CompTIA 220-1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Core 2 Exam Exam Practice Test

Quarantining the infected system is the most appropriate way to remediate the issue of an infection that the antivirus software cannot remove. Quarantining means isolating the system from the network and other devices to prevent the infection from spreading or causing further damage. Quarantining also allows the technician to perform further analysis and removal of the infection without risking the security of other systems or data.

Some of the steps involved in quarantining an infected system are:

Disconnect the system from the internet and any local network connections, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, or USB.

Disable any file-sharing or remote access services on the system, such as Windows File Sharing, Remote Desktop, or TeamViewer.

Use a separate device to download and update the antivirus software and any other tools that may be needed to remove the infection, such as malware scanners, rootkit removers, or bootable rescue disks.

Transfer the updated antivirus software and tools to the infected system using a removable media, such as a CD, DVD, or USB flash drive. Scan the removable media for any infections before and after using it on the infected system.

Run the antivirus software and tools on the infected system and follow the instructions to delete or quarantine the infection. If the infection is persistent or complex, it may require booting the system from a rescue disk or using a Linux live disc to access and clean the system files.

After the infection is removed, restore the system to a previous clean state using System Restore, backup, or recovery partition. Scan the system again to ensure that it is clean and secure. Reconnect the system to the network and update the system and the antivirus software.

References:

How to Identify and Repair Malware or Virus Infected Computers, section 31

Uninstalling Antivirus Software, the Clean Way: 40 Removal Tools & Instructions, section 22

How to manually remove an infected file from a Windows computer3

The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide (220-1102), page 2194

The SSID (Service Set Identifier) is the name of a wireless network that is broadcasted by the router or the Wi-Fi base station. The SSID helps nearby devices to identify and connect to the available networks. However, broadcasting the SSID also exposes the network to potential connection attempts from unauthorized or malicious users. Therefore, disabling the SSID can mitigate connection attempts by making the network invisible or hidden to the devices that are not already connected to it. To connect to a hidden network, the user would need to know the exact SSID and enter it manually.

The other options are not related to mitigating connection attempts to the corporate Wi-Fi. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a protocol that assigns IP addresses to the devices on a network. Firewall is a software or hardware device that filters the incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined rules. SSD (Solid State Drive) is a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data. Disabling any of these options would not prevent connection attempts to the Wi-Fi network, and may cause other problems or issues for the network functionality and performance.

References:

What is SSID + how to find (and change) it1

Choosing an SSID2

SSID Meaning: Finding Your Network’s Name3

MFA stands for multi-factor authentication, which is an electronic authentication method that requires the user to provide two or more verification factors to gain access to a resource such as an application, online account, or a VPN1. MFA provides security enhancement by making it harder for attackers to compromise the user’s identity or credentials, as they would need to obtain more than just the username and password. MFA can also prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data or resources, as well as reduce the risk of identity theft or fraud2. 

One of the common reasons for a slow smartphone performance is having too many apps installed and running in the background. These apps consume the device’s memory (RAM) and CPU resources, which can affect the speed and responsiveness of the phone. Rebooting the phone can temporarily clear the RAM and stop some background processes, but they may resume after a while. Connecting to a different network does not affect the performance of the phone, unless the network is congested or has a poor signal. The user can improve the phone’s performance by uninstalling unused apps, clearing app caches, and restricting background activities12. Malware can also slow down a phone, but it is not the most likely cause in this scenario, as the user does not report any other symptoms of infection, such as pop-ups, battery drain, or data usage spikes3. Jailbreaking a phone can also affect its performance, but it is not a cause, rather a consequence, of the user’s actions. Jailbreaking is the process of removing the manufacturer’s restrictions on a phone, which allows the user to install unauthorized apps, customize the system, and access root privileges4. However, jailbreaking also exposes the phone to security risks, voids the warranty, and may cause instability or compatibility issues5.

References1: Speed up a slow Android device - Android Help - Google Help2: Why your phone slows down over time and what you can do to stop it | TechRadar3: How to tell if your phone has a virus | Norton4: What is Jailbreaking? - Definition from Techopedia5: What is Jailbreaking an iPhone? – Lifewire

 Group Policy is a feature of Windows that allows administrators to centrally manage and configure the settings of computers and users in a domain network. Group Policy can be used to modify the default home page of all the workstations in a company by creating and applying a policy that specifies the desired URL for the home page. This way, the change will be automatically applied to all the workstations that are joined to the domain and receive the policy.

The -a option is used to display hidden files and directories in a command-line interface. Hidden files and directories are those that start with a dot (.) and are normally not shown by default. The -a option stands for “all” and shows all files and directories, including the hidden ones. The -a option can be used with commands such as ls, dir, or find to list or search for hidden files and directories. The -s, -lh, and -t options are not used to display hidden files and directories. The -s option stands for “size” and shows the size of files or directories in bytes. The -lh option stands for “long human-readable” and shows the size of files or directories in a more readable format, such as KB, MB, or GB. The -t option stands for “time” and sorts the files or directories by modification time. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 17

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 107

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a remote access tool that allows the technician to access and control various Windows, Linux, and macOS desktops on the company LAN using a graphical user interface. VNC does not require an external internet connection, as it works over a local network or a VPN. VNC uses a client-server model, where the server runs on the remote desktop and the client connects to it from another device. VNC can transmit the keyboard and mouse events from the client to the server, and the screen updates from the server to the client, enabling the technician to interact with the remote desktop as if it were local12.

VNC is a better option than the other choices because:

RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) (B) is not a single software solution, but a category of software solutions that enable IT professionals to remotely monitor, manage, and troubleshoot multiple devices and networks. RMM software may include remote access tools, but also other features such as patch management, backup and recovery, security, reporting, and automation. RMM software may require an external internet connection, as it often relies on cloud-based services or web-based consoles34.

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) © is a remote access tool that allows the technician to access and control Windows desktops on the company LAN using a graphical user interface. However, RDP is not compatible with Linux or macOS desktops, unless they have third-party software installed that can emulate or translate the RDP protocol. RDP also has some security and performance issues, such as encryption vulnerabilities, bandwidth consumption, and latency problems56.

SSH (Secure Shell) (D) is a remote access tool that allows the technician to access and control various Windows, Linux, and macOS desktops on the company LAN using a command-line interface. SSH does not require an external internet connection, as it works over a local network or a VPN. SSH uses encryption and authentication to secure the communication between the client and the server. However, SSH does not provide a graphical user interface, which may limit the functionality and usability of the remote desktop7 .

References:

1: What is VNC? - Definition from Techopedia1 2: How VNC Works - RealVNC2 3: What is Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM)? - Definition from Techopedia3 4: What is RMM Software? - NinjaRMM4 5: What is Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)? - Definition from Techopedia5 6: Remote Desktop Protocol: What it is and how to secure it - CSO Online6 7: What is Secure Shell (SSH)? - Definition from Techopedia7 : How to Use SSH to Access a Remote Server in Linux or Windows - Hostinger Tutorials

Risk analysis is the process of identifying and evaluating the potential threats and impacts of a change on the system, network, or service. It is an essential step before approving a change request, as it helps to determine the level of risk, the mitigation strategies, and the contingency plans. Risk analysis also helps to prioritize the change requests based on their urgency and importance12.

References: 1 The Change Request Process and Best Assessment and Analysis Methods: Qualitative and

Remotely wiping the device is the best option to prevent unauthorized access to the company data stored on the phone. A low-level format, degaussing, or providing the GPS location of the device are not feasible or effective actions to take in this scenario.

References: The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide1, page 315.

System Restore is a feature that allows the user to revert the system to a previous state. However, this can also restore the malware that was removed by the technician. Disabling System Restore can prevent the operating system from automatically returning to an infected state. Enabling antivirus, educating the user, and enabling System Restore are good preventive measures, but they do not address the question. Disabling antivirus can make the system more vulnerable to malware attacks

The scenario described in the question suggests that the workstation has been infected by a ransomware, which is a type of malware that encrypts the files on the target system and demands a ransom for the decryption key12. The file extension .enc is commonly used by some ransomware variants to mark the encrypted files34. The developer is unable to open the database files manually because they are encrypted and require the decryption key, which is usually held by the attacker.

The best option for recovering the data is to utilize the backups, assuming that the backups are recent, valid, and not affected by the ransomware. Backups are copies of the data that are stored in a separate location or device, and can be used to restore the data in case of a disaster, such as a ransomware attack . By restoring the data from the backups, the developer can avoid paying the ransom and losing the data permanently.

Accessing a restore point is not a good option, because restore points are snapshots of the system settings and configuration, not the data files. Restore points can help to undo some system changes, such as installing a faulty driver or software, but they cannot recover the encrypted data files .

Rebooting into safe mode is also not a good option, because safe mode is a diagnostic mode that allows the system to run with minimal drivers and services, but it does not affect the data files. Safe mode can help to troubleshoot some system issues, such as malware infections, but it cannot decrypt the data files .

Using an AV to scan the affected files is also not a good option, because an AV is a software that can detect and remove some malware, but it cannot decrypt the data files. An AV can help to prevent or remove some ransomware infections, but it cannot recover the encrypted data files .

References1: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 10 2: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Complete Video Course, Lesson 26 Documentation 3: How to remove .enc file virus (Ransomware virus removal guide) 4: Enc File Extension - What is an .enc file and how do I open it? : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 13 : CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Complete Video Course, Lesson 26 Documentation : What is a restore point? : How to use System Restore on Windows 10 : [What is Safe Mode?] : [How to boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10] : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 10 : [Can antivirus software remove ransomware?]

Full backup is the best option to ensure that the restore process is as simple as possible. A full backup is a backup type that copies all the data from the source to the destination, regardless of whether the data has changed or not. A full backup provides the most complete and consistent backup of the data, and it allows the user to restore the data from a single backup set without relying on any previous or subsequent backups. Incremental, differential, and synthetic backups are not as simple as full backups for restoring data. An incremental backup is a backup type that copies only the data that has changed since the last backup, whether it was full or incremental. An incremental backup requires less time and space than a full backup, but it also requires multiple backup sets to restore the data completely. A differential backup is a backup type that copies only the data that has changed since the last full backup. A differential backup requires more time and space than an incremental backup, but it also requires fewer backup sets to restore the data than an incremental backup. A synthetic backup is a backup type that combines a full backup with one or more incremental or differential backups to create a consolidated backup set. A synthetic backup requires less time and bandwidth than a full backup, but it also requires more processing power and storage space than an incremental or differential backup. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 15

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 458

Setting the connection to be metered is the best solution for limiting the amount of cellular data a user’s Windows 10 tablet can utilize when traveling. A metered connection is a network connection that has a data limit or charges fees based on the amount of data used. Windows 10 allows users to set any network connection as metered, which reduces the amount of data that Windows and some apps use in the background. For example, setting a connection as metered will prevent Windows from downloading updates automatically, stop some apps from syncing data online, and disable some live tiles on the Start menu. Setting a connection as metered can help users save cellular data and avoid extra charges when traveling. Turning on airplane mode, configuring the device to use a static IP address, and enabling the Windows Defender Firewall are not effective solutions for limiting the amount of cellular data a user’s Windows 10 tablet can utilize when traveling. Turning on airplane mode will disable all wireless connections on the device, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular data. This will prevent the user from accessing any online services or applications on the tablet. Configuring the device to use a static IP address will assign a fixed IP address to the device instead of obtaining one dynamically from a DHCP server. This will not affect the amount of cellular data the device uses, and it may cause IP conflicts or connectivity issues on some networks. Enabling the Windows Defender Firewall will block or allow incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined or custom rules. This will not reduce the amount of cellular data the device uses, and it may interfere with some apps or services that require network access. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 19

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 108

Scripting languages are used to write small to medium-sized programs that perform specific tasks. Some common uses of scripting languages are: automating repetitive processes, web development, system administration, data processing, multimedia and games, report generation, document and text processing, writing plugins and extensions for existing programs and applications1.

References: 1 What is Scripting Language?: Introduction, Types, Uses & Career

Windows is widely used in industrial and business environments due to its major market presence, extensive support from the industry, and a broad selection of operating system options. It supports a wide variety of software, making it suitable for running complex systems like an inventory management system in a factory. Other options such as Chrome OS, Android, and iOS are either more consumer-oriented or designed for specific types of devices, making them less likely choices for an industrial application like inventory management.References: Professor Messer’s CompTIA 220-1102 A+ Course Notes​​.

A technician needs to reimage a desktop in an area without network access, which means that the technician cannot use network-based methods such as PXE or SMB to deploy the image. Therefore, the technician should use offline methods that involve removable media such as USB or optical media. USB and optical media are common ways to store and transfer system images, and they can be used to boot the desktop and initiate the reimaging process. The technician will need to create a bootable USB or optical media that contains the system image and the imaging software, and then insert it into the desktop and change the boot order in the BIOS or UEFI settings. The technician can then follow the instructions on the screen to reimage the desktop

The protocol that most likely allowed the data theft to occur is SMB over TCP port 445. SMB is a network file sharing protocol that enables access to files, printers, and other resources on a network. Port 445 is used by SMB to communicate directly over TCP without the need for NetBIOS, which is an older and less secure protocol. The security log shows that the source IP address 192.168.1.1 sent a file named secrets.zip using SMB protocol to the destination IP address 192.168.1.50, which captured the file. The Windows firewall information shows that port 445 is enabled for inbound and outbound traffic, which means that it is not blocked by the firewall. Therefore, port 445 is the most likely port that was exploited by the attacker to steal the data from the corporate laptop.

