CompTIA A+ 220-1202 Certification Core 2 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 8 Q106-120
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Question 106
A Windows 10 user reports that their system freezes and becomes extremely slow when multiple applications are running. Task Manager shows high CPU and memory usage, even when no resource-heavy programs are visibly open. What is the most likely cause of the problem?
A) Background processes consuming resources
B) Fragmented hard drive
C) Weak Wi-Fi signal
D) Outdated display driver
Answer: A) Background processes consuming resources
Explanation:
Answer: A) Background processes consuming resources is correct because modern Windows systems run numerous processes silently in the background, including software updaters, telemetry services, cloud synchronization tools, indexing services, and other auxiliary programs that continue to operate even when the main application windows are closed, and if these processes are inefficient or misconfigured, they can consume significant CPU cycles and memory, leading to system freezes, slow response times, and high resource utilization observed in Task Manager; these processes prevent the CPU and memory from efficiently allocating resources to active applications, thereby degrading overall system performance. Background processes can sometimes conflict with each other or run continuously without pause, exacerbating CPU and memory usage and causing the system to become sluggish or unresponsive. Resolving such issues requires analyzing Task Manager or Resource Monitor to identify the processes consuming excessive resources, determining whether they are essential, and disabling or configuring them to run only when necessary. Fragmented hard drives may affect disk access speed but do not directly lead to persistent high CPU or memory usage. Weak Wi-Fi signals may slow network-dependent operations but do not consume significant local CPU or memory resources. Outdated display drivers may cause graphical errors or slow rendering but would not explain high CPU and memory usage unrelated to graphics tasks. Addressing resource-intensive background processes restores system responsiveness, reduces CPU and memory load, and prevents frequent freezes, making this the most likely cause of the reported performance issues.
Question 107
A technician needs to ensure that an older Windows application that was designed for Windows 7 can run correctly on Windows 10. Which feature provides the best solution?
A) Compatibility Mode
B) Device Manager
C) Disk Cleanup
D) Windows Update
Answer: A) Compatibility Mode
Explanation:
Answer: A) Compatibility Mode is correct because it allows Windows 10 to emulate behaviors of previous versions of the operating system, enabling older applications that were developed for Windows 7 or other versions to run correctly by adjusting settings such as OS version emulation, display scaling, color depth, and permissions; this ensures that legacy programs can operate reliably without requiring source code modifications or additional software layers. Compatibility Mode can be configured through the program’s properties menu, and a troubleshooting wizard can help automatically apply settings to address common compatibility issues. It can run applications with administrator privileges, reduce color modes, or adjust DPI settings, which may be necessary for older software expecting specific operating system behaviors. Device Manager is used for hardware and driver management and does not influence application compatibility. Disk Cleanup removes temporary files and frees storage space but does not affect the execution environment of legacy applications. Windows Update delivers system patches and security fixes but does not provide the necessary emulation to run outdated software. Therefore, Compatibility Mode provides a direct and efficient method for running legacy Windows applications on modern systems while maintaining stability and functionality.
Question 108
A company wants to restrict Windows 10 users from installing unauthorized applications and ensure only approved programs run on their computers. Which feature should the technician implement?
A) AppLocker
B) Disk Management
C) Task Scheduler
D) Event Viewer
Answer: A) AppLocker
Explanation:
Answer: A) AppLocker is correct because it enables administrators to create rules that control which executable files, scripts, Windows Installer packages, and packaged applications can run on Windows devices, allowing only authorized programs to execute and preventing users from installing or running unauthorized software, which is essential for maintaining security and compliance in corporate environments. AppLocker rules can be defined based on file attributes such as digital publisher certificates, file paths, or cryptographic hashes, providing granular control over software execution. Rules can be deployed locally or through Group Policy to ensure consistent enforcement across multiple machines in a domain, making it suitable for enterprise environments. AppLocker also includes an audit mode that simulates rules without enforcement, allowing administrators to identify potential conflicts and avoid blocking necessary applications inadvertently. Disk Management is used for storage configuration and partitioning but does not manage software execution. Task Scheduler automates task execution but does not restrict software usage. Event Viewer logs system events but does not enforce application control. By implementing AppLocker, organizations can ensure that only approved applications run, prevent unauthorized installations, and maintain system security and integrity across the enterprise.
