CompTIA A+ Practice Test (220-1102)

Utilizing a change request form that includes the purpose and scope of the proposed change along with required approvals from relevant stakeholders - This is correct. A formal change request process is fundamental to change management, ensuring changes are evaluated, approved and implemented in a controlled and predictable manner. It minimizes risks by documenting the change's purpose, scope, and impact and ensures accountability by involving relevant stakeholders.

Implementing changes without requiring documentation or formal approval processes - Making changes without proper documentation or approvals increases the risk of unexpected issues, miscommunication, and potential disruptions to the IT environment.

Phasing in changes gradually without consulting the change board - While gradual implementation can reduce risks, bypassing the change board undermines the formal review and approval process, which is essential for controlled changes.

Providing users with advance notice of changes without evaluating risks or impacts - Informing users is important, but not evaluating risks or impacts before implementing changes can lead to unforeseen complications and disruptions.

The answer is synthetic. Synthetic backups are a way of creating full backups by combining a full backup with the incremental backups that have been created since the creation of the full one. This strategy is a less time consuming way to create full backups because it's not required to fully back up the data each time.

Reviewing and testing script in a dedicated test environment is correct because it prevents the unintentional introduction of malware, bugs, accidental deletions, etc. onto live or production systems. Scripts should be thoroughly tested in an environment isolated from production to ensure they do not contain malicious code or unintended errors that could compromise system security or reliability. The other options are good ideas, but any time changes are introduced the code or application would need to be re-tested again. The final step before deploying to a production or live environment should be the testing/quality assurance stage in a dedicated non-production environment.

Full backups are the base for the other backup strategies. A full backup is performed then from there changes are backed up based on which strategy is being used.

Performing a system restore uses restore points to return the system to a previous state where it was functioning correctly. This is an effective troubleshooting step when new software installations or updates cause instability. A disk cleanup does not address software issues created by new updates or installations, while ending tasks would not resolve problems arising from a software update. Reformatting the drive is a very invasive procedure that should be the last resort, as it completely erases the system's data.

All 64-bit editions of Windows include the WOW64 compatibility layer, which lets them execute 32-bit (x86) user-mode applications transparently. The reverse is not true-32-bit Windows lacks the ability to load or execute 64-bit code-and 32-bit drivers cannot be loaded by a 64-bit OS. Therefore, only option 1 accurately describes the relationship; the other options incorrectly claim that 32-bit Windows can run 64-bit apps, that 64-bit Windows can load 32-bit drivers, or that virtualization is required for 32-bit apps on 64-bit Windows.

AirDrop is a service designed to enable users of Apple devices to share files wirelessly with nearby devices. This feature works by utilizing both Bluetooth to locate devices and Wi-Fi to transfer data, providing a convenient method for data exchange without the need for physical connections or other file-sharing applications. This distinct combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi specifically supports file sharing between Apple devices, making it unique from the other technologies listed, which do not simultaneously use both technologies or are not exclusive to Apple devices.

The Real-Time Clock (RTC) ensures the computer is able to keep time even when powered off, typically using a small battery like the CMOS battery.

Ensuring that the WiFi is enabled on the device is the most basic action to take when troubleshooting connectivity problems. It ensures that the device is capable of detecting available networks.

The other options involve more complicated settings that may not address a simple oversight of having the WiFi disabled.

The correct answer is that the connection to the internet is down. The user can still access local resources, such as a shared network drive and a local printer, which indicates the Local Area Network (LAN) is functioning correctly. The inability to access websites points to a problem with the Wide Area Network (WAN) connection, which is provided by the Internet Service Provider (ISP). A faulty network cable would prevent both local and internet access. Incorrect user permissions would typically restrict access to specific resources, not the entire internet. The scenario states the user can print, so the printer is not offline.

Running a system file check is essential in this scenario because it can identify and repair corrupted system files that may be causing instability.

Other options such as uninstalling applications may help but may not address system file issues directly, which are often a root cause of instability.

The best response is to acknowledge the client's frustration, calmly explain that the printer itself is working but needs a driver update, and offer to perform that update. This shows empathy, avoids placing blame, and focuses on resolving the issue. Bluntly telling the client they are wrong can sound defensive; launching into a detailed technical lecture may feel condescending; replacing hardware without explanation wastes resources and fails to educate the user.

BitLocker provides disk encryption, which helps to protect data by encrypting the entire drive. This ensures that unauthorized users cannot access the data without the proper authorization. It is not related to internet protection, firewall settings, or application installations directly.

An in-place upgrade allows users to retain their existing applications, settings, and files without needing to reinstall everything from scratch. This method is particularly beneficial for users who wish to update their operating system while maintaining continuity in their work environment.

Other options, such as a clean install, would erase existing data, necessitating backups and reinstallations, which is not required in an in-place upgrade scenario.

The answer is a zero-day attack. A zero-day attack is one that exploits a vulnerability before it is known and any mitigation attacks have been issued from the vendor. Insider threat is not a type of attack while the other choices aren’t attacking a vulnerability in the system.

The correct answer is to document which devices have Developer mode enabled and gather information on any unusual apps or modifications. This step is crucial as it helps in creating a record of the situation and determines if further actions, such as disabling Developer mode or performing security checks, are necessary. Checking for system updates, although important, doesn't immediately address the risks posed by having Developer mode enabled. Running a security audit is a broader action which might follow documentation but is not the first step. Optimizing battery settings is unrelated to the security risk posed by Developer mode.

A rollback plan is essential as it provides a strategy for reverting to the previous state if a change causes issues. This ensures that systems can return to a functional state without prolonged downtime.

The other options do not capture this critical aspect of risk management during changes.

Folders that are grey and "ghosted" are hidden folders. These typically hold back-end information or files that the user does not need to access.

The presence of uncharacteristically high numbers of ads, especially on secure sites that are not known for aggressive advertising, strongly suggests the installation of adware or a potentially unwanted application (PUA). This often happens when software, often free versions, is installed from unverified sources or when misleading installation prompts trick a user into accepting additional bundled software. This software can manipulate browser behavior to display ads. Updating the antivirus software might help catch newer threats, but it addresses the symptoms rather than the source of the problem. Checking for browser extensions could reveal harmless extensions but might miss system-level adware.

The symptoms described indicate that a Trojan may be the malware responsible for the issue. Trojans often masquerade as legitimate software to gain access to systems, allowing unauthorized behavior such as file manipulation and application installation.

Other options, such as ransomware, focus on encrypting data for ransom, and a worm replicates itself without needing user interaction, which does not align with the context provided.