CompTIA A+ 220-1202 Certification Core 2 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 2 Q16-30
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Question 16
A technician receives a call that a user cannot connect to the company Wi-Fi, even though other devices are working fine. Which tool should the technician use first to diagnose the issue?
A) ipconfig
B) Disk Cleanup
C) Device Manager
D) Event Viewer
Answer: A) ipconfig
Explanation:
A) ipconfig is correct because it provides detailed information about the network configuration of a Windows device. It shows the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers assigned to the computer. When a user cannot connect to a network while other devices are working, ipconfig allows the technician to verify whether the device is receiving a proper IP address through DHCP or whether it has a static IP configuration that conflicts with the network. The tool also allows technicians to release and renew the DHCP lease, which can resolve many common connectivity problems. Additionally, ipconfig can be used with the /all, /release, /renew, and /flushdns switches to troubleshoot advanced network issues, including DNS misconfigurations and cached DNS problems, which are common reasons for connectivity failures. This makes ipconfig the first logical step for diagnosing a device-specific network issue before investigating hardware or software faults.
Disk Cleanup is incorrect because it is used to remove temporary files and free disk space. While clearing temporary files can sometimes resolve minor application errors, it does not provide network configuration information or diagnose why a device cannot connect to Wi-Fi.
Device Manager is incorrect because it allows the technician to view and manage hardware drivers, such as network adapters. Although a faulty network adapter driver can prevent connectivity, the first step should be to verify the network configuration using ipconfig. Device Manager is used after confirming that the problem is not caused by IP or DNS issues.
Event Viewer is incorrect because it logs system events, warnings, and errors. While it may show events related to network failures, it is not a diagnostic tool for checking real-time IP configurations or connectivity status. Event Viewer is more suitable for investigating historical problems or unusual system behaviors rather than immediate troubleshooting of a single connectivity issue. Using ipconfig first allows the technician to quickly pinpoint configuration problems that could be resolved immediately, reducing unnecessary steps and time.
Question 17
A user complains that their Windows 10 computer takes an extremely long time to boot. Which built-in tool can the technician use to determine which programs start automatically with Windows?
A) Task Manager
B) Disk Management
C) Windows Defender
D) Event Viewer
Answer: A) Task Manager
Explanation:
A) Task Manager is correct because it provides a Startup tab that lists all applications and services that are configured to run automatically when Windows boots. Each entry shows the name of the program, its publisher, its startup impact rating, and whether it is enabled or disabled. By reviewing this list, a technician can identify programs with high startup impact that slow down boot times. Disabling unnecessary startup programs can significantly reduce boot time and improve overall system responsiveness. Task Manager also allows the technician to restart unresponsive processes and monitor real-time CPU, memory, disk, and network usage, which helps identify resource-heavy programs that contribute to slowness. Task Manager is a versatile tool for diagnosing both startup performance issues and general system bottlenecks, making it the first choice for this scenario.
Disk Management is incorrect because it is used for partitioning drives, formatting disks, and managing volumes. While storage issues can affect performance, Disk Management does not provide any insight into which applications are slowing down the system during boot.
Windows Defender is incorrect because it is an antivirus program designed to protect the system from malware. Although malware can impact boot times, Windows Defender itself does not give information about normal startup applications or their impact on performance.
Event Viewer is incorrect because it records logs of system events, warnings, and errors. While it can show events that indicate failed startups or system errors, it does not provide a clear view of which programs are launching at boot or their impact on performance. Using Task Manager is the most direct way to identify and manage startup programs, allowing the technician to improve boot times effectively.
Question 18
A technician is setting up a Windows PC and wants to ensure that only authorized users can access the computer using their fingerprints. Which feature should the technician enable?
A) Windows Hello
B) BitLocker
C) Secure Boot
D) Group Policy
Answer: A) Windows Hello
Explanation:
A) Windows Hello is correct because it provides biometric authentication, including fingerprint, facial recognition, and iris scanning. By enabling Windows Hello, a user can log into a Windows device using their fingerprint instead of a traditional password, ensuring secure and convenient access. Windows Hello integrates with the device’s hardware, such as fingerprint sensors and cameras, to verify the identity of authorized users. It uses encryption and secure enclave technology to store biometric data locally on the device, preventing unauthorized access even if the system is compromised. This feature enhances security while reducing reliance on passwords, which can be stolen or guessed.
BitLocker is incorrect because it provides full-disk encryption. While BitLocker protects data in case the device is lost or stolen, it does not authenticate users based on biometrics. BitLocker is focused on data security rather than user authentication.
Secure Boot is incorrect because it ensures that the system boots using only trusted firmware and operating systems. It protects the system from malware that tries to compromise the boot process but does not provide user authentication features.
Group Policy is incorrect because it allows administrators to define rules and settings for users and computers in a Windows domain environment. While Group Policy can enforce security policies, it does not provide biometric login functionality. Windows Hello is specifically designed for user authentication using fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scanning, making it the appropriate solution for this requirement.
Question 19
A user reports that their Windows PC is randomly freezing, and crashes often result in a blue screen. Which built-in tool can a technician use to analyze the crash dump files?
A) Event Viewer
B) Task Manager
C) Disk Cleanup
D) Device Manager
Answer: A) Event Viewer
Explanation:
A) Event Viewer is correct because it records detailed logs of system events, warnings, and critical errors. When a Windows PC experiences a crash or blue screen of death (BSOD), Event Viewer can provide information about the stop code, driver failures, hardware issues, or software conflicts that caused the crash. By analyzing the logs, a technician can pinpoint the source of instability, determine patterns, and identify faulty hardware drivers, recently installed applications, or failing system services that might be causing the crashes. Event Viewer allows filtering logs by severity, date, and type, making it a powerful diagnostic tool for troubleshooting recurring system failures. Additionally, paired with Windows’ Memory Dump files, Event Viewer can help technicians correlate crash events with memory usage or specific driver errors, which is critical for resolving recurring blue screens effectively.
Task Manager is incorrect because it monitors running processes, resource utilization, and startup programs. While Task Manager can help identify resource-heavy applications or unresponsive processes, it does not provide historical crash data or stop codes necessary for blue screen analysis.
Disk Cleanup is incorrect because it removes temporary files, caches, and unnecessary system data. While this may improve system performance slightly, it does not help diagnose or analyze crash events.
Device Manager is incorrect because it manages hardware drivers and detects hardware failures. Although faulty drivers may contribute to crashes, Device Manager does not provide access to historical crash logs or detailed error codes. Event Viewer is a comprehensive tool for analyzing crash dumps and identifying underlying causes of random freezes and blue screens.
Question 20
A user wants to prevent unauthorized changes to critical Windows system files. Which feature should be enabled?
A) User Account Control
B) Windows Defender Firewall
C) BitLocker
D) System Restore
Answer: A) User Account Control
Explanation:
A) User Account Control (UAC) is correct because it enforces privilege separation on Windows systems. UAC prompts users for permission or administrator credentials when actions are about to make changes to system files or settings that could impact system stability or security. By controlling access based on privilege levels, UAC prevents unauthorized applications, malware, or non-administrative users from modifying critical system files. UAC integrates with Windows security policies and helps protect against accidental or malicious system modifications while still allowing administrators to perform necessary maintenance tasks. It is a fundamental part of Windows security, balancing usability with protection.
Windows Defender Firewall is incorrect because it controls inbound and outbound network traffic to prevent unauthorized network access. While important for network security, it does not directly protect local system files from unauthorized modification.
BitLocker is incorrect because it encrypts entire drives to protect data from unauthorized access, particularly if a device is lost or stolen. It does not prevent changes to system files while the OS is running.
System Restore is incorrect because it allows users to revert the system to a previous state in case of errors or misconfigurations. While useful for recovery, it does not actively prevent unauthorized modifications to system files in real time. User Account Control provides proactive protection and permission enforcement, making it the correct choice for preventing unauthorized changes to Windows system files.
Question 21
A user reports that their Windows PC cannot access a shared folder on another computer in the same network. Which setting should the technician check first?
A) Network and Sharing Center
B) Device Manager
C) Disk Management
D) Task Scheduler
Answer: A) Network and Sharing Center
Explanation:
A) Network and Sharing Center is correct because it is the central location in Windows for managing all network-related settings, including network discovery, file and printer sharing, and network profiles. When a PC cannot access shared resources on another device, the most common cause is that network discovery or file sharing is disabled, or the network is set to a public profile. In the Network and Sharing Center, a technician can verify the network type, ensure file and printer sharing is turned on, confirm that the correct permissions are applied, and troubleshoot connectivity issues between devices on the same network. This setting is the starting point for diagnosing access issues because it directly manages the sharing and visibility of devices on the network, which is often the root cause of the problem.
