbar and select Invite someone to connect to your PC and help you, or offer to help someone else.

Select Save this invitation as a file and choose a location to save the file. This file contains a password that the technician will need to connect to the user’s PC.

Send the file and the password to the technician via email or another secure method.

On the technician’s PC, type msra in the search box on the taskbar and select Help someone who has invited you.

Select Use an invitation file and browse to the location where the file from the user is saved. Enter the password when prompted.

The user will see a message asking if they want to allow the technician to connect to their PC. The user should select Yes.

The technician will see the user’s desktop and can request control of their PC by clicking Request control on the top bar. The user should allow this request by clicking Yes.

The technician can now view and control the user’s PC and assist them with installing software.

A S.M.A.R.T. error is a warning that a hard drive is about to fail or has failed. This means that the OS cannot be loaded from the drive and the user will see an error message indicating there is no OS found. The most likely cause of this issue is drive failure.

Operating system updates are used to secure a device from known exploits. Operating system updates are patches or fixes that are released by the vendor to address security vulnerabilities, bugs, or performance issues. Operating system updates can also provide new features or enhancements to the device. It is important to keep the operating system updated to prevent attackers from exploiting known flaws or weaknesses.

System is the Control Panel utility that should be used to change the Path Environment Variable. The Path Environment Variable is a system variable that specifies the directories where executable files are located. To edit the Path Environment Variable, the technician should go to System > Advanced system settings > Environment Variables and then select Path from the list of system variables and click Edit.