220-1102 Questions and Answers

The presence of pop-up windows advertising free software and the error message about memory are indicative of spyware infection. Installing and running antispyware software is a practical first step to remove the unwanted software and resolve the issue without resorting to more drastic measures like re-imaging the system.

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.

The operating systems designed for smartphones include iOS and Android. iOS is developed by Apple Inc. for its iPhone range, while Android, developed by Google, is used across a variety of devices from different manufacturers. Both operating systems are specifically tailored to provide a mobile computing experience, with interfaces, applications, and functionalities designed for touchscreen input and mobile hardware​​.

Using a password manager is the best way to mitigate the issue of users recording their login information in accessible areas. Password managers securely store and encrypt passwords and login details, reducing the need for users to write down or remember multiple complex passwords. This approach enhances security by encouraging the use of strong, unique passwords for different accounts without the risk of forgetting them or the unsafe practice of writing them down. Trusted sources, valid certificates, and user training are important security measures but do not directly address the problem of managing multiple secure passwords as effectively as a password manager does.

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.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Checking the hash value (such as MD5, SHA-1, or SHA-256) is the best way to verify file integrity after downloading. A hash function generates a unique string for a file. If even a single bit in the file is changed, the hash value will be different. Many software vendors provide hash values (checksums) on their websites to help users confirm that the files were downloaded without corruption or tampering.

A. Clear browsing data – Incorrect. Clearing browsing data does not affect downloaded files or their integrity.

B. Install SSL certificates – Incorrect. SSL certificates encrypt data transmission but do not verify the integrity of downloaded files.

D. Use trusted sources – While downloading files from trusted sources reduces the risk of corruption, it does not verify file integrity.

Host 2 and Media Server put them to Quarantine.

The correct answer is D. Run CHKDSK (Check Disk).

CHKDSK is a command-line utility that scans and repairs file system errors and bad sectors on a disk. Running this tool first can determine whether the hard drive is experiencing file system corruption or physical failure.

If CHKDSK reports bad sectors or extensive corruption, it indicates that the drive is failing, and data backup should be performed immediately before replacing the drive.

Syntax Example:

chkdsk /f /r

/f – Fixes file system errors.

/r – Locates bad sectors and recovers readable information.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Perform a System Restore – System Restore can revert system settings, but it does not fix hardware issues like a failing hard drive.

B. Open Disk Cleanup – Disk Cleanup removes temporary files but does not diagnose or repair disk issues.

C. Replace the hard drive – While replacement may be necessary, a technician should first diagnose the issue using CHKDSK before determining if the drive needs to be replaced.

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Exam Reference:

Objective 4.1 – Given a scenario, troubleshoot common problems related to storage and RAID.

 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.

The technician's action of setting the phone to silent while troubleshooting the customer's PC is an example of avoiding distractions. By setting the phone to silent, the technician is ensuring that they are able to focus on the task at hand without any distractions that could potentially disrupt their workflow. This is an important practice when handling customer's confidential material, as it ensures that the technician is able to focus on the task and not be distracted by any external sources. Furthermore, it also adheres to user privacy policies, as the technician is not exposing any confidential information to any external sources.

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 security benefits realized after deploying a client certificate to be used for Wi-Fi access for all devices in an organization are that all Wi-Fi traffic will be encrypted in transit. This means that any data transmitted over the Wi-Fi network will be protected from eavesdropping attempts. Rogue access points will not connect to the network because they will not have the client certificate. However, multifactor authentication will not be forced for Wi-Fi because the client certificate is being used in conjunction with the user’s existing username and password12

Explanation:

Reinstalling the browser would most likely solve the issue. This would remove any malicious software or add-ons that may be causing the issue and restore the browser to its default settings.

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.

The Windows Professional Edition is the most likely version that a technician would deploy for a user at a target corporation. This version of Windows is designed for business use and provides the necessary features and capabilities that a user would need to access the corporate domain, such as email and shared drives.

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 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.

The user can use the following commands to give the technician the correct information: ipconfig /all and hostname 1. The ipconfig /all command displays the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway for all adapters on the computer 1. The hostname command displays the name of the computer 1.

The most effective method for dealing with spam messages in a small business is to provide user training1. Users should be trained to recognize spam messages and avoid opening them1. They should also be trained to report spam messages to the IT department so that appropriate action can be taken1. In addition, users should be trained to avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources1. By providing user training, the management team can reduce the risk of users opening spam messages and potentially infecting the network systems1.

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

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.

The error message indicates that the security certificate presented by the website has either expired or is not yet valid. This can happen if the computer's clock has the wrong date or time, as SSL/TLS certificates have a specific validity period. If the clock is off by too much, it may cause the certificate to fail to validate. Therefore, the technician should check the computer's date and time and ensure that they are correct.

The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is a set of security standards designed to ensure that ALL companies that accept, process, store or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment.

Bollards are the best solution to enhance building security in order to prevent vehicles from driving into the building while also maintaining easy access for customers4

The technician should check the Wi-Fi connection speed first to troubleshoot this issue. Slow web browsing speed on a mobile phone can be caused by a slow Wi-Fi connection. The technician should check the Wi-Fi connection speed to ensure that it is fast enough to support web browsing. If the Wi-Fi connection speed is slow, the technician should troubleshoot the Wi-Fi network to identify and resolve the issue.

A name on a medical diagnosis (B) is most likely to be regulated. This is because it falls under the category of protected health information (PHI), which is subject to regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. These regulations aim to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information.

MDM stands for Mobile Device Management, and it is a way of remotely managing and securing mobile devices that are used for work purposes1. MDM can enforce policies and restrictions on the devices, such as preventing users from installing unauthorized apps, modifying system settings, or accessing root privileges2. MDM can also monitor device status, wipe data, lock devices, or locate lost or stolen devices1.

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.

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.

The technician should instruct the user to clear the browser cache and contact the bank (option A). This error indicates that the website the user is visiting is not the correct website and is likely due to a cached version of the website being stored in the user's browser. Clearing the browser cache should remove any stored versions of the website and allow the user to access the correct website. The user should also contact the bank to confirm that they are visiting the correct website and to report the error.

The account access level the user will need to access advanced features and configuration settings for several applications while adhering to corporate policy requiring a least privilege environment is a standard account. This is because a standard account allows the user to access advanced features and configuration settings for several applications while adhering to corporate policy requiring a least privilege environment1.

Resource Monitor will help a technician identify the issue when a user reports a computer is running slow1

The technician should escalate the ticket to ensure that the CEO’s device is returned as soon as possible1

Hash verification is a process that verifies the integrity of a file by comparing the hash value of the downloaded file to the hash value provided by the source1

AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) should be updated to reflect this new requirement. The AUP is a document that outlines the acceptable use of technology within an organization. It is a set of rules that employees must follow when using company resources. The AUP should be updated to include a policy on cryptocurrency mining on work desktops

Changing channels can best resolve interference from other nearby SSIDs. Wireless networks operate on different channels, and changing the channel can help to avoid interference from other nearby networks.

Open Settings, select System, select Display, and change the Scale and layout setting to a higher percentage123

Account lockout would best mitigate the threat of a dictionary attack1

Disk encryption should be used to secure the workstation in case of theft. Disk encryption can help to protect data on the hard drive by encrypting it so that it cannot be accessed without the correct encryption key.

The incident handler should clone any impacted hard drives to preserve evidence for possible litigation1

VNC will allow a technician to see the issue along with the user when an organization is centralizing support functions and requires the ability to support a remote user’s desktop1

The risk analysis should be performed before it's taken to the board. The step after the board approves the change is End User Agreenment Reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ru77iZxuElA &list=PLG49S3nxzAnna96gzhJrzkii4hH_mgW4b&index=59

Since the systems administrator has validated that the workstation functions normally and other users operate on the same workstation without any issues, the next step should be to rebuild the user’s profile. This will ensure that any corrupted files or settings are removed and the user’s profile is restored to its default state.

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

https://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-902/computer-safety-procedures-2/

https://www.skillsoft.com/course/comptia-a-core-2-safety-procedures-environmental-impacts-cbdf0f2c-61c0-4f4a-a659-dc98f1f00158

The technician most likely needs to change the default gateway on the workstation to resolve the issue. The default gateway is the IP address of the router that connects the workstation to the internet, and it is responsible for routing traffic between the workstation and the internet. If the default gateway is incorrect, the workstation will not be able to access external web pages.

 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.

Chrome OS provides a lightweight option for workstations that need an easy-to-use browser-based interface1

"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 process of documenting who had possession of evidence at every step of the process is called chain of custody

https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-a-220-1102-exam-objectives-(3-0)

Shredding is the most effective method to securely dispose of data stored on optical discs12

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 file type that the technician will MOST likely use when installing new software on a macOS computer is .app. This is because .app is the file extension for applications on macOS1.

One of the most important environmental concerns inside a data center is the level of humidity. High levels of humidity can cause condensation, which can result in corrosion of components and other equipment. Low levels of humidity can cause static electricity to build up, potentially leading to electrostatic discharge (ESD) and damage to components. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a relative humidity range of 40-60% in a data center to protect the equipment and ensure proper operation.

TACACS+ is a proprietary Cisco AAA protocol

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files on a computer, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. In this case, the user was able to access the files before without issue, and no changes have been made within the company, so it is likely that the computer was infected with ransomware.

The Linux command used to install an application is sudo. The sudo command allows users to run programs with the security privileges of another user, such as the root user. This is necessary to install applications because it requires administrative privileges1

https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-a-220-1102-exam-objectives-(3-0)

Multifactor authentication will be forced for Wi-Fi after deploying a client certificate to be used for Wi-Fi access for all devices in an organization3

Since Windows systems support FAT32 and NTFS "out of the box" and Linux supports a whole range of them including FAT32 and NTFS, it is highly recommended to format the partition or disk you want to share in either FAT32 or NTFS, but since FAT32 has a file size limit of 4.2 GB, if you happen to work with huge files, then it is better you use NTFS

The command cac cor.ptia. txt was issued on a Linux terminal. This command would display the contents of the text comptia.txt.

The technician should use Disk Utility to resize a partition on the internal storage drive of a computer running macOS. Disk Utility is a built-in utility that allows users to manage disks, partitions, and volumes on a Mac. It can be used to resize, create, and delete partitions, as well as to format disks and volumes.

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 technician should verify bad sectors on the user’s computer by running chkdsk on the drive as the administrator. Chkdsk (check disk) is a command-line utility that detects and repairs disk errors, including bad sectors. It runs a scan of the disk and displays any errors that are found

This is because remote wipe allows the data on the smartphone to be erased remotely, which helps to ensure that sensitive data does not fall into the wrong hands.

Linux is the most commonly used operating system in embedded systems because it is open source, free, customizable, and supports a wide range of architectures and devices. Linux also offers many advantages for embedded development, such as real-time capabilities, modularity, security, scalability, and reliability. Linux can run on embedded systems with limited resources, such as memory, storage, or power, and can be tailored to the specific needs of the application. Linux also has a large and active community of developers and users who contribute to its improvement and innovation. Some examples of embedded systems that use Linux are smart TVs, routers, drones, robots, smart watches, and IoT devices

 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 https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/crs/software/crs_r4-0/security/configuration/guide/sc40crsbook_chapter1.html

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

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.

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a remote access tool that allows the technician to access and control various Windows, Linux, and macOS desktops on the company LAN using a graphical user interface. VNC does not require an external internet connection, as it works over a local network or a VPN. VNC uses a client-server model, where the server runs on the remote desktop and the client connects to it from another device. VNC can transmit the keyboard and mouse events from the client to the server, and the screen updates from the server to the client, enabling the technician to interact with the remote desktop as if it were local12.

VNC is a better option than the other choices because:

RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) (B) is not a single software solution, but a category of software solutions that enable IT professionals to remotely monitor, manage, and troubleshoot multiple devices and networks. RMM software may include remote access tools, but also other features such as patch management, backup and recovery, security, reporting, and automation. RMM software may require an external internet connection, as it often relies on cloud-based services or web-based consoles34.

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) © is a remote access tool that allows the technician to access and control Windows desktops on the company LAN using a graphical user interface. However, RDP is not compatible with Linux or macOS desktops, unless they have third-party software installed that can emulate or translate the RDP protocol. RDP also has some security and performance issues, such as encryption vulnerabilities, bandwidth consumption, and latency problems56.

SSH (Secure Shell) (D) is a remote access tool that allows the technician to access and control various Windows, Linux, and macOS desktops on the company LAN using a command-line interface. SSH does not require an external internet connection, as it works over a local network or a VPN. SSH uses encryption and authentication to secure the communication between the client and the server. However, SSH does not provide a graphical user interface, which may limit the functionality and usability of the remote desktop7 .

A static entry is the best option to restore communication for the new machine in a small branch office that does not have a DHCP server. A static entry means manually configuring the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server for the network adapter of the machine. A static entry ensures that the machine has a valid and unique IP address that matches the network configuration and can communicate with the rest of the network.

The new machine automatically receives the IP address of 169.254.0.2 because it uses APIPA (Automatic Private IP Addressing), which is a feature that enables computers to self-assign an IP address when a DHCP server is not available. However, APIPA only works for local communication within the same subnet, and does not provide a default gateway or a DNS server. Therefore, the new machine is unable to communicate with the rest of the network, which may be on a different subnet or require a gateway or a DNS server to access.

The other options are not related to restoring communication for the new machine. ARP table is a cache that stores the mapping between IP addresses and MAC addresses for the devices on the network. NTP specification is a protocol that synchronizes the clocks of the devices on the network.

The scope of the change is one of the elements that should be documented to ensure that the change management plan is followed. The scope of the change defines the boundaries and limitations of the change, such as what is included and excluded, what are the deliverables and outcomes, what are the assumptions and constraints, and what are the dependencies and risks. The scope of the change helps to clarify the expectations and objectives of the change, as well as to prevent scope creep or deviation from the original plan. The scope of the change also helps to measure the progress and success of the change, as well as to communicate the change to the stakeholders and the team

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 first mitigation step that a technician should take when a machine is suspected to contain ransomware is to quarantine the system. This means isolating the infected machine from the network and other devices, to prevent the ransomware from spreading and encrypting more data. The technician can quarantine the system by disconnecting the network cable, turning off the wireless adapter, or using firewall rules to block the traffic from and to the machine12.

This step is more important than the other options because:

Disabling System Restore (A) is not a priority, as it will not stop the ransomware from running or spreading. System Restore is a feature that allows users to restore their system to a previous state, but it may not work if the ransomware has encrypted or deleted the restore points. Moreover, disabling System Restore may prevent the user from recovering some data or settings in the future13.

