Hardest CompTIA A+ Essentials Trivia Quiz!
A practice quiz that will help test your readiness for the CompTIA A+ Essentials exam. This quiz has been carefully constructed to avoid any irrelevant or outdated information from appearing. It has also been constructed to use a similar question format to that of the actual test. There are 38 questions in total. You receive half the time of the actual exam. So, let's try out the quiz. All the best!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following Operating Systems can be upgraded directly to Windows XP Professional? (Select 2)
- A.
Windows 95
- B.
Windows 98
- C.
Windows ME
- D.
Fedora Core 4
- E.
Windows Vista
Correct Answer(s)
B. Windows 98
C. Windows MEExplanation
Know your upgrade paths, as it can show up on both exams.
Windows XP upgrade path: Windows 98, ME, NT 4 Service pack 5, 2000
Windows 2000: Windows 95, 98, Windows NT 3.51Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which of the following video standards supports a maximum resolution of 1400X1050?
- A.
SVGA
- B.
SXGA
- C.
SXGA+
- D.
UXGA
Correct Answer
C. SXGA+Explanation
Known your max display resolutions, even the less known standards can come up.
The number on the right is the maximum display resolution for the standard (if multiple numbers appear).
VGA: 640x480
XGA: 640x480 - 1024x768
SVGA: 800x600 - 1600x1200
SXGA: 1280x1024
SXGA+: 1400x1050
UXGA: 1600x1200
WUXGA: 1920x1200Rate this question:
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- 3.
You are at a customers home working on a repair order. The customer has loud music playing that is distracting you from your work. Which of the following actions should you take?
- A.
Do nothing. Finish your work as efficiently as possible and move on.
- B.
Turn down the music yourself.
- C.
Ask the customer to please turn down their music.
- D.
Get down and get funky.
Correct Answer
C. Ask the customer to please turn down their music.Explanation
Always choose the best answer. If the music is distracting you from your work, you may make a mistake or miss something, so asking politely for the customer to turn down the music is the best option.Rate this question:
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- 4.
A customer's laser printer is printing, but each page has blank lines appearing through the characters on the page. What is most likely the cause?
- A.
The printer drum has a nick in it.
- B.
The toner isn't being evenly distributed.
- C.
The wrong type of paper is being used.
- D.
The printer drivers have become corrupted.
Correct Answer
B. The toner isn't being evenly distributed.Explanation
Blank lines usually indicate the printer is low on the particular consumable it's using. Try gently shaking the toner cartridge to re-distribute it, or replace the toner if necessary.Rate this question:
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- 5.
On a Windows XP professional installation, which of the following methods would you use to access the spooler settings for a printer?
- A.
Start --> run --> printsplr.msc
- B.
Start --> printers & faxes ---> printer preferences --> spooler tab
- C.
Start --> printer & faxes --> printer properties --> spooler tab
- D.
Start --> printer & faxes --> printer properties --> advanced tab
Correct Answer
D. Start --> printer & faxes --> printer properties --> advanced tabExplanation
To access the spooler settings for a printer on a Windows XP professional installation, you would go to Start, then click on "Printers & Faxes." From there, you would right-click on the desired printer and select "Properties." In the properties window, you would navigate to the "Advanced" tab, where you can access the spooler settings for the printer.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A client is complaining that they can't connect to the Internet. When you run IPCONFIG, you note that the client has an IP address, subnet mask and default gateway. The IP address is in the 169.254.x.x - 169.254.x.x range. What does this indicate?
- A.
The problem is not related to this information. You need to check the hardware.
- B.
The user is receiving a private IP address, which makes use of NAT.
- C.
The user is receiving an APIPA, you need to check the DHCP server or router that is being used.
- D.
There is no problem. The Internet connection should work.
Correct Answer
C. The user is receiving an APIPA, you need to check the DHCP server or router that is being used.Explanation
Remember to choose the best answer. Eliminate answers that are only partly true. An address that begins with 169.254.x.x is an Automatic Private IP Address. This indicates the DHCP server is having issues, as the client computer assigned itself an address when it couldn't get one from the DHCP server.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following printers is best for high quality picture print-outs?
- A.
A Dye Sublimation printer
- B.
A Dot matrix printer
- C.
A thermal-wax printer
- D.
A ink jet printer
Correct Answer
A. A Dye Sublimation printerExplanation
Dye Sublimation printers are considered the best choice for high-quality picture print-outs because they use a heat transfer process to produce vibrant and detailed images. This printing technology allows for precise color reproduction and smooth gradients, resulting in professional-looking prints with sharp details and accurate colors. Unlike other printers, Dye Sublimation printers can produce prints with a continuous tone, which means there are no visible dots or lines, resulting in a more realistic and visually appealing output.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A laptop battery has been determined to be completely dead. Which of the following actions do you take next?
- A.
Throw the battery into the garbage
- B.
Recharge the battery
- C.
Recycle the battery
- D.
Burn the battery in an incinerator
Correct Answer
C. Recycle the batteryExplanation
When a laptop battery is completely dead, throwing it into the garbage or burning it in an incinerator can be harmful to the environment. Recharging the battery is not a viable option as it has been determined to be completely dead. Therefore, the most appropriate action to take next is to recycle the battery. Recycling the battery ensures that it is disposed of properly and its components are reused or properly disposed of, minimizing the environmental impact.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is not one of the Windows XP boot-up files?