References:

SMB port number: Ports 445, 139, 138, and 137 explained1

What is an SMB Port + Ports 445 and 139 Explained2

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives3

A sandbox is an isolated environment that allows for the testing of critical systems without the risk of them being negatively impacted by changes. A sandbox can be used to simulate real-world scenarios, experiment with new features, debug errors, or evaluate the performance and security of a system. A sandbox can be created using virtualization, emulation, or containerization technologies. A sandbox prevents any changes made in the testing environment from affecting the production environment, which is the actual system that is used by the end users.

Installing new software on an organization’s system or device can have various implications, such as compatibility, security, performance, licensing, and compliance issues. Therefore, it is important to follow the best practices for software installation, such as doing research on the software, checking the system requirements, scanning the installation file for malware, and obtaining the proper license345. The technician should not install the software without formal approval from the management team, as this could violate the organization’s policies or regulations. The technician should also not install the software without investigating the software and its impact on the organization, as this could introduce potential risks or problems to the system or device. The technician should indicate to the developer that formal approval is needed, and then work with the IT team to evaluate the software and its suitability for the organization before installing it

BitLocker is a Windows security feature that provides encryption for entire volumes, addressing the threats of data theft or exposure from lost, stolen, or inappropriately decommissioned devices1. BitLocker is available on supported devices running Windows 10 or 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education2. Windows 10 Home does not support BitLocker3, and Windows 10 Embedded is designed for specialized devices and does not offer BitLocker as a feature4. Therefore, the most appropriate Windows 10 edition for a single user who wants to encrypt a hard drive with BitLocker is Professional.

References1: BitLocker overview - Windows Security | Microsoft Learn2: Device encryption in Windows - Microsoft Support3: Can You Turn on BitLocker on Windows 10 Home?4: How to enable device encryption on Windows 10 Home

WPA2 is the only protocol among the options that supports fast roaming between networks. Fast roaming, also known as IEEE 802.11r or Fast BSS Transition (FT), enables a client device to roam quickly in environments implementing WPA2 Enterprise security, by ensuring that the client device does not need to re-authenticate to the RADIUS server every time it roams from one access point to another1. WEP, WPA, LEAP, and PEAP do not support fast roaming and require the client device to perform the full authentication process every time it roams, which can cause delays and interruptions in the network service.

References:

The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide2, page 263.

WiFi Fast Roaming, Simplified3

The best way to deal with an angry customer who is yelling at a technician is to wait until the customer is done speaking and offer assistance. This shows respect, empathy, and professionalism, and allows the technician to understand the customer’s problem and find a solution. According to the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Certification Study Guide1, some of the steps to handle angry customers are:

Stay calm and do not take it personally.

Listen actively and acknowledge the customer’s feelings.

Apologize sincerely and offer to help.

Restate the customer’s issue and ask for clarification if needed.

Explain the possible causes and solutions for the problem.

Provide clear and realistic expectations for the resolution.

Follow up with the customer until the issue is resolved.

The other options are not appropriate ways to deal with angry customers, as they may worsen the situation or damage the customer relationship. Placing the customer on hold may make them feel ignored or dismissed. Disconnecting the call may make them feel disrespected or abandoned. Escalating the issue to a supervisor may make them feel frustrated or powerless, unless the technician cannot resolve the issue or the customer requests to speak to a supervisor.

References:

CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives2

CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Certification Study Guide1

How To Deal with Angry Customers (With Examples and Tips)3

17 ways to deal with angry customers: Templates and examples4

Six Ways to Handle Angry Customers5

A software firewall is a program that monitors and controls the incoming and outgoing network traffic on a computer or a server. A software firewall can help prevent unauthorized LAN devices from accessing stored files on a company file server by applying rules and policies that filter the network packets based on their source, destination, protocol, port, or content. A software firewall can also block or allow specific applications or services from communicating with the network, and alert the administrator of any suspicious or malicious activity12.

A software firewall is a better option than the other choices because:

Password complexity (B) is a good practice to protect the file server from unauthorized access, but it is not sufficient by itself. Password complexity refers to the use of strong passwords that are hard to guess or crack by attackers, and that are changed frequently and securely. Password complexity can prevent brute force attacks or credential theft, but it cannot stop network attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in the file server software or hardware, or that bypass the authentication process34.

Antivirus application © and anti-malware scans (D) are important tools to protect the file server from viruses and malware that can infect, damage, or encrypt the stored files. However, they are not effective in preventing unauthorized LAN devices from accessing the files in the first place. Antivirus and anti-malware tools can only detect and remove known threats, and they may not be able to stop zero-day attacks or advanced persistent threats that can evade or disable them. Moreover, antivirus and anti-malware tools cannot control the network traffic or the file server permissions, and they may not be compatible with all file server platforms or configurations56.

References:

1: What is a Firewall and How Does it Work? - Cisco1 2: How to Harden Your Windows Server - ServerMania2 3: Password Security: Complexity vs. Length - Norton7 4: Password Hardening: 5 Ways to Protect Your Passwords - Infosec 5: What is Antivirus Software and How Does it Work? - Kaspersky 6: What is Anti-Malware? - Malwarebytes

In order to connect to a user’s laptop via RDP, the technician should open port 3389 on the Windows firewall. This is because RDP uses port 3389 for communication12. The other options are not necessary or relevant for establishing an RDP connection.

Confirming the user can ping the default gateway is not required for RDP, as it only tests the network connectivity between the user’s laptop and the router. RDP works over the internet, so the technician should be able to ping the user’s laptop directly using its IP address3.

Changing the IP address on the user’s laptop is not needed for RDP, as long as the IP address is valid and not conflicting with another device on the network. The user’s laptop has a valid IP address of 192.168.0.45, which belongs to the same subnet as the gateway (192.168.0.1) and the subnet mask (255.255.255.0)4.

Changing the subnet mask on the user’s laptop is not required for RDP, as long as the subnet mask matches the network configuration. The user’s laptop has a correct subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, which defines a network with 254 possible hosts4.

References:

1: [What is RDP and How Does It Work? - CompTIA] 2: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives - CompTIA 3: [Ping (networking utility) - Wikipedia] 4: [IP address - Wikipedia] : What is RDP and How Does It Work? - CompTIA : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives - CompTIA : Ping (networking utility) - Wikipedia) : IP address - Wikipedia

A warning message in the user’s browser stating the site’s certificate cannot be verified indicates that the site may be insecure, fraudulent, or malicious. This could be a sign of a phishing attempt, where the sender of the email tries to trick the user into clicking a link that leads to a fake website that mimics a legitimate one, in order to steal the user’s personal or financial information. The most appropriate action for a technician to take in this situation is to close the browser window and report the email to IT security, who can investigate the source and content of the email, and take the necessary steps to protect the user and the network from potential harm. Clicking proceed could expose the user to malware, identity theft, or data breach. Reporting the employee to the human resources department for violating company policy is unnecessary and harsh, as the user may not have been aware of the phishing attempt or the company policy. Restoring the computer from the last known backup is premature and ineffective, as the user may not have been infected by anything, and the backup may not remove the email or the link from the user’s inbox

Educating the end user on best practices for security is the next step that the technician should take after successfully removing malicious software from an infected computer. Educating the end user on best practices for security is an important part of preventing future infections and mitigating risks. The technician should explain to the end user how to avoid common sources of malware, such as phishing emails, malicious websites, or removable media. The technician should also advise the end user to use strong passwords, update software regularly, enable antivirus and firewall protection, and backup data frequently. Educating the end user on best practices for security can help the end user become more aware and responsible for their own security and reduce the likelihood of recurrence of malware infections. Quarantining the host in the antivirus system, investigating how the system was infected with malware, and creating a system restore point are not the next steps that the technician should take after successfully removing malicious software from an infected computer. Quarantining the host in the antivirus system is a step that the technician should take before removing malicious software from an infected computer. Quarantining the host in the antivirus system means isolating the infected computer from the network or other devices to prevent the spread of malware. Investigating how the system was infected with malware is a step that the technician should take during or after removing malicious software from an infected computer. Investigating how the system was infected with malware means identifying the source, type, and impact of malware on the system and documenting the findings and actions taken. Creating a system restore point is a step that the technician should take before removing malicious software from an infected computer. Creating a system restore point means saving a snapshot of the system’s configuration and settings at a certain point in time, which can be used to restore the system in case of failure or corruption. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 15

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 458

Temperature and humidity levels are the most important environmental factors to consider when planning the configuration of a data center, as they directly affect the performance, reliability, and energy efficiency of the IT equipment. Excessive heat or moisture can cause overheating, corrosion, condensation, or static electricity, which can damage the hardware and lead to data loss or service disruption. Therefore, data centers need to monitor and control the temperature and humidity levels within the recommended ranges by using various cooling systems, airflow management, and sensors12.

References: 1 5 Factors to Consider for Data Center Environmental Center Environmental standards and Controls -

Chain of custody documentation is a record of the sequence of custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical or electronic evidence. It is important to maintain a chain of custody to ensure the integrity and authenticity of the evidence, and to prevent tampering or contamination. If a laptop that was in the evidence room of a police station is missing, the best reason to refer to chain of custody documentation is to determine which party had the machine and when. This can help to identify the possible suspects, locate the missing laptop, and verify if the evidence on the laptop was compromised or not

 Date and time is the most likely cause of the issue. The date and time settings on a workstation affect the validity of the certificates used by websites to establish secure connections. If the date and time are incorrect, the workstation may not recognize the certificate as valid and display an invalid certificate error. Other workstations on the same local network may not have this issue if their date and time are correct. User access control, UEFI boot mode, and log-on times are not likely causes of the issue. User access control is a feature that prevents unauthorized changes to the system by prompting for confirmation or credentials. UEFI boot mode is a firmware interface that controls the boot process of the workstation. Log-on times are settings that restrict when a user can log in to the workstation. None of these factors affect the validity of the certificates used by websites. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 14

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 456

RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol, which is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft that allows a user to remotely access and control another computer over a network. RDP provides a secure session that encrypts the data between the client and the host, and allows the user to see and interact with the desktop and applications of the remote computer as if they were sitting in front of it. RDP also supports features such as audio, video, clipboard, printer, and file sharing, as well as multiple monitor support and session recording. To use RDP, the host computer must have Remote Desktop enabled and configured, and the client computer must have a Remote Desktop client software installed. The client can connect to the host by entering its IP address, hostname, or domain name, and providing the login credentials of a user account on the host. RDP is commonly used for remote administration, technical support, and remote work scenarios

Malware is malicious software that can cause damage or harm to a computer system or network4. A technician has verified a computer is infected with malware by observing unusual behavior, such as slow performance, pop-ups, or unwanted ads. The technician isolates the system and updates the anti-malware software to prevent further infection or spread of the malware. The next step is to run repeated remediation scans until the malware is removed. A remediation scan is a scan that detects and removes malware from the system. Running one scan may not be enough to remove all traces of malware, as some malware may hide or regenerate itself.

A corporate EULA is a type of end-user license agreement that is designed for a large organization that needs to use proprietary software with vendor support for a multiuser environment. A corporate EULA typically grants the organization a volume license that allows it to install and use the software on multiple devices or servers, and to distribute the software to its employees or affiliates. A corporate EULA also usually provides the organization with technical support, maintenance, updates, and warranty from the software vendor, as well as some customization options and discounts. A corporate EULA may also include terms and conditions that specify the rights and obligations of both parties, such as confidentiality, liability, indemnification, termination, and dispute resolution12.

A corporate EULA is a better option than the other choices because:

A perpetual EULA (B) is a type of end-user license agreement that grants the user a permanent and irrevocable license to use the software, without any time limit or expiration date. However, a perpetual EULA does not necessarily include vendor support, updates, or warranty, and it may not allow the user to install the software on multiple devices or servers, or to distribute the software to other users. A perpetual EULA may also be more expensive than a corporate EULA, as it requires a one-time payment upfront, rather than a recurring subscription fee34.

An open-source EULA © is a type of end-user license agreement that grants the user a license to use, modify, and redistribute the software, which is publicly available and free of charge. However, an open-source EULA does not provide any vendor support, maintenance, updates, or warranty, and it may impose some restrictions or obligations on the user, such as disclosing the source code, attributing the original author, or using a compatible license for derivative works. An open-source EULA may not be suitable for a large organization that needs proprietary software with vendor support for a multiuser environment56.

A personal EULA (D) is a type of end-user license agreement that grants the user a license to use the software for personal, non-commercial purposes only. A personal EULA may limit the number of devices or servers that the user can install the software on, and prohibit the user from distributing, copying, or reselling the software to other users. A personal EULA may also provide limited or no vendor support, maintenance, updates, or warranty, and it may have a fixed or renewable term. A personal EULA may not meet the needs of a large organization that needs proprietary software with vendor support for a multiuser environment7 .