Device Manager is incorrect because it is used for managing hardware devices and their drivers. While a malfunctioning network adapter driver could affect connectivity, the inability to access a shared folder is more likely caused by configuration or permission settings rather than a hardware issue. Device Manager would only be relevant if Network and Sharing Center troubleshooting indicates a driver problem.
Disk Management is incorrect because it manages disk partitions, volumes, and storage devices. Disk Management does not provide any functionality for controlling network access or shared folder visibility. Although it might be relevant if the shared folder resides on a separate drive that is offline, the immediate problem is typically network configuration.
Task Scheduler is incorrect because it is used to automate tasks such as running programs, scripts, or maintenance tasks at scheduled times. It does not control network access or file-sharing permissions, so it is irrelevant for this issue. Using the Network and Sharing Center allows the technician to verify the correct settings, permissions, and visibility of shared resources and resolve the folder access problem effectively.
Question 22
A user reports that their external USB drive is not recognized on a Windows 10 computer. Which tool can the technician use to check if the drive is detected by the system?
A) Device Manager
B) Disk Cleanup
C) Event Viewer
D) Windows Defender
Answer: A) Device Manager
Explanation:
A) Device Manager is correct because it displays all hardware connected to the computer, including internal and external devices. When a USB drive is not recognized, Device Manager allows the technician to check whether the system detects the hardware and whether the driver is installed correctly. It can indicate if there is a driver conflict, a missing driver, or a hardware failure by displaying yellow warning icons next to devices. The technician can also update, reinstall, or roll back drivers directly within Device Manager. This tool is essential for identifying whether the issue is a hardware recognition problem, a driver issue, or something related to the file system.
Disk Cleanup is incorrect because it is a utility to remove temporary and unnecessary files to free disk space. While it helps maintain the system, it does not provide any hardware status or indicate whether a device is detected by the system.
Event Viewer is incorrect because it logs system events, warnings, and errors. Although Event Viewer might show events related to USB device failures, it does not provide real-time visibility into hardware detection or driver status and is less practical for initial troubleshooting.
Windows Defender is incorrect because it provides antivirus and malware protection. While malware could theoretically interfere with hardware functionality, Windows Defender does not allow a technician to see if a device is detected or manage hardware drivers. Device Manager is the correct tool for identifying unrecognized USB drives and addressing driver or detection issues.
Question 23
A user wants to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files on their Windows PC. Which feature allows the user to encrypt specific folders or files without encrypting the entire drive?
A) Encrypting File System (EFS)
B) BitLocker
C) Windows Hello
D) System Restore
Answer: A) Encrypting File System (EFS)
Explanation:
A) Encrypting File System (EFS) is correct because it provides file-level encryption within Windows. EFS allows a user to encrypt individual files or folders, making them accessible only to authorized accounts. When files are encrypted using EFS, even if someone gains physical access to the hard drive, the data remains unreadable without the encryption key associated with the user account. EFS is particularly useful for protecting sensitive documents on shared systems or multi-user environments where full-disk encryption may not be necessary or practical. The encryption is transparent to the user once logged in, meaning authorized users can access encrypted files without extra steps, while unauthorized users are blocked.
BitLocker is incorrect because it encrypts the entire disk or volume rather than specific files or folders. While BitLocker protects all data on a drive, it may be unnecessary if the goal is to encrypt only selected sensitive files.
Windows Hello is incorrect because it provides biometric authentication for logging into the system, but does not encrypt files. Windows Hello is focused on user authentication and does not control file-level security.
System Restore is incorrect because it creates snapshots of system files and settings to allow recovery from misconfigurations or errors. It does not provide encryption for specific files or folders. EFS provides the fine-grained encryption control needed for file-specific security without encrypting the entire disk.
Question 24
A technician is asked to implement a method to ensure that employees can securely access company resources remotely over the Internet. Which solution should the technician recommend?