Question 109
A Windows 10 user reports that their system is extremely slow, applications take a long time to start, and error messages indicate missing or corrupted system files. The system has not been updated in months. Which troubleshooting step should the technician perform first?
A) Run System File Checker (SFC)
B) Defragment the hard drive
C) Update the display driver
D) Clear temporary files using Disk Cleanup
Answer: A) Run System File Checker (SFC)
Explanation:
Answer: A) Running System File Checker (SFC) is correct because it is a built-in Windows utility designed to scan all protected system files, detect missing or corrupted files, and automatically repair or replace them using cached copies stored in the Windows component store, directly addressing system performance issues and application errors caused by file corruption or absence. SFC provides logs detailing which files were repaired or could not be fixed, giving technicians critical information for further troubleshooting if necessary. This process is non-destructive and preserves user data while restoring the integrity of the operating system. Defragmenting the hard drive may improve file access speed on mechanical drives but does not fix corrupted system files. Updating the display driver addresses graphical performance issues but does not repair critical system files or application errors. Clearing temporary files frees storage space but does not address missing or corrupted system files. Using SFC as the first step ensures that the core operating system remains intact and functional, improves system responsiveness, prevents further application errors, and provides a foundation for additional troubleshooting if other issues persist.
Question 110
A company wants to manage laptops remotely so that lost or stolen devices can be tracked, locked, and wiped to protect corporate data. Which solution provides these capabilities for Windows 10 devices?
A) Mobile Device Management (MDM)
B) Disk Defragmentation
C) Local Group Policy
D) Task Scheduler
Answer: A) Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Explanation:
Answer: A) Mobile Device Management (MDM) is correct because it provides centralized administration for portable devices, allowing IT administrators to monitor device status, track the physical location of laptops, remotely lock devices to prevent unauthorized access, and perform selective or full data wipes to protect sensitive corporate information in case of loss or theft; MDM solutions integrate with Windows 10 to enforce security policies, deploy updates, configure settings, and maintain compliance across all enrolled devices, ensuring both security and operational control. Disk Defragmentation optimizes storage performance but does not provide tracking, remote locking, or wiping capabilities. Local Group Policy allows administrators to enforce security and operational settings locally or across a domain but does not enable centralized remote management or device tracking. Task Scheduler automates scheduled tasks on local machines but does not provide monitoring, remote security, or data protection functions. By implementing MDM, organizations can ensure data protection, regulatory compliance, and rapid response to lost or stolen devices, making it the most comprehensive and effective solution for managing laptops in a corporate environment.
Question 111
A Windows 10 user reports that their computer randomly restarts during heavy CPU usage and experiences system instability when running multiple applications simultaneously. Task Manager indicates consistent high CPU usage by background processes, and the system has sufficient RAM and disk space. What is the most likely cause of the problem?
A) Overheating due to high CPU utilization and insufficient cooling
B) Fragmented hard drive
C) Weak Wi-Fi signal
D) Outdated graphics driver
Answer: A) Overheating due to high CPU utilization and insufficient cooling
Explanation:
Answer: A) Overheating due to high CPU utilization and insufficient cooling is correct because when a processor or other internal components generate more heat than the cooling system can dissipate, thermal protection mechanisms built into the motherboard and CPU trigger throttling or automatic system shutdowns to prevent permanent damage. This behavior explains the random restarts and system instability observed when multiple applications are running simultaneously, especially under heavy workloads. Background processes consuming CPU may exacerbate the problem by preventing the system from entering low-power idle states, maintaining high temperatures even when the user is not actively performing resource-intensive tasks. Overheating can result from several factors, including dust accumulation in cooling fans and vents, degraded or improperly applied thermal paste between the CPU and heat sink, malfunctioning fans, or insufficient cooling solutions for high-performance workloads. Technicians can diagnose the problem by monitoring CPU and system temperatures using hardware monitoring tools, observing fan speeds, and verifying airflow. Cleaning the internal components, replacing thermal paste, or upgrading cooling solutions may be necessary to restore safe operating temperatures. Fragmented hard drives may slow file access but do not cause CPU-related overheating or system restarts. Weak Wi-Fi signals only affect network connectivity and would not lead to thermal shutdowns. Outdated graphics drivers may cause display issues but do not directly trigger high CPU usage or overheating in general processing tasks. Addressing the root cause of overheating ensures system stability, prevents abrupt shutdowns, prolongs hardware lifespan, and allows the CPU to handle multiple applications reliably without causing system failure.