- A.
NTDETECT.com
- B.
NTLDR
- C.
BOOT.ini
- D.
WIN32K.sys
Correct Answer
D. WIN32K.sysExplanation
Win32K.sys is the kernel mode sub-system of Windows, a Windows system file.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following is associated with a serial connector?
- A.
DB-9
- B.
DB-15
- C.
DB-7
- D.
DB-50
Correct Answer
A. DB-9Explanation
A DB-9 connector is associated with a serial connector. The "DB" stands for "D-subminiature," which refers to the shape of the connector. The number "9" indicates the number of pins in the connector. Serial connectors are commonly used to connect devices such as modems, printers, and serial ports on computers.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A fire breaks out on the external wiring of one of your peripherals. Which class of fire extinguisher do you use?
- A.
Class A
- B.
Class B
- C.
Class C
- D.
Class D
Correct Answer
C. Class CExplanation
Class C extinguishers are for electrical fires.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What is the maximum theoretical speed of an 802.11b device?
- A.
54 mbps
- B.
540 mbps
- C.
4 mbps
- D.
11 mbps
Correct Answer
D. 11 mbpsExplanation
The maximum theoretical speed of an 802.11b device is 11 mbps. This is because 802.11b is an older wireless networking standard that operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. It uses direct-sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) technology to transmit data at a maximum rate of 11 mbps. While this speed may seem slow compared to modern standards like 802.11ac or 802.11ax, it was sufficient for most home and small office networks at the time of its release.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following types of cabling would you use to get the maximum distance possible for your network?
- A.
CAT 6 UTP
- B.
CAT 6 STP
- C.
Single mode fiber
- D.
Multi-mode fiber
Correct Answer
C. Single mode fiberExplanation
Single-mode fiber can be used for a distance of up to 20 KM. Multi-mode fiber is used for LAN's.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following is not a type of fiber optics connector?
- A.
ST
- B.
MT-RJ
- C.
SR59
- D.
LC
Correct Answer
C. SR59Explanation
ST = Straight Tip
MT-RJ = Mechanical Transfer Registered Jack
LC = Lucent Connect
SC = Subscriber ConnectRate this question:
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- 15.
What command do you use to display a directory and anything marked with the hidden attribute within that directory?
- A.
Dir /ah
- B.
Dir /h
- C.
Dir /hidden
- D.
It is always displayed with the standard "dir" command without any switches.
Correct Answer
A. Dir /ahExplanation
The correct answer is "dir /ah". The "dir" command is used to display the contents of a directory, and the "/ah" switch is used to display files and folders that have the hidden attribute. This command will show all files and folders, including those that are marked as hidden.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What speed is associated with PC1600 RAM?
- A.
100 MHz
- B.
200 MHz
- C.
300 MHz
- D.
400 MHz
Correct Answer
A. 100 MHzExplanation
This can be tricky, as with the double data rate, you might assume the speed to which they are referring to be 200 MHz, as opposed to 100 MHz. However, I've found for the most part they aren't looking for this measurement, but the actual memory clock speed.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following wireless connection standards would provide the fastest speed?
- A.
IrDA
- B.
Bluetooth
- C.
802.11b
- D.
802.11a
Correct Answer
D. 802.11aExplanation
802.11a operates at speeds up to 54 mbps.
802.11b operates at speeds up to 11 mbps.
IrDA operates at speeds up to 4 mbps.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following Windows utilities would you use to increase the performance of a system? (Select 2)
- A.
Disk Cleanup
- B.
Regedit
- C.
Disk Defragmenter
- D.
SFC
- E.
NTBackup
Correct Answer(s)
A. Disk Cleanup
C. Disk DefragmenterExplanation
Disk Cleanup and Disk Defragmenter are both Windows utilities that can be used to increase the performance of a system.
Disk Cleanup helps to free up disk space by removing unnecessary files and temporary files from the computer. This can help to improve the overall performance of the system by reducing clutter and freeing up resources.
Disk Defragmenter, on the other hand, helps to optimize the storage of files on the hard drive. Over time, files can become fragmented and scattered across different locations on the disk, which can slow down access times. Disk Defragmenter reorganizes these files, placing them in contiguous blocks, which can improve the speed and performance of the system.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which backup option would take the longest to complete a restore?
- A.
Full + Differential
- B.
Full + Incremental
- C.
Full + Differential + Copy
- D.
All of the above would take the same amount of time.
Correct Answer
B. Full + IncrementalExplanation
Incremental backs up everything that has changed since the last full or incremental backup and clears the archive attribute. In order to restore this backup, you need the Full backup copy, plus each incremental backup.
With differential, you only need the Full copy, plus the last differential backup you made.
A copy simply means during the middle of the week usually, you take another full backup copy, but don't clear the archive attribute.Rate this question:
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- 20.
You have just completed a backup to a tape drive, which action should you take to verify the restore was a success?
- A.
Put the tape into the same tape drive and verify the contents are there
- B.
Perform a full backup restore from the tape on another machine
- C.
Put the tape into a different tape drive and verify the contents are there
- D.
Read each file on the tape on a different machine
Correct Answer
B. Perform a full backup restore from the tape on another machineExplanation
Always perform a full backup restore to verify the backup was a success. This is usually done on a test machine, or something similar. