220-1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Core 2 Exam Questions and Answers

The Network and Sharing Center is a Control Panel utility that allows users to view and modify network settings, such as IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, DNS servers, and network profiles. To change the IP and gateway settings of a Windows workstation, the technician can follow these steps:

• Open the Network and Sharing Center by clicking on the network icon in the system tray or by searching for it in the Start menu.
• Click on Change adapter settings on the left sidebar.
• Right-click on the network adapter that is connected to the network and select Properties.
• Double-click on Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) or Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) depending on the network protocol used.
• Select Use the following IP address and enter the desired IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway for the workstation. Alternatively, select Obtain an IP address automatically if the network uses DHCP to assign IP addresses dynamically.
• Click OK to save the changes and close the dialog boxes.

References:

• The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide (220-1102), page 2171
• How to change the IP address in Windows 10 and Windows 11 (4 ways), section 12

 GPT is the correct answer for this question. GPT stands for GUID Partition Table, and it is a partition style that supports up to 128 primary partitions and up to 18 exabytes of disk size per partition. GPT also uses a unique identifier for each partition and provides better data protection and recovery. GPT is suitable for partitioning a hard disk that has five primary partitions with 4TB of free space each. EFS, MBR, and FAT32 are not correct answers for this question. EFS stands for Encrypting File System, and it is a feature that allows encrypting files and folders on NTFS volumes. EFS is not a partition style, but rather a file system attribute. MBR stands for Master Boot Record, and it is an older partition style that supports up to four primary partitions and up to 2TB of disk size per partition. MBR cannot handle five primary partitions with 4TB of free space each. FAT32 stands for File Allocation Table 32, and it is a file system that supports up to 32GB of disk size per partition and up to 4GB of file size. FAT32 is not a partition style, but rather a file system type. References:

• Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 14
• CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 105

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

APFS stands for Apple File System and it is the default filesystem type for macOS since High Sierra (10.13) version1. APFS is optimized for flash storage and supports features such as encryption, snapshots, cloning, and space sharing1.

An IP address is a unique identifier that allows a device to communicate with other devices on a network. A network printer needs an IP address to be accessible by multiple users on the network. Requesting an unused IP address from the network administrator or using an IP address scanner is the step that should happen immediately before network use is authorized, as it ensures that there is no IP address conflict or duplication on the network. Documenting the date and time of the change, submitting a change request form, and determining the risk level of this change are steps that should happen before requesting an unused IP address.

Removing the power cord is the first step to ensure the safety of the technician and the PC components. This will prevent any electrical shock or damage that may occur if the PC is still connected to a power source. The technician should also press the power button to drain any residual power from the capacitors.

YUM stands for Yellowdog Updater Modified and it is a command-line tool that allows users to install, update, remove, and manage software packages in Linux. YUM can be used to add functionality to a Linux system by installing new software packages or updating existing ones. To change folder permissions, show documentation, or list file contents, other commands such as chmod, man, or ls can be used in Linux.

The most likely cause of the user’s laptop issues is that it has been infected by some type of malware or ransomware. Malware and ransomware are malicious software that can harm, exploit, or disrupt devices or networks12. They can cause symptoms such as slow performance, browser redirects, pop-up windows, data encryption, or ransom demands12. Therefore, the first step a technician should take to resolve the issue is to scan the laptop for malware and ransomware using a reliable and updated anti-malware tool34. This can help identify and remove any malicious software that may be present on the laptop. Scanning for malware and ransomware is more effective and urgent than the other options because:

• Performing a system restore may not remove the malware or ransomware, as some of them can persist or hide in the system files or backup copies34. Moreover, a system restore may result in data loss or corruption, as it restores the system to a previous state and deletes any changes made after that point5.
• Checking the network utilization may not help diagnose or fix the problem, as the malware or ransomware may not be using the network at all, or may be using it in a stealthy or encrypted manner34. Furthermore, checking the network utilization does not address the root cause of the issue, which is the presence of malicious software on the laptop.
• Updating the antivirus software may not be sufficient to detect or remove the malware or ransomware, as some of them may evade or disable the antivirus software, or may be too new or unknown for the antivirus software to recognize34. Additionally, updating the antivirus software does not guarantee that the laptop will be scanned for malware or ransomware, as the user may need to initiate or schedule the scan manually.

Loading the system in safe mode is a common troubleshooting step that allows the technician to isolate the problem by disabling unnecessary drivers and services. This can help determine if the issue is caused by a faulty device, a corrupted system file, or a malware infection.

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

A technician should handle personal communication while on site in a professional and respectful manner. According to the CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) exam objectives, one of the best practices for communication skills is to “avoid distractions and interruptions” when working with customers1. This means that the technician should not respond to calls and text messages that are not related to the work or the customer, unless there is an emergency situation that requires a response. Responding to personal communication while on site can be seen as rude, unprofessional, and disrespectful to the customer and their time. It can also affect the quality and efficiency of the technician’s work and cause errors or delays. Therefore, the technician should only respond to calls and text messages when an emergency situation requires a response, and inform the customer about the situation and apologize for the interruption.

The other options are not appropriate for handling personal communication while on site. Responding to calls and text messages while on site but not when working directly with personnel (A) is still distracting and unprofessional, as it can interfere with the technician’s focus and productivity. Responding to calls and text messages only from family (B) is not a valid criterion, as the technician may receive calls and text messages from other sources that are not related to the work or the customer. Responding to calls and text messages discreetly while on site (D) is not a good practice, as it can still be noticed by the customer or other personnel and create a negative impression.

References:

1: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives - CompTIA

The sfc command is a tool for scanning and repairing system files that are corrupted or missing on Windows operating systems12. System files are essential files that are required for the proper functioning of the operating system, such as the GUI, drivers, services, and applications. If system files are damaged or deleted, the operating system may fail to start or run properly, causing errors, crashes, or blue screens.

The sfc command can be used to fix the issue of the PC that is unable to start the GUI, assuming that the problem is caused by corrupted or missing system files. The sfc command can be run from the command prompt, which can be accessed by booting the PC from the installation media, choosing the repair option, and selecting the command prompt option3. The sfc command can be used with different switches, such as /scannow, /verifyonly, /scanfile, or /offbootdir, depending on the situation and the desired action4. The most common switch is /scannow, which scans all the system files and repairs any problems that are found5. The syntax of the sfc command with the /scannow switch is:

sfc /scannow

The sfc command will then scan and repair the system files, and display the results on the screen. If the sfc command is able to fix the system files, the PC should be able to start the GUI normally after rebooting. If the sfc command is unable to fix the system files, the PC may need further troubleshooting or a clean installation of Windows.

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 use SFC Scannow to repair Windows system files 4: SFC Command (System File Checker) 5: How to Repair Windows 10 using Command Prompt

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).

The ifconfig command is a tool for configuring network interfaces that any Linux system administrator should know. It is used to bring interfaces up or down, assign and remove addresses and routes, manage ARP cache, and much more1. One of the information that ifconfig can display is the MAC address of each network interface, which is a unique identifier of the physical layer of the network device. The MAC address is usually shown as a hexadecimal string separated by colons, such as 00:0c:29:3f:5c:1f. To get the MAC address of a Linux distribution, a technician can use the ifconfig command without any arguments, which will show the details of all the active network interfaces, or specify the name of a particular interface, such as eth0 or wlan0, to show only the details of that interface.

References1: Linux Commands - CompTIA A+ 220-1102 - 1.11 - Professor Messer IT Certification Training Courses1

To change the wallpaper on a Windows 10 laptop, the "Personalization" settings should be used. These settings allow users to customize themes, which include various aspects of the desktop environment such as the desktop wallpaper, screen saver, color scheme, and more. This makes "Personalization" the correct option for customizing the wallpaper.References: Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2 Student Guide​​.