A) Virtual Private Network (VPN)
B) Disk Cleanup
C) Windows Firewall
D) System Restore
Answer: A) Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Explanation:
A)A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is correct because it allows secure communication over an unsecured network, such as the Internet. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and the company network, ensuring that data transmitted between the client and network is protected from interception or eavesdropping. VPNs are commonly used for remote access to internal systems, file servers, applications, and email, enabling employees to work safely from home, hotels, or public Wi-Fi networks. Technicians can configure VPN clients on employee devices and integrate authentication methods such as passwords, certificates, or multi-factor authentication to further enhance security. Using a VPN reduces the risk of data breaches while allowing full access to corporate resources without compromising security.
Disk Cleanup is incorrect because it manages temporary files and frees disk space. It does not provide remote access or security for network connections.
Windows Firewall is incorrect because it filters incoming and outgoing traffic on the device. While it helps block unauthorized access, it does not provide a secure, encrypted connection for remote users accessing company resources over the Internet.
System Restore is incorrect because it allows recovery of the system to a previous state and does not provide remote access or secure network connections. A VPN is the only solution in this scenario that enables employees to securely access resources remotely while encrypting all traffic between the user and the corporate network.
Question 25
A user wants to ensure their Windows PC is protected against malware and viruses. Which built-in tool provides real-time protection and periodic system scans?
A) Windows Defender Antivirus
B) Disk Management
C) Event Viewer
D) Task Manager
Answer: A) Windows Defender Antivirus
Explanation:
A) Windows Defender Antivirus is correct because it is a built-in security solution in Windows that provides real-time protection against malware, viruses, spyware, and potentially unwanted programs. Windows Defender runs in the background, continuously monitoring files, applications, and network activity for suspicious behavior. It performs periodic scans to detect and remove threats, updates definitions automatically, and integrates with the Windows Security Center to provide a comprehensive security overview. Windows Defender also includes features such as cloud-delivered protection, automatic sample submission, and ransomware protection through controlled folder access. It is sufficient for most users and does not require additional third-party antivirus software, although advanced users or enterprise environments may choose supplementary security solutions.
Disk Management is incorrect because it handles partitions, drives, and storage configurations. While disk management is essential for system organization, it does not provide malware or virus protection.
Event Viewer is incorrect because it logs system events, errors, and warnings. It can be useful for investigating security-related events, but it does not actively protect the system from malware or viruses.
Task Manager is incorrect because it monitors system processes, resource usage, and performance. While it may help identify suspicious processes, it does not provide automatic real-time malware protection or scanning capabilities. Windows Defender Antivirus is specifically designed for proactive protection against threats and is the correct choice for keeping the PC secure.
Question 26
A user reports that their Windows PC is running slowly every time multiple applications are open. Which hardware upgrade would most likely resolve the issue?
A) Increase RAM
B) Upgrade GPU
C) Replace HDD with SSD
D) Upgrade CPU
Answer: A) Increase RAM
Explanation:
A) Increasing RAM is correct because insufficient memory is one of the most common causes of slow performance when running multiple applications. Random Access Memory (RAM) temporarily stores data that the CPU needs while executing programs. When RAM is full, the operating system starts using virtual memory on the hard drive, which is significantly slower than physical memory. This results in high disk activity, application lag, and overall system slowdown. By upgrading RAM, the system can hold more active processes in fast memory, reducing reliance on virtual memory, decreasing paging, and improving multitasking performance. For modern Windows systems running multiple applications, increasing RAM often provides the most noticeable improvement in responsiveness.
Upgrading the GPU is incorrect because a graphics processing unit primarily accelerates rendering of graphics and video tasks. While a more powerful GPU improves performance for 3D applications, gaming, or video editing, it does not significantly impact general multitasking or application performance that is limited by RAM.
Replacing the HDD with an SSD is incorrect because upgrading to a solid-state drive improves read/write speeds, boot time, and application loading. While this can make the system feel faster, the specific issue of sluggishness when multiple applications are open is more closely related to insufficient RAM than disk speed.
Upgrade CPU is incorrect because although a faster processor improves computational speed, CPU usage is not the bottleneck if memory is insufficient. If the CPU is not consistently at high usage but the system still slows down, increasing RAM is a more targeted and cost-effective solution. Upgrading RAM directly addresses the cause of slowdowns when multiple applications compete for limited memory.
Question 27
A user reports that after connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, their browser redirects to suspicious websites. Which security feature should be enabled to protect the system?