Question 112
A technician needs to ensure that an older Windows application that was designed for Windows 7 can run correctly on Windows 10. Which feature provides the best solution?
A) Compatibility Mode
B) Device Manager
C) Disk Cleanup
D) Windows Update
Answer: A) Compatibility Mode
Explanation:
Answer: A) Compatibility Mode is correct because it allows Windows 10 to emulate previous versions of the operating system, providing an environment in which legacy applications can run reliably despite changes in system APIs, user permissions, and graphical subsystems. Many older applications are dependent on features or behaviors present in earlier Windows versions, and attempting to run them directly on modern systems may result in errors, crashes, or unexpected behavior. Compatibility Mode adjusts settings such as the emulated operating system version, display scaling, color depth, user account control permissions, and other system parameters to match the environment expected by the older application. This feature can be accessed through the program’s properties dialog, and a built-in troubleshooter can automatically recommend settings to address common compatibility issues. Device Manager manages hardware and drivers but does not facilitate application compatibility. Disk Cleanup removes unnecessary files to free storage but has no impact on legacy application execution. Windows Update ensures system security and stability but does not provide legacy application emulation. By leveraging Compatibility Mode, users and technicians can maintain the functionality of essential older software without compromising system security or requiring code modification, thereby ensuring business continuity and productivity.
Question 113
A company wants to restrict Windows 10 users from installing unauthorized software and ensure only approved programs run. Which feature should the technician implement?
A) AppLocker
B) Disk Management
C) Task Scheduler
D) Event Viewer
Answer: A) AppLocker
Explanation:
Answer: A) AppLocker is correct because it enables administrators to define and enforce application control policies, specifying which executable files, scripts, Windows Installer packages, and packaged apps are allowed to run on Windows devices while blocking unapproved software. AppLocker rules can be based on file attributes such as digital publisher signatures, file path locations, or cryptographic hashes, providing granular control over application execution. These rules can be applied locally or through Group Policy in a domain environment to ensure consistent enforcement across multiple machines, enhancing security and compliance by preventing the introduction of malware or unauthorized applications. AppLocker also supports an audit mode, allowing administrators to simulate rule enforcement to detect potential conflicts before applying them fully, ensuring that critical business applications are not inadvertently blocked. Disk Management manages storage volumes and partitions but does not control application execution. Task Scheduler automates tasks but cannot prevent software installation or execution. Event Viewer logs system events for monitoring and troubleshooting but does not enforce application restrictions. By implementing AppLocker, organizations can maintain a controlled software environment, prevent unauthorized software execution, reduce security risks, and ensure consistent application policies across the enterprise, fulfilling both operational and compliance requirements.
Question 114
A Windows 10 user reports that their system is extremely slow, applications take a long time to launch, and occasional error messages indicate missing or corrupted system files. The system has not been updated recently. Which troubleshooting step should the technician perform first?