References:

1: What is a Corporate License Agreement? - Definition from Techopedia1 2: Corporate License Agreement - Template - Word & PDF2 3: What is a Perpetual License? - Definition from Techopedia3 4: Perpetual vs. Subscription Software Licensing: Which Is Best for You?4 5: What is an Open Source License? - Definition from Techopedia5 6: Open Source Licenses: Which One Should You Use?6 7: What is a Personal License Agreement? - Definition from Techopedia7 : Personal License Agreement - Template - Word & PDF

Developer Mode on Windows 10 is a feature that allows developers to test and debug their applications on their devices, as well as sideload apps and access other developer tools12. To enable Developer Mode, the user needs to go to the Settings app, select Update & Security, choose For Developers, and switch to Developer Mode123. However, enabling Developer Mode requires internet connectivity, as Windows will download and install a package of features, such as Windows Device Portal and SSH services, that are necessary for Developer Mode124. If the user does not have internet connectivity, they will receive a “failed to install package” message when trying to enable Developer Mode4. Therefore, the first thing that the technician should do is to ensure that the laptop has internet access, either through Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and then try to enable Developer Mode again4

The customer’s web browser is likely infected by a browser hijacker, which is a type of malware that changes the browser’s settings and redirects the user to malicious websites. A browser hijacker can also steal the user’s personal data, display unwanted ads, and install more malware on the device. To remove a browser hijacker, the user should first uninstall the browser from the Control Panel, then scan the device with an antivirus or anti-malware program, and finally install a trusted browser from a legitimate source. Deleting the browser cookies and history, resetting the browser settings, or changing the browser default search engine may not be enough to get rid of the browser hijacker, as it may have embedded itself into the system or other browser components. 

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) monitor network traffic for malicious activities and alert administrators, helping to prevent malware infections before they can impact the network significantly. CompTIA Core 2 emphasizes the importance of implementing preventive measures like IDS to proactively detect and respond to potential threats (Core 2 Objective 2.3)​.

Network drives can be automatically mapped for users based on Group Policy configuration using log-in scripts. Here’s how it works:

Log-in scripts: These are scripts executed when a user logs in to a domain. They can be configured through Group Policy in Active Directory to map network drives automatically. The scripts can use commands like net use to map drives.

Access control lists (ACLs): While ACLs control permissions for files and folders, they do not automatically map network drives.

Organizational units (OUs): OUs are used to organize users and computers in a directory structure but do not map drives.

Folder redirection: This redirects the path of a folder to a new location, typically on a network share, but it does not automatically map drives.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is highly vulnerable to key-cracking attacks, as its encryption key can be easily broken with freely available tools.

A. Complex configuration process – Incorrect. WEP is actually easy to configure.

B. Slow data transfer speed – Incorrect. WEP does not significantly impact speed.

D. Incompatibility with older devices – Incorrect. WEP is compatible with older devices but is insecure.

The ipconfig /all output shows the following:

IPv4 Address............ 192.168.0.74Subnet Mask............. 255.255.255.255Default Gateway......... 192.168.0.1

The issue with the subnet mask being set to 255.255.255.255 is that it specifies a single host subnet, meaning the device cannot communicate with other devices on the network or access the internet. The correct subnet mask for a typical home network should be:

Subnet mask of 255.255.255.0: This allows for communication within the same local network (192.168.0.0/24).

Default gateway 192.168.0.1: Correct, this is the typical address for the router.

IPv4 Address 192.168.0.74: Correct, within the correct subnet range.

Changing the subnet mask to 255.255.255.0 will resolve the connectivity issue.

Enabling an allow list (Option D) will limit access to the wireless network by only allowing devices with specified MAC addresses to connect. This is an effective method for minimizing Wi-Fi access in a crowded environment.

Port forwarding (Option A) controls traffic through specific ports but doesn't minimize wireless access.

Unused ports (Option B) could refer to physical network ports or firewall settings, unrelated to controlling Wi-Fi access.

Disabling SSID broadcast (Option C) might hide the network name but doesn't secure access.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

2.9 - Configure security settings for SOHO networks, including MAC filtering .

In the event of a security breach, documenting the incident is crucial for tracking, analysis, and resolution. The appropriate steps should ensure thorough documentation and communication:

Option A: Record the details in the ticketing system.Correct Answer. The ticketing system is the primary tool for IT support to track incidents. Recording the details in the ticketing system ensures that all relevant information is documented systematically, can be easily accessed, and tracked through the resolution process.

This aligns with best practices in incident documentation and support systems information management as outlined in the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Exam Objectives, Section 4.1​​.

Option B: Take screenshots and attach them to the root cause analysis.While screenshots can be useful, the first step should be to record the details in the ticketing system. Screenshots may be added later as supplementary information.

Option C: Discuss the incident with the company’s legal team.Involving the legal team is important for certain aspects of a security breach, but the initial step should still be to document the incident in the ticketing system.

When a user needs to install optional features for a program that is already installed, the technician should:

Go to Programs and Features: Access this via the Control Panel.

Select the program: Find the installed program in the list.

Click on Change: The "Change" option allows modifications to the installed program, such as adding or removing features, without completely uninstalling and reinstalling the program.

This method is the most efficient and avoids unnecessary reinstallation of the software, which could lead to data loss or require reconfiguration.

To import a new digital certificate and place it in the proper location, the technician should use the "Internet Options" utility in the Control Panel. This utility allows users to manage various settings related to internet connections and security, including the import and management of digital certificates under the "Content" tab.

B. Network and Sharing Center is used for managing network connections and sharing settings but not for managing digital certificates.

C. Credential Manager is used to store and manage login credentials for websites and applications but not for importing digital certificates.

D. Security and Maintenance provides an overview of the security and maintenance status of the system but does not directly handle digital certificate management.

References:

CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Exam Objectives, Section 1.4: Using Control Panel utilities including Internet Options for managing digital certificates​​.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:This is a scareware scam that attempts to trick users into installing malicious applications. The best action is to close the website and ignore the pop-up.

B. Replace the smartphone – Incorrect. The phone is likely not compromised; it is just displaying a fake warning.

C. Download and install the application to resolve the issue – Incorrect. Doing so could infect the device with malware.

D. Analyze the smartphone to find the source of the breach – Unnecessary, as there is no real breach.

The next step after isolating the system is to perform a system scan to remove the malware (Option C). Since ransomware is suspected, running a comprehensive malware scan can help identify and remove the malicious software. It is crucial to deal with the active threat before taking further actions.

Scheduling an antivirus scan and system update (Option A) may help, but the immediate concern is identifying and removing the ransomware.

Educating the end user (Option B) is important but should happen after the immediate threat is resolved.

Creating a system restore point (Option D) would not be useful at this point since the system is infected.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

2.3 - Detect, remove, and prevent malware, including handling ransomware​.

When a user can access the local network (as evidenced by printing to network printers) but not the internet, the issue is often related to Domain Name System (DNS) resolution. DNS is responsible for translating domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses that computers use to communicate. If the DNS settings are incorrect or the DNS server is unreachable, the computer won't be able to find the IP addresses of websites and other internet resources.

When a technician is unable to connect to a laptop over a VPN, one of the most common reasons is that the firewall settings on either the laptop or the network are blocking the connection.

Wireless protocol: Unrelated, as the technician is already connected to the VPN.

DHCP pool: Unlikely to be the issue, as it deals with IP address assignment.

Content filtering: Typically involves filtering web content, not affecting direct connections.

Firewall: The correct setting to review, as it may block the necessary ports or services required for remote access.

When an employee is unable to access the company portal using a VPN on their personal smartphone, the most likely cause is:

The smartphone is not enrolled in MDM service: Mobile Device Management (MDM) services often control access to company resources. If the smartphone is not enrolled, it may be blocked from accessing the VPN and, consequently, the company portal.

The application must be purchased by the company: Unlikely, as most VPN applications are free to download or included in the company's software package.

The smartphone is not on the latest OS version: While this could cause compatibility issues, it is less likely than the MDM enrollment issue.

The application fails to install and launch: This would be a different problem and would usually present specific error messages.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:To minimize costs and user disruption, the technician should:

B. Configure the backup to run after peak hours – This prevents slowdowns during working hours.

D. Use the built-in OS backup utility – This avoids additional licensing costs.

A. Configure the backup to run when the user logs in – Incorrect. This could slow down startup and affect productivity.

C. Use third-party licensed backup software – Incorrect. This would increase expenses.

E. Configure the backup job to run every hour – Incorrect. Frequent backups may slow down the system unnecessarily.

F. Use an external storage device – Incorrect. While useful, it may require additional costs and maintenance.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Joining a Windows client to a domain requires Enterprise administrative permissions because only domain administrators or authorized users can add computers to an Active Directory (AD) domain.

A. Local access – Incorrect. A user does not need to be physically near the computer; the action can be performed remotely.

B. Internet connection – Incorrect. A domain join occurs over a local network, not the internet.

D. Computer MAC address – Incorrect. MAC addresses are used for network identification but are not required to join a domain.

Steps to Join a Domain:

Open Settings > System > About > Domain or Workgroup Settings

Click Change settings > Change

Enter the domain name and provide admin credentials

Restart the computer

When a systems administrator needs to access a hypervisor and the default RDP port (3389) is blocked by company policy, the administrator can use an alternative method. One common alternative is using SSH:

Port 22: This is the default port for SSH (Secure Shell), which is commonly used for secure remote access to servers and hypervisors, especially in Unix/Linux environments.

Port 23: This is the default port for Telnet, which is an unsecured protocol and generally not recommended for remote access due to security concerns.

Port 80: This is the default port for HTTP, used for web traffic, not remote access.

Port 3090: This is not a standard port for remote access protocols.

Using SSH (port 22) is a secure and widely accepted method for remote management of servers and hypervisors.

The first step in securing a newly installed SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) wireless router is to ensure it has the latest firmware installed. Firmware updates often include important security patches and new features that protect the router from known vulnerabilities. Other actions, like disabling unused ports or guest accounts, can be useful for hardening the security, but they should come after the router is running the most recent and secure version of its firmware.

References:

CompTIA A+ Core 2 Objectives, Domain 2.1: Best Practices for Securing a SOHO Network​ (ProfMesser)​ (Whizlabs)

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Passwords provide the highest level of security because they cannot be bypassed using biometric spoofing techniques.

A. Face – Can be fooled with 2D images (on some devices).

B. Swipe – Very weak security.

D. Fingerprint – More secure than face/swipe but can still be faked.

The correct answer is B. Put the phone on silent.

IT professionals must maintain professionalism and minimize distractions while on the job.

Putting the phone on silent ensures that the technician stays focused without causing disruptions to their work environment.

If necessary, the technician can check and respond during an appropriate break.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Step aside and answer – This is unprofessional unless it is an emergency. Taking personal calls in front of a client can give a bad impression.

C. Text a reply – While this may seem reasonable, texting in front of a client still creates an unprofessional image.

D. Ignore the phone and continue working – While ignoring calls prevents distractions, a silent mode ensures that notifications do not cause disturbances (e.g., vibrations or sounds).

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Exam Reference:

Objective 5.1 – Given a scenario, use the best practice procedures for documentation, privacy, and professionalism.

Restarting services can resolve issues with web applications without requiring a full server reboot, which aligns with the company policy.

Restart services: Likely to resolve issues with the web application by refreshing the necessary services.

Roll back Windows updates: Unnecessary if the issue is with the application services.

Perform a Windows repair: More disruptive and not typically needed for application service issues.

Add RAM to the server: Would require a reboot and is not immediately necessary for troubleshooting application issues.

Time Machine (Option A) is macOS's built-in backup application. It allows users to automatically back up their entire system, including apps, music, photos, emails, and system files. Time Machine provides an easy way to restore files from a previous state or recover from a system failure.

FileVault (Option B) is used for encrypting data, not for backups.

Keychain (Option C) is a password management tool.

Mission Control (Option D) manages open windows and desktops but has no backup functionality.

CompTIA A+ Core 2 References:

1.10 - Features and tools of macOS, including backup options like Time Machine​​.

The user should configure extensions/add-ins. Since the issue involves a browser plug-in, checking if the extension or add-in is enabled or properly configured can resolve the issue. If the plug-in is disabled, the OTP prompt will not appear as expected.

The Ease of Access feature in Windows that allows a user to press keyboard shortcuts one key at a time is called "Sticky Keys." Sticky Keys is designed to assist users with disabilities who have difficulty pressing multiple keys simultaneously. To enable Sticky Keys:

Press the Shift key five times in a row: This is the quickest method to activate Sticky Keys. When you press the Shift key five times, a dialog box appears, asking if you want to turn on Sticky Keys. This method is widely documented as the default shortcut for enabling this feature.

Confirmation dialog: A confirmation dialog will appear asking if you want to turn on Sticky Keys. Click "Yes" to enable it.