Remediating the system (B) is the ultimate goal, but it cannot be done before quarantining the system. Remediating the system means removing the ransomware, restoring the data, and fixing the vulnerabilities that allowed the attack. However, this process requires careful analysis, planning, and execution, and it may not be possible if the ransomware is still active and communicating with the attackers. Therefore, the technician should first isolate the system and then proceed with the remediation steps12.

Educating the system user © is a preventive measure, but it is not a mitigation step. Educating the system user means raising awareness and providing training on how to avoid ransomware attacks, such as by recognizing phishing emails, avoiding suspicious links or attachments, and updating and patching the system regularly. However, this step will not help if the system is already infected, and it may not be effective if the user is not willing or able to follow the best practices. Therefore, the technician should focus on resolving the current incident and then educate the user as part of the recovery plan14.

Developer Mode on Windows 10 is a feature that allows developers to test and debug their applications on their devices, as well as sideload apps and access other developer tools12. To enable Developer Mode, the user needs to go to the Settings app, select Update & Security, choose For Developers, and switch to Developer Mode123. However, enabling Developer Mode requires internet connectivity, as Windows will download and install a package of features, such as Windows Device Portal and SSH services, that are necessary for Developer Mode124. If the user does not have internet connectivity, they will receive a “failed to install package” message when trying to enable Developer Mode4. Therefore, the first thing that the technician should do is to ensure that the laptop has internet access, either through Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and then try to enable Developer Mode again4

To change the wallpaper on a Windows 10 laptop, the "Personalization" settings should be used. These settings allow users to customize themes, which include various aspects of the desktop environment such as the desktop wallpaper, screen saver, color scheme, and more. This makes "Personalization" the correct option for customizing the wallpaper.References: Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 Student Guide​​.

The .bat file type would be used in the Windows Startup folder to automate copying a personal storage table (.pst) file to a network drive at log-in. A .bat file is a batch file that contains a series of commands that can be executed by the command interpreter. A .bat file can be used to perform various tasks, such as copying, moving, deleting, or renaming files or directories. A .bat file can be placed in the Windows Startup folder to run automatically when a user logs in to the system. A .bat file can use the copy command to copy a .pst file from a local drive to a network drive. A .pst file is a personal storage table file that contains email messages, contacts, calendars, and other data from Microsoft Outlook. A .pst file can be backed up to a network drive for security or recovery purposes. The .dll, .ps1, and .txt file types are not used in the Windows Startup folder to automate copying a .pst file to a network drive at log-in. A .dll file is a dynamic link library file that contains code or data that can be shared by multiple programs. A .dll file cannot be executed directly by the user or the system. A .ps1 file is a PowerShell script file that contains commands or expressions that can be executed by the PowerShell interpreter. A .ps1 file can also perform various tasks, such as copying files or directories, but it requires PowerShell to be installed and configured on the system. A .txt file is a plain text file that contains unformatted text that can be read by any text editor or word processor. A .txt file cannot contain commands or expressions that can be executed by the system. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 18

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 459

XSS stands for cross-site scripting, which is a web security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious code into a web page that is viewed by other users1. XSS involves sending arbitrary characters in a web page request, such as a query string, a form field, a cookie, or a header, that contain a malicious script. The web server does not validate or encode the input, and returns it as part of the web page response. The browser then executes the script, which can perform various actions on behalf of the attacker, such as stealing cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information, redirecting the user to a malicious site, or displaying fake content

MFA stands for multi-factor authentication, which is an electronic authentication method that requires the user to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an application, online account, or a VPN1. MFA provides security enhancement by making it harder for attackers to compromise the user’s identity or credentials, as they would need to obtain more than just the username and password. MFA can also prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data or resources, as well as reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud2. 

Configuring remote wipe allows the device owner or administrator to erase all the data on the device remotely, in case it is lost or stolen. This prevents unauthorized access to confidential data and reduces the risk of data breaches. Installing a VPN, implementing location tracking, and enabling backups are useful features, but they do not directly limit the loss of data if the device is compromised. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, Domain 2.0: Security, Objective 2.5: Given a scenario, use methods to secure mobile devices.

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]

A PowerShell script is a plain text file that contains one or more PowerShell commands. Scripts have a .ps1 file extension and can be run on your computer or in a remote session. PowerShell scripts can be used to automate tasks and change settings on Windows devices. To create and run a PowerShell script, you need a text editor (such as Visual Studio Code or Notepad) and the PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE) console. You also need to enable the correct execution policy to allow scripts to run on your system

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

The hostname command-line tool is used to display the name of the local machine. This information can be crucial for identifying the device within a network, especially when setting up remote access or sharing resources like folders and printers. Unlike other command-line tools that provide more detailed network diagnostics or configuration details, hostname straightforwardly offers the device's network identification, making it suitable for the scenario described.References: Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 Student Guide​​.

Group Policy is a feature of Windows that allows administrators to manage and configure settings for computers and users on a network12. One of the settings that can be controlled by Group Policy is the password policy, which defines the rules for creating and changing passwords, such as minimum length, complexity, expiration, and history34. By using Group Policy, the Chief Information Officer can enforce the new password length requirement for all users and computers in the company’s domain, without having to manually adjust each user account or device.

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: The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Instructor Guide (Exam 220-1102), page 10-12 4: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 (220-1102) Exam Objectives

Isolating the machine from the network is a good practice when troubleshooting a PC that is suspected of being infected with malware. This can prevent the malware from spreading to other devices on the network or communicating with external servers that may control or exploit the malware. Isolating the machine can be done by disconnecting the network cable, disabling the wireless adapter, or blocking the network traffic with a firewall.

Chain of custody is a legal term that refers to the chronological documentation or paper trail that records the sequence of custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of materials, including physical or electronic evidence1. It is important in forensic investigations to establish that the evidence is in fact related to the case, and that it has not been tampered with or contaminated. A technician needs to track evidence for a forensic investigation on a Windows computer by following the proper procedures for collecting, handling, storing, and analyzing the evidence, and documenting every step of the process on a chain of custody form23

The command md stands for make directory and is used to create a new directory or folder in the current location. In this case, the technician can use md minutes to create a folder named minutes in the C: drive. The other commands are not relevant for this task. c: \minutes is not a command but a path to a folder. dir is used to display a list of files and folders in the current directory. rmdir is used to remove or delete an existing directory or folder.

 Date and time is the most likely cause of the issue. The date and time settings on a workstation affect the validity of the certificates used by websites to establish secure connections. If the date and time are incorrect, the workstation may not recognize the certificate as valid and display an invalid certificate error. Other workstations on the same local network may not have this issue if their date and time are correct. User access control, UEFI boot mode, and log-on times are not likely causes of the issue. User access control is a feature that prevents unauthorized changes to the system by prompting for confirmation or credentials. UEFI boot mode is a firmware interface that controls the boot process of the workstation. Log-on times are settings that restrict when a user can log in to the workstation. None of these factors affect the validity of the certificates used by websites. References:

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

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 456

Access control vestibule is the correct answer for this question. An access control vestibule is a physical security device that consists of two doors that form an enclosed space between them. The first door opens only after verifying the identity of the person entering, such as by using a card reader, biometric scanner, or keypad. The second door opens only after the first door closes, creating a buffer zone that prevents unauthorized access or tailgating. An access control vestibule also maintains a record of events, such as who entered or exited, when, and how. Hard token, key fob, and door lock are not sufficient to meet the requirements of this question. A hard token is a device that generates a one-time password or code for authentication purposes. A key fob is a small device that can be attached to a key ring and used to unlock doors or start vehicles remotely. A door lock is a mechanism that secures a door from opening without a key or a code. References:

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

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

An acceptable use policy (AUP) is a document that defines the rules and expectations for the users of a system, network, or service. It typically covers topics such as the purpose, scope, responsibilities, and restrictions of using the system, network, or service1. An AUP is a suitable place to publish the guidelines for the incorporation of generative AI solutions, as it can inform the users of the benefits, risks, and ethical implications of using such tools. It can also specify the conditions and limitations for using generative AI solutions, such as the types of data, content, and applications that are allowed or prohibited, the security and privacy requirements, the legal and regulatory compliance, and the accountability and reporting mechanisms23.

When dealing with a suspected virus infection on an air-gapped computer, after an initial scan with Windows Defender shows no infection, the next steps should include examining the event logs to look for suspicious activity and updating the virus definitions for a more thorough scan. Event logs can provide insights into system changes and potential malicious activities, while updated definitions ensure the antivirus software can detect the latest threats. Connecting to the network or enabling the firewall might not be appropriate due to the risk of spreading the infection, and re-imaging the computer or documenting the findings would be subsequent steps if the initial actions don't resolve the issue.References: Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 Student Guide​​​​.

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.

 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

Local Users and Groups is the best option to accomplish this task. Local Users and Groups is a tool that allows managing the local user accounts and groups on a Windows workstation. The technician can use this tool to create a new user account with administrator privileges or add an existing user account to the Administrators group. This way, the technician can log in with the administrator account and make system changes without elevating permissions. Group Policy Editor, Device Manager, and System Configuration are not correct answers for this question. Group Policy Editor is a tool that allows configuring policies and settings for users and computers in a domain environment. Device Manager is a tool that allows managing the hardware devices and drivers on a Windows workstation. System Configuration is a tool that allows modifying the startup options and services on a Windows workstation. None of these tools can directly grant administrator access to a user account. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 13

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 103

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.

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 ifconfig command is a tool for configuring network interfaces that any Linux system administrator should know. It is used to bring interfaces up or down, assign and remove addresses and routes, manage ARP cache, and much more1. One of the information that ifconfig can display is the MAC address of each network interface, which is a unique identifier of the physical layer of the network device. The MAC address is usually shown as a hexadecimal string separated by colons, such as 00:0c:29:3f:5c:1f. To get the MAC address of a Linux distribution, a technician can use the ifconfig command without any arguments, which will show the details of all the active network interfaces, or specify the name of a particular interface, such as eth0 or wlan0, to show only the details of that interface.

References1: Linux Commands - CompTIA A+ 220-1102 - 1.11 - Professor Messer IT Certification Training Courses1

A sandbox is an isolated environment that allows for the testing of critical systems without the risk of them being negatively impacted by changes. A sandbox can be used to simulate real-world scenarios, experiment with new features, debug errors, or evaluate the performance and security of a system. A sandbox can be created using virtualization, emulation, or containerization technologies. A sandbox prevents any changes made in the testing environment from affecting the production environment, which is the actual system that is used by the end users.

https://www.comptia.org/training/books/a-core-2-220-1102-study-guide

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.

EOL (end-of-life) is a term that indicates a vendor no longer supports a product. It means that the product will no longer be sold, updated or patched by the vendor, and that the users should migrate to a newer version or alternative product. AUP (acceptable use policy), EULA (end-user license agreement) and UAC (user account control) are not terms that indicate a vendor no longer supports a product. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-end-of-life https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Malware is software that infects computer systems to damage, disable or exploit the computer or network for various malicious purposes5. Malware is typically distributed via email attachments, fake internet ads, infected applications or websites, and often relies on user interaction to execute6. Therefore, one of the most effective ways to prevent malware infections is to educate the end user about the common signs and sources of malware, and how to avoid them7. Configuring the firewall, restoring the system from backups, and updating the antivirus program are also important security measures, but they do not address the root cause of the user’s repeated infections, which is likely due to a lack of awareness or caution.

References5: Malware: what it is, how it works, and how to stop it - Norton6: How to Prevent Malware: 15 Best Practices for Malware Prevention7: 10 Security Tips for How to Prevent Malware Infections - Netwrix

Rollback refers to the steps to be taken if an issue occurs during a change implementation. It means restoring the system to its previous state before the change was applied, using backup data or configuration files. It can minimize the impact and downtime caused by a failed change. Testing refers to the steps to be taken before a change implementation, to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts. Risk refers to the potential negative consequences of a change implementation, such as data loss, security breach, performance degradation, etc. Acceptance refers to the steps to be taken after a change implementation, to confirm that the change meets the requirements and expectations of the stakeholders. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/change-management-process https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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.

Anti-phishing training is a method of educating users on how to identify and avoid phishing attacks, which are attempts to trick users into revealing sensitive information or performing malicious actions by impersonating legitimate entities or persons. Whaling attacks are a specific type of phishing attack that target high-level executives or influential individuals within an organization. Anti-phishing training can help users recognize the signs of whaling attacks and prevent them from falling victim to them. Screened subnet, firewall, and antivirus are not items that can directly address the issue of whaling attacks.

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.

RADIUS is the correct answer for this question. RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, and it is a protocol that provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting for wireless networks. RADIUS can support certificate-based authentication, which allows users to log in to the network automatically without entering passwords. RADIUS also provides other benefits, such as enforcing security policies, logging user activities, and managing network access. AES, EAP-EKE, and MFA are not wireless solutions, but rather encryption algorithms, authentication methods, and security factors, respectively. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 23

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 459

Creating a database is the most likely option to help the company gain a holistic view of asset cost. A database can store and organize information about the assets, such as purchase date, depreciation value, maintenance cost, warranty status, and replacement cost. Assigning users to assets, inventorying asset tags, and updating the procurement account owners are important steps for asset management, but they do not directly provide a holistic view of asset cost. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 18

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 101

EFS (Encrypting File System) is a feature that allows a user to encrypt a single folder or file on a Windows PC. It uses a public key encryption system to protect the data from unauthorized access. FAT32 and exFAT are file system formats that do not support encryption. BitLocker is a feature that encrypts the entire drive, not a single folder or file. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-efs https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

The correct answer is C. Choose what closing the lid does. This option allows you to configure how the laptop behaves when you close the lid, such as whether it goes to sleep, hibernates, shuts down, or does nothing. To access this option, you can follow these steps :

Go to Settings > System > Power & sleep.

Click on Additional power settings on the right side.

Click on Choose what closing the lid does on the left side.

Under When I close the lid, select Do nothing for both On battery and Plugged in.

Click on Save changes.

This will prevent the laptop from going to sleep when you close the lid while it is connected to the docking station and the external monitor.

Hibernate, sleep/suspend, and turn on fast startup are not the options that should be configured to fix the issue. Hibernate and sleep/suspend are both power-saving modes that allow you to resume your work without losing any data. However, they also turn off the display and other components of the laptop, which means you will not be able to use the external monitor when the laptop is closed. Turn on fast startup is a feature that reduces the boot time of Windows by saving some system information to a file when you shut down. It does not affect how the laptop behaves when you close the lid .

A synthetic backup is a backup type that provides a backup for all data on the system while providing the lowest impact to the network. It combines a full backup with one or more incremental backups to create a single backup set, without requiring access to the original data source. Off-site is a backup location, not a backup type. Full and differential are backup types, but they have a higher impact on the network than synthetic. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-synthetic-backup https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Device compatibility is an advantage of using WPA2 instead of WPA3. WPA2 is the previous version of the Wi-Fi Protected Access protocol, which provides security and encryption for wireless networks. WPA3 is the latest version, which offers improved security features, such as stronger encryption, enhanced protection against brute-force attacks, and easier configuration. However, WPA3 is not backward compatible with older devices that only support WPA2 or earlier protocols. Therefore, using WPA3 may limit the range of devices that can connect to the wireless network. Connection security, encryption key length, and offline decryption resistance are advantages of using WPA3 instead of WPA2. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 24

CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide (Exams 220-1101 & …, page 1000

Disk Cleanup is a tool that can free up some space on a system drive that is nearly full. It can delete temporary files, cached files, recycle bin files, old system files and other unnecessary data. Resource Monitor is a tool that shows the network activity of each process on a Windows machine. Disk Defragment is a tool that optimizes the performance of a hard drive by rearranging the data into contiguous blocks. Disk Management is a tool that allows creating, formatting, resizing and deleting partitions on a hard drive. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-use-disk-cleanup https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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.

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.

The best way for a technician to return the device to service safely is to reinstall the operating system. This is because the device is infected by ransomware, which is a form of malware that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption. Reinstalling the operating system will erase the ransomware and restore the device to its original state. However, this will also delete any data that was not backed up before the infection. Therefore, it is important to have regular backups of critical data and protect them from ransomware attacks1.

The other options are not effective or safe for ransomware recovery. Running an AV scan may not detect or remove the ransomware, especially if it is a new or unknown variant. Installing a software firewall may prevent future attacks, but it will not help with the current infection. Performing a system restore may not work if the ransomware has corrupted or deleted the restore points. Complying with the on-screen instructions is not advisable, as it will encourage the attackers and there is no guarantee that they will provide the decryption key after receiving the payment.

To prevent and recover from ransomware attacks, it is recommended to follow some best practices, such as234:

Use strong passwords and multifactor authentication for all accounts and devices.

Keep all software and firmware updated with the latest security patches.

Avoid opening suspicious or unsolicited emails and attachments.

Educate users and staff on how to recognize and report phishing and social engineering attempts.

Use antivirus software and enable real-time protection.

Enable network segmentation and firewall rules to limit the spread of ransomware.

Implement a Zero Trust security model to verify all requests and devices before granting access.

Create and test backups of critical data and store them offline or in a separate network.

Recover safely by isolating the infected devices, identifying the ransomware variant, and restoring data from backups.

Report any ransomware incidents to law enforcement agencies and seek help from experts.

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.

A keylogger is a type of malware that captures user input, such as keystrokes, mouse clicks, and clipboard data, and sends it to a malicious actor. Keyloggers can be used to steal passwords, credit card numbers, personal information, and other sensitive data.

Preserving chain of custody is a concept that refers to the documentation and tracking of who handled, accessed, modified, or transferred a piece of evidence, when, where, why, and how. Preserving chain of custody can help establish the authenticity, integrity, and reliability of the evidence, as well as prevent tampering, alteration, or loss of the evidence. An administrator who documented the movement of the evidence demonstrated the concept of preserving chain of custody. Implementing data protection policies, informing law enforcement, and creating a summary of the incident are not concepts that describe the action of documenting the movement of the evidence.

 Task Manager is the best tool to use to disable applications on startup in Windows 10. Task Manager is a built-in utility that shows the current processes, performance, and users on a system. It also has a Startup tab that lists the applications that run on boot and their impact on the system. The technician can use Task Manager to disable or enable any application on startup by right-clicking on it and selecting the appropriate option. System Configuration, Performance Monitor, and Group Policy Editor are other tools that can be used to manage system settings, but they are not as simple or convenient as Task Manager for this task. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 13

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 103

A PIN code is a numeric password that protects a mobile device against unwanted access when it is left unattended. It requires the user to enter the correct code before unlocking the device. OS updates, antivirus software and BYOD policy are other security measures for mobile devices, but they do not prevent unauthorized access when the device is left unattended. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/mobile-device-security https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Running an antivirus scan for malicious software is the first step that a support technician should do when a user reports a virus on a PC. The antivirus scan can detect and remove the virus, as well as prevent further damage or infection. Quarantining the host, investigating how the malware was installed and reimaging the computer are possible steps that can be done after running the antivirus scan, depending on the situation and the results of the scan. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-remove-a-virus https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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.

Verifying warranty status with the vendor is the most logical next step in the remediation process after determining that a motherboard has failed. A warranty is a guarantee from the vendor that covers the repair or replacement of defective or faulty products within a specified period of time. Verifying warranty status with the vendor can help the technician determine if the motherboard is eligible for warranty service and what steps to take to obtain it. Escalating the issue to Tier 2, replacing the motherboard, and purchasing another PC are not the most logical next steps in the remediation process.

Chain of custody is a process that helps ensure that a piece of evidence extracted from a PC is admissible in a court of law. Chain of custody refers to the documentation and tracking of who handled, accessed, modified, or transferred the evidence, when, where, why, and how. Chain of custody can help establish the authenticity, integrity, and reliability of the evidence, as well as prevent tampering, alteration, or loss of the evidence. Data integrity form, valid operating system license, and documentation of an incident are not processes that can ensure that a piece of evidence extracted from a PC is admissible in a court of law.

This would ensure that the support documentation reflects the current state of the network and prevents any confusion or mismatch during a network outage. Updating the network diagrams is also one of the best practices for network documentation, as stated in the Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide1. The other options are not as effective or feasible as option B. Performing annual network topology reviews is too infrequent and may not capture recent changes. Allowing network changes once per year is too restrictive and may not meet the business needs. Routinely backing up switch configuration files is important, but it does not help with identifying new switches or devices on the network.

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: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-input-validation https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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 A and D. Zombies and botnets are types of infections that allow malicious actors to remotely control infected computers and use them to launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks against a target. A DDoS attack is a type of cyberattack that aims to overwhelm a server or a network with a large volume of traffic from multiple sources, causing it to slow down or crash.

A keylogger is a type of malware that records the keystrokes of a user and sends them to a remote server, often for the purpose of stealing passwords, credit card numbers, or other sensitive information.

Adware is a type of software that displays unwanted advertisements on a user’s computer, often in the form of pop-ups, banners, or redirects. Adware can also collect user data and compromise the security and performance of the system.

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files or locks the screen of a user’s computer and demands a ransom for their restoration. Ransomware can also threaten to delete or expose the user’s data if the ransom is not paid.

Spyware is a type of software that covertly monitors and collects information about a user’s online activities, such as browsing history, search queries, or personal data. Spyware can also alter the settings or functionality of the user’s system without their consent.

Activation Lock is a feature that prevents anyone from erasing or activating an iOS device without the owner’s Apple ID and password. If a corporate-owned iOS device is linked to an employee’s Apple ID, it will have an Activation Lock issue when the employee leaves the company or forgets their Apple ID credentials.

Enabling inheritance is a method that allows new subfolders to inherit the permissions and settings from their parent folder. If users can access files in the department share, but not in the new subfolders created by other users, it may indicate that inheritance is disabled and that each new subfolder has its own permissions and settings that restrict access to only the creator. Enabling inheritance can help resolve this issue by allowing all users to access the new subfolders with the same permissions and settings as the department share. Assigning share permissions, requiring multifactor authentication, and removing archive attribute are not methods that can most likely allow all users to access the new folders.

A user account that belongs to the local administrator’s group has the permission to install software on a Windows machine. If a user receives a UAC (user account control) prompt when trying to install software, it means the user does not have enough privileges and needs to enter an administrator’s password or switch to an administrator’s account. Adding the user account to the local administrator’s group can resolve this issue. Configuring Windows Defender Firewall, creating a Microsoft account and disabling the guest account are not related to this issue. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/user-account-control https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Sandbox testing is a method of identifying potential issues with a proposed change prior to implementation. It involves creating a simulated or isolated environment that mimics the real system and applying the change to it. This can help to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts. Request form, rollback plan and end-user acceptance are other components of a change management process, but they do not involve identifying issues with a change. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-sandbox-testing https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

An ESD strap, also known as an antistatic wrist strap, is a device that prevents electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging sensitive electronic components such as RAM. ESD is the sudden flow of electricity between two objects with different electrical charges, which can cause permanent damage or malfunction to electronic devices. An ESD strap connects the technician’s wrist to a grounded surface, such as a metal case or a mat, and equalizes the electrical potential between the technician and the device. Battery backup, thermal paste, and consistent power are not devices that can protect against ESD.

The correct answer is B. Power Options. The Power Options utility in the Control Panel allows you to configure various settings related to how your computer uses and saves power, such as the power plan, the sleep mode, the screen brightness, and the battery status. To access the Power Options utility, you can follow these steps:

Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options.

Click on Change plan settings for the power plan you are using.

Click on Change advanced power settings.

Expand the USB settings category and then the USB selective suspend setting subcategory.

Set the option to Disabled for both On battery and Plugged in.

Click on OK and then on Save changes.

This will prevent the operating system from suspending the USB devices to save power .

System, Devices and Printers, and Ease of Access are not the utilities that should be used to configure the setting. System is a utility that provides information about your computer’s hardware and software, such as the processor, memory, operating system, device manager, and system protection. Devices and Printers is a utility that allows you to view and manage the devices and printers connected to your computer, such as adding or removing devices, changing device settings, or troubleshooting problems. Ease of Access is a utility that allows you to customize your computer’s accessibility options, such as the narrator, magnifier, high contrast, keyboard, mouse, and speech recognition. None of these utilities have any option to configure the USB selective suspend setting.

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.

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: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-services-msc https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Rolling back the updates is the best way to resolve the issue of slow performance caused by installing the latest Windows security patch. This can be done by using the System Restore feature or by uninstalling the specific update from the Control Panel. Rebuilding user profiles, restarting the services and performing a system file check are not likely to fix the issue, since they do not undo the changes made by the update. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-roll-back-windows-updates https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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.

After successfully mitigating a malicious event caused by an infected email, the final step before considering the event closed is to complete an incident report. This document should detail the nature of the incident, the steps taken to resolve it, and any lessons learned to improve future responses to similar threats.

Given that the smartphone's screen was recently repaired and now experiences issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, despite showing that it is connected to a network, the problem could be related to the internal antenna connections that might have been disturbed or disconnected during the repair process.

Internal Antenna Connections: Smartphones use internal antennas for Wi-Fi and cellular connections. If these antennas are not properly connected, the device may show as connected to a Wi-Fi network but fail to transmit data effectively, resulting in no internet access.

Checking static IP settings (B) would be relevant if the device were not obtaining an IP address at all, but the device does have an IP address. Airplane mode (C) would prevent the device from connecting to Wi-Fi networks entirely. Digitizer calibration (D) is related to the touchscreen functionality and would not affect Wi-Fi connectivity.

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​​.

Linux is known for its high degree of customizability and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking to deploy a customizable operating system. Unlike proprietary operating systems, Linux allows users to modify or replace almost any part of the system, from the kernel to the desktop environment and applications, to suit their specific needs.

Linux: This open-source operating system provides access to the source code, enabling extensive customization. Organizations can tailor Linux distributions to fit specific requirements, making it a popular choice for servers, specialized workstation environments, and embedded systems.

Windows 10 (A) and macOS (B) offer some level of customization but are more restricted due to their proprietary nature. Chrome OS (D) is designed for simplicity and security, focusing on web applications, which limits deep system-level customizations. iOS (E) is designed for Apple's mobile devices and is not applicable for organizational deployment beyond mobile and tablet devices; it also offers limited customization compared to Linux.

Time Machine is a backup feature available in macOS that automatically makes hourly backups for the past 24 hours, daily backups for the past month, and weekly backups for all previous months to an external drive or NAS. It allows users to recover the entire system or specific files from any point in time, ensuring access to multiple versions of files. This feature is particularly useful for reverting to earlier versions of a document or recovering a file that has been accidentally deleted or altered. The other options, such as Multiple Desktops, Remote Disc, and FileVault, do not provide versioning capabilities for file access.

Group Policy is a feature in Windows that allows network administrators to manage and configure operating system, application settings, and user settings in an Active Directory environment. It can enforce password policies across the network, including password length requirements, making it the best tool for ensuring compliance with security policies.

To locate a missing file with only a partial name known, the best tools to use in a Linux environment would be grep and find.

grep: This command is used to search the contents of files for a specific pattern. While grep itself might not be the first choice for finding file names, it can be combined with other commands (like ls or find) to search within file lists or contents.

find: This command is used to search for files in a directory hierarchy based on various criteria like name, size, modification date, etc. find can be used to search for files by partial name by using wildcards in the search pattern.

cat (A) is used to concatenate and display the content of files. df (B) displays the amount of disk space used and available on filesystems. ps (D) shows information about active processes. dig (E) is used for querying DNS name servers. top (G) displays Linux tasks and system performance information. None of these tools are directly suited for finding files by partial names.

For a SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) router setup where the goal is to only allow specific computers on the network, MAC filtering is the appropriate solution:

Configure MAC filtering: This security measure involves creating a list of allowed device MAC (Media Access Control) addresses in the router's settings. Only devices with MAC addresses on this list will be able to connect to the network, effectively restricting access to authorized computers only.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

When a user experiences slow web page loading on their phone while in the office, the most likely cause is:

High network traffic: In an office environment, many devices are often connected to the network simultaneously, which can lead to congestion and slow internet speeds. High network traffic means more devices are competing for the same bandwidth, causing delays.

Exceeded the data usage limit: This typically applies to cellular data plans, not Wi-Fi in an office setting.

Sluggish response time: This is a symptom rather than a cause and can result from high network traffic.

Degraded network service: While this could be a factor, it is broader and less specific than high network traffic, which is more directly related to the user's experience.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:Bollards are physical barriers that prevent unauthorized vehicle access to certain areas, providing a preventive measure against unauthorized entry and potential threats. Bollards are classified as a preventive control because they act to deter or block physical access to secured locations, as opposed to video surveillance or alarm systems, which are typically used for detection and monitoring. Core 2 highlights the importance of implementing various physical security controls to protect assets and infrastructure (Core 2 Objective 2.1)​.

When a technician is unable to connect to a laptop over a VPN, one of the most common reasons is that the firewall settings on either the laptop or the network are blocking the connection.

Wireless protocol: Unrelated, as the technician is already connected to the VPN.

DHCP pool: Unlikely to be the issue, as it deals with IP address assignment.

Content filtering: Typically involves filtering web content, not affecting direct connections.

Firewall: The correct setting to review, as it may block the necessary ports or services required for remote access.

Wireless AP (LAN Configuration)

Encryption type: ✅ WPA2 PSK

WPA2 PSK is the most commonly used secure encryption method for home wireless networks.

LAN IP Selection: ✅ 192.168.10.1

This is a typical private IP range for LAN and matches the devices (like PC and game console).

???? Router (Port Forwarding)

LAN IP for Port Forwarding: ✅ 192.168.10.1

The router will forward requests to this internal LAN IP.

Port Forward Rule: ✅ Allow TCP Any 3389

TCP Port 3389 is used for Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), which allows remote access to a Windows PC.

???? Screened Subnet (DMZ or Firewall Zone)

LAN IP: ✅ 10.100.0.1

Typical private IP for screened subnet or DMZ zone, separating untrusted from trusted zones.

????️ Placing Devices

PC → ✅ LAN (Wireless AP)

The PC is accessed via RDP and resides on the trusted internal LAN.

Game Console → ✅ Screened Subnet (Firewall)

Game consoles often require open access to multiple ports and services, making them ideal candidates for placement in a DMZ/Screened Subnet to prevent unnecessary exposure of the internal LAN.

Changing the text size efficiently for different scenarios, such as meetings and regular work tasks, can be managed directly through the Windows display settings. This method is both quick and easily reversible, making it the most efficient solution compared to the other options provided.

Option A: Issuing a laptop to the user with increased font size to be used only for meetingsThis option is not efficient as it requires additional hardware and setup time, which is impractical for simply adjusting text size.

Option B: Using display settings to adjust the text size during meetingsCorrect Answer. Windows provides built-in functionality to adjust the text size on the display. This can be accessed via:

Windows Settings > System > Display.

Under "Scale and layout," you can change the size of text, apps, and other items. This method allows for quick changes and can be reverted just as quickly after meetings.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Joining a Windows client to a domain requires Enterprise administrative permissions because only domain administrators or authorized users can add computers to an Active Directory (AD) domain.

A. Local access – Incorrect. A user does not need to be physically near the computer; the action can be performed remotely.

B. Internet connection – Incorrect. A domain join occurs over a local network, not the internet.

D. Computer MAC address – Incorrect. MAC addresses are used for network identification but are not required to join a domain.

Steps to Join a Domain:

Open Settings > System > About > Domain or Workgroup Settings

Click Change settings > Change

Enter the domain name and provide admin credentials

Restart the computer

A rootkit (Option A) is a type of malware designed to gain administrative (root) access to a system while hiding its presence. Rootkits can manipulate system processes and files to remain undetected, making them particularly dangerous.

Trojan (Option B) is malware disguised as legitimate software but doesn't necessarily provide administrative access.

Worm (Option C) spreads across networks but doesn't grant administrative access.

Ransomware (Option D) encrypts data and demands a ransom but doesn't typically provide ongoing administrative access.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

2.3 - Explain malware types, including rootkits and their purpose .

Restarting a smartphone is a basic troubleshooting step that often resolves temporary software glitches or minor errors that might be preventing the screen rotation from working correctly. It's a quick and easy step to try before moving on to more complex solutions.

Here's why the other options are not the best first step:

A. Remove the screen protector: While a thick or improperly installed screen protector could potentially interfere with the sensors responsible for screen rotation, it's less likely to be the cause.

B. Update the smartphone’s software: While software updates can fix bugs and improve functionality, they are not always necessary for resolving a screen rotation issue.

D. Replace the smartphone: Replacing the smartphone is a drastic measure and should only be considered if other troubleshooting steps fail.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Restart the smartphone: This often clears temporary software issues.

Check for software updates: If a restart doesn't work, updating the operating system or any relevant apps might resolve the issue.

Calibrate the accelerometer: Some smartphones have a calibration tool for the accelerometer, the sensor that detects orientation. Check the device settings for this option.

Check for hardware issues: If the problem persists, there might be a hardware issue with the accelerometer or other components. In this case, contacting the manufacturer or a repair center might be necessary.

When a systems administrator needs to access a hypervisor and the default RDP port (3389) is blocked by company policy, the administrator can use an alternative method. One common alternative is using SSH:

Port 22: This is the default port for SSH (Secure Shell), which is commonly used for secure remote access to servers and hypervisors, especially in Unix/Linux environments.

Port 23: This is the default port for Telnet, which is an unsecured protocol and generally not recommended for remote access due to security concerns.

Port 80: This is the default port for HTTP, used for web traffic, not remote access.

Port 3090: This is not a standard port for remote access protocols.

Using SSH (port 22) is a secure and widely accepted method for remote management of servers and hypervisors.

When an employee is unable to access the company portal using a VPN on their personal smartphone, the most likely cause is:

The smartphone is not enrolled in MDM service: Mobile Device Management (MDM) services often control access to company resources. If the smartphone is not enrolled, it may be blocked from accessing the VPN and, consequently, the company portal.

The application must be purchased by the company: Unlikely, as most VPN applications are free to download or included in the company's software package.

The smartphone is not on the latest OS version: While this could cause compatibility issues, it is less likely than the MDM enrollment issue.

The application fails to install and launch: This would be a different problem and would usually present specific error messages.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The top command in Linux provides real-time information about CPU usage, running processes, and memory usage. It is equivalent to the Task Manager in Windows.

B. ls – Incorrect. The ls command lists directory contents and does not display processor activity.

C. procmon – Incorrect. Process Monitor (procmon) is a Windows utility, not a Linux command.

D. taskmgr – Incorrect. taskmgr opens Task Manager in Windows but does not exist in Linux.

The correct answer is Administrative Tools (Option D), which provides access to several system utilities, including those needed for managing system files and settings. Since the user already has local administrator privileges, this would allow them to edit system properties efficiently.

File Explorer Options (Option A) manage general file display settings but do not provide administrative access.

Ease of Access (Option B) is related to accessibility settings, not file management.

Indexing Options (Option C) control how files are indexed for search, but are unrelated to system file editing.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

1.3 - Use features and tools of the Windows operating system, including Administrative Tools​​.

PowerShell (Option C) is a powerful scripting language used in Windows environments for automating tasks, including the configuration of services across multiple systems. It is widely used by system administrators for scripting and automating administrative tasks.

SQL (Option A) is used for managing databases, not for scripting system configurations.

HTML (Option B) is a markup language for web development, not for automating services.

C# (Option D) is a general-purpose programming language but is not primarily used for administrative automation tasks.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

4.8 - Basics of scripting, including PowerShell for automation

In a professional work environment, distractions should be minimized, especially when working onsite for a client. The best approach is to put the phone on silent (Option B) to avoid interruptions while remaining professional.

Step aside and answer (Option A): Not recommended as it disrupts work and appears unprofessional.

Text a reply (Option C): While this may seem reasonable, it still causes a distraction.

Ignore the phone and continue working (Option D): While focusing on work is important, completely ignoring calls may not be the best approach. Silent mode ensures work continuity while allowing the technician to check messages later.

Time drift occurs when the internal clock of a computer is not properly synchronized, often leading to discrepancies like being an hour behind. In this case, the workstation is the only device affected, indicating that it's likely a local issue. Time drift can happen if the system clock isn't syncing properly with an NTP (Network Time Protocol) server or if automatic daylight savings adjustments aren't enabled. It's less likely to be a CMOS battery issue since the technician has already verified the correct date and the system clock isn’t completely reset (which is what happens when the CMOS battery fails).

To prevent unauthorized access to data if a mobile device is lost or stolen, enabling biometric authentication (such as fingerprint or facial recognition) ensures only authorized users can unlock the device. Encryption protects stored data by making it unreadable without proper credentials, securing the device contents even if physically accessed. Remote wipe and device tracking assist in device recovery or data removal but do not directly prevent unauthorized access. Antivirus software and VPN access protect against malware and network threats but do not guard against physical access. Core 2 Security objectives emphasize biometric authentication and encryption as key security controls for mobile devices.

Would you like me to proceed with the next batch of six questions?

You said:

proceed with the next batch

ChatGPT said:

Certainly! Here are questions 26 to 31 reviewed and detailed per your format:

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​​.

When a legacy application is not fully functional after upgrading the Windows operating system, the first step to troubleshoot the issue is to:

Run the application as Administrator: Legacy applications often require administrative privileges to run correctly. Running the application with these privileges can resolve issues related to permissions and access to certain system resources.

Raise the User Account Control level: This increases security prompts but does not resolve compatibility issues.

Turn off Windows Defender Firewall: This can expose the system to security risks and is unlikely to resolve application functionality issues.

Disable compatibility mode for the application: Compatibility mode should generally be enabled for legacy applications to ensure they run properly on newer OS versions.

Maintaining a positive attitude and projecting confidence is essential in customer support, especially when the technician is unfamiliar with the specific application. This approach reassures the user and fosters trust. Expressing inexperience (A) may reduce user confidence. Using excessive technical jargon (C) can confuse the user. Simply sending directions (D) might not be sufficient for the user to set up correctly. The Core 2 operational procedures emphasize professionalism, effective communication, and customer service skills as vital components of successful technical support interactions.

A boot sector virus infects the master boot record (MBR) of a hard drive, the sector that contains information required to start the operating system after the computer is turned on. This type of virus is particularly insidious because it loads into memory immediately upon booting and before most antivirus programs start. This makes it possible for the virus to evade detection and removal, and can easily reinfect a system even after the operating system is reinstalled if the boot sector is not cleaned.

Boot sector virus: Given that the malware infection returned after the OS reinstallation, it's likely that the virus was not removed from the boot sector during the reinstallation process. Reinstalling the OS without cleaning the boot sector won't remove the infection, allowing the virus to continue to affect the system.

Other options:

Trojan: A Trojan is a type of malware that disguises itself as legitimate software. While Trojans can be persistent, the reinstallation of the OS should remove any Trojans unless they are reintroduced after installation.

Spyware: Spyware is designed to gather information about a person or organization without their knowledge. Like Trojans, spyware should be removed with an OS reinstallation unless it is reintroduced in some way.

Rootkit: Rootkits are designed to enable continued privileged access to a computer while actively hiding their presence. While a rootkit could potentially survive an OS reinstall if it infects the firmware or certain areas outside the OS, the scenario described points more specifically to a boot sector virus, especially considering the immediate return of the infection after OS reinstallation.

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.

Multifactor authentication (MFA) significantly enhances security by requiring two or more forms of verification before granting access to an account or system. This method is highly effective against brute-force attacks, where attackers attempt to guess a user's password through repeated trials. By implementing MFA, even if a password is compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented without the additional authentication factor(s), such as a code from a smartphone app, a fingerprint, or a physical security token.

Multifactor authentication: Provides an additional layer of security beyond just the password, making it much harder for attackers to gain unauthorized access through brute-force methods, as they would need to compromise more than one authentication factor.

Encryption (B) is crucial for protecting data at rest and in transit, but it does not directly prevent brute-force login attempts. Increased password complexity (C) can deter brute-force attacks by making passwords harder to guess, but it is not as effective as MFA in preventing access when passwords are compromised. A secure password vault (D) helps users manage and store their passwords securely, which can indirectly contribute to security by allowing users to keep more complex passwords, but it does not directly prevent brute-force attacks on accounts.

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.

Network drives can be automatically mapped for users based on Group Policy configuration using log-in scripts. Here’s how it works:

Log-in scripts: These are scripts executed when a user logs in to a domain. They can be configured through Group Policy in Active Directory to map network drives automatically. The scripts can use commands like net use to map drives.

Access control lists (ACLs): While ACLs control permissions for files and folders, they do not automatically map network drives.

Organizational units (OUs): OUs are used to organize users and computers in a directory structure but do not map drives.

Folder redirection: This redirects the path of a folder to a new location, typically on a network share, but it does not automatically map drives.

Refreshing local Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) settings and deleting the Windows Update cache are effective steps in resolving issues with Windows 10 not installing updates. These actions help in rectifying any corrupt update files and ensuring that the workstation is properly communicating with the update servers, which can resolve errors during manual and automatic update installations.

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.

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

When a customer is having difficulty accessing the company’s website, the technician should first document the issue in the company’s ticketing system. This step ensures that the problem is officially logged, which allows for proper tracking, prioritization, and assignment to the appropriate personnel if needed. Recording the details helps in maintaining a record of the issue and the troubleshooting steps taken, which is useful for future reference and analysis.

A. Ask the customer for their log-in credentials. This is not appropriate as it breaches security protocols and is not the first step in troubleshooting.

B. Check the company's internal knowledge base for solutions. While useful, this step comes after the issue has been documented.

C. Refer the customer to a more experienced technician. This might be necessary later, but initially, the issue should be documented.

Turning off inheritance on the specific folder requested by the manager and setting the requested permissions, followed by turning on inheritance under the child folders, ensures that only the immediate team has access to the confidential material while maintaining the broader permissions structure for other folders and files. This action isolates the folder's permissions from the top-level inheritance, providing a focused security measure for sensitive content.

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​​.

To secure a SOHO wireless network, enabling WPA3 is the recommended option. WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) is the latest security certification program developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance to secure wireless computer networks. It provides cutting-edge security protocols and cryptographic methods to enhance and replace its predecessors, WPA2 and WPA, offering improved protection against brute-force attacks and ensuring better privacy on public networks​​.

Improving password security is crucial to protect user accounts from unauthorized access. Requiring passwords to include four character types—uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters—significantly enhances password complexity. This diversity in characters makes passwords much harder to guess or crack using common methods like brute force attacks, thereby improving overall security.

Requiring four character types: This approach forces users to create more complex and less predictable passwords, reducing the risk of simple passwords that are easy to exploit.

Decreasing the password expiration times (B) can encourage users to change their passwords more frequently but does not directly address the issue of password complexity. Enabling an automatic lock timer (C) can add a layer of security by locking accounts after a period of inactivity, but it does not improve the strength of the passwords themselves. Adding two characters to the minimum password length (D) can help to some extent by making passwords longer, but without requiring a mix of character types, passwords might still remain relatively easy to guess or crack.

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.

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.

When an Android device starts exhibiting issues like frequent crashes and rapid battery drain after downloading an application, the first step should be to address the immediate cause:

Uninstall the game application: Since the issues started after the game application was installed, removing it is a logical first step. Unwanted or malicious applications can cause such symptoms by running harmful processes in the background or exploiting system resources.

Install the latest security patches: Keeping the device updated with the latest security patches is crucial for protecting against vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious software. Updating can resolve existing security flaws and improve device stability.

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.

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.