The incident handler should clone any impacted hard drives to preserve evidence for possible litigation1

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.

When an Android device experiences slow boot times and application crashes after installing apps from a third-party website, scanning the system for malware is a critical first step. Third-party sources can often host malicious software that can compromise device performance and security. A malware scan can identify and remove such threats, potentially resolving the performance issues and application instability. Clearing the web browser cache, enrolling the device in an MDM system, and confirming app compatibility are useful steps but do not address the immediate concern of potential malware introduced by third-party app installations.

For scripted network installations requiring new SSDs and keeping HDDs as backup, the necessary tools are: 'net use' to connect to network shares, 'robocopy' to copy files efficiently from the network share to the local drive, and 'diskpart' to manage disk partitions, including initializing and formatting the new SSD. The other options are not relevant to the installation process as described.

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.

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.

Before starting a bare-metal installation of Windows 10, ensuring that there is sufficient storage space on the system's hard drive or SSD is crucial. This is because the installation files need enough room to be copied and for the operating system to be installed and function properly. Without adequate storage, the installation process can fail or the operating system might not perform optimally. Other prerequisites like internet connection, product key, and specific firmware types might be necessary at different stages of installation or activation, but the fundamental requirement is enough storage space to accommodate the new OS.

The most important environmental control to maintain the safety of a data center is Temperature control (A). Proper temperature control is crucial to prevent overheating, which can lead to hardware failure, reduced performance, and shortened equipment lifespan. Data centers house high-density computing equipment that generates significant amounts of heat, making effective temperature management essential for maintaining operational stability and reliability​​.

Restarting the smartphone can resolve a wide range of technical issues, including those related to Bluetooth connectivity. This simple step can refresh the system and eliminate temporary software glitches that might be interfering with Bluetooth functions like audio output and data synchronization.

• Restart the smartphone: This action clears the system's RAM and can resolve conflicts between the Bluetooth service and other processes running on the smartphone, potentially fixing both the audio and synchronization issues.

Resetting network settings (B) could also potentially fix the issue but is a more drastic step that also clears Wi-Fi networks and passwords, cellular settings, and VPN configurations, which might not be necessary. Unpairing the Bluetooth speaker (C) could help if the issue is specific to the speaker, but since there are also synchronization issues with the smartwatch, the problem seems broader. Checking for system updates (D) is a good general maintenance step, but it's more likely to help with ongoing or known issues rather than immediate connectivity problems.

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 an Android device starts exhibiting issues like frequent crashes and rapid battery drain after downloading an application, the first step should be to address the immediate cause:

• Uninstall the game application: Since the issues started after the game application was installed, removing it is a logical first step. Unwanted or malicious applications can cause such symptoms by running harmful processes in the background or exploiting system resources.
• Install the latest security patches: Keeping the device updated with the latest security patches is crucial for protecting against vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious software. Updating can resolve existing security flaws and improve device stability.

When an email is encrypted and the recipient cannot open it, the issue typically revolves around the need for encryption keys. Encryption keys are used to encode and decode the email content, ensuring that only authorized recipients with the correct key can access the information. In this scenario, the user would need to receive the appropriate decryption key from the sender to unlock and read the encrypted email. This exchange ensures that sensitive information remains secure during transmission and is only accessible to intended recipients.

In Windows 10, the "Network & Internet" settings category is where users can manage all network-related configurations, including Wi-Fi connections. To connect to a Wi-Fi network, users need to input the network's SSID (Service Set Identifier) and the corresponding password. This section allows users to view available networks, enter credentials for secure networks, and manage other network features such as airplane mode, VPN, and mobile hotspot settings.

To locate a missing file with only a partial name known, the best tools to use in a Linux environment would be grep and find.

• grep: This command is used to search the contents of files for a specific pattern. While grep itself might not be the first choice for finding file names, it can be combined with other commands (like ls or find) to search within file lists or contents.
• find: This command is used to search for files in a directory hierarchy based on various criteria like name, size, modification date, etc. find can be used to search for files by partial name by using wildcards in the search pattern.

cat (A) is used to concatenate and display the content of files. df (B) displays the amount of disk space used and available on filesystems. ps (D) shows information about active processes. dig (E) is used for querying DNS name servers. top (G) displays Linux tasks and system performance information. None of these tools are directly suited for finding files by partial names.

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.

After successfully mitigating a malicious event caused by an infected email, the final step before considering the event closed is to complete an incident report. This document should detail the nature of the incident, the steps taken to resolve it, and any lessons learned to improve future responses to similar threats.

The .dmg file type in macOS requires mounting before installation. .dmg files are disk image files used to distribute software on macOS. When opened, they mount a virtual disk on the desktop, from which the application can be installed. Other file types like .pkg, .zip, and .app have different processes for installation and do not require mounting in the same way.

For securely disposing of SSDs, physical destruction methods like shredding are considered most effective:

• Shredding: This method involves physically breaking the SSD into small pieces, making data recovery practically impossible. It's a recommended practice for ensuring that sensitive data on SSDs is irretrievably destroyed.

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​​.

Folder redirection is a feature in Windows that allows administrators to change the default location of certain special folders within the user profile, such as the "Documents" folder, to a different location, typically on a network server. This is commonly used in organizational environments to centralize file storage, simplify backups, and ensure data is stored on network drives with potentially more robust security measures and redundancy.

• Folder redirection: By implementing folder redirection through Group Policy in Active Directory, a company can ensure that all users' "Documents" folders are stored on a specified file server on the network, allowing for centralized management and backup of important user files.

Security groups (A) are used to manage user and computer access to shared resources, but they don't directly enable the relocation of user folders. Organizational unit structure (C) helps in managing and applying policies within Active Directory but is not directly related to the physical location of files. Access control lists (D) are used to define permissions for files and directories, but they do not govern where those files and directories should be located.

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​​.

An image backup captures a complete snapshot of the entire system at a specific point in time, including the operating system, installed applications, user profiles, and system settings. This method is most suitable for backing up the components listed in the question because it ensures that every aspect of the workstation, from the core OS to individual user settings, is preserved and can be restored in its entirety. This is crucial for quickly recovering a system to a fully operational state after a failure or when migrating to new hardware. Other methods like differential, synthetic, and archive backups do not provide the comprehensive one-step restoration capability that an image backup offers for the complete system recovery.

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.

The correct tool to use for removing upgrade files and freeing up disk space on a Windows desktop is cleanmgr.exe, which stands for Disk Cleanup. Disk Cleanup is a maintenance utility included in Microsoft Windows designed to free up disk space on a computer's hard drive. The utility scans and analyzes the hard drive for files that are no longer of any use, and then removes the unnecessary files. It can delete temporary files, system files, empty the Recycle Bin, and remove a variety of system files and other items that you might no longer need​​.

Windows 10 includes a set of parental controls within the "Family Options" section of the Windows settings. This feature allows parents to manage their children's computing activities, including setting time limits on device use, filtering web content, managing privacy and online safety settings, and viewing activity reports.

• Family Options: By enabling and configuring Family Options, the user can set specific times when their children can use the device and access the internet, effectively limiting their overall screen time and internet usage.

Update & Security (B) mainly deals with Windows updates and security features but does not directly provide settings for time management. Ease of Access (C) is focused on accessibility settings and does not include time management options. Network & Internet (D) settings control network connectivity and do not offer parental controls or time limits. Privacy (E) settings manage which applications can access device features and user data but do not include time management options.

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.