Control Panel or Settings: Alternatively, you can enable Sticky Keys through the Control Panel or the Settings app. Go to "Ease of Access" settings, find the "Keyboard" section, and turn on Sticky Keys from there.

Configuring the Account Lockout Policy in Windows 10 is the appropriate action to limit password attempts. This security setting determines the number of failed login attempts that will trigger a lockout, preventing unauthorized access due to repeated password guessing. It is an effective measure to enhance security by deterring brute-force attacks.

Detailed Explanation with Core 2 References:Incremental backups only save changes made since the last backup, significantly reducing storage space requirements compared to full backups. This approach is consistent with the Core 2 objective of understanding various backup methods and their space requirements (Core 2 Objective 4.3)​.

When a user experiences slow web page loading on their phone while in the office, the most likely cause is:

High network traffic: In an office environment, many devices are often connected to the network simultaneously, which can lead to congestion and slow internet speeds. High network traffic means more devices are competing for the same bandwidth, causing delays.

Exceeded the data usage limit: This typically applies to cellular data plans, not Wi-Fi in an office setting.

Sluggish response time: This is a symptom rather than a cause and can result from high network traffic.

Degraded network service: While this could be a factor, it is broader and less specific than high network traffic, which is more directly related to the user's experience.

When a user is unable to access shared drives from a company-issued laptop while working from home, the likely requirement is:

VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN allows secure access to the company’s network from a remote location. Without a VPN connection, the user cannot access network resources such as shared drives.

IPv6: Involves IP addressing and is not directly related to accessing shared drives.

IPS (Intrusion Prevention System): Provides network security but does not facilitate access to shared drives.

DNS: Manages domain name resolution and is not typically the issue when specific shared drives are inaccessible.

The correct answer is B. Scripted Deployment.

Scripted deployment is the most effective method for remotely installing software across multiple devices, including remote employees’ machines.

IT departments commonly use scripting tools like PowerShell, Bash, or batch scripts, along with software deployment solutions like Microsoft SCCM, Intune, or Group Policy.

This method ensures automation, consistency, and remote execution without requiring physical access to each device.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Clone – Cloning is used to replicate entire system images but is not practical for deploying individual software programs remotely.

C. In-place – This term typically refers to in-place upgrades or updates to existing software, not new software deployment across multiple machines.

D. Image – Imaging refers to creating a full system image, including the OS and applications. While useful for deploying new computers, it is not ideal for remotely installing software on existing systems.

CompTIA A+ 220-1102 Exam Reference:

Objective 3.3 – Given a scenario, use remote access technologies.

Objective 4.2 – Given a scenario, implement cybersecurity best practices.

The "Error loading operating system" message in Windows typically indicates a problem with the boot process. This could be due to corrupted system files, boot configuration data (BCD) errors, or issues with the hard drive.

Windows has a built-in automated startup recovery tool designed to diagnose and fix these types of problems. It attempts to automatically find and repair issues that are preventing Windows from starting correctly.

Here's why the other options are not the best first step:

A. Disable the Secure Boot feature: Secure Boot is a security feature that helps prevent malware from loading during startup. While it can sometimes cause issues with incompatible hardware or software, it's unlikely to be the primary cause of this error after a Windows upgrade.

C. Format the drive: Formatting the drive should be a last resort as it will erase all data on the hard drive.

D. Resize the boot partition: Resizing the boot partition is a complex task and not usually necessary to fix a boot error.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Use the automated startup recovery:

This is usually attempted automatically when Windows fails to boot.

If it doesn't start automatically, you might need to access the Advanced Startup Options menu (usually by repeatedly pressing F8 or Shift+F8 during startup).

If automated repair fails, try other options from the Advanced Startup Options menu:

System Restore: Restore the system to a point before the upgrade.

Startup Repair: This tool can fix more complex boot errors.

Command Prompt: Use the command prompt to run commands like bootrec /fixmbr, bootrec /fixboot, and bootrec /rebuildbcd to repair the boot configuration.

In change management, the scope of a project lists all the changes that are taking place. The scope ensures that all team members understand the boundaries and extent of the project, helping to prevent unexpected changes. Here’s a

Scope: Defines the project's boundaries and deliverables, including all the planned changes. It ensures that everyone involved understands what is included and excluded in the project, minimizing unexpected changes.

Risk analysis: Identifies potential risks and their impact but does not list the changes.

Rollback plan: Provides a strategy for reverting changes if something goes wrong but does not list changes.

Review: Involves evaluating changes but does not compile the list of changes.

The camera and microphone on an iPhone activating without user input, especially after allowing applications to be installed outside the normal App Store, is a classic sign of the device being jailbroken. Jailbreaking an iPhone removes many of the built-in security features and restrictions, allowing the installation of apps from third-party sources. These third-party apps can be malicious and can gain unauthorized access to system resources like the camera and microphone.

A. The user connected a counterfeit Lightning cable to the iPhone. While counterfeit cables can be harmful, they typically cause charging or connectivity issues rather than security vulnerabilities that would enable camera and microphone activation without user input.

B. The device is unenrolled from Mobile Device Management. Unenrolling from MDM removes organizational controls but does not directly cause unauthorized camera and microphone activation.

D. The iPhone has an out-of-date operating system. An outdated OS can have vulnerabilities, but the scenario specifically mentions modifications to allow third-party app installations, pointing to jailbreaking as the primary cause.

References:

CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Exam Objectives, Section 2.3: Security measures and their purposes including mobile device security​​.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) allows a computer to boot from a network server and install a system image remotely. It is commonly used for large-scale deployments because it eliminates the need for physical installation media.

A. ISO – Incorrect. ISO files are used for manual installations, but they do not automate network deployments.

B. Secure – Incorrect. There is no "secure boot process" option for automated deployments. Secure Boot is a security feature.

C. USB – Incorrect. USB boot requires manual installation on each device, making it inefficient for mass deployment.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:If an MDM (Mobile Device Management) solution detects unauthorized applications, it is likely that the user has rooted (Android) or jailbroken (iOS) the device to bypass security restrictions. Root access allows the user to install unauthorized applications that MDM policies would normally block.

B. Upgraded the OS – Incorrect. Upgrading the OS does not bypass security policies or allow unauthorized apps.

C. Installed a VPN – Incorrect. A VPN does not affect the MDM system or allow unauthorized apps.

D. Uninstalled the MDM software – Incorrect. If the MDM software was removed, the device would not still be reporting to the MDM server.

Regionally diverse backups are backups that are stored in different geographic locations, preferably far away from the primary site1. This way, if a disaster such as a hurricane or a power outage affects one location, the backups in another location will still be available and accessible2. Regionally diverse backups can help ensure business continuity and data recovery in case of a disaster3. The other options are not the best backup solutions for a site in an area that has frequent hurricanes and an unstable power grid. High availability is a feature that allows a system to remain operational and accessible even if one or more components fail, but it does not protect against data loss or corruption4. On-site backups are backups that are stored in the same location as the primary site, which means they are vulnerable to the same disasters that can affect the primary site. Incremental backups are backups that only store the changes made since the last backup, which means they require less storage space and bandwidth, but they also depend on previous backups to restore data and may not be sufficient for disaster recovery.

Incremental backup is a backup method that only backs up the files that have changed since the last backup, whether it was a full or an incremental backup. Incremental backup can save storage space and bandwidth, as it does not copy the same files over and over again. Incremental backup can also retain more versions of backups, as it only stores the changes made to the files. However, incremental backup can have longer restore times, as it requires restoring the last full backup and all the subsequent incremental backups in order to recover the data. The law firm is not concerned about restore times but asks the technician to retain more versions when possible, so incremental backup would be a suitable choice for them.

When troubleshooting boot times for a user, a technician may want to check which programs are starting with the operating system to identify any that may be slowing down the boot process. MSConfig is a tool that can be used to view startup items on a Windows system, but it may not always be available or functional.

In this scenario, the technician receives a message that MSConfig cannot be used to view startup items. As an alternative, the technician can use Task Manager (taskmgr), which can also display the programs that run at startup. To access the list of startup items in Task Manager, the technician can follow these steps:

Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc.

Click the "Startup" tab.

The list of programs that run at startup will be displayed.

Finder is the default GUI and file manager in macOS. Finder is an application that allows users to access and manage files and folders on their Mac computers. Finder also provides features such as Quick Look, Spotlight, AirDrop and iCloud Drive. Finder uses a graphical user interface that consists of icons, menus, toolbars and windows to display and interact with files and folders. Disk Utility is a utility that allows users to view and manage disk drives and partitions on their Mac computers. Disk Utility is not a GUI or a file manager but a disk management tool. Dock is a feature that allows users to access and launch applications on their Mac computers. Dock is not a GUI or a file manager but an application launcher. FileVault is a feature that allows users to encrypt and protect their data on their Mac computers. FileVault is not a GUI or a file manager but an encryption tool. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.1

A virtual private network (VPN) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public network, such as the internet. A VPN allows remote employees to access the corporate intranet as if they were physically connected to the local network3. Password-protected Wi-Fi is a security measure for wireless networks that does not provide access to the corporate intranet. Port forwarding is a technique that allows external devices to access services on a private network through a router, but does not provide access to the corporate intranet. A perimeter network is a network segment that lies between an internal network and an external network, such as the internet, and provides an additional layer of security, but does not provide access to the corporate intranet.

Content filtering is a process that manages or screens access to specific emails or webpages based on their content categories1. Content filtering can be used by organizations to control content access through their firewalls and enforce corporate policies around information system management2. A SOHO client may have content filtering enabled on their network and may need to adjust it to allow access to a corporate website that is blocked by default. The client can use a software program, a hardware device, or a subscription service to configure the content filtering settings and whitelist the desired website2.

References: 1: Web content filtering What is Content Filtering? Definition and Types of Content Filters

Screen lock is a feature that returns a computer to the login screen after a period of inactivity, requiring the user to enter their credentials to resume their session. Screen lock can be configured using Group Policy settings, such as Screen saver timeout and Interactive logon: Machine inactivity limit. Screen lock can help prevent unauthorized access to a computer when the user is away from their desk. Login times are not a feature that returns a computer to the login screen, but a measure of how long it takes for a user to log in to a system. User permission is not a feature that returns a computer to the login screen, but a set of rights and privileges that determine what a user can do on a system. Login lockout attempts are not a feature that returns a computer to the login screen, but a security policy that locks out a user account after a number of failed login attempts. 

A new employee will need to sign an AUP before being granted login access to the network. An AUP is an Acceptable Use Policy that defines the rules and guidelines for using network resources and services in an organization. An AUP typically covers topics such as security, privacy, ethics, compliance and liability issues related to network usage. An AUP helps protect the organization and its users from legal, regulatory and reputational risks associated with network activities. An MSDS is a Material Safety Data Sheet that provides information about hazardous substances and how to handle them safely. An MSDS is not related to network access or usage. A EULA is an End User License Agreement that specifies the terms and conditions for using a software product or service. A EULA is usually provided by software vendors or developers and does not apply to network access or usage in general. A UAC is a User Account Control that is a security feature that prompts users for permission or confirmation before performing certain actions that require elevated privileges or affect system settings. A UAC is not a document that needs to be signed by users but a mechanism that helps prevent unauthorized changes or malware infections on a system. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 5.1

The technician should use devmgmt.msc tool to make adjustments for the touchpad issue after Windows installed updates on a laptop. Devmgmt.msc is a command that opens the Device Manager, which is a utility that allows users to view and manage the hardware devices and drivers installed on a computer. The technician can use the Device Manager to check the status, properties and compatibility of the touchpad device and its driver, and perform actions such as updating, uninstalling or reinstalling the driver, enabling or disabling the device, or scanning for hardware changes. Eventvwr.msc is a command that opens the Event Viewer, which is a utility that allows users to view and monitor the system logs and events. The Event Viewer may provide some information or clues about the touchpad issue, but it does not allow users to manage or troubleshoot the device or its driver directly. Perfmon.msc is a command that opens the Performance Monitor, which is a utility that allows users to measure and analyze the performance of the system

The first thing that a support technician should check to resolve the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling is the data plan coverage. The data plan coverage determines how much data and where the user can use on the smartphone’s cellular network. The data plan coverage may vary depending on the user’s location, carrier and subscription. The data plan coverage may not include or support certain areas or countries that the user is traveling to, or may charge extra fees or limit the speed or amount of data that the user can use. The data plan coverage does not affect text messages and phone calls, which use different network services and protocols. User account status is not likely to cause the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling, unless the user account has been suspended or terminated by the carrier or the email provider. Mobile OS version is not likely to cause the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling, unless the mobile OS has a major bug or compatibility problem with the network or the email app. Network traffic outages may cause the issue of not being able to receive emails or browse the internet from a smartphone while traveling, but they are less likely and less common than data plan coverage issues, and they should also affect text messages and phone calls. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.5

The technician would most likely use Settings > Accounts > Family and Other Users to add an individual as a local administrator on a Windows home PC. Settings > Accounts > Family and Other Users allows users to add and manage other user accounts on their Windows PC. The technician can add an individual as a local administrator by selecting Add someone else to this PC under Other users and following the steps to create a new user account with administrator privileges. Settings > Personalization allows users to customize the appearance and behavior of their desktop, such as themes, colors, backgrounds, lock screen and screensaver. Settings > Personalization is not related to adding an individual as a local administrator on a Windows home PC but to configuring desktop settings and preferences. Control Panel > Credential Manager allows users to view and manage their web credentials and Windows credentials stored on their Windows PC. Control Panel > Credential Manager is not related to adding

The most likely cause of the user’s issue of applications opening without being launched and browser redirects when trying to go to certain websites is malware. Malware is a general term that refers to any software or code that is malicious or harmful to a computer or system. Malware can perform various unwanted or unauthorized actions on a computer or system, such as opening applications, redirecting browsers, displaying ads, stealing data, encrypting files or damaging hardware. Malware can infect a computer or system through various means, such as email attachments, web downloads, removable media or network connections. Keylogger is a type of malware that records and transmits the keystrokes made by a user on a keyboard. Keylogger can be used to steal personal or sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers or chat messages. Keylogger does not typically open applications or redirect browsers but only captures user inputs. Cryptominers are a type of malware that use the computing resources of a computer or system to mine cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. Cryptominers can degrade the performance and increase the power consumption of a computer or system. Cryptominers do not typically open applications or redirect browsers but only consume CPU or GPU cycles. Virus is a type of malware that infects and replicates itself on other files or programs on a computer or system.