A) Run System File Checker (SFC)
B) Defragment the hard drive
C) Update the display driver
D) Clear temporary files using Disk Cleanup
Answer: A) Run System File Checker (SFC)
Explanation:
Answer: A) Running System File Checker (SFC) is correct because it is a built-in Windows utility designed to scan and verify the integrity of all protected system files, identify any missing or corrupted files, and automatically repair or replace them using cached copies stored in the Windows component store, directly addressing system performance issues and application errors caused by file corruption or absence. SFC generates detailed logs indicating which files were repaired or could not be fixed, providing technicians with valuable information for further troubleshooting if needed. This process is non-destructive and preserves user data while ensuring the operating system remains stable and functional. Defragmenting the hard drive can improve access speed on mechanical drives but does not fix corrupted or missing system files. Updating the display driver addresses graphical performance but does not repair core system files or resolve general application errors. Clearing temporary files with Disk Cleanup frees storage space but does not restore critical system files. Running SFC is a targeted approach to restore system integrity, improve overall performance, prevent further application errors, and ensure that Windows 10 operates reliably, making it the best first step in troubleshooting slow performance and file-related issues.
Question 115
A company wants to manage laptops assigned to employees so that lost or stolen devices can be tracked, remotely locked, and wiped to protect sensitive corporate data. Which solution provides these capabilities for Windows 10 devices?
A) Mobile Device Management (MDM)
B) Disk Defragmentation
C) Local Group Policy
D) Task Scheduler
Answer: A) Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Explanation:
Answer: A) Mobile Device Management (MDM) is correct because it provides centralized administration, monitoring, and security controls for portable devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, allowing IT administrators to track devices, enforce compliance policies, remotely lock lost or stolen devices, and perform selective or full data wipes to protect sensitive corporate information. MDM integrates with Windows 10 to apply security configurations, deploy software updates, enforce encryption, and monitor device health, providing a comprehensive solution for endpoint management in corporate environments. Disk Defragmentation optimizes storage performance but does not offer tracking, remote locking, or wiping capabilities. Local Group Policy allows administrators to enforce settings on devices within a domain but does not provide centralized remote management or the ability to wipe devices. Task Scheduler automates tasks locally but cannot track, lock, or protect lost devices. Implementing MDM ensures that laptops remain secure, that sensitive data is protected, and that administrators can respond quickly to incidents involving lost or stolen devices, maintaining both security and regulatory compliance for the organization.
Question 116
A Windows 10 user reports that their laptop battery is draining unusually fast, and Task Manager shows multiple background processes consuming high CPU and memory even when the system is idle. What is the most likely cause of the problem?
A) Excessive background processes consuming CPU and memory
B) Faulty battery
C) Fragmented hard drive
D) Outdated graphics driver
Answer: A) Excessive background processes consuming CPU and memory
Explanation:
Answer: A) Excessive background processes consuming CPU and memory is correct because modern Windows 10 systems often have numerous applications and services running silently in the background, including software updaters, telemetry, cloud synchronization, indexing services, antivirus scans, and other auxiliary tasks that continue to operate even when no user-facing programs are actively running; if these processes are poorly optimized, conflicting, or executing more frequently than necessary, they can consume significant CPU and memory resources, preventing the system from entering low-power states and causing rapid battery drain, excessive heat generation, and overall sluggish performance, particularly on laptops where power efficiency is critical. Task Manager and Resource Monitor allow technicians to identify processes consuming excessive resources, enabling them to terminate, disable, or configure processes to run less frequently. This approach addresses the root cause of battery drain and system slowdown without requiring hardware replacement or operating system reinstallation. A faulty battery may cause reduced runtime but will not account for high CPU or memory usage when the system is idle. Fragmented hard drives can reduce data access speed but do not directly cause high CPU or memory utilization. Outdated graphics drivers may lead to graphical issues but do not account for general CPU-intensive background activity. By identifying and managing background processes effectively, system performance can be optimized, battery life restored, and excessive heat mitigated, ensuring the laptop operates efficiently under normal workloads.
Question 117
A technician installs a new graphics card on a Windows 10 system. After installation, the system experiences frequent blue screen errors when running graphics-intensive applications. What is the most likely cause?
A) Incompatible or outdated graphics driver
B) Faulty RAM
C) Fragmented hard drive
D) Weak Wi-Fi signal
Answer: A) Incompatible or outdated graphics driver
Explanation:
Answer: A) Incompatible or outdated graphics driver is correct because the graphics driver acts as the interface between the operating system and the GPU hardware, and if the driver is not properly designed for the specific graphics card model or the installed Windows 10 version, it can result in kernel-level errors that cause blue screen crashes, particularly during tasks requiring GPU acceleration, such as gaming, video editing, or 3D rendering; this scenario is common when users install new GPUs but retain older drivers, or when manufacturer-provided drivers are not fully compatible with the system. Diagnosing this issue involves booting into Safe Mode to prevent the faulty driver from loading, uninstalling the current graphics driver, and installing the latest manufacturer-approved driver version compatible with the system and operating system. Faulty RAM can cause random crashes and memory errors, but it would not specifically correlate with GPU-intensive applications. Fragmented hard drives can slow disk performance, but do not directly cause kernel-level blue screen errors. Weak Wi-Fi signals affect network connectivity and would not trigger blue screens. Updating or replacing the graphics driver restores proper communication between the operating system and GPU, resolving blue screen crashes, stabilizing system performance during graphics-intensive operations, and ensuring that the hardware functions as intended.
Question 118
A company wants to ensure that employees can only run authorized applications on their Windows 10 computers and prevent the installation of unapproved software. Which feature provides this functionality?
A) AppLocker
B) Disk Cleanup
C) Task Scheduler
D) Event Viewer
Answer: A) AppLocker
Explanation:
Answer: A) AppLocker is a security feature built into Windows 10 that provides administrators with granular control over which applications are allowed to run on managed devices. Its primary purpose is to prevent unauthorized software execution while permitting approved applications, making it an essential tool for organizations that need to maintain system security, enforce compliance with corporate software policies, and reduce the risk of malware infections. By allowing administrators to define rules for executable files, scripts, Windows Installer packages, and packaged applications, AppLocker ensures that only trusted software operates within a controlled computing environment, reducing the potential attack surface and safeguarding sensitive organizational data.
One of the key strengths of AppLocker is its ability to create rules based on specific file attributes. Rules can be configured according to digital signatures, which allows software signed by a trusted publisher to run while blocking unsigned or untrusted applications. Rules can also be based on file paths, enabling administrators to restrict execution to specific directories, or on cryptographic file hashes, which ensure that only a particular version of a file can execute. This flexibility is crucial for organizations that need to enforce precise application policies and prevent deviations that could compromise security or operational stability. By tailoring rules to meet organizational requirements, administrators can control the execution of applications without affecting legitimate software that employees depend on for their work.
AppLocker rules can be deployed locally on individual devices or centrally through Group Policy across multiple devices in a domain. Centralized deployment via Group Policy ensures consistency and compliance across an enterprise, reducing administrative overhead and eliminating the risk of misconfigured policies on individual machines. In larger organizations, this centralized approach is particularly important, as it allows IT teams to enforce software control measures consistently, even across hundreds or thousands of devices. Central management also enables organizations to quickly adapt policies in response to emerging threats, new software requirements, or changes in business needs, ensuring that endpoints remain secure without disrupting productivity.
Another significant feature of AppLocker is its audit mode, which allows administrators to monitor potential rule violations without actually enforcing restrictions. This mode is invaluable during the planning and testing phase, as it helps identify legitimate applications that might be inadvertently blocked once rules are fully enforced. By logging these attempted executions, administrators gain insight into the impact of their rules, enabling them to refine policies and prevent operational disruptions. Audit mode serves as a safeguard against over-restriction, ensuring that security measures do not interfere with business operations while still providing visibility into potential threats or unauthorized software attempts.
AppLocker differs from other Windows utilities in that it specifically controls application execution, a capability that is not provided by tools such as Disk Cleanup, Task Scheduler, or Event Viewer. Disk Cleanup, for instance, is a maintenance utility designed to free storage space by removing temporary files, system cache, and other unnecessary data. While it improves system performance and helps maintain an organized file system, it does not restrict the execution of unauthorized software or enforce software policies. Task Scheduler automates tasks on Windows devices, such as running scripts, maintenance jobs, or system updates at specified intervals, but it does not provide mechanisms to control which applications can execute. Similarly, Event Viewer logs system and application events, offering detailed insights for troubleshooting and monitoring purposes, but it does not enforce application control or prevent unapproved software from running. In contrast, AppLocker directly addresses the critical need for application control, making it the most appropriate tool for organizations that must manage software execution policies effectively.
Implementing AppLocker provides organizations with several security and operational benefits. First, it enhances endpoint security by preventing users or malware from executing unauthorized applications that could compromise the system. This proactive approach reduces the risk of malware infections and unauthorized access, particularly in environments where users have administrative privileges or access to removable media. Second, AppLocker facilitates compliance with organizational and regulatory requirements by ensuring that only approved software is used, which is essential in industries with strict data protection or software licensing standards. Third, AppLocker improves operational efficiency by allowing administrators to control software execution without disrupting legitimate applications. By combining rule-based controls with audit mode, organizations can deploy policies gradually, monitor their effectiveness, and make adjustments before full enforcement, minimizing workflow interruptions while maintaining security.
In addition, AppLocker supports a structured and scalable approach to software management in enterprise environments. Organizations can create different sets of rules for different groups or departments, tailoring software permissions to the specific needs of users while maintaining overall security standards. This flexibility ensures that AppLocker can accommodate diverse operational requirements, from standard office workstations to specialized environments requiring access to particular applications. It also provides reporting and logging capabilities, giving administrators visibility into attempted application execution and potential policy violations, which is critical for auditing and ongoing security monitoring.
AppLocker is a comprehensive solution for controlling application execution on Windows 10 devices. By allowing administrators to define rules based on file attributes such as digital signatures, paths, or hashes, and by enabling centralized deployment through Group Policy, AppLocker ensures that only authorized applications can run while preventing unauthorized software from executing. Audit mode allows administrators to test rules and refine policies without disrupting legitimate workflows, providing both visibility and control. Unlike Disk Cleanup, Task Scheduler, or Event Viewer, which serve maintenance, automation, or monitoring functions, AppLocker directly addresses the security and compliance challenges associated with software execution. Its implementation enhances endpoint security, enforces organizational software policies, reduces the risk of malware infections, and maintains operational efficiency, making it an indispensable tool for enterprise Windows 10 environments.
Question 119
A Windows 10 user reports slow system performance, delayed application launch times, and error messages indicating missing or corrupted system files. The system has not been updated recently. Which step should the technician take first?
A) Run System File Checker (SFC)
B) Defragment the hard drive
C) Update the display driver
D) Clear temporary files using Disk Cleanup
Answer: A) Run System File Checker (SFC)
Explanation:
Answer: A) Running System File Checker (SFC) is one of the most important and effective troubleshooting steps for maintaining the stability, performance, and reliability of a Windows 10 system. SFC is a built-in Windows utility specifically designed to scan all protected system files, detect any that are missing or corrupted, and automatically repair or replace them using cached copies stored in the Windows component store. These cached copies, located in the WinSxS folder, provide verified, unaltered versions of essential system files, ensuring that repairs restore the system to a known, stable state. This process addresses a wide range of issues that can affect Windows performance, including slow system response, delayed application startup, unexpected system errors, and even certain types of application crashes that arise from missing or corrupted files. Because SFC works directly with protected system files, it targets the root causes of many operating system errors rather than just addressing symptoms, making it an essential tool for effective system maintenance and troubleshooting.
One of the key advantages of SFC is that it operates in a non-destructive manner, preserving user data and installed applications while repairing the operating system. Unlike more invasive repair options, such as a complete system reinstall or system reset, SFC focuses exclusively on restoring the integrity of essential system components. This ensures that documents, personal files, and user-installed software remain intact, providing a safe first step for resolving performance or stability issues. Additionally, SFC generates detailed logs that indicate which files were successfully repaired, which were missing, and which could not be fixed. These logs are invaluable for technicians, as they provide insight into underlying problems and guide further troubleshooting steps. For example, if certain files cannot be repaired automatically, a technician might use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to restore the Windows component store before running SFC again, or they might perform a repair installation of Windows if the corruption is extensive.
SFC directly addresses issues that can cause slow system performance. Missing or corrupted system files often prevent Windows processes from executing efficiently, resulting in delayed application startup, longer boot times, and system lag. By verifying the integrity of these files and replacing any that are damaged, SFC restores the normal operation of the operating system. This can lead to noticeable improvements in responsiveness and stability, particularly on systems that have not been updated regularly or that have experienced extensive software installations or removals. Furthermore, repairing corrupted system files prevents recurring errors and crashes, providing a more stable environment for applications and user operations. For example, if system files required for launching a particular program are corrupted, the program may fail to start or behave unpredictably. SFC can repair these files, eliminating these errors without the need for reinstalling the affected applications.
While other maintenance tools exist in Windows, they do not address the integrity of system files in the same way as SFC. Defragmenting the hard drive, for instance, improves access speed on mechanical drives by reorganizing fragmented data. This process can reduce file access times and improve general system responsiveness, but it does not repair corrupted or missing system files. Therefore, defragmentation is a performance optimization tool rather than a solution for system instability or errors caused by file corruption. Similarly, updating the display driver resolves graphical issues, such as screen flickering, video playback errors, or GPU-related crashes, but it does not repair unrelated system files or address performance problems caused by missing or corrupted core components. Disk Cleanup, another common utility, frees storage space by removing temporary files, caches, and other unnecessary data, but it does not restore system files or resolve issues stemming from corrupted or missing operating system components. While these tools are useful for optimizing system performance and maintaining hardware functionality, they are complementary to SFC rather than substitutes for it.
Running SFC first is crucial because it establishes a stable foundation for any additional maintenance or troubleshooting activities. By ensuring that all protected system files are intact and correctly configured, SFC provides a reliable baseline from which other optimizations, updates, or repairs can be performed. For example, after running SFC, a technician might apply Windows updates, install or update drivers, or configure system settings with confidence that the operating system’s core files are intact and functioning properly. This reduces the risk of further errors being introduced during maintenance and increases the likelihood that any subsequent actions will succeed. In environments where system performance or stability issues are recurring, SFC is often the first recommended step before moving on to more advanced diagnostic or repair methods.
System File Checker is the best first step for diagnosing and resolving system integrity issues in Windows 10. It scans protected system files, identifies missing or corrupted components, and repairs them using cached copies, all while preserving user data. SFC directly addresses performance slowdowns, application errors, and system instability, providing a stable foundation for further maintenance or troubleshooting. Other tools, such as defragmentation, display driver updates, and Disk Cleanup, improve system efficiency or resolve hardware-specific issues, but they do not restore system file integrity. By targeting the core operating system components, producing detailed logs for further analysis, and maintaining user data, SFC ensures that Windows 10 operates efficiently, reliably, and securely, making it an essential utility for system maintenance and troubleshooting.
Question 120
A company wants to manage laptops assigned to employees so that lost or stolen devices can be tracked, remotely locked, and wiped to protect sensitive corporate data. Which solution provides these capabilities for Windows 10 devices?
A) Mobile Device Management (MDM)
B) Disk Defragmentation
C) Local Group Policy
D) Task Scheduler
Answer: A) Mobile Device Management (MDM)
Explanation:
Answer: A) Mobile Device Management (MDM) is a comprehensive framework that provides centralized administration, monitoring, and security for portable devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. In today’s business environment, where mobility, remote work, and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies are increasingly common, MDM is essential for ensuring that corporate assets remain secure and compliant with organizational policies. The utility of MDM extends beyond basic device management—it encompasses tracking, security enforcement, software deployment, and compliance monitoring, all from a centralized platform, enabling IT administrators to maintain control over potentially hundreds or thousands of endpoints within an organization.
One of the core capabilities of MDM is centralized administration. Through an MDM console, administrators can configure and enforce policies across all managed devices. These policies may include password requirements, encryption enforcement, application restrictions, and network access controls. By applying these policies centrally, organizations can ensure that all devices adhere to the same security standards, reducing the likelihood of misconfiguration or inconsistent compliance among endpoints. Centralized administration also simplifies the management of large fleets of devices by automating repetitive tasks, such as software updates and configuration changes, which would otherwise require manual intervention on each device. This consistency in management improves operational efficiency and reduces the risk of security gaps due to human error.
MDM also provides robust security and data protection capabilities. One of its most critical features is device tracking, often enabled through GPS or network-based location services. This functionality allows administrators to locate lost or stolen devices, which is particularly important for portable laptops that may contain sensitive corporate data. In addition to tracking, MDM supports remote locking of devices, preventing unauthorized access if a device is lost or misplaced. In more severe cases, MDM can perform selective or full data wipes, ensuring that sensitive corporate information does not fall into the wrong hands. Selective wipes allow corporate data to be removed while leaving personal files intact, which is particularly useful in BYOD environments. Full wipes erase all data, restoring the device to factory settings, and are typically used when a device is unrecoverable or has been compromised. These features make MDM indispensable for protecting corporate information and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, or industry-specific security standards.
In addition to security, MDM provides ongoing monitoring and compliance enforcement. Administrators can use the MDM console to check device health, verify that updates and patches are installed, and monitor adherence to organizational security policies. Alerts can be configured to notify IT staff of non-compliant devices, missing updates, or security breaches. This proactive monitoring allows administrators to address potential risks before they escalate into major security incidents. MDM also facilitates software deployment across multiple devices. Applications, updates, and configuration changes can be pushed remotely, eliminating the need for manual installation on each device. This capability ensures that users always have access to the latest tools and security patches while maintaining a consistent and controlled environment.
When compared to other Windows tools, the advantages of MDM in managing and securing mobile devices become apparent. Disk defragmentation, for example, improves storage performance by reorganizing fragmented data on mechanical drives, but it does not offer any security features, remote management, or centralized monitoring capabilities. Local Group Policy allows administrators to configure settings on devices within a domain, such as enforcing password policies or restricting access to certain features, but it cannot track devices, perform remote locks, or initiate data wipes if a device is lost or stolen. Task Scheduler is useful for automating tasks locally on individual devices, such as running scripts or maintenance jobs at scheduled intervals, but it provides no centralized control or security enforcement. None of these tools provides the full range of capabilities required for securing mobile endpoints in a modern corporate environment, highlighting why MDM is the most comprehensive solution.
MDM’s integration with Windows 10 further enhances its capabilities. Windows 10 provides native support for MDM protocols, allowing administrators to enforce compliance policies, monitor device status, and manage security settings remotely. Through this integration, laptops and other mobile endpoints can be configured to automatically receive software updates, enable encryption, and apply antivirus protections, all managed centrally through the MDM console. If a device is lost or stolen, administrators can immediately lock or wipe the device, ensuring that corporate data remains protected. This level of control and responsiveness is critical in distributed environments where employees may be working from home, traveling, or using devices outside of the corporate network.
Mobile Device Management is the most effective and comprehensive solution for managing and securing laptops in modern corporate environments. Its centralized administration, device tracking, remote lock and wipe capabilities, policy enforcement, software deployment, and compliance monitoring provide a level of control that is unmatched by tools such as Disk Defragmentation, Local Group Policy, or Task Scheduler. By implementing MDM, organizations can protect corporate data, maintain regulatory compliance, and respond rapidly to security incidents, even in distributed or mobile workforces. MDM not only ensures the integrity and security of corporate endpoints but also streamlines IT administration, making it an essential component of any modern enterprise security and management strategy.