An AUP, or Acceptable Use Policy, is a set of rules applied by the owner, creator, or administrator of a network, website, or service that restricts the ways in which the network, website, or system may be used. In this scenario, the administrator is likely referring to the company's AUP, which outlines what employees can and cannot do on the company's network, including restrictions on accessing certain types of websites, such as sports teams' sites, for non-work-related purposes.

• AUP (Acceptable Use Policy): This policy typically includes rules designed to maintain the security of the network, ensure the productivity of employees, and comply with legal regulations. Blocking access to specific websites is a common practice enforced through an AUP to align with these goals.

An NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement) (A) is a legal contract between at least two parties that outlines confidential material, knowledge, or information that the parties wish to share with one another for certain purposes but wish to restrict access to or by third parties. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) (C) extends a private network across a public network and enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network. SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) (D) are a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out complex routine operations, which wouldn't typically include website access guidelines.

A technician needs to interconnect two offices to the main branch while complying with good practices and security standards. The technician should implement VPN

In Linux, the lp command is used to manage print jobs, including setting the default printer. The lp command allows users to send print jobs to a printer queue, check the status of print jobs, and cancel print jobs, among other functionalities. By using options and parameters with the lp command, a technician can specify a particular printer as the default for future print jobs, ensuring that documents are routed to the correct printer without needing to specify it each time.

Refreshing local Windows Server Update Services (WSUS) settings and deleting the Windows Update cache are effective steps in resolving issues with Windows 10 not installing updates. These actions help in rectifying any corrupt update files and ensuring that the workstation is properly communicating with the update servers, which can resolve errors during manual and automatic update installations.

The performance degradation following the launch of a new external web server suggests that Quality of Service (QoS) considerations were overlooked. QoS settings help prioritize traffic to ensure that critical services like web servers receive the bandwidth they need without negatively impacting the overall network performance. Without proper QoS configuration, the new server's traffic could overwhelm the firewall, leading to widespread performance issues.

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.

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

The technician should update the browser’s CRLs first. The error message indicates that the certificate revocation list (CRL) is not up to date. Updating the CRLs will ensure that the browser can verify the authenticity of the bank’s website.

The risk analysis should be performed before it's taken to the board. The step after the board approves the change is End User Agreenment Reference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ru77iZxuElA &list=PLG49S3nxzAnna96gzhJrzkii4hH_mgW4b&index=59

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

The file type that the technician will MOST likely use when installing new software on a macOS computer is .app. This is because .app is the file extension for applications on macOS1.

AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) should be updated to reflect this new requirement. The AUP is a document that outlines the acceptable use of technology within an organization. It is a set of rules that employees must follow when using company resources. The AUP should be updated to include a policy on cryptocurrency mining on work desktops

The Linux command used to install an application is sudo. The sudo command allows users to run programs with the security privileges of another user, such as the root user. This is necessary to install applications because it requires administrative privileges1

The feature that BEST addresses the user’s concern is remote wipe. This is because remote wipe allows the user to erase all data on the mobile device if it is lost or stolen, which will prevent unauthorized access to the device1.

The technician should have connected a proper ESD strap to prevent damage to the motherboard. ESD (electrostatic discharge) can cause damage to electronic components, and an ESD strap helps to prevent this by grounding the technician and preventing the buildup of static electricity. Removing all jewelry is also a good practice, but it is not the most likely solution to this problem.

The most likely reason for the antivirus protection on a company laptop being out of date is failed OS updates1. Antivirus software relies on the operating system to function properly. If the operating system is not up-to-date, the antivirus software may not function properly and may not be able to receive the latest virus definitions and updates2. Therefore, it is important to keep the operating system up-to-date to ensure the antivirus software is functioning properly2.

Encrypting the hard drive would most likely resolve the issue1

https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-a-220-1102-exam-objectives-(3-0)

To change the desktop wallpaper on a Windows 10 computer using a Windows 10 Settings tool, the user should open Settings, select Personalization, click Browse, and then locate and open the image the user wants to use as the wallpaper1

https://www.lifewire.com/change-desktop-background-windows-11-5190733

The aspect of forensic evidence life cycle that must be maintained when dealing with a piece of evidence is chain of custody. This is because chain of custody is the documentation of the movement of evidence from the time it is collected to the time it is presented in court, and it is important to maintain the integrity of the evidence

 A zero-day attack is an attack that exploits a previously unknown vulnerability in a computer application, meaning that the attack occurs on “day zero” of awareness of the vulnerability

• Configuring AAA Services. Retrieved from https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/crs/software/crs_r4-0/security/configuration/guide/sc40crsbook_chapter1.html

 Processes tab in Task Manager would contain the information a technician would use to identify the cause of this issue. The Processes tab in Task Manager displays all the processes running on the computer, including the CPU and memory usage of each process. The technician can use this tab to identify the process that is causing the hard drive activity light to remain lit and the performance degradation1

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts files on a computer, making them inaccessible until a ransom is paid. In this case, the user was able to access the files before without issue, and no changes have been made within the company, so it is likely that the computer was infected with ransomware.

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

Vishing is a type of social engineering attack where a fraudulent caller impersonates a legitimate entity, such as a bank or financial institution, in order to gain access to sensitive information. The caller will typically use a variety of techniques, such as trying to scare the target or providing false information, in order to get the target to provide the information they are after. Vishing is often used to gain access to usernames, passwords, bank account information, and other sensitive data.

The most effective way to check other machines on the network for this unknown threat is to manually check each machine. This can help to identify any other machines that may be infected with the unknown virus and allow them to be cleaned.

The technician has taken the appropriate action by not taking the call and setting the phone to silent in order to avoid any distractions and remain focused on the task at hand. This is a good example of how to maintain focus and productivity when working on a customer's PC, and will help to ensure that the job is completed in a timely and efficient manner.

Graphical user interface, text, application Description automatically generated

The security benefits realized after deploying a client certificate to be used for Wi-Fi access for all devices in an organization are that all Wi-Fi traffic will be encrypted in transit. This means that any data transmitted over the Wi-Fi network will be protected from eavesdropping attempts. Rogue access points will not connect to the network because they will not have the client certificate. However, multifactor authentication will not be forced for Wi-Fi because the client certificate is being used in conjunction with the user’s existing username and password12

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

The BEST way to secure the current workflow of transferring sensitive personal information between offices when conducting business is to enable BitLocker To Go with a password that meets corporate requirements. This is because BitLocker To Go is a full-disk encryption feature that encrypts all data on a USB drive, which is what the company currently uses, and requires a password to access the data.

The technician should use dfrgui.exe to defragment the hard drive1

4. Chrome OS. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrome_OS 5. What is Chrome OS? Retrieved from https://www.google.com/chromebook/chrome-os/

A netbook with a web-based, proprietary operating system is most likely running Chrome OS. Chrome OS is a web-based operating system developed by Google that is designed to work with web applications and cloud storage. It is optimized for netbooks and other low-power devices and is designed to be fast, secure, and easy to use.

Multifactor authentication will be forced for Wi-Fi after deploying a client certificate to be used for Wi-Fi access for all devices in an organization3

References:

• CompTIA Security+ (Plus) Practice Test Questions | CompTIA. Retrieved from https://www.comptia.org/training/resources/comptia-security-practice-tests

The type of backup that should be completed FIRST after installing a new backup and recovery system is a full backup. This is because a full backup is a complete backup of all data and is the foundation for all other backups. After a full backup is completed, other types of backups, such as differential and incremental backups, can be performed.

To accomplish this task, the technician should use a Full backup method1

A full backup only requires two sets of tapes to restore because it backs up all the data from the workstation. With a differential backup, the backups need to be taken multiple times over a period of time, so more tapes would be needed to restore the data1

The new laptop was set up with the static IP it needs to connect to the software. The old desktop is still configured with that IP, hence the conflict.

The user can use the following commands to give the technician the correct information: ipconfig /all and hostname 1. The ipconfig /all command displays the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway for all adapters on the computer 1. The hostname command displays the name of the computer 1.

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.

An in-place upgrade is the most efficient method for migrating from Windows 7 Pro to Windows 10 Pro, as it will retain all user files and preferences, can be done locally, and can be done one station at a time. An in-place upgrade involves installing the new version of Windows over the existing version, and can be done quickly and easily.

UPS > Surge protector = Computer, wifi router, cable modem

Surge protector = wallOutlet , printer and scanner

The best answer to control security settings on an Android phone in a domain environment is to use “Mobile Device Management (MDM)”. MDM is a type of software that is used to manage and secure mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. MDM can be used to enforce security policies, configure settings, and remotely wipe data from devices. In a domain environment, MDM can be used to manage Android phones and enforce security policies such as password requirements, encryption, and remote wipe capabilities12

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 technician should disable the user’s access to the device’s command shell. This will prevent the user from accessing sensitive data and will help to prevent further data leaks. The technician should then investigate the unapproved application to determine if it is the cause of the data leak. If the application is found to be the cause of the leak, the technician should uninstall the application and restore the device to factory settings. If the application is not the cause of the leak, the technician should investigate further to determine the cause of the leak. Disabling the ability to install applications from unknown sources can help to prevent future data leaks, but it is not the next step the technician should take in this scenario. Ensuring the device is connected to the corporate WiFi network is not relevant to this scenario1

The risks in running this script are that the deployment script is performing unknown actions. Running the script blindly could cause unintended actions, such as deploying malware or deleting important files, which could negatively impact the organization’s network and data1.

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

Local Users and Groups is the best option to accomplish this task. Local Users and Groups is a tool that allows managing the local user accounts and groups on a Windows workstation. The technician can use this tool to create a new user account with administrator privileges or add an existing user account to the Administrators group. This way, the technician can log in with the administrator account and make system changes without elevating permissions. Group Policy Editor, Device Manager, and System Configuration are not correct answers for this question. Group Policy Editor is a tool that allows configuring policies and settings for users and computers in a domain environment. Device Manager is a tool that allows managing the hardware devices and drivers on a Windows workstation. System Configuration is a tool that allows modifying the startup options and services on a Windows workstation. None of these tools can directly grant administrator access to a user account. References:

• Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 13
• CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 103

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 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

The first step a technician should take when troubleshooting a computer with a suspected short in the power supply is B. Disconnect the power before servicing the PC. This is to prevent any electrical shock or damage to the components. A power supply can be dangerous even when unplugged, as capacitors can maintain a line voltage charge for a long time1. Therefore, it is important to disconnect the power cord and press the power button to discharge any residual power before opening the case2. The other steps are also important for safety and proper diagnosis, but they should be done after disconnecting the power.

A corporate use license, also known as a volume license, is a type of software license that allows an organization to purchase and use multiple copies of a software product with a single license key. A corporate use license can help validate compliance with an application’s EULA (end-user license agreement), which is a legal contract that defines the terms and conditions of using the software. A corporate use license can also reduce the number of licenses to manage, as it eliminates the need to activate and track individual licenses for each copy of the software. Personal use license, open-source license, and non-expiring license are not types of licenses that can best accomplish this goal.

AutoPlay is a feature that automatically runs programs or files when a removable media device, such as a flash drive, is plugged in. This can be exploited by malware authors who place malicious files on flash drives that execute automatically when inserted into a computer. Turning off AutoPlay can prevent this type of incident by requiring the user to manually open or run files from removable media devices. Disabling UAC (user account control), restricting local administrators and enabling UPnP (universal plug and play) are not effective ways to prevent this type of incident. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/autoplay-security-risk https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-sandbox-testing https://www.comptia.org/certifications/ a

Rollback refers to the steps to be taken if an issue occurs during a change implementation. It means restoring the system to its previous state before the change was applied, using backup data or configuration files. It can minimize the impact and downtime caused by a failed change. Testing refers to the steps to be taken before a change implementation, to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts. Risk refers to the potential negative consequences of a change implementation, such as data loss, security breach, performance degradation, etc. Acceptance refers to the steps to be taken after a change implementation, to confirm that the change meets the requirements and expectations of the stakeholders. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/change-management-process https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

The correct answer is D. Force Quit. Force Quit is a macOS feature that allows users to close an application that has stopped responding. To use Force Quit, users can press and hold Option (or Alt), Command, and Esc (Escape) keys together, or choose Force Quit from the Apple menu in the corner of the screen. A Force Quit window will open, where users can select the application that they want to close and click Force Quit123.

References and Explanation:

• The web search results provide information about how to force an app to quit on Mac using different methods, such as keyboard shortcuts, mouse clicks, or menu options. The results also explain what to do if the app cannot be forced to quit or if the Mac does not respond.
• The first result1 is from the official Apple Support website and provides detailed instructions and screenshots on how to force an app to quit on Mac using the keyboard shortcut or the Apple menu. It also explains how to force quit the Finder app and how to restart or turn off the Mac if needed.
• The second result2 is from the same website but for a different region (UK). It has the same content as the first result but with some minor differences in spelling and wording.
• The third result4 is from a website called Lifehacker that provides tips and tricks for various topics, including technology. It compares how to close a program that is not responding on different operating systems, such as Windows, Mac, and Linux. It briefly mentions how to force quit an app on Mac using the keyboard shortcut or the mouse click.
• The fourth result3 is from a website called Parallels that provides software solutions for running Windows on Mac. It focuses on how to force quit an app on Mac using the keyboard shortcut and provides a video tutorial and a screenshot on how to do it. It also suggests some alternative ways to close an app that is not responding, such as using Activity Monitor or Terminal commands.

Update and Security is the section in Windows 10 Settings that allows the user to back up their device. Backing up a device means creating a copy of the data and settings on the device and storing it in another location, such as an external drive or a cloud service. Backing up a device can help the user restore their data and settings in case of data loss, corruption, or theft. Devices and Printers, Email and Accounts, and Apps and Features are not sections in Windows 10 Settings that allow the user to back up their device.

Uninstalling and reinstalling the application can resolve the issue of it crashing immediately on an Android tablet, as it can fix any corrupted or missing files or settings. Clearing the application storage can also resolve the issue, as it can free up space and remove any conflicting data. Gaining root access to the tablet, resetting the web browser cache, deleting the application cache and disabling mobile device management are not likely to resolve the issue, as they do not affect how the application runs. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-fix-android-apps-crashing https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-roll-back-windows-updates https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

This would ensure that the support documentation reflects the current state of the network and prevents any confusion or mismatch during a network outage. Updating the network diagrams is also one of the best practices for network documentation, as stated in the Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide1. The other options are not as effective or feasible as option B. Performing annual network topology reviews is too infrequent and may not capture recent changes. Allowing network changes once per year is too restrictive and may not meet the business needs. Routinely backing up switch configuration files is important, but it does not help with identifying new switches or devices on the network.

The correct answer is A. Amount of system RAM. A Type 2 hypervisor is a virtualization software that runs on top of a host operating system, which means it shares the system resources with the host OS and other applications. Therefore, increasing the amount of system RAM can improve the performance of the hypervisor and the virtual machines running on it. RAM is used to store data and instructions that are frequently accessed by the CPU, and having more RAM can reduce the need for swapping data to and from the storage device, which is slower than RAM.