Keychain is a feature of macOS that securely stores passwords, account numbers, and other confidential information for your Mac, apps, servers, and websites1. You can use the Keychain Access app on your Mac to view and manage your keychains and the items stored in them1. Keychain can also sync your passwords and other secure information across your devices using iCloud Keychain1. Keychain can be used as a password manager in macOS to help you keep track of and protect your passwords.

References: 1: Manage passwords using keychains on Mac

The technician should place the hard drive in an antistatic bag and secure the area containing the hard drive before leaving. This will protect the hard drive from electrostatic discharge (ESD), dust, moisture, and physical damage. Asking coworkers to make sure no one touches the hard drive is not a reliable or secure way to prevent damage. Leaving the hard drive on the table exposes it to ESD and other environmental hazards. Connecting an electrostatic discharge strap to the drive is not enough to protect it from dust, moisture, and physical damage.

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files on the victim’s computer and demands a ransom for their decryption. Ransomware can cause high disk throughput by encrypting large amounts of data in a short time.

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol and it is used to assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network automatically. This is useful for devices that do not require the same private address each time they connect to the internet. 

Robocopy is a command-line utility that can be used to mirror the source data for the backup. It can copy files and folders with various options, such as copying only changed files, preserving attributes and permissions, and retrying failed copies. Robocopy is more powerful and flexible than copy or xcopy, which are simpler commands that can only copy files and folders without mirroring or other advanced features. Copy-Item is a PowerShell cmdlet that can also copy files and folders, but it is not a native Windows utility and it requires PowerShell to run1.

References: 1:

The user is experiencing a system error that prevents them from using the Testing program. The error message indicates that the file MSVCP100.dll is missing from the computer. This file is part of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package, which is required by some applications to run properly. The error may have occurred due to a corrupted or incomplete software deployment.

To resolve this issue, the user needs to restore the missing file and register it in the system. One possible way to do this is to copy the file from another computer that has the Testing program installed and working, and then use the regsvr32 command to register it. The steps are as follows:

On another computer (User-PC02) that has the Testing program installed and working, locate the file MSVCP100.dll in the folder C:\Program Files\Testing.

Share the folder C:\Windows\System32 on User-PC02 by right-clicking on it, selecting Properties, then Sharing, then Advanced Sharing, then checking Share this folder, then clicking OK.

On the user’s computer (User-PC01), open a command prompt as an administrator by clicking Start, typing cmd, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.

In the command prompt, type the following command to copy the file MSVCP100.dll from User-PC02 to User-PC01: copy "C:\Program Files\Testing\msvcp100.dll" "\\User-PC02\C$\Windows\System32"

After the file is copied, type the following command to register it in the system: regsvr32 msvcp100.dll

Restart the user’s computer and try to run the Testing program again.

Therefore, based on the instructions given by the user, the correct answers are:

Select Event Viewer Issue: 2187

Select First Command: copy "C:\Program Files\Testing\msvcp100.dll" "\\User-PC02\C$\Windows\System32"

Select Second Command: regsvr32 msvcp100.dll

Operating system updates can sometimes cause compatibility issues with some applications, such as Outlook, that may prevent them from opening or working properly. This can happen if the update changes some system files or settings that Outlook relies on, or if the update conflicts with some Outlook add-ins or extensions. To fix this, the technician can try some of these troubleshooting steps:

Start Outlook in safe mode and disable add-ins. Safe mode is a way of starting Outlook without any add-ins or extensions that may interfere with its functionality. To start Outlook in safe mode, press and hold the Ctrl key while clicking on the Outlook icon. You should see a message asking if you want to start Outlook in safe mode. Click Yes. If Outlook works fine in safe mode, it means one of the add-ins is causing the problem. To disable add-ins, go to File > Options > Add-ins. In the Manage drop-down list, select COM Add-ins and click Go. Uncheck any add-ins that you don’t need and click OK. Restart Outlook normally and check if the issue is resolved4.

Create a new Outlook profile. A profile is a set of settings and information that Outlook uses to manage your email accounts and data. Sometimes, a profile can get corrupted or damaged and cause Outlook to malfunction. To create a new profile, go to Control Panel > Mail > Show Profiles. Click Add and follow the instructions to set up a new profile with your email account. Make sure to select the option to use the new profile as the default one. Restart Outlook and check if the issue is resolved5.

Repair your Outlook data files. Data files are files that store your email messages, contacts, calendar events, and other items on your computer. Sometimes, data files can get corrupted or damaged and cause Outlook to malfunction. To repair your data files, you can use a tool called scanpst.exe, which is located in the same folder where Outlook is installed (usually C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\root\Office16). To use scanpst.exe, close Outlook and locate the tool in the folder. Double-click on it and browse to the location of your data file (usually C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Outlook). Select the file and click Start to begin the scanning and repairing process. When it’s done, restart Outlook and check if the issue is resolved.

Run the /resetnavpane command. The navigation pane is the panel on the left side of Outlook that shows your folders and accounts. Sometimes, the navigation pane can get corrupted or damaged and cause Outlook to malfunction. To reset the navigation pane, press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, or open the Command Prompt. Type outlook.exe /resetnavpane and hit Enter. This will clear and regenerate the navigation pane settings for Outlook. Restart Outlook and check if the issue is resolved.

Rolling back video card drivers is the best way to resolve the issue of large desktop icons on a user’s newly issued PC. This means restoring the previous version of the drivers that were working fine before the software patch was deployed. The software patch may have caused compatibility issues or corrupted the drivers, resulting in display problems

 Bringing the device within Bluetooth range is the best way to troubleshoot the issue of inconsistent audio when using wireless headphones and moving around. Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows devices to communicate over short distances, typically up to 10 meters or 33 feet. If the device is too far from the headphones, the Bluetooth signal may be weak or interrupted, resulting in poor audio quality or loss of connection.

After implementing a change authorized by the change advisory board (CAB), the technician should document the date and time of change as part of the post-implementation review. This helps to track the change history, verify the success of the change, and identify any issues or incidents caused by the change1. Documenting the purpose of the change, the risk level, and the findings of the sandbox test are all part of the pre-implementation activities that should be done before submitting the change request to the CAB2.

References: 2:

The feature that allows a technician to configure policies in a Windows 10 Professional desktop is gpedit. Gpedit is a command that opens the Local Group Policy Editor, which is a utility that allows users to view and modify local group policies on their Windows PC. Local group policies are a set of rules and settings that control the behavior and configuration of the system and its users. Local group policies can be used to configure policies such as security, network, software installation and user rights. Gpmc is a command that opens the Group Policy Management Console, which is a utility that allows users to view and modify domain-based group policies on a Windows Server. Domain-based group policies are a set of rules and settings that control the behavior and configuration of the computers and users in a domain. Domain-based group policies are not available on a Windows 10 Professional desktop. Gpresult is a command that displays the result of applying group policies on a Windows PC. Gpresult can be used to troubleshoot or verify group policy settings but not to configure them. Gpupdate is a command that updates or refreshes the group policy settings on a Windows PC. Gpupdate can be used to apply new or changed group policy settings but not to configure them. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.6

A database system is a software application that allows storing, organizing, and managing data in a structured way. A database system can be used to register all employee badges and associated computer IDs by creating a table or a record for each employee that contains their badge number, computer ID, name, and other relevant information. A database system can also facilitate searching, updating, and deleting data as needed. Software management is a general term that refers to the process of planning, developing, testing, deploying, and maintaining software applications. It does not directly address the issue of registering employee badges and computer IDs. Active Directory description is a field in Active Directory that can be used to store additional information about an object, such as a user or a computer. It is not a software application that can be used to register employee badges and computer IDs by itself. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is a cloud computing model that provides servers, storage, networking, and software over the internet. It does not directly address the issue of registering employee badges and computer IDs either.

The Windows 10 desktop has Windows 10 Home installed, which does not support RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) as a host. Only Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions can act as RDP hosts and allow remote access to their desktops1. The Windows 10 desktop does not have DHCP configured, is connected via Wi-Fi, or is hibernating are not likely to prevent the RDP connection if the technician is able to ping the computer successfully.

Group Policy is the most likely tool to be used to change the security settings on a user’s device in a domain environment. Group Policy is a feature of Windows that allows administrators to manage and configure settings for multiple devices and users in a centralized way. Group Policy can be used to enforce security policies such as password complexity, account lockout, firewall rules, encryption settings, etc.

 Samba is a software suite that allows Linux servers and desktops to integrate with Windows Active Directory environments. Samba can act as a domain controller, a file server, a print server, or a client for Windows networks. Samba can also provide authentication and authorization services for Linux users and devices using Active Directory.

 The user can most likely make the change of extending the display to a second monitor in the System option in the Windows settings. The System option allows users to manage system settings and features, such as display, sound, notifications, power and storage. The user can extend the display to a second monitor by selecting Display from the System option and then choosing Extend these displays from the Multiple displays drop-down menu. This will allow the user to use both monitors as one large desktop area. Devices is an option in the Windows settings that allows users to add and manage devices connected to the computer, such as printers, scanners, mice and keyboards. Devices is not related to extending the display to a second monitor but to configuring device settings and preferences. Personalization is an option in the Windows settings that allows users to customize the appearance and behavior of their desktop, such as themes, colors, backgrounds, lock screen and screensaver. 

The best sign-on option that would allow any employee the ability to unlock the kiosk that relies exclusively on a numeric keypad is to use a PIN and provide it to employees. A PIN is a Personal Identification Number that is a numeric code that can be used as part of authentication or access control. A PIN can be entered using only a numeric keypad and can be easily shared with employees who need to unlock the kiosk. Requiring employees to enter their usernames and passwords may not be feasible or convenient if the kiosk only has a numeric keypad and no other input devices. Setting up facial recognition for each employee may not be possible or secure if the kiosk does not have a camera or biometric sensor. Requiring employees to use their fingerprints may not be possible or secure if the kiosk does not have a fingerprint scanner or biometric sensor. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 3.3

 An evil twin is a type of social-engineering attack that involves setting up a rogue wireless access point that mimics a legitimate one. The attacker can then intercept or modify the traffic of the users who connect to the fake SSID. The attacker may also use phishing or malware to steal credentials or personal information from the users

The best explanation for why the system still has malware after performing a System Restore is that the malware was installed before the system restore point was created. A system restore point is a snapshot of the system settings and configuration at a certain point in time. A System Restore is a feature that allows users to restore their system to a previous state in case of problems or errors. However, a System Restore does not affect personal files or folders, and it may not remove malware that was already present on the system before the restore point was created. A system patch disabling the antivirus protection and host firewall may increase the risk of malware infection, but it does not explain why the malware persists after a System Restore. The system updates not including the latest anti-malware definitions may reduce the effectiveness of malware detection and removal, but it does not explain why the malware persists after a System Restore. The system restore process being compromised by the malware may prevent a successful System Restore, but it does not explain why the malware persists after a System Restore. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.3

 The best action to protect against unauthorized access of the data on the lost company tablet is to perform a remote wipe on the device. A remote wipe is a feature that allows an administrator or a user to erase all the data and settings on a device remotely, usually through a web portal or an email command. A remote wipe can help prevent the data from being accessed or compromised by anyone who finds or steals the device. Changing the office’s Wi-Fi SSID and password may prevent the device from connecting to the office network but may not prevent the data from being accessed locally or through other networks. Changing the user’s password may prevent the device from logging in to the user’s account but may not prevent the data from being accessed by other means or accounts. Enabling remote drive encryption may protect the data from being read by unauthorized parties but may not be possible if the device is already lost or turned off. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 3.1

The most likely reason that the system is not utilizing all the available RAM is that it is running a 32-bit OS. A 32-bit OS can only address up to 4GB of RAM, and some of that is reserved for hardware and system use1. Therefore, even if the technician installed 8GB of RAM, the system can only use around 3.5GB of usable RAM. To use the full 8GB of RAM, the technician would need to install a 64-bit OS, which can address much more memory2. The system missing updates, the system’s memory failing, or the system requiring BIOS updates are not likely to cause this issue.

