CompTIA 220-1201 Online Practice Questions and Exam Preparation

CompTIA 220-1201 Online Questions & Answers

• Question 131:

  A computer technician is investigating issues with a user's workstation. The user reports the following:

  1. Loading the operating system takes much longer than usual

  2. Clicking sounds are coming from inside the workstation

  Which of the following is the most likely cause of the issue?

  A. The CPU is overheating.
  B. The system fans are damaged.
  C. The hard drive is failing.
  D. The MBR has been wiped.
  C. The hard drive is failing.

  ---

  Explanation

  The symptoms described, such as the operating system taking longer than usual to load and hearing clicking sounds from within the workstation, are indicative of a failing hard drive. Clicking sounds, often referred to as the "click of death," signal the read/write head of the hard drive struggling to function properly. This mechanical failure leads to longer load times as the system struggles to read data from the disk. It is crucial to back up data and consider replacing the hard drive to prevent data loss.

• Question 132:

  A technician must upgrade a computer system to improve its overall processing performance.

  Which of the following should the technician focus on to ensure maximum system performance?

  A. Integrated GPU
  B. Power connectors
  C. Voltage regulator module
  D. Clock frequency
  D. Clock frequency

  ---

  Explanation

  Clock frequency is one of the most significant factors influencing a computer system's processing performance. According to CompTIA Core 1 (220-1201) CPU and performance objectives, clock speed-measured in gigahertz (GHz)- determines how many instruction cycles a processor can perform per second.

  Higher clock frequencies generally result in faster execution of instructions, leading to improved performance in both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads. While modern CPUs also rely on core count, cache size, and architecture efficiency, clock frequency remains a primary metric for evaluating raw processing speed.

  An integrated GPU affects graphics performance rather than overall CPU processing capability. Power connectors ensure proper electrical delivery but do not directly improve processing performance. The voltage regulator module (VRM) stabilizes and regulates power supplied to the CPU but does not itself increase processing speed.

  CompTIA expects candidates to recognize clock frequency as a key determinant of CPU performance when upgrading or comparing processors.

  References:

  CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201) Official Study Guide - CPU Architecture and Performance

• Question 133:

  Which of the following port numbers are associated with email traffic? (Select two).

  A. 23
  B. 25
  C. 67
  D. 110
  E. 137
  F. 443
  B. 25
  D. 110

  ---

  Explanation

  To answer this question, we need to identify the port numbers associated with email protocols used in client-server communication.

  Port 25 (SMTP - Simple Mail Transfer Protocol):

  This port is primarily used for sending emails between mail servers and from mail clients to mail servers (sending outbound mail).

  SMTP is an essential protocol for email traffic.

  Port 110 (POP3 - Post Office Protocol v3):

  POP3 is used for retrieving emails from a mail server. It is commonly used for downloading email messages to a local client, after which the messages are deleted from the server.

  While not as commonly used today (due to IMAP being preferred), POP3 is still a recognized email protocol, and its association with port 110 makes it a valid answer.

  Incorrect Options:

  Option A: Port 23: This is the Telnet protocol used for remote terminal access. It is not related to email traffic.

  Option C: Port 67: This port is associated with the DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server-to-client communications. It is unrelated to email.

  Option E: Port 137: This port is part of NetBIOS, used for name resolution in legacy Windows environments. It is not relevant to email traffic.

  Option F: Port 443: This port is used for HTTPS (secure web traffic) and is unrelated to email protocols.

  Key Takeaway:The two correct port numbers associated with email traffic are

  B. 25 (SMTP) for sending emails and

  D. 110 (POP3) for retrieving emails.

• Question 134:

  Which of the following will most likely be used in a testing environment to execute unauthorized or experimental code without affecting production systems?

  A. Virtual machines
  B. Hybrid cloud
  C. Load balancers
  D. Application gateways
  A. Virtual machines

  ---

  Explanation

  CompTIA A+ strongly emphasizes that virtual machines (VMs) are ideal for testing potentially unsafe software, malware samples, or experimental code because they isolate the environment from the host system. VMs allow snapshots, cloning, and rollback functionality, which makes them essential in development, QA, and cybersecurity environments where code might be unstable or harmful.

  Hybrid cloud refers to infrastructure strategy, not code execution isolation. Load balancers distribute production traffic but have no testing or sandboxing purpose. Application gateways filter traffic but do not provide execution environments.

  Virtual machines create a safe sandbox where failure, infection, or corruption is contained. This is covered in the Virtualization and Cloud Computing domain of the CompTIA A+ exam, making VMs the correct tool for executing unauthorized code safely.

• Question 135:

  While implementing a non-carrier-grade wireless backhaul, a technician notices the current channel selection is extremely polluted with various RF signals. Upon performing a spectral analysis, the technician discovers a channel containing almost no RF pollution. Unfortunately, the technician is unable to select that channel.

  Which of the following is the MOST likely reason for this issue?

  A. The channel is reserved for licensed band use.
  B. The channel selection is defective; contact the manufacturer.
  C. The channel must be unlocked by the vendor.
  D. The device requires a firmware update to unlock the channel.
  A. The channel is reserved for licensed band use.

  ---

  Explanation

  The 2 band is subdivided into up to 14 channels, spaced at 5 MHz intervals from 2412 MHz up to 2484 MHz. Wi-Fi requires bandwidth of approximately 20 MHz, not 5 MHz. Consequently, a site designer needs to choose the channels that do not overlap. On a WLAN where only the first 11 channels are available, channels 1, 6, and 11 can be selected as non-overlapping.

  Note: In the Americas, regulations permit the use of channels 1- 11 only, while in Europe, channels 1-13 are permitted. In Japan, all 14 channels are permitted.

• Question 136:

  Which of the following devices has ACL capabilities?

  A. PoE injector
  B. DSL
  C. Firewall
  D. Unmanaged switch
  C. Firewall

  ---

  Explanation

  Firewalls are specifically designed to monitor, filter, and control network traffic using Access Control Lists (ACLs). ACLs define which traffic is allowed or denied based on parameters like IP address, protocol, or port.

  From CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Official Study Guide, Objective 2.2 -Networking hardware and security:

  "Firewalls use access control lists (ACLs) to allow or deny traffic based on rules. Unmanaged switches and PoE injectors do not support ACLs."

  Verified Source:

  CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Official Study Guide, Chapter 2: Networking Security Devices CompTIA Exam Objectives 220-1101, Domain 2.2

• Question 137:

  A customer wants to archive a large number of photos and does not plan to retrieve them often. The customer wants a storage option that is the least expensive per gigabyte.

  Which of the following should the technician suggest?

  A. NVMe SSD
  B. SCSI RAID
  C. 15,000rpm SAS
  D. 5,400rpm HOD
  D. 5,400rpm HOD

  ---

  Explanation

  The correct answer is D. 5,400rpm HDD.

  A 5,400rpm HDD (Hard Disk Drive) is a type of storage device that uses spinning magnetic disks to store data. A 5,400rpm HDD is the least expensive per gigabyte among the options given, as it has a lower rotational speed and performance than other types of HDDs or SSDs (Solid State Drives). A 5,400rpm HDD is suitable for archiving a large number of photos that are not accessed frequently, as it can offer high capacity and reliability at a low cost. the average cost per gigabyte of a 5,400rpm HDD is around $0.02 to $0.0312, while the average cost per gigabyte of the other options are:

  NVMe SSD: $0.10 to $0.1534

  SCSI RAID: $0.20 to $0.305

  15,000rpm SAS: $0.30 to $0.40

  Therefore, a 5,400rpm HDD is the cheapest option among the four.

  References:

  CompTIA A+ Core 1: RAM & Storage Solutions Flashcards

• Question 138:

  After a laptop screen has been replaced, the laptop is having Wi-Fi connectivity issues. No SSIDs are discovered. Bluetooth and Ethernet are working.

  Which of the following should a technician investigate first?

  A. Wireless card
  B. Wireless antenna
  C. Wireless AP
  D. Network interface card
  E. Motherboard
  B. Wireless antenna

  ---

  Explanation

  When a laptop screen is replaced, the technician typically removes the display assembly components and works near the hinge area where the Wi-Fi antenna leads are routed. In most laptops, the Wi-Fi antennas are built into the display bezel and connect to the wireless adapter using thin coax cables labeled MAIN/AUX. If one or both antenna leads are left disconnected, pinched, or not fully seated during reassembly, the Wi-Fi adapter may still appear in the OS, but the radio signal strength becomes extremely weak. A common symptom is no SSIDs found or only very close/strong networks intermittently. Bluetooth working does not rule this out because Bluetooth can have separate antennas or may still function at short range even when Wi-Fi reception is poor. Ethernet working confirms general network access and suggests the issue is isolated to the Wi-Fi radio path rather than the router, ISP, or OS networking stack. The wireless access point is unlikely to be the cause if the issue started immediately after hardware service and other devices can see SSIDs. Therefore, the first hardware check should be the wireless antenna connections and routing.

• Question 139:

  A technician is troubleshooting a workstation that repeatedly shuts down within ten minutes of being turned on. The technician notices a loud clicking sound coming from inside the case.

  Which of the following components should the technician check first?

  A. Exhaust fan
  B. Capacitors
  C. CPU fan
  D. Intake fan
  C. CPU fan

  ---

  Explanation

  A failing CPU fan may make unusual noises (including clicking) and, if it is not cooling the CPU, the system will quickly overheat and shut down to prevent damage.

  From CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Official Study Guide, Objective 4.1 -Troubleshooting hardware problems:

  "Overheating due to a failed or obstructed CPU fan can cause frequent shutdowns. Loud noises are a sign the fan should be checked first."

  Verified Source:

  CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Official Study Guide, Chapter 4: PC Hardware Troubleshooting CompTIA Exam Objectives 220-1101, Domain 4.1

• Question 140:

  Which of the following printing initiatives would be best to accomplish environmentally friendly objectives?

  A. Requiring user authentication for printing
  B. Locking down printing to only certain individuals
  C. Modifying duplex settings to double-sided
  D. Changing the print quality settings to best
  C. Modifying duplex settings to double-sided

  ---

  Explanation

  Modifying duplex settings to double-sided:

  Printing on both sides of the paper (duplex printing) reduces paper usage, making it one of the most effective environmentally friendly printing initiatives.

  It directly minimizes waste and supports sustainability goals in the workplace.

  Incorrect Options:

  Option A: Requiring user authentication for printing: While this can reduce unnecessary or unauthorized printing, it does not directly address environmental objectives like saving resources.

  Option B: Locking down printing to only certain individuals: Limiting access may reduce printing overall, but it does not actively contribute to environmentally friendly practices like duplex printing.

  Option D: Changing the print quality settings to best: Using the "best" print quality increases toner or ink usage, which is counterproductive to environmentally friendly objectives.

  Key Takeaway:

  Modifying duplex settings to enable double-sided printing is the best initiative to achieve environmentally friendly goals by reducing paper consumption.

  References:

  CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objectives (220-1201), Domain 3.8 - Implementing best practices for environmental impact.