- (Topic 4)
A user is having trouble accessing files on the network. A technician suspects the issue is a result of a failed NIC_ Which of the following steps should the technician take to troubleshoot this issue?
Correct Answer:
C
The answer is C. Test the theory to determine the cause.
According to the CompTIA A+ troubleshooting methodology, the steps to troubleshoot any problem are:
✑ Identify the problem and act
✑ Establish a theory of probable cause
✑ Test the theory to determine the cause
✑ Establish a plan of action to resolve the problem and implement the solution
✑ Verify system functionality and implement preventive measures
✑ Document key findings, actions, and outcomes
In this scenario, the technician has already identified the problem (trouble accessing files on the network) and established a theory of probable cause (a failed NIC). The next step is to test the theory to determine the cause, which involves verifying whether the NIC is working properly or not.
Some possible ways to test the theory are:
✑ Check the physical connection and status of the NIC port and cable12
✑ Check the link state and speed of the NIC using ethtool or ip commands2
✑ Check the configuration and state of the NIC using nmcli, teamdctl, or teamnl commands2
✑ Check the driver and firmware of the NIC using lspci, modinfo, or dmesg commands2
✑ Check the logs for any errors or warnings related to the NIC using journalctl or grep commands2
✑ Uninstall and reinstall the NIC driver using Device Manager or modprobe commands13
✑ Replace the NIC or cable with a known good one and test again13
If any of these tests confirm that the NIC is faulty, then the technician can proceed with the next step of establishing a plan of action to resolve the problem and implement the solution. If none of these tests reveal any issues with the NIC, then the technician can eliminate it as a probable cause and look for other possible causes. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.
- (Topic 2)
A department sends in a ticket to report a printer is not working. The responding technician sees paper stuck to the fuser, which is much hotter than normal. The (user was just installed a few weeks ago. as indicated by the service history. Which of the following should the technician do NEXT?
Correct Answer:
A
The first step in troubleshooting a printer issue is to disconnect the printer power to avoid electric shock or further damage to the printer. The technician can then inspect the fuser and determine if it needs to be replaced or repaired. Installing a printer roller kit or replacing the paper with thicker paper stock will not solve the problem of the overheating fuser. Replacing the fuser without disconnecting the power is dangerous and not recommended. References: https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a#examdetails https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-fuser
- (Topic 4)
Which of the following 802.11 Wi-Fi protocols utilizes the 5.0GHz frequency and has the BEST speed and reception?
Correct Answer:
B
802.11 ax is a wireless networking protocol that utilizes the 5.0GHz frequency and has the best speed and reception among the options given. 802.11 ax offers higher data rates, lower latency, increased capacity, and improved power efficiency than previous protocols. It is also known as Wi-Fi 6 or High Efficiency Wireless (HEW). 802.11a also uses the 5.0GHz frequency, but it is an older protocol that has lower speed and reception than 802.11 ax. 802.11b/g/n use the 2.4GHz frequency, which is more crowded and prone to interference than the 5.0GHz frequency. 802.11n can use both frequencies, but it is also slower and less efficient than 802.11 ax. Reference: https://www.comptia.org/training/books/a-core-1-220-1101-study-guide (page 82)
- (Topic 3)
Which of the following video cables can carry an audio signal?
Correct Answer:
A
This is because HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a digital video cable that can also carry audio signals1. HDMI cables are commonly used to connect devices like Blu-ray players, game consoles, and streaming boxes to HDTVs and monitors. The other options are not capable of carrying audio signals. VGA (Video Graphics Array) is an analog video cable that only carries RGBHV signals12. S-Video (Super Video) is another analog video cable that carries separate luminance and chrominance signals1. DVI (Digital Visual Interface) is a digital video cable that can carry either analog or digital signals, but not audio1.
- (Topic 1)
A technician is tasked with installing additional RAM in a desktop computer. Which of the following types of RAM is MOST likely to be used?
Correct Answer:
B
DDR3 is the most commonly used RAM type in modern desktop computers. It is faster and more energy efficient than its predecessors, and offers larger capacity modules. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Guide, Ninth Edition, Chapter 5