References: 2:

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a protocol that allows a technician to simultaneously view and control a user’s screen remotely. VNC uses a server-client model, where the user’s computer runs a VNC server and the technician’s computer runs a VNC client. VNC can work across different platforms and operating systems3. SSH (Secure Shell) is a protocol that allows a technician to access a user’s command-line interface remotely, but not their graphical user interface. VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public network, but does not allow screen sharing. RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is a protocol that allows a technician to access a user’s desktop remotely, but not simultaneously with the user.

Over time, especially with frequent opening, modification, and saving of large files, a hard disk drive (HDD) can become fragmented. Fragmentation occurs when pieces of individual files are scattered across the disk, leading to longer read and write times, which can significantly slow down the computer. Disk defragmentation reorganizes these fragmented files, placing the pieces closer together on the drive, which improves access time and overall system performance.

Disk Defragment: Using the Disk Defragment tool on a Windows 10 system with an HDD will help in reorganizing the data more efficiently, thus potentially remedying the slow performance issue.

The Registry Editor (B) is a tool that allows for the viewing and editing of the Windows registry and is generally not used for performance improvement but rather for system settings and configuration adjustments. System Information (C) provides a detailed look at the computer's hardware and system details but does not offer tools for performance improvement. Disk Cleanup (D) can help free up space on the hard drive by removing temporary files and system files that are no longer needed, which can indirectly improve performance but is not the primary tool for addressing fragmentation.

To prevent security issues related to an employee using the same password for multiple applications and websites, implementing expiration policies (B) is best. Password expiration policies require users to change their passwords at regular intervals, which helps to mitigate the risks associated with password reuse. Regularly changing passwords reduces the chances of unauthorized access from compromised credentials​​.

For issues related to constant, unwanted pop-ups and browser window problems, a careful approach that minimizes impact to the user's data and productivity is advisable:

Perform a full-system, antivirus scan: This step involves using antivirus software to scan the entire system for malware or adware that might be causing the pop-ups and browser issues.

Check browser notifications: Some unwanted pop-ups may result from browser notification permissions inadvertently granted to malicious or spammy websites. Reviewing and adjusting these settings can help stop the pop-ups.

The operating systems designed for smartphones include iOS and Android. iOS is developed by Apple Inc. for its iPhone range, while Android, developed by Google, is used across a variety of devices from different manufacturers. Both operating systems are specifically tailored to provide a mobile computing experience, with interfaces, applications, and functionalities designed for touchscreen input and mobile hardware​​.

For a SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) router setup where the goal is to only allow specific computers on the network, MAC filtering is the appropriate solution:

Configure MAC filtering: This security measure involves creating a list of allowed device MAC (Media Access Control) addresses in the router's settings. Only devices with MAC addresses on this list will be able to connect to the network, effectively restricting access to authorized computers only.

Windows Hello is a biometric-based technology that enables Windows 10 users to authenticate secure access to their devices, apps, online services, and networks with just a look or a touch. If users have difficulty using the facial recognition feature, Windows Hello also supports a Personal Identification Number (PIN) as a secondary feature for logging in. The PIN is tied to the specific device on which it is set up, adding a layer of security even if the PIN is obtained by someone else.

Personal identification number: The PIN serves as an alternative to the facial recognition feature, allowing users to quickly and securely access their devices without relying solely on biometric authentication.

Username/password (B) is the traditional method of authentication but is not specifically a secondary feature of Windows Hello. One-time-use token (C) and cryptographic device (D) could be part of an MFA setup but are not directly related to Windows Hello's alternate authentication options.

Linux is known for its high degree of customizability and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking to deploy a customizable operating system. Unlike proprietary operating systems, Linux allows users to modify or replace almost any part of the system, from the kernel to the desktop environment and applications, to suit their specific needs.

Linux: This open-source operating system provides access to the source code, enabling extensive customization. Organizations can tailor Linux distributions to fit specific requirements, making it a popular choice for servers, specialized workstation environments, and embedded systems.

Windows 10 (A) and macOS (B) offer some level of customization but are more restricted due to their proprietary nature. Chrome OS (D) is designed for simplicity and security, focusing on web applications, which limits deep system-level customizations. iOS (E) is designed for Apple's mobile devices and is not applicable for organizational deployment beyond mobile and tablet devices; it also offers limited customization compared to Linux.

On macOS, uninstalling an application typically involves locating the app in Finder and dragging it to the Trash. This method is straightforward and commonly used for removing unwanted applications. The other options do not directly relate to the standard process of uninstalling applications on a Mac.

The Network and Sharing Center in the Control Panel is the central place to manage network connections and settings in Windows. When facing issues with accessing a mapped drive, this utility allows users to review and adjust network settings, making it possible to resolve connectivity problems. It provides options to view network status, set up new connections, change adapter settings, and troubleshoot network problems, which can help in enabling connectivity to the mapped drive on the Windows XP machine.

Scripting languages are designed for automating tasks by writing scripts that can execute a series of commands. They are typically easier to write and understand compared to compiled languages and are widely used for automating repetitive tasks, making them the best option for task automation.

The 'top' command in Linux is used to display the running processes along with information about system resources like CPU and memory usage. It provides a real-time view of the system's resource consumption, making it an essential tool for monitoring and managing system performance.

For scripting the creation of Active Directory accounts, PowerShell (D) is used. PowerShell is a task automation and configuration management framework from Microsoft, consisting of a command-line shell and the associated scripting language. It is built on the .NET framework and is particularly suited for automating and managing Windows-based systems, including Active Directory tasks​​.

To resolve a BSOD issue on a Windows 10 PC after installing optional Windows updates, the best approach is to Roll back the device drivers (B). BSODs can often be caused by incompatible or faulty drivers introduced during an update. Rolling back the drivers to a previous version can restore system stability and resolve the BSOD issue​​.

Booting in safe mode is the initial step to diagnose a computer experiencing a blue screen of death (BSOD) following a failed Windows 10 update. Safe mode starts the computer with a minimal set of drivers and services, allowing troubleshooting and identification of the problematic software or driver causing the BSOD. This mode provides a safer environment to uninstall recent updates or drivers, perform system scans, and restore the system if necessary. Other options like System Restore wizard, last known-good configuration, and resetting BIOS settings may be subsequent steps but do not directly diagnose the issue as effectively as booting in safe mode.

Given that the smartphone's screen was recently repaired and now experiences issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, despite showing that it is connected to a network, the problem could be related to the internal antenna connections that might have been disturbed or disconnected during the repair process.

Internal Antenna Connections: Smartphones use internal antennas for Wi-Fi and cellular connections. If these antennas are not properly connected, the device may show as connected to a Wi-Fi network but fail to transmit data effectively, resulting in no internet access.

Checking static IP settings (B) would be relevant if the device were not obtaining an IP address at all, but the device does have an IP address. Airplane mode (C) would prevent the device from connecting to Wi-Fi networks entirely. Digitizer calibration (D) is related to the touchscreen functionality and would not affect Wi-Fi connectivity.

In the context of a forensic investigation, especially involving sensitive information, preserving the integrity and the chain of custody of the potential evidence is crucial. The step to "Recover and secure the workstation" involves physically securing the workstation to prevent any unauthorized access and logically securing the data by ensuring that no changes are made to the system or files. This step helps maintain the original state of the workstation, which is essential for a legitimate forensic analysis and ensuring that the evidence is admissible in legal proceedings.

DNS (Domain Name System) lookups are essential for translating human-friendly domain names into IP addresses that computers use to communicate. DNS typically uses port 53 for its communication.

In the provided firewall output, various ports are either allowed or blocked for outgoing traffic. For DNS recursion, which is the process of resolving domain names to IP addresses, port 53 must be open.

Port 53: This is the standard port used by DNS for queries and responses. The fact that it is currently blocked (as per the firewall output) is the reason why DNS lookups are failing. Opening port 53 will allow the DNS requests to pass through the firewall, enabling the resolution of domain names to IP addresses.

Other ports mentioned in the output are used for different services and protocols:

Port 1 is generally not used for standard services.

Port 445 is associated with SMB (Server Message Block) for file sharing in Windows environments.

Port 123 is used by NTP (Network Time Protocol) for time synchronization.

Port 80 is used for HTTP traffic, which is web traffic but not related to DNS lookups.

After rebooting the phone, connecting to Wi-Fi, and disabling metered data, the next step the technician should take is to Clear the cache (D). Clearing the cache can resolve issues with the phone's performance and is often necessary before updating software to ensure that the updates can be downloaded and installed without issues. It removes temporary files that may be interfering with the update process​​.

Authenticator applications are designed to enhance security by generating temporary, time-sensitive passcodes used in two-factor authentication (2FA) processes. These passcodes are used in conjunction with traditional credentials (like usernames and passwords) to grant access to systems or applications. This extra layer of security ensures that even if primary login credentials are compromised, unauthorized access is still prevented without the dynamically generated code from the authenticator app.

A system image is a complete snapshot of everything on a device's storage at a given point in time, including the operating system, installed programs, system settings, and all user files. This method is the best way to back up the OS and data comprehensively because it allows for the restoration of a system to its exact state at the time the image was taken. This is particularly useful in disaster recovery scenarios where it's crucial to restore a system quickly and efficiently to minimize downtime.

For a company with geographically dispersed staff and the need to keep devices updated, using cloud-based endpoint management software is the most efficient method. This type of software allows IT administrators to remotely manage and push updates to company devices, regardless of their location. It ensures that all devices remain up to date with the latest security patches and software updates without requiring physical access or user intervention. This approach is scalable, reduces the risk of unpatched vulnerabilities, and is convenient for both the IT department and the end-users.

To mitigate brute-force attacks, implementing a failed log-in lockout feature is effective. This security measure temporarily disables user accounts after a specified number of unsuccessful login attempts, preventing attackers from continuously trying different password combinations to gain unauthorized access.

If a technician is unable to run an OS installation file and receives a message indicating no software is installed to handle the file, the next step is to mount the ISO file. Mounting the ISO will create a virtual drive from which the installation can be run, mimicking the behavior of a physical installation media.

When troubleshooting a Windows system that is experiencing issues during the OS loading phase at startup, enabling boot logging is a practical step. Boot logging creates a record of all drivers and services that are loaded (or attempted to be loaded) during the startup process. This record, typically named ntbtlog.txt, can be reviewed to identify any drivers or services that failed to load, which could be contributing to the startup issues. This diagnostic step helps pinpoint the problematic component(s) and facilitates targeted troubleshooting to resolve the OS loading issues.

To troubleshoot a user's computer remotely while the user is connected, the best option is Microsoft Remote Assistance (MSRA). MSRA allows the technician to view and control the user's screen with their permission, facilitating an effective troubleshooting session without disconnecting the user.

Group Policy is a feature in Windows that allows network administrators to manage and configure operating system, application settings, and user settings in an Active Directory environment. It can enforce password policies across the network, including password length requirements, making it the best tool for ensuring compliance with security policies.

When a WAP (Wireless Access Point) mesh network is experiencing a higher than anticipated amount of traffic, leading to degraded network service, upgrading the network to a more advanced wireless standard can help alleviate the problem. The 802.11n specification, also known as Wireless-N, offers significant improvements over earlier standards like 802.11b/g in terms of speed, range, and reliability. It allows for increased data throughput and better coverage, which can support a higher number of wireless users effectively.

Upgrading to 802.11n: This involves replacing existing WAPs with those that support the 802.11n standard or higher. The upgrade can result in improved network performance by accommodating more wireless connections with higher data rates, reducing congestion and improving overall network efficiency.

Replacing non-mobile users' laptops with wired desktop systems (A) could reduce wireless traffic but may not be feasible or desirable for all users. Increasing the wireless network adapter metric (B) would affect route priority but not overall network capacity. Adding wireless repeaters (C) can extend the range but might also introduce additional latency and does not necessarily increase the network's capacity to handle more users efficiently.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure connection over the internet to a network, allowing a user to access shared files and corporate email as if they were directly connected to the network. This makes VPN the best tool for secure remote work access, compared to the other options which do not offer the same level of secure, remote network access.

The "tracert" command is used to view the path that network traffic takes from a PC to a specified destination. It is helpful in identifying where along the path the traffic may be failing or experiencing delays. In the scenario where a customer service representative can't send jobs to a remote printer but can print locally, "tracert" can help diagnose if there's a network routing issue affecting the connection to the remote branch office.

Time Machine is a backup feature available in macOS that automatically makes hourly backups for the past 24 hours, daily backups for the past month, and weekly backups for all previous months to an external drive or NAS. It allows users to recover the entire system or specific files from any point in time, ensuring access to multiple versions of files. This feature is particularly useful for reverting to earlier versions of a document or recovering a file that has been accidentally deleted or altered. The other options, such as Multiple Desktops, Remote Disc, and FileVault, do not provide versioning capabilities for file access.

To safely upgrade the Microsoft Windows 10 OS, it is essential to backup critical data (C) and ensure that you have the necessary device drivers (D). Backing up critical data protects against potential data loss during the upgrade process. Having the correct device drivers ensures that the hardware components function properly with the new OS version, preventing issues like loss of functionality or compatibility problems​​.

Host 2 and Media Server put them to Quarantine.

The pwd command, which stands for "print working directory," is used in Linux and Unix-like operating systems to display the current directory in which the user is operating. This command outputs the full pathname of the current working directory, helping users to understand their current location in the filesystem hierarchy.

pwd: When executed, it provides the absolute path of the directory you're currently in, which is useful for navigation and scripting purposes.

Other options listed:

dig: This command is used for querying DNS name servers for information about host addresses, mail exchanges, name servers, and related information.

find: This command is used to search for files in a directory hierarchy based on specified criteria (such as name, modification date, size, etc.).

cat: Short for "concatenate," this command is used to read the contents of files and output them to the terminal.

For updating software on several hundred Mac laptops, the best method is Mobile Device Management (MDM). MDM solutions allow administrators to remotely manage and update software across multiple devices efficiently, making it an ideal choice for handling software updates on a large scale.

The technician's action of setting the phone to silent while troubleshooting the customer's PC is an example of avoiding distractions. By setting the phone to silent, the technician is ensuring that they are able to focus on the task at hand without any distractions that could potentially disrupt their workflow. This is an important practice when handling customer's confidential material, as it ensures that the technician is able to focus on the task and not be distracted by any external sources. Furthermore, it also adheres to user privacy policies, as the technician is not exposing any confidential information to any external sources.

A battery backup, also known as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), is a device that provides backup power during a power outage. When the power goes out, the battery backup provides a short amount of time (usually a few minutes up to an hour, depending on the capacity of the device) to save any work and safely shut down the equipment.

The Windows Professional Edition is the most likely version that a technician would deploy for a user at a target corporation. This version of Windows is designed for business use and provides the necessary features and capabilities that a user would need to access the corporate domain, such as email and shared drives.

change management process can help ensure that owners are notified of changes being made and can monitor them for performance impact (A). This can help prevent unexpected issues from arising.

Use the application at home and contact the vendor regarding a corporate license. The user should use the application only on the home laptop because it contains the initial license. The user should contact the vendor regarding a corporate license if they want to use the application on multiple computers on the corporate network1

The most likely reason the computer is unable to boot into the imaging system via the network is that the PXE boot option has not been enabled. PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) is an environment that allows computers to boot up over the network, instead of from a local disk. In order for this to work, the PXE boot option must be enabled in the computer's BIOS settings. As stated in the CompTIA A+ Core 2 exam objectives, technicians should know how to enable PXE in BIOS to enable network booting on a computer.

Before making any changes to the system, it is important to assess the risks associated with the change and determine whether it is worth implementing. Risk analysis involves identifying potential risks, assessing their likelihood and impact, and determining what steps can be taken to mitigate them. It is important to perform this step before making any changes, as this allows the administrator to make an informed decision about whether or not the change should be implemented. Once the risks have been assessed and the administrator has decided to go ahead with the change, the next step is to implement the deployment.

The technician should instruct the user to clear the browser cache and contact the bank (option A). This error indicates that the website the user is visiting is not the correct website and is likely due to a cached version of the website being stored in the user's browser. Clearing the browser cache should remove any stored versions of the website and allow the user to access the correct website. The user should also contact the bank to confirm that they are visiting the correct website and to report the error.

NFC stands for Near Field Communication, and it is a wireless technology that allows your phone to act as a contactless payment device, among other things2. Payment applications that allow payments to be made with a mobile device usually rely on NFC to communicate with the payment terminal1. Therefore, if NFC is disabled on the phone, the payment will not work. To enable NFC on an Android phone, you need to follow these steps3:

On your Android device, open the Settings app.

Select Connected devices.

Tap on Connection preferences.

You should see the NFC option. Toggle it on.

The other options are not directly related to using a payment application with a mobile device. Airplane mode is a setting that disables all wireless communication on the phone, including NFC4, but it also affects calls, texts, and internet access. Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to connect your phone with other devices such as headphones or speakers, but it is not used for contactless payments. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that allows you to access the internet or a local network, but it is also not used for contactless payments. Location services are a feature that allows your phone to determine your geographic location using GPS or other methods, but they are not required for contactless payments.

The Ease of Access Center is a built-in utility in Windows that provides tools and options for making a computer easier to use for individuals with disabilities, including the visually impaired. In the Ease of Access Center, the technician can turn on options like high contrast display, screen magnification, and screen reader software to help the user better interact with the computer.

The GPS application contains malware. The third-party GPS application is likely the cause of the slow performance of the phone. The application may contain malware that is using up system resources and slowing down the phone. The user should uninstall the application and run a malware scan on the phone1

The correct answers are E. Windows Defender and A. File Explorer. Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program that can detect and remove malicious software from a workstation. File Explorer can be used to locate and delete files associated with the malicious software1

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires users to provide multiple pieces of evidence when logging in to an account or system. This can include a combination of something the user knows (e.g. a password or PIN), something the user has (e.g. a security token or smartphone) and something the user is (e.g. biometrics such as a fingerprint or face scan). By enabling MFA, the systems administrator can ensure that users are required to provide multiple pieces of evidence when logging in, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access to the system. This can help reduce the number of help desk tickets submitted due to forgotten passwords.

The strongest wireless configuration is B. WPA3. WPA3 is the most up-to-date wireless encryption protocol and is the most secure choice. It replaces PSK with SAE, a more secure way to do the initial key exchange. At the same time, the session key size of WPA3 increases to 128-bit in WPA3-Personal mode and 192-bit in WPA3-Enterprise, which makes the password harder to crack than the previous Wi-Fi security standards

Changing the network channel is the best solution to minimize the issue of employees and patients not being the only people on the Wi-Fi network5

References: 3. Sample CompTIA Security+ exam questions and answers. Retrieved from

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files on a system and demands a ransom for their decryption1. Ransomware can also spread to other systems on the network or exfiltrate sensitive data to the attackers2. Therefore, it is important to isolate the infected machine as soon as possible to contain the infection and prevent further damage3. Powering off the machine is a quick and effective way of disconnecting it from the network and stopping any malicious processes running on it12. The other options are not directly related to preventing ransomware damage or may not be effective. Running a full antivirus scan may not be able to detect or remove the ransomware, especially if it is a new or unknown variant1. Removing the LAN card may disconnect the machine from the network, but it may not stop any malicious processes running on it or any data encryption or exfiltration that has already occurred2. Installing a different endpoint solution may not be possible or helpful if the system is already infected and locked by ransomware1.

The issue is specific to the user’s profile, so the technician should rebuild the profile. Rebuilding the profile will create a new profile and transfer the user’s data to the new profile1

To delete an empty directory, enter rd Directory or rmdir Directory . If the directory is not empty, you can remove files and subdirectories from it using the /s switch. You can also use the /q switch to suppress confirmation messages (quiet mode).

Encrypting the laptop's hard drive will ensure that any sensitive data stored on the laptop is secure, even if the laptop is lost or stolen. Encryption ensures that the data cannot be accessed by anyone without the correct encryption key. This is an important security measure for any laptop used by an employee who travels, as it helps to protect the data stored on the laptop from unauthorized access.

The CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1002 exam covers this topic in the following domains: 1.2 Given a scenario, use appropriate resources to support users and 1.3 Explain the importance of security awareness.

ifconfig is a command-line utility that allows you to configure network interfaces on macOS and other Unix-like systems1. To set an IP address using ifconfig, you need to know the name of the network interface you want to configure (such as en0 or en1), and the IP address you want to assign (such as 192.168.0.150). You also need to use sudo to run the command with administrative privileges2. The syntax of the command is:

sudo ifconfig interface address

For example, to set the IP address of en1 to 192.168.0.150, you would type:

sudo ifconfig en1 192.168.0.150

You may also need to specify other parameters such as subnet mask, gateway, or DNS servers, depending on your network configuration3. The other commands are not directly related to setting an IP address on macOS. ipconfig is a similar command for Windows systems4, arpa is a domain name used for reverse DNS lookup, and ping is a command for testing network connectivity.

Smart card and password is an example of two-factor authentication (2FA), not multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires two or more authentication factors. Smart card and password is an example of two-factor authentication (2FA)2

Erasing/wiping the hard drives is the best method to dispose of the drives containing PII

 .pkg and .dmg are files used to distribute and install applications on macOS. .pkg files are installer packages that may contain multiple files and executable code, while .dmg files are disk images that can contain a single bundled application or multiple applications. .app files are typically the main executable files for macOS applications. The other options listed are file extensions for applications or installers on other platforms (such as .deb for Debian-based Linux systems, .msi for Windows, and .apk for Android). This information is covered in the Comptia A+ Core2 documents/guide under the Mac OS section.

 If customers are unable to access the company-hosted public website after installing a new SOHO router, the company should check for firmware updates1. Firmware updates can fix bugs and compatibility issues that may be preventing customers from accessing the website1. The company should also ensure that the router is properly configured to allow traffic to the website1. If the router is blocking traffic to the website, the company should configure the router to allow traffic to the website1.

When a user experiences unexpected or erratic behavior while browsing the internet, it could be caused by the DNS servers. DNS translates human-readable domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses, which computers can use to communicate with web servers. If the DNS servers are not functioning correctly or have been compromised, it can result in the browser being redirected to unintended websites.

Although updating the anti-malware software and running scans are important steps in removing malware, they may not be sufficient to permanently remove the malware if the user keeps engaging in behaviors that leave the system vulnerable, such as downloading unknown files or visiting malicious websites. Therefore, educating the user on safe computing practices is the best way to prevent future infections and permanently remove the malware.

Enabling System Restore, Booting into safe mode, and scheduling a scan are not the most efficient ways to permanently remove the malware. Enabling System Restore and Booting into safe mode may help in some cases, but they may not be sufficient to permanently remove the malware. Scheduling a scan is also important for detecting and removing malware, but it may not be sufficient to prevent future infections.

This will ensure that the user is the only one who knows their password, and that the new password is secure. 

The CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1002 exam covers this topic in the domain 1.4 Given a scenario, use appropriate data destruction and disposal methods.

In Windows 10, there are privacy settings that control access to certain devices, such as microphones, cameras, and other input devices. If the microphone is not enabled under these privacy settings, the VoIP application may not have access to it, causing a lack of outgoing audio.

The technician can go to the Windows 10 Settings menu, select the Privacy submenu, and under App permissions, select Microphone. The technician should then turn on the toggle switch for the VoIP application to allow it to access the microphone.

Removing the microphone from the USB hub and plugging it directly into a USB port on the PC may or may not solve the issue, as the issue could be related to the privacy settings. Deleting the microphone from Device Manager and scanning for new hardware may also not solve the issue, as the issue could be related to the privacy settings. Replacing the USB microphone with one that uses a traditional 3.5mm plug is not recommended, as it would require purchasing a new microphone and may not solve the issue.

The workstations and the authentication server have a system clock difference. If a Group Policy setting is applied that forces the workstations to use a specific SNTP server, but the system clock on the workstations and the authentication server are out of sync, then this can cause authentication issues and users will be unable to log in. In this case, the most likely cause of the issue is a difference in system clocks and the technician should ensure that the clocks on the workstations and the authentication server are in sync.

The most effective method for dealing with spam messages in a small business is to provide user training1. Users should be trained to recognize spam messages and avoid opening them1. They should also be trained to report spam messages to the IT department so that appropriate action can be taken1. In addition, users should be trained to avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources1. By providing user training, the management team can reduce the risk of users opening spam messages and potentially infecting the network systems1.

An EULA (End-User License Agreement) is a legally binding contract between a software supplier and a customer or end-user, generally made available to the customer via a retailer acting as an intermediary. A EULA specifies in detail the rights and restrictions which apply to the use of the software. Some of the main terms included in an EULA are the terms and scope of the license, any licensing fees, warranties and disclaimers, limitation of liability, revocation or termination of the license, and intellectual property information and restrictions on using the license (e.g. modification and copying)1

WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access version 3) is the latest version of Wi-Fi security and offers the highest level of protection available. It is designed to protect against brute force password attempts and protect against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks. WPA3 also supports the use of stronger encryption algorithms, such as the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which provides additional protection for wireless networks. WPA3 should be implemented in order to ensure the best possible security for the new wireless router.

The OS utility used to change the color of the cursor in Windows is Ease of Access Center12

The user can change the cursor color by opening the Settings app, selecting Accessibility in the left sidebar, selecting Mouse pointer and touch under Vision, and choosing one of the cursor options. The user can select Custom to pick a color and use the Size slider to make the cursor larger or smaller12

The Ease of Access Center in the Windows OS provides accessibility options for users with disabilities or impairments. One of these options allows the user to change the color and size of the cursor, making it more visible and easier to locate on the screen. The Keyboard and Touchpad settings do not offer the option to change cursor color, and Display Settings are used to adjust the resolution and other properties of the display. Therefore, C is the best answer. This information is covered in the Comptia A+ Core2 documents/guide under the Accessibility section.