NIC performance, storage IOPS, and dedicated GPU are not as relevant for improving the hypervisor’s performance in this scenario. NIC performance refers to the speed and quality of the network interface card, which is used to connect the computer to a network. Storage IOPS refers to the number of input/output operations per second that can be performed by the storage device, which is a measure of its speed and efficiency. Dedicated GPU refers to a separate graphics processing unit that can handle complex graphics tasks, such as gaming or video editing. These components may affect other aspects of the computer’s performance, but they are not directly related to the hypervisor’s ability to compile new source code.

Cryptomining malware is a type of malicious program that uses the CPU resources of a compromised server to generate cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. It can cause extremely high CPU utilization and network traffic to the IP address of the cryptocurrency service. Keylogger, ransomware and boot sector virus are other types of malware, but they do not cause the same symptoms as cryptomining malware. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-cryptomining https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

A soft token, also known as a software token or an OTP (one-time password) app, is a type of multifactor authentication that generates a temporary code or password on a user’s device, such as a smartphone or a tablet. The user must enter this code or password along with their username and password to access their account or service. A soft token can help improve security by adding an extra layer of verification and preventing unauthorized access even if the user’s credentials are compromised. A soft token can also be implemented at a minimal cost, as it does not require any additional hardware or infrastructure. Biometrics, access control lists, and smart card are not types of multifactor authentication that can be implemented at a minimal cost.

The correct answer is B. Printer Properties/Sharing tab. This is the location where the technician can enable printer sharing and assign a share name for the USB printer. This will allow other computers on the network to access the printer by using the share name or the IP address of the computer that has the printer attached1.

1: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam: Core 2 Objectives, page 15, section 1.9.

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is a protocol that allows a user to connect to and control a remote computer over a network. RDP can be used to perform Windows updates on a department’s servers without physically accessing them.

Proper ventilation is a factor that can extend the life of a device by preventing overheating and thermal damage to the device’s components. Proper ventilation means ensuring that there is enough airflow around and inside the device to dissipate heat and maintain a suitable temperature for optimal performance. Proper ventilation can be achieved by using fans, heat sinks, vents, or liquid cooling systems, as well as avoiding placing the device near heat sources or in enclosed spaces. Battery backup, electrostatic discharge mat, and green disposal are not factors that can extend the life of a device.

EFS (Encrypting File System) is a feature that allows a user to encrypt a single folder or file on a Windows PC. It uses a public key encryption system to protect the data from unauthorized access. FAT32 and exFAT are file system formats that do not support encryption. BitLocker is a feature that encrypts the entire drive, not a single folder or file. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-efs https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

An ESD strap, also known as an antistatic wrist strap, is a device that prevents electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging sensitive electronic components such as RAM. ESD is the sudden flow of electricity between two objects with different electrical charges, which can cause permanent damage or malfunction to electronic devices. An ESD strap connects the technician’s wrist to a grounded surface, such as a metal case or a mat, and equalizes the electrical potential between the technician and the device. Battery backup, thermal paste, and consistent power are not devices that can protect against ESD.

educating the user on the solution that was performed is a good next step after resolving an issue. This can help prevent similar issues from happening again and empower users to solve problems on their own.

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.

https://www.educba.com/shell-scripting-in-linux/

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.

https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-a-220-1102-exam-objectives-(3-0)

The BEST solution for preventing data theft within the call center in this scenario would be to lock the workstations after a period of inactivity. This would prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing patient data if call center agents were to step away from their workstations without logging out.

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.

https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-a-220-1102-exam-objectives-(3-0)

When a user reports that their workstation is behaving strangely after opening a suspicious email, the first step a technician should take is to run a virus scan on the computer. This is because opening a suspicious email is a common way for viruses and malware to infect a computer. Running a virus scan can help identify and remove any infections that may be causing the computer to behave strangely.

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

Saving software to an external hard drive and installing it on each individual PC is the most inefficient method for the small business owner. This method requires manual intervention on each PC, and there is a higher risk of error or inconsistencies between PCs. Additionally, if the software needs to be updated or reinstalled in the future, this process would need to be repeated on each PC.

Logging into a user's account without their explicit permission is a violation of the acceptable use policy, which outlines the rules and regulations by which a user must abide while using a computer system. By logging into the user's account without their permission, the technician would be violating this policy. Additionally, this action could be seen as a breach of confidentiality, as the technician would have access to information that should remain confidential.

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.

This will ensure that the antivirus software is up-to-date, and can detect any new viruses that may have been released since the last virus definition update. 

The CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1002 exam covers this topic in the following domains: 1.3 Explain the importance of security awareness and 2.2 Given a scenario, use secure data management and disaster recovery principles.

Vishing, also known as voice phishing, is a type of social engineering attack where the attacker tricks the victim into divulging sensitive information over the phone. In this case, the attacker tricked the user into providing login credentials for a website.

 The technician should run the System File Checker (SFC) first to correct file corruption errors on computers after a power outage. SFC is a command-line utility that scans for and repairs corrupted system files. It can be run from the command prompt or from the Windows Recovery Environment. Rebuilding the Windows profiles, restoring the computers from backup, and reimaging the computers are more drastic measures that should be taken only if SFC fails to correct the issue1

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.

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.

End-of-life operating systems are those which have reached the end of their life cycle and are no longer supported by the software developer. This means that the operating system will no longer receive updates, security patches, or other new features. This can leave users vulnerable to security threats, as the system will no longer be protected against the latest threats. Additionally, this can make it difficult to migrate data to a newer operating system, as the old system is no longer supported.

The law firm wants to retain more versions of the backups when possible, so the best backup method for the technician to implement in this scenario would be Incremental backup. Incremental backups only save the changes made since the last backup, which allows for more frequent backups and minimizes the amount of storage required. This would allow the law firm to retain more than three versions of backups without risking backup failure.

To retain more versions of backups, the technician should implement an Incremental backup method12

An incremental backup method only backs up the data that has changed since the last backup, so it requires less storage space than a full backup12

Checking for application updates is the first troubleshooting step that the user should perform, because the application may not be compatible with the new OS version and may need an update to fix the issue. Deleting the application’s cache, rolling back the OS update, or uninstalling and reinstalling the application are possible solutions, but they are more time-consuming and disruptive than checking for updates. References: : https://www.comptia.org/training/resources/exam-objectives/comptia-a-core-2-exam-objectives : https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-update -apps-on-android-4173855

 Chain of custody and data integrity are two options that should most likely be considered when preserving data from a hard drive for forensic analysis. Chain of custody refers to the documentation and tracking of who has access to the data and how it is handled, stored, and transferred. Data integrity refers to the assurance that the data has not been altered, corrupted, or tampered with during the preservation process

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

Drilling and incinerating are physical destruction methods that make the data on hard drives unrecoverable. Standard formatting, erasing and low-level formatting are logical methods that can be reversed with data recovery tools. Recycling is not a destruction method at all. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-certificate-of-destruction https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

 The user is experiencing a vishing attack. Vishing stands for voice phishing and is a type of social-engineering attack that uses phone calls or voice messages to trick users into revealing personal or financial information. Vishing attackers often pretend to be from legitimate organizations, such as banks, government agencies or service providers, and use various tactics, such as urgency, fear or reward, to persuade users to comply with their requests. Phishing is a type of social-engineering attack that uses fraudulent emails or websites to trick users into revealing personal or financial information. Phishing does not involve phone calls or voice messages. Smishing is a type of social-engineering attack that uses text messages or SMS to trick users into revealing personal or financial information. Smishing does not involve phone calls or voice messages. Whaling is a type of social-engineering attack that targets high-profile individuals, such as executives, celebrities or politicians, to trick them into revealing personal or financial information. Whaling does not necessarily involve phone calls or voice messages. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 3.1

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

 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

MDM stands for mobile device management, which is a type of software solution that allows remote management and security of mobile devices. MDM can help a company reduce data disclosure caused by malware that may infect these devices by enforcing security policies, such as encryption, password protection, antivirus software, and remote wipe. MDM can also monitor and control the access of personal devices to corporate data and networks. UAC stands for user account control, which is a feature of Windows that prompts users for permission or an administrator password before making changes that affect the system. UAC may not be effective in preventing malware infection or data disclosure on personal devices. LDAP stands for lightweight directory access protocol, which is a protocol for accessing and managing information stored in a directory service, such as user names and passwords. LDAP does not directly address the issue of malware infection or data disclosure on personal devices. SSO stands for single sign-on, which is a feature that allows users to access multiple applications or services with one set of credentials. SSO may not prevent malware infection or data disclosure on personal devices, and may even increase the risk if the credentials are compromised. 

https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2021/03/mobile-d evice-security-bring-your-own-device-byod-draft-sp-1800-22

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

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: https://windowsreport.com/mirror-backup-software/

 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.

An access control list (ACL) is a list of permissions associated with a system resource (object), such as a website. An ACL specifies which users or system processes are granted access to objects, as well as what operations are allowed on given objects1. A systems administrator can create an ACL to define the list of websites that users are allowed to access.

References: 1: Access-control list - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Access-control_list)

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

A keylogger is a type of malware that records the keystrokes of a user and sends them to a remote attacker1. The attacker can use the captured information to steal passwords, credit card numbers, or other sensitive data. A keylogger can be installed on a computer by attaching a small USB drive that contains a malicious executable file, such as grabber.exe2. The output.txt file may contain the recorded keystrokes. The user should remove the USB drive and scan the computer for malware.

References: 2: What is grabber.exe? (https://www.freefixer.com/library/file/grabber.e xe-55857/) 1: What is a keylogger? (https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/definitions/keylogger)

RADIUS stands for Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service and it is a protocol that provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting for network access. RADIUS can be used to implement a method of wireless security that requires both a user and the user’s computer to be in specific managed groups on the server in order to connect to Wi-Fi. This is also known as 802.1X authentication or EAP-TLS authentication

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 (https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/security/defender-endpoint/web-content-filtering?view=o365-worldwide)  2: What is Content Filtering? Definition and Types of Content Filters (https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/content-filtering)

The error message “Your connection is not private. Authority invalid.” means that the web browser cannot verify the identity or security of the website’s SSL certificate. This could indicate that the website has been compromised, has a configuration error, or has an expired or invalid certificate. The user should not proceed to the site or use a different browser, as this could expose their sensitive information to potential attackers. The user should also not reinstall the browser, as this is unlikely to fix the error and could cause data loss. The best action for the user to take is to report the error to the bank and wait for them to resolve it.

References: : How to Fix “Your Connection Is Not Private” Errors (https://www.howtogeek.com/874436/how-to-fix-your-connection-is-not-private-errors/) : Fix connection errors (https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/6098869?hl=en)

A keylogger is a type of malware that records the keystrokes of a user and sends them to a remote attacker. A keylogger can be used to steal passwords, credit card numbers, personal information, and other sensitive data. A keylogger can be delivered through a USB drive that contains a malicious executable file, such as grabber.exe, and an output file that stores the captured keystrokes, such as output.txt. The other options are not likely to use this method of attack. References: : https://www.comptia.org/training/resources/exam-objectives/comptia-a-core-2-exam-objectives : https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/definitions/keylogger 

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.

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.

The tool that the technician will most likely use to remotely connect to a Linux desktop is VNC. VNC stands for Virtual Network Computing and is a protocol that allows remote access and control of a graphical desktop environment over a network. VNC is natively designed for Linux and can also support other operating systems, such as Windows and Mac OS. VNC can be used to assist users with troubleshooting by viewing and interacting with their desktops remotely. MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication and is a method of verifying identity using two or more factors, such as something you know, something you have or something you are. MFA is not a tool that can be used to remotely connect to a Linux desktop but a technique that can be used to enhance security for systems or services. MSRA stands for Microsoft Remote Assistance and is a feature that allows remote access and control of a Windows desktop environment over a network. MSRA is not natively designed for Linux and may not be compatible or supported by Linux systems. RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol and is a protocol that allows remote access and control of a Windows desktop environment over a network. RDP is not natively designed for Linux and may not be compatible or supported by Linux systems. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.6

A .vbs file is a Virtual Basic script written in the VBScript scripting language. It contains code that can be executed within Windows via the Windows-based script host (Wscript.exe), to perform certain admin and processing functions1. Cscript.exe is a command-line version of the Windows Script Host that provides command-line options for setting script properties. Therefore, cscript.exe is most likely used to run .vbs files on Windows devices. References: 1: https://fileinfo.com/extension/vbs : https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/administration/windows-commands/cscript

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: https:// www.manageengine.com/products/service-desk/itil-change-management/cab-change-advisory-board.html  1: https://www.servicenow.com/content/dam/servicenow-assets/public/en-us/doc-type/success/quick-answer/change-advisory-board-setup.pdf

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

 Windows Home is the most likely edition of Windows installed on the machines that do not have the domain join option. Windows Home is a consumer-oriented edition that does not support joining a domain or using Group Policy. Only Windows Professional, Education, and Enterprise editions can join a domain

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.

A possible cause of the user being redirected to unexpected websites is that the localhost file entries have been modified by malware or hackers to point to malicious or unwanted websites. The localhost file is a text file that maps hostnames to IP addresses and can override DNS settings. By examining the localhost file entries, a technician can identify and remove any suspicious or unauthorized entries that may cause the redirection issue. Enabling firewall ACLs may not resolve the issue if the firewall rules do not block the malicious or unwanted websites. Verifying the routing tables may not resolve the issue if the routing configuration is correct and does not affect the web traffic. Updating the antivirus definitions may help prevent future infections but may not remove the existing malware or changes to the localhost file. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.3QUESTION NO: 218a

A network technician installed a SOHO router for a home office user. The user has read reports about home routers being targeted by malicious actors and then used in DDoS attacks. Which of the following can the technician MOST likely do to defend against this threat?

A. Add network content filtering.

B. Disable the SSID broadcast.

C. Configure port forwarding.

D. Change the default credentials.

Answer: D

 One of the most effective ways to defend against malicious actors targeting home routers for DDoS attacks is to change the default credentials of the router. The default credentials are often well-known or easily guessed by attackers, who can then access and compromise the router settings and firmware. By changing the default credentials to strong and unique ones, a technician can prevent unauthorized access and configuration changes to the router. Adding network content filtering may help block some malicious or unwanted websites but may not prevent attackers from exploiting router vulnerabilities or backdoors. Disabling the SSID broadcast may help reduce the visibility of the wireless network but may not prevent attackers from scanning or detecting it. Configuring port forwarding may help direct incoming traffic to specific devices or services but may not prevent attackers from sending malicious packets or requests to the router. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 3.3

MSRA stands for Microsoft Remote Assistance, and it is a feature that allows a technician to remotely view and control another user’s Windows PC with their permission. MSRA is built-in to Windows and does not require any additional software installation. To use MSRA, the technician and the user need to follow these steps:

• On the user’s PC, type msra in the search box on the taskbar and select Invite someone to connect to your PC and help you, or offer to help someone else.
• Select Save this invitation as a file and choose a location to save the file. This file contains a password that the technician will need to connect to the user’s PC.
• Send the file and the password to the technician via email or another secure method.
• On the technician’s PC, type msra in the search box on the taskbar and select Help someone who has invited you.
• Select Use an invitation file and browse to the location where the file from the user is saved. Enter the password when prompted.
• The user will see a message asking if they want to allow the technician to connect to their PC. The user should select Yes.
• The technician will see the user’s desktop and can request control of their PC by clicking Request control on the top bar. The user should allow this request by clicking Yes.
• The technician can now view and control the user’s PC and assist them with installing software.

Sometimes, an OS update can cause compatibility issues with some applications that are not optimized for the new version of the OS. To fix this, the user should check if there are any updates available for the application that can resolve the issue. The user can check for application updates by following these steps:

• On an Android device, open the Google Play Store app and tap on the menu icon in the top left corner. Then tap on My apps & games and look for any updates available for the application. If there is an update, tap on Update to install it.
• On an iOS device, open the App Store app and tap on the Updates tab at the bottom. Then look for any updates available for the application. If there is an update, tap on Update to install it.

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

When a homeowner moves and sets up a new router for the new ISP it is important to take appropriate security measures to protect their network from potential security threats. The FIRST step that the homeowner should take after installation of all relevant cabling and hardware is to change the default passwords on new network devices.

Most modern routers come with default usernames and passwords that are widely known to potential attackers. If these defaults are not changed, it could make it easier for external attackers to gain unauthorized access to the network. Changing the passwords on new network devices is a simple but effective way to improve the security posture of the network.

The scope of the change is one of the elements that should be documented to ensure that the change management plan is followed. The scope of the change defines the boundaries and limitations of the change, such as what is included and excluded, what are the deliverables and outcomes, what are the assumptions and constraints, and what are the dependencies and risks. The scope of the change helps to clarify the expectations and objectives of the change, as well as to prevent scope creep or deviation from the original plan. The scope of the change also helps to measure the progress and success of the change, as well as to communicate the change to the stakeholders and the team

iOS and Android are the two most popular and widely used mobile operating systems for smartphones. They are both based on Unix-like kernels and provide a variety of features and applications for users and developers. iOS is developed by Apple and runs exclusively on Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads. Android is developed by Google and runs on a range of devices from different manufacturers, such as Samsung, Huawei, and Motorola. The other options are not mobile operating systems for smartphones, but rather for other types of devices or platforms. macOS is a desktop operating system for Apple computers, such as MacBooks and iMacs. Windows is a desktop operating system for Microsoft computers, such as Surface and Dell. Chrome OS is a web-based operating system for Google devices, such as Chromebooks and Chromecast. Linux is a family of open-source operating systems for various devices and platforms, such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and Raspberry Pi.

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

The best way to fix the issue of slow cellular connection in the office is to connect to the company’s Wi-Fi network. This will allow the user’s mobile phone to access the internet through a faster and more reliable wireless network, instead of relying on the cellular network. Connecting to the Wi-Fi network will also save the user’s data usage and battery life.

Some of the factors that can affect the cellular connection speed are the distance from the cell tower, the obstructions between the phone and the tower, the network congestion, the network technology, and the features of the phone12. In the office, the user may experience a weak or unstable cellular signal due to the building structure, the location, or the interference from other devices. Therefore, switching to the Wi-Fi network can improve the performance of the phone’s applications and web browsing.

References:

• CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives3
• CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Certification Study Guide4
• Factors affecting the speed and quality of internet connection1
• Why Is Your Mobile Data So Slow? How to Speed It Up in 10 Steps2

The symptoms that the user’s Windows computer is experiencing suggest that the new software program that the user installed from an external website may be malicious or incompatible with the system. The program may be consuming a lot of CPU resources, slowing down the performance of other programs and files. The program may also be altering the browser settings or the HOSTS file, causing the web redirection to an unauthorized site. The first step that the technician should do is to uninstall the new program from the Control Panel or the Settings app, and then restart the computer. This may resolve the issue and restore the normal functionality of the computer. If the problem persists, the technician may need to perform additional steps, such as scanning for malware, checking the HOSTS file, clearing the web browser cache, or restoring from a previous backup

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

Least privilege is the principle that is used to ensure users have the appropriate level of access to perform their job functions. Least privilege means granting users only the minimum amount of access rights and permissions they need to perform their tasks, and nothing more. Least privilege reduces the risk of unauthorized access, data leakage, malware infection, or accidental damage by limiting what users can do on the system or network. Access control list, multifactor authentication, and mobile device management are not principles, but rather mechanisms or methods that can implement least privilege. Access control list is a list that specifies the users or groups that are allowed or denied access to a resource, such as a file, folder, or printer. Multifactor authentication is a method that requires users to provide two or more pieces of evidence to prove their identity, such as a password, a token, or a biometric factor. Mobile device management is a tool that allows managing and securing mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets, that are used by employees to access corporate data or applications. References:

• Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 25
• [CompTIA Security+ SY0-601 Certification Study Guide], page 1003

The ext3 file system is a Linux native file system that meets the requirements of the question. It has the following features:

• All changes are tracked. The ext3 file system uses a journaling mechanism that records all changes to the file system metadata in a special log called the journal before applying them to the actual file system. This ensures that the file system can be restored to a consistent state in case of a power failure or system crash12.
• The possibility of file corruption is reduced. The journaling feature of ext3 also reduces the possibility of file corruption, as it avoids the need for a full file system check after an unclean shutdown. The file system can be quickly replayed from the journal and any inconsistencies can be fixed12.
• Data recovery is easy. The ext3 file system supports undeletion of files using tools such as ext3grep or extundelete, which can scan the file system for deleted inodes and attempt to recover the data blocks associated with them34.

References:

1: Introduction to Linux File System [Structure and Types] - MiniTool1 2: 7 Ways to Determine the File System Type in Linux (Ext2, Ext3 or Ext4) - Tecmint3 3: How to Recover Deleted Files in Linux with ext3grep 4: How to Recover Deleted Files from ext3 Partitions

Low-level wiping is the best data destruction method for recycling old hard drives for reuse. Low-level wiping is a process that overwrites every bit of data on a hard drive with zeros or random patterns, making it impossible to recover any data from the drive. Low-level wiping also restores the drive to its factory state, removing any bad sectors or errors that may have accumulated over time. Low-level wiping can be done using specialized software tools or hardware devices that connect to the drive. Degaussing, standard formatting, and deleting are not suitable data destruction methods for recycling old hard drives for reuse. Degaussing is a process that exposes a hard drive to a strong magnetic field, destroying both the data and the drive itself. Degaussing renders the drive unusable for reuse. Standard formatting is a process that erases the data on a hard drive by removing the file system structure, but it does not overwrite the data itself. Standard formatting leaves some data recoverable using forensic tools or software utilities. Deleting is a process that removes the data from a hard drive by marking it as free space, but it does not erase or overwrite the data itself. Deleting leaves most data recoverable using undelete tools or software utilities. References:

• Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 15
• CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 105

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

The most effective clarifying question for the help desk technician to ask the user in order to understand the issue is A. What is the error message? This question will help the technician to identify the possible cause and solution of the problem, as the error message will provide specific information about the nature and location of the error, such as the server name, the port number, the protocol, the authentication method, or the network status. The error message will also help the technician to troubleshoot the issue by following the suggested steps or searching for the error code online.

This question is more effective than the other choices because:

• B. Does the program work on another computer? is not a very helpful question, as it will not reveal the source of the error or how to fix it. The program may work on another computer for various reasons, such as different network settings, firewall rules, permissions, or software versions. However, this question will not tell the technician what is wrong with the user’s computer or the remote server, or what needs to be changed or updated to make the program work.
• C. Did the program ever work? is not a very relevant question, as it will not address the current issue or how to resolve it. The program may have worked in the past, but it may have stopped working due to changes in the network configuration, the server status, the software updates, or the user credentials. However, this question will not tell the technician what has changed or how to restore the program functionality.
• D. Is anyone else having this issue? is not a very useful question, as it will not explain the reason or the solution for the error. The issue may affect only the user, or multiple users, depending on the scope and the impact of the error. However, this question will not tell the technician what is causing the error or how to fix it for the user or the others.

References:

How to Troubleshoot Terminal Emulation Problems - Techwalla : How to Read and Understand Windows Error Messages - Lifewire : How to Troubleshoot Network Connectivity Problems - How-To Geek : How to Troubleshoot Software Problems - dummies : How to Troubleshoot Common PC Issues For Users - MakeUseOf

Mobile device multifactor authentication (MFA) is a method of verifying a user’s identity by requiring two or more factors, such as something the user knows (e.g., password, PIN, security question), something the user has (e.g., smartphone, OTP app, security key), or something the user is (e.g., fingerprint, face, iris)12. The combination of fingerprint and password meets the requirements for mobile device MFA because it uses two different factors: something the user is (fingerprint) and something the user knows (password). The other combinations do not meet the requirements because they use only one factor: something the user knows (password or PIN) or something the user does (swipe).

References1: Set up the Microsoft Authenticator app as your verification method2: What is Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)? | OneLogin

The msconfig.exe tool, also known as the System Configuration utility, is a tool that allows users to modify various system settings, such as startup options, services, boot options, and more. One of the features of msconfig.exe is the ability to disable or enable device drivers that are loaded during the system startup. By using msconfig.exe, a technician can prevent a driver from being loaded and used by the system, which will allow them to uninstall it without any errors. To use msconfig.exe to disable a driver, the technician can follow these steps:

• Open the Run dialog box by pressing the Windows key + R.
• Type msconfig.exe and press Enter.
• Click on the Boot tab and then click on Advanced options.
• Check the box next to No GUI boot and click OK. This will prevent the graphical user interface from loading during the boot process, which will also prevent some drivers from loading.
• Click on the Services tab and check the box next to Hide all Microsoft services. This will show only the third-party services and drivers that are running on the system.
• Find the service or driver that corresponds to the device that the technician wants to uninstall and uncheck the box next to it. This will disable the service or driver from starting during the system startup.
• Click Apply and OK and then restart the computer.
• After the computer restarts, the technician can use the Device Manager or the Control Panel to uninstall the driver that was previously in use.

References:

• How to Completely Remove/Uninstall a Driver in Windows, section 31
• The Official CompTIA A+ Core 2 Study Guide (220-1102), page 2212

NTFS stands for New Technology File System, which is a proprietary file system developed by Microsoft4. NTFS is the default file system for the Windows NT family of operating systems, which includes Windows 10, Windows Server 2019, and other versions5. NTFS provides features such as security, encryption, compression, journaling, and large volume support45. NTFS is not the native file system for other operating systems, such as macOS, Linux, or Android, although some of them can read or write to NTFS volumes with third-party drivers or tools

Maintaining the chain of custody is important to control evidence and maintain integrity. The chain of custody is a process that documents who handled, accessed, or modified a piece of evidence, when, where, how, and why. The chain of custody ensures that the evidence is preserved, protected, and authenticated throughout the incident response process. Maintaining the chain of custody can help prevent tampering, alteration, or loss of evidence, as well as establish its reliability and validity in legal proceedings. Maintaining an information security policy, properly identifying the issue, and gathering as much information as possible are not reasons why maintaining the chain of custody is important. Maintaining an information security policy is a general practice that defines the rules and guidelines for securing an organization’s information assets and resources. Properly identifying the issue is a step in the incident response process that involves analyzing and classifying the incident based on its severity, impact, and scope. Gathering as much information as possible is a step in the incident response process that involves collecting and documenting relevant data and evidence from various sources, such as logs, alerts, or witnesses. References:

• Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 26

Jailbreaking a device exposes it to various security risks, such as malware, data theft, network attacks, and service disruption1234. Running an antivirus and enabling encryption may not be enough to remove the threats and restore the device’s functionality. Undoing the jailbreak may not be possible or effective, depending on the method used. Backing up the files and doing a system restore may preserve the jailbreak and the associated problems. The best option is to erase the device and reinstall the original operating system that is compatible with the corporate policies and standards. This will ensure that the device is clean, secure, and compliant25.

References: 1 What is Jailbreaking & Is it safe? - Kaspersky(https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/definitions/what-is-jailbreaking).  2 Jailbreak Detection: Why is jailbreaking a potential security risk? - Cybersecurity ASEE(https://cybersecurity.asee.co/blog/what-is-jailbreaking/).  3 Jailbreaking Information for iOS Devices | University IT(https://uit.stanford.edu/service/mydevices/jailbreak) 4 What does it mean to jailbreak your phone—and is it legal? - Microsoft(https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365-life-hacks/privacy-and-safety/what-is-jailbreaking-a-phone).  5 Resetting a corporate laptop back to a personal laptop… Enterprise vs Pro - Windows 10(https://community.spiceworks.com/topic/2196812-resetting-a-corporate-laptop-back-to-a-personal-laptop-enterprise-vs-pro).

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 -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

A PowerShell script is a plain text file that contains one or more PowerShell commands. Scripts have a .ps1 file extension and can be run on your computer or in a remote session. PowerShell scripts can be used to automate tasks and change settings on Windows devices. To create and run a PowerShell script, you need a text editor (such as Visual Studio Code or Notepad) and the PowerShell Integrated Scripting Environment (ISE) console. You also need to enable the correct execution policy to allow scripts to run on your system

Running an antivirus scan for malicious software is the first step that a support technician should do when a user reports a virus on a PC. The antivirus scan can detect and remove the virus, as well as prevent further damage or infection. Quarantining the host, investigating how the malware was installed and reimaging the computer are possible steps that can be done after running the antivirus scan, depending on the situation and the results of the scan. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-remove-a-virus https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Screen-sharing software is a tool that allows a technician to remotely view and control a user’s screen over the internet. It can be used to troubleshoot issues with accessing an online share, as well as other problems that require visual inspection or guidance. Secure shell (SSH) is a protocol that allows remote access and command execution on another device, but it does not allow screen-sharing. Virtual private network (VPN) is a protocol that creates a secure tunnel between two devices over the internet, but it does not allow remote troubleshooting. File transfer software is a tool that allows transferring files between two devices over the internet, but it does not allow screen-sharing. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-screen-sharing-software https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Shredding is a data destruction method that physically destroys the hard drive by cutting it into small pieces using a machine. Shredding ensures that data is completely removed from the hard drive and cannot be recovered by any means. Shredding is suitable for hard drives that contain PII (personally identifiable information), which is any information that can be used to identify, contact, or locate an individual. Degaussing, low-level formatting, and recycling are not data destruction methods that can guarantee complete data removal from a hard drive.

Resource Monitor is a tool that shows the network activity of each process on a Windows machine, including the TCP connections and the sent and received bytes. Performance Monitor is a tool that shows the performance metrics of the system, such as CPU, memory, disk and network usage. Command Prompt is a tool that allows running commands and scripts on a Windows machine. System Information is a tool that shows the hardware and software configuration of a Windows machine. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/how-to-use-resource-monitor https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

A restore point is a snapshot of the system settings and configuration at a specific point in time2. Creating a restore point before modifying the registry keys allows the technician to revert the system back to a previous state if something goes wrong or causes instability2. Updating the anti-malware software, running the PC in safe mode, and rolling back the system updates are not necessary steps before modifying the registry keys.

Net use is a command-line tool that can be used to map a drive in Windows. Mapping a drive means assigning a drive letter to a network location or a local folder, which allows the user to access it more easily and quickly. Net use can also be used to disconnect a mapped drive, display information about mapped drives, or connect to shared resources on another computer. Gpupdate, hostname, and dir are not command-line tools that can be used to map a drive.