A) VPN
B) BitLocker
C) User Account Control
D) System Restore
Answer: A) VPN
Explanation:
A) VPN is correct because it creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and a trusted network, preventing attackers from intercepting data or redirecting traffic on unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. When connecting to public Wi-Fi without protection, users are vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks, DNS hijacking, or traffic interception. A VPN encrypts the communication between the client device and the VPN server, ensuring that even if the network is compromised, the data cannot be read or modified. Using a VPN also allows users to access content securely and maintain privacy while preventing malicious redirects. VPNs are widely used in both corporate and personal environments to secure Internet connections over untrusted networks.
BitLocker is incorrect because it encrypts local drives to protect data at rest. While important for physical security, it does not protect network traffic or prevent malicious redirects when using public Wi-Fi.
User Account Control is incorrect because it prompts for permission when system changes are made. UAC protects against unauthorized system modifications but does not encrypt traffic or protect browsing sessions from redirection.
System Restore is incorrect because it reverts the system to a previous state. While it may undo malware or software changes, it does not actively secure network traffic or prevent future attacks on public networks. A VPN is the correct proactive measure to protect the system while using public Wi-Fi.
Question 28
A technician needs to deploy a Windows feature that allows users to recover deleted files and previous versions of documents. Which feature should be used?
A) File History
B) System Restore
C) Disk Cleanup
D) BitLocker
Answer: A) File History
Explanation:
A) File History is correct because it continuously monitors selected folders and automatically backs up copies of files to an external drive or network location. Users can restore deleted files or recover earlier versions of documents, providing protection against accidental deletion or modification. File History works at the file and folder level rather than system-wide, making it ideal for preserving user data. It allows users to browse previous versions and restore only what is needed without affecting the entire system. This feature is an integral part of Windows’ backup strategy, enabling both data protection and user-controlled recovery.
System Restore is incorrect because it only creates restore points for system files, settings, and installed applications. It does not protect user-created documents or allow recovery of individual files, making it unsuitable for this specific requirement.
Disk Cleanup is a utility built into Windows operating systems that is primarily designed to help users free up storage space and maintain overall system performance. Its main function is to scan the system for files that are considered unnecessary or temporary and then remove them safely. These files can include items such as temporary internet files, system cache, log files, files in the Recycle Bin, and leftover files from system updates or application installations. By removing such files, Disk Cleanup can help recover disk space, prevent storage-related slowdowns, and reduce clutter on the hard drive. For users with limited storage capacity or for systems that have accumulated a large number of temporary files over time, Disk Cleanup can be a useful maintenance tool. The process is straightforward and generally safe because the files targeted are not essential for the normal functioning of the operating system or installed applications. Additionally, Disk Cleanup can provide options to remove more advanced items such as old Windows update files, previous system restore points, or temporary setup files, further helping users optimize storage space.
Despite these benefits, Disk Cleanup has significant limitations, particularly when it comes to data protection, backup, and recovery. While it efficiently removes unnecessary files, it does not provide any functionality to back up files before deletion. This means that once a file is deleted using Disk Cleanup, there is no built-in mechanism to recover it unless the user has a separate backup system in place or employs third-party recovery software. Unlike dedicated backup solutions, Disk Cleanup does not create copies of files or maintain version histories, so it cannot be relied upon for protecting important data from accidental deletion or loss. Its focus is strictly on removing files deemed safe to delete according to system rules and criteria. Users who inadvertently select files that they later realize are needed may find that those files are permanently lost if no prior backup exists. Consequently, Disk Cleanup is not a substitute for a structured backup or data recovery strategy, which is critical for ensuring the safety of personal documents, media files, application data, and system configurations.
Moreover, Disk Cleanup does not provide any mechanism to restore modified files to a previous state. While it can remove temporary copies or cached versions of files, it does not track changes to user-created documents or system settings. For example, if a user has modified a document or configuration file and a temporary version is cleaned up, Disk Cleanup does not maintain a history or allow rollback to earlier versions. This limitation makes it unsuitable as a tool for data recovery or undoing changes, which are key requirements in scenarios where users need to revert accidental modifications or restore deleted files. Tools like File History, Windows Backup, or third-party backup software are specifically designed to provide such protection, offering automated backups, versioning, and recovery options that Disk Cleanup cannot deliver.
Another important aspect is that Disk Cleanup does not address system failures or data loss caused by hardware issues, malware, or accidental formatting. While it may help improve system performance and free storage space, it offers no protection against the risk of corruption or catastrophic loss of files. Users relying solely on Disk Cleanup for maintenance might mistakenly assume that deleting unnecessary files is sufficient for data security, but this is not the case. Proper data management requires combining tools like Disk Cleanup with robust backup solutions and system restore mechanisms to ensure that critical files and system configurations can be recovered in the event of data loss.
Disk Cleanup is a helpful utility for maintaining system performance by removing temporary files, caches, and other unnecessary data. However, it does not offer backup or recovery functionality, nor does it protect against accidental deletion or modification of important files. While it is effective for optimizing storage and keeping a system running smoothly, Disk Cleanup is not a substitute for comprehensive data protection strategies. Users should complement it with regular backups, file versioning, and recovery tools to ensure that valuable data remains safe and retrievable under all circumstances.
BitLocker is incorrect because it encrypts entire drives to protect against unauthorized access if the drive is lost or stolen. BitLocker does not create backups or allow restoration of individual files. File History is the feature designed specifically for user file recovery and versioning.
Question 29
A technician is troubleshooting a Windows computer that fails to recognize a newly installed network adapter. Which step should the technician perform first?
A) Check Device Manager for driver status
B) Run Disk Cleanup
C) Verify Windows Update settings
D) Open Task Manager
Answer: A) Check Device Manager for driver status
Explanation:
A) Checking Device Manager for driver status is correct because it allows the technician to verify if the operating system recognizes the new network adapter and whether the driver is installed correctly. Device Manager displays all installed hardware and highlights problems with warning icons if drivers are missing, outdated, or incompatible. The technician can also update, disable, or uninstall drivers directly from Device Manager. Network adapter issues are frequently caused by missing or incorrect drivers rather than hardware failure, making this the first logical step in troubleshooting. By examining Device Manager, the technician can quickly determine if the network adapter is recognized and functioning or if driver intervention is required.
Disk Cleanup and verifying Windows Update settings are common steps in system maintenance, but neither is the primary approach for identifying or resolving hardware detection or driver problems. Understanding their functions and limitations is essential for effective troubleshooting and ensuring that devices function correctly. Disk Cleanup is a utility in Windows designed to free up storage space by removing unnecessary files, such as temporary files, system cache, recycle bin contents, and other nonessential data. Its primary benefit is to help maintain adequate free storage on the system drive, which can improve overall performance and prevent storage-related issues. However, Disk Cleanup does not interact with hardware components, nor does it address issues related to driver installation or detection. If a device is not recognized by the system or a driver is missing or outdated, running Disk Cleanup will not address these problems. While freeing up space may be useful in some contexts, it is unrelated to the fundamental process of confirming whether hardware is detected and properly functioning.
Verifying Windows Update settings is another step often suggested in maintaining or troubleshooting a system, particularly because Windows Update can deliver driver updates for certain hardware components. While this capability is valuable, checking Windows Update settings is not the first or primary step when troubleshooting hardware detection issues. The technician’s initial focus should be on confirming that the operating system recognizes the device and identifying any driver issues. This can be done through Device Manager, which provides a clear view of connected hardware and flags devices with missing, outdated, or malfunctioning drivers. Once it has been established which devices are not functioning correctly or which drivers are missing, Windows Update can then be used as one method for obtaining the appropriate drivers. Relying on Windows Update prematurely may not resolve the problem, especially for specialized hardware or devices that require drivers directly from the manufacturer. Additionally, Windows Update may not always offer the latest version of drivers or may omit certain device drivers entirely, making direct verification of hardware and driver status a critical first step in the troubleshooting process.
The distinction between these tools lies in their intended purpose and scope. Disk Cleanup is focused exclusively on managing storage and improving system performance by removing unnecessary files, without any influence on hardware detection or driver functionality. Verifying Windows Update settings ensures that the system is configured to receive updates, which may include driver updates, but it assumes the hardware is already detected and that the technician knows which drivers are needed. Therefore, neither tool alone is sufficient for diagnosing or resolving device detection issues. Proper troubleshooting begins with confirming the presence of the hardware, identifying driver problems, and then determining the best method to obtain and install the correct drivers, whether through Windows Update, the device manufacturer, or other trusted sources.
While Disk Cleanup and Windows Update verification are useful maintenance tasks, they do not directly address hardware detection or driver issues. Disk Cleanup only removes temporary files to free storage, and Windows Update may deliver some drivers, but it is not the first step in the troubleshooting process. Effective resolution requires initial confirmation that the device is recognized by the system and identification of any driver problems, after which these tools may support the overall maintenance or update process. Understanding these limitations ensures that technicians approach hardware issues systematically, avoiding ineffective steps and focusing on actions that directly address the underlying problems.
Task Manager is incorrect because it monitors running processes, CPU, memory, and disk usage. It does not provide information about hardware detection or driver status, so it is not helpful for troubleshooting an unrecognized network adapter. Device Manager provides the most direct and effective approach for initial troubleshooting of new hardware.
Question 30
A user wants to ensure that their mobile device is protected if it is lost or stolen. Which feature allows the user to locate, lock, or erase the device remotely?
A) Find My Device
B) Screen lock
C) Two-factor authentication
D) VPN
Answer: A) Find My Device
Explanation:
A) Find My Device is correct because it enables the user to track a lost or stolen device using location services. In addition to locating the device, it allows remote actions such as locking the screen to prevent unauthorized access, displaying a custom message, or erasing all data to protect sensitive information. This feature integrates with cloud accounts and mobile operating systems such as Windows, iOS, and Android, providing real-time updates on device location and status. It is particularly useful for protecting corporate or personal data on mobile devices, ensuring that even if physical recovery is not possible, the information remains secure.
Screen locks and two-factor authentication (2FA) are both commonly used security measures, but they address different aspects of device and account security and have significant limitations, particularly when it comes to protecting a lost or stolen device. Screen locks are designed primarily to prevent immediate unauthorized access to a device when it is unattended. They require a PIN, password, pattern, or biometric verification such as a fingerprint or facial recognition to unlock the device. The primary purpose is to stop anyone who physically picks up the device from using it directly. While this provides a first line of defense against casual access, screen locks do not offer remote management capabilities. If a device is lost or stolen, the screen lock itself cannot help locate the device, erase sensitive data, or prevent someone from tampering with or removing the storage medium. In other words, a screen lock secures only the immediate interface of the device but does not provide ongoing protection or recovery options once the device is no longer physically in the owner’s possession. Tools like device tracking services, remote wipe features, or full disk encryption are required to address these risks, as a screen lock alone cannot mitigate the potential damage caused by theft or loss.
Two-factor authentication, by contrast, strengthens security at the account level rather than the device level. It requires two forms of verification—typically a password and a secondary factor such as a one-time code generated by an app or sent via SMS—before granting access to an account. This approach is highly effective at preventing unauthorized logins, especially if a password is compromised, and is widely used for cloud services, email accounts, and online platforms. However, 2FA does not provide any protection for the physical device itself. It cannot prevent someone from stealing the device, accessing files stored locally, or tampering with hardware components. Additionally, 2FA does not provide features such as remote tracking, device locking, or data erasure, which are essential in the event of loss or theft. Its primary role is securing access to accounts, not managing or protecting the device itself, which limits its usefulness as a comprehensive solution for lost or stolen devices.
The key distinction between these two measures lies in their focus and scope. Screen locks protect against immediate physical access but are limited to the device interface, while two-factor authentication protects account logins but has no impact on the security of the device itself. Neither tool provides remote management capabilities, which are critical when a device is lost or stolen. To ensure the security of a mobile device or computer in such scenarios, additional measures are required. Features such as remote device tracking, remote wipe, or full disk encryption complement these basic security tools by enabling device owners to locate, lock, or erase sensitive information even when the device is no longer physically accessible.
Screen locks and two-factor authentication are both valuable components of a layered security strategy, but they are insufficient on their own for protecting a device in cases of theft or loss. Screen locks secure immediate access but cannot be used remotely, while 2FA strengthens account logins but offers no device-level control. Effective protection for lost or stolen devices requires a combination of access control, account security, and remote management capabilities to ensure that both accounts and device data remain secure under all circumstances.
VPN is incorrect because it encrypts data sent over networks but does not provide the ability to locate, lock, or erase a lost device. Find My Device is specifically designed for device tracking and remote protection, making it the correct choice for this scenario.