To best resolve this issue, the executive should set AirDrop so that transfers are only accepted from known contacts (option A). AirDrop is a feature on iOS devices that allows users to share files, photos, and other data between Apple devices. By setting AirDrop so that it only accepts transfers from known contacts, the executive can ensure that unwanted files and photos are not sent to their device. Additionally, the executive should ensure that the AirDrop setting is only enabled when it is necessary, as this will protect their device from any unwanted files and photos.

The encryption solution that the technician should choose when configuring a new Windows laptop and corporate policy requires that mobile devices make use of full disk encryption at all times is BitLocker. This is because BitLocker is a full-disk encryption feature that encrypts all data on a hard drive and is included with Window

One of the most important environmental concerns inside a data center is the level of humidity. High levels of humidity can cause condensation, which can result in corrosion of components and other equipment. Low levels of humidity can cause static electricity to build up, potentially leading to electrostatic discharge (ESD) and damage to components. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a relative humidity range of 40-60% in a data center to protect the equipment and ensure proper operation.

To exclude an application folder from being cataloged by a Windows 10 search, the technician should use the Indexing Options utility1

The smartphone’s line was not provisioned with a data plan. The user is unable to use any internet-related functions on the smartphone when it is not connected to Wi-Fi because the smartphone’s line was not provisioned with a data plan. The user can send and receive text messages and phone calls when the smartphone is not connected to Wi-Fi because these functions do not require an internet connection1

Open Settings, select System, select Display, and change the Scale and layout setting to a higher percentage123

"The user thought the company-provided antivirus software would prevent this issue."

The most likely steps to resolve the issue are to deploy an ad-blocking extension to the browser and perform a reset on the user’s web browser. Ad-blocking extensions can help to prevent pop-ups and other unwanted content from appearing in the browser, and resetting the browser can help to remove any malicious extensions or settings that may be causing the issue.

The systems administrator should use Settings to access Screensaver settings to configure each user’s Windows device to require a password when resuming from a period of sleep or inactivity1

To help secure the device against this threat in the future, the administrator should require a PIN on the unlock screen and block a third-party application installation. Requiring a PIN on the unlock screen can help to prevent unauthorized access to the device, while blocking third-party application installation can help to prevent malicious applications from being installed on the device.

Resource Monitor is a Windows utility that can be used to monitor and analyze the system resources and processes running on a computer. It can be used to identify and troubleshoot any issues that might be causing the computer to run slowly, such as CPU usage, memory usage, disk I/O, and network usage.

The technician most likely needs to change the default gateway on the workstation to resolve the issue. The default gateway is the IP address of the router that connects the workstation to the internet, and it is responsible for routing traffic between the workstation and the internet. If the default gateway is incorrect, the workstation will not be able to access external web pages.

The most cost-effective version of Windows 10 that allows remote access through Remote Desktop is Windows 10 Pro. Windows 10 Pro includes Remote Desktop, which allows users to connect to a remote computer and access its desktop, files, and applications. Windows 10 Home does not include Remote Desktop, while Windows 10 Pro for Workstations and Windows 10 Enterprise are more expensive versions of Windows 10 that include additional features for businesses

First thing you want to do is quarantine/disconnect the affected system from the network so whatever malicious software doesn't spread.

The command cac cor.ptia. txt was issued on a Linux terminal. This command would display the contents of the text comptia.txt.

The best ways to limit the bank’s risk are to enable multifactor authentication for each support account and enforce account lockouts after five bad password attempts. Multifactor authentication adds an extra layer of security to the login process, making it more difficult for attackers to gain access to systems. Account lockouts after five bad password attempts can help to prevent brute force attacks by locking out accounts after a certain number of failed login attempts.

The type of malware that is most likely to blame for a PC running more slowly than usual and having an extremely high GPU temperature is a “cryptominer”. Cryptominers are a type of malware that use the resources of a computer to mine cryptocurrency. This can cause the computer to run more slowly than usual and can cause the GPU temperature to rise. Spyware is a type of malware that is used to spy on a user’s activities, but it does not typically cause high GPU temperatures. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a user’s files and demands payment to unlock them, but it does not typically cause high GPU temperatures. Boot sector viruses are a type of malware that infects the boot sector of a hard drive, but they do not typically cause high GPU temperatures12

 This is because a PIN is a fast and secure method of logging in to laptops, and it is more secure than a password because it is not susceptible to keyloggers.

The technician should configure the network as private to allow the user to access files on a drive shared from another desktop on the network1

Resource Monitor will help a technician identify the issue when a user reports a computer is running slow1

Account lockout would best mitigate the threat of a dictionary attack1

The differential backup method would best address these concerns. Differential backups only back up files that have changed since the last full backup, which means that only a few files would be backed up each time. This would help to mitigate the risk of ransomware attacks, as only a few files would be affected if an attack occurred. Additionally, differential backups require less storage space than full backups.

The technician can close unnecessary applications and turn on autorotation to resolve these issues with minimal impact. Autorotation can help the device to switch between portrait and landscape modes automatically. Closing unnecessary applications can help to free up the device’s memory and reduce the device’s temperature1

TACACS+ is a proprietary Cisco AAA protocol

The process of documenting who had possession of evidence at every step of the process is called chain of custody

The systems administrator should clear the application cache12

If clearing the application cache does not work, the systems administrator should uninstall and reinstall the application12

Resetting the phone to factory settings is not necessary at this point12

Installing an alternative application with similar functionality is not necessary at this point12

The technician should escalate the ticket to ensure that the CEO’s device is returned as soon as possible1

Since Windows systems support FAT32 and NTFS "out of the box" and Linux supports a whole range of them including FAT32 and NTFS, it is highly recommended to format the partition or disk you want to share in either FAT32 or NTFS, but since FAT32 has a file size limit of 4.2 GB, if you happen to work with huge files, then it is better you use NTFS

Navigate to the Windows 10 Settings menu, select the Accounts submenu, select Sign in options, select Windows Hello Fingerprint, and have the user place a fingerprint on the fingerprint reader repeatedly until Windows indicates setup is complete. Windows Hello Fingerprint can be set up by navigating to the Windows 10 Settings menu, selecting the Accounts submenu, selecting Sign in options, and then selecting Windows Hello Fingerprint. The user will then be asked to place a fingerprint on the fingerprint reader repeatedly until Windows indicates that setup is complete. Windows Hello Fingerprint allows the user to log into the laptop using just their fingerprint, providing an additional layer of security.

Changing channels can best resolve interference from other nearby SSIDs. Wireless networks operate on different channels, and changing the channel can help to avoid interference from other nearby networks.

VNC will allow a technician to see the issue along with the user when an organization is centralizing support functions and requires the ability to support a remote user’s desktop1

The technician should use DHCP reservation to maintain the same IP address for the server at all times. DHCP reservation allows the server to obtain an IP address dynamically from the DHCP server, while ensuring that the same IP address is assigned to the server each time it requests an IP address.

 After upgrading from a 32-bit Windows OS to a 64-bit OS, the company will be able to fully take advantage of the RAM of the computer. This is because a 64-bit operating system is able to use larger amounts of RAM compared to a 32-bit operating system, which may benefit the system’s overall performance if it has more than 4GB of RAM installed 

WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 3) is a wireless security method that supports the majority of current Wi-Fi-capable devices without sacrificing security. It is backward compatible with WPA2 devices and offers enhanced encryption and authentication features. MAC filtering is another wireless security method, but it can be easily bypassed by spoofing MAC addresses. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) and TACACS+ (Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus) are network authentication protocols, but they are not wireless security methods by themselves. Verified References:

The correct answer is A. Document the date and time of change. After implementing a change, the technician should document the date and time of change in the change log or record. This helps to track the change history, monitor the change performance, and identify any issues or incidents related to the change. Documenting the date and time of change is also a good practice for auditing and compliance purposes.

Documenting the purpose of the change (B) and the risk level © are steps that should be done before implementing the change, not after. These are important information that help to justify, prioritize, and plan the change. The purpose of the change should explain why the change is needed and what benefits it will bring to the organization. The risk level should assess the potential impact and probability of the change causing any problems or disruptions to the business.

Documenting the findings of the sandbox test (D) is also a step that should be done before implementing the change, not after. A sandbox test is a way of testing the change in an isolated environment that mimics the production environment. This helps to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts with other systems or processes. The findings of the sandbox test should be documented and reviewed by the change advisory board (CAB) before approving the change for implementation.

References:

What is a Change Advisory Board? (Overview, Roles, and Responsibilities)

Best Practices in Change Management

10 Top change management best practices

Group Policy is a feature of Windows that allows administrators to centrally manage and apply policies and settings to computers and users on a domain3. Group Policy can be used to configure network drives, printers, security settings, desktop preferences, and other configurations for all users’ workstations3. Network and Sharing Center, net use, User Accounts, and regedit are not tools that can accomplish this task.

certmgr.msc is a tool that can be used to troubleshoot issues with PKI (public key infrastructure) on a Windows machine. It allows a system administrator to view, manage and import certificates, as well as check their validity, expiration and revocation status. msconfig.exe, lusrmgr.msc and perfmon.msc are other tools that can be used for different purposes on a Windows machine, but they are not related to PKI. Verified References:

Rolling back the updates is the best way to resolve the issue of slow performance caused by installing the latest Windows security patch. This can be done by using the System Restore feature or by uninstalling the specific update from the Control Panel. Rebuilding user profiles, restarting the services and performing a system file check are not likely to fix the issue, since they do not undo the changes made by the update. Verified References:

The correct answer is C. Choose what closing the lid does. This option allows you to configure how the laptop behaves when you close the lid, such as whether it goes to sleep, hibernates, shuts down, or does nothing. To access this option, you can follow these steps :

Go to Settings > System > Power & sleep.

Click on Additional power settings on the right side.

Click on Choose what closing the lid does on the left side.

Under When I close the lid, select Do nothing for both On battery and Plugged in.

Click on Save changes.

This will prevent the laptop from going to sleep when you close the lid while it is connected to the docking station and the external monitor.

Hibernate, sleep/suspend, and turn on fast startup are not the options that should be configured to fix the issue. Hibernate and sleep/suspend are both power-saving modes that allow you to resume your work without losing any data. However, they also turn off the display and other components of the laptop, which means you will not be able to use the external monitor when the laptop is closed. Turn on fast startup is a feature that reduces the boot time of Windows by saving some system information to a file when you shut down. It does not affect how the laptop behaves when you close the lid .

Verifying warranty status with the vendor is the most logical next step in the remediation process after determining that a motherboard has failed. A warranty is a guarantee from the vendor that covers the repair or replacement of defective or faulty products within a specified period of time. Verifying warranty status with the vendor can help the technician determine if the motherboard is eligible for warranty service and what steps to take to obtain it. Escalating the issue to Tier 2, replacing the motherboard, and purchasing another PC are not the most logical next steps in the remediation process.

Quarantining the computer means isolating it from the network and other devices to prevent the spread of malware or ransomware. Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files on a computer and demands payment (usually in cryptocurrency) to restore them. If a technician sees a file that is requesting payment to a cryptocurrency address, it is likely that the computer has been infected by ransomware. Quarantining the computer should be the first step to contain the infection and prevent further damage. Disabling System Restore, updating the antivirus software definitions, and booting to safe mode are not steps that should be done before quarantining the computer.

Chain of custody is a process that helps ensure that a piece of evidence extracted from a PC is admissible in a court of law. Chain of custody refers to the documentation and tracking of who handled, accessed, modified, or transferred the evidence, when, where, why, and how. Chain of custody can help establish the authenticity, integrity, and reliability of the evidence, as well as prevent tampering, alteration, or loss of the evidence. Data integrity form, valid operating system license, and documentation of an incident are not processes that can ensure that a piece of evidence extracted from a PC is admissible in a court of law.

A corporate security policy can restrict a corporate-managed mobile device from updating its OS automatically, even if the auto-update feature is turned on. This can be done to prevent compatibility issues, security risks or performance problems caused by untested or unwanted updates. The device administrator can control when and how the updates are applied to the device. The device not having enough free space, needing domain administrator confirmation or being incompatible with the newest version of the OS are not likely causes of the issue, since the user would receive an error message or a notification in those cases. Verified References:

The processor is the component that determines if the system supports virtualization technology (VTx), which is required for running virtualization software. The hard drive, memory and video card are not directly related to VTx support, although they may affect the performance of the virtual machines. Verified References:

Sandbox testing is a method of identifying potential issues with a proposed change prior to implementation. It involves creating a simulated or isolated environment that mimics the real system and applying the change to it. This can help to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts. Request form, rollback plan and end-user acceptance are other components of a change management process, but they do not involve identifying issues with a change. Verified References:

A synthetic backup is a backup type that provides a backup for all data on the system while providing the lowest impact to the network. It combines a full backup with one or more incremental backups to create a single backup set, without requiring access to the original data source. Off-site is a backup location, not a backup type. Full and differential are backup types, but they have a higher impact on the network than synthetic. Verified References: