CompTIA A+ Practice Test (220-1202)

Checking available storage space is crucial because applications typically require free space to download and install updates. If the device is low on storage, the update process can fail or be blocked.

Other options, such as restarting the device or adjusting network settings, may help but addressing the storage issue is often the first step in troubleshooting update failures. Adjusting date and time settings may have minimal impact on updates unless they are drastically incorrect.

64-bit editions of Windows include the WOW64 subsystem, which creates a 32-bit environment so that most 32-bit applications can run without modification. Conversely, a 32-bit edition of Windows cannot load or execute 64-bit binaries because the operating system and processor are running in 32-bit mode. therefore statement A is correct, while the other options contradict these facts. [Microsoft Learn, "Overview of the compatibility considerations for 32-bit programs on 64-bit versions of Windows"]

Every change request must clearly state the purpose of the change so that all stakeholders understand why the work is necessary and what benefit is expected. Items such as catering plans, décor preferences, or unrelated marketing timelines are not required fields in a change-management document.

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a victim's files or locks the system and then demands payment-usually in cryptocurrency-in exchange for the decryption key or restored access. Other listed options describe different malware types: displaying ads is characteristic of adware, recording keystrokes fits a keylogger, and covertly using system resources to generate cryptocurrency points to a cryptominer.

The first containment action in the CompTIA malware-removal sequence is to quarantine the infected system-usually by unplugging the network cable, disabling the Wi-Fi adapter, and isolating any removable media. This stops the malware from communicating with or copying itself to other devices. Booting into Safe Mode and scanning, reinstalling the OS, or using System Restore are remediation steps that occur later in the process.

The best practice for documenting services provided involves noting the problem description, progress notes, and problem resolution. This ensures comprehensive details are available for future reference and for any required follow-up.

"sudo passwd bobsmith" will run the passwd utility as a super user and will prompt you to enter a new password for bobsmith. "chown" is used to change file ownership, the syntax provided is also incorrect. "su bobsmith" will allow you to run commands as bobsmith. The "pwd" command shows your Present Working Directory, it has nothing to do with passwords.

The correct answer is degaussing. A degausser generates a very strong magnetic field that randomizes the magnetic domains on the platters, erasing every bit-including the servo information the drive needs to function-so the drive can no longer be reused.

The other options are also valid destruction techniques, but they work by mechanically or thermally damaging the media, not by magnetic erasure:

• Drilling punches holes through the platters.
• Shredding grinds the drive into small pieces.
• Incinerating melts the drive at high temperature.

Because they do not rely on a magnetic field, these methods are not classified as degaussing.

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.

Enabling screen saver locks ensures that the workstation automatically locks after a period of inactivity, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information when the user is not present. This measure is commonly recommended to enhance physical security.

A VPN allows the creation of a secure connection to another network over the Internet. It encapsulates and encrypts Internet traffic and data to provide privacy and data integrity, essential when connecting to a corporate network remotely. This ensures that sensitive information is not easily intercepted or compromised by unauthorized parties.

Running sfc /scannow from an elevated Command Prompt launches the System File Checker utility, which scans the integrity of all protected system files and automatically replaces corrupted or missing versions with a clean cached copy stored in the Windows component store (%WinDir%\WinSxS) or obtained from Windows Update if required. This often resolves instability caused by file corruption.

chkdsk /f checks a disk volume for logical errors and repairs the file-system structure, but it does not validate individual Windows system files.

dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth repairs the Windows component store itself; it is useful when SFC cannot run, but it is not the primary tool for scanning active system files.

sfc /verifyonly performs the same integrity scan as SFC but does not attempt any repairs, making it insufficient when immediate remediation is needed.

Reference: Microsoft SFC documentation - the utility "retrieves the correct version of the file from the systemroot folder" when repairs are needed .

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.

System Restore uses restore points-snapshots of system files, registry settings, and installed programs-to revert Windows to an earlier state. Manually enabling System Restore (if it is disabled) and creating a restore point just before installing a major update captures a known-good configuration, making it possible to undo the update if it introduces instability. Actions such as defragmenting the disk, deleting temporary files, or running an antivirus scan may be useful maintenance steps, but none of them provide a mechanism to restore the system to an earlier configuration.

Sources:

• Microsoft Support, "System Restore," explains that restore points can be created manually before significant events so you can revert the system to that point.
• PCWorld, "Repair Your Windows PC With System Restore," recommends creating a restore point "before making changes to the system or installing new software."

Virus - This is correct. A virus is a type of malicious software designed to replicate itself and spread to other systems by attaching itself to files or programs. When an infected file or program is executed, the virus spreads to other files, potentially causing damage or disruption to the system.

Spyware - Spyware is designed to secretly collect information about a user or system, such as browsing habits or sensitive data, without the user’s knowledge. It does not replicate or spread like a virus.

Ransomware - Ransomware encrypts a user's data and demands payment for decryption. While it can spread to other systems in some cases, its primary goal is extortion, not replication.

Trojan - A Trojan disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into installing it. While it may cause harm or serve as a backdoor for other malicious activities, it does not replicate itself like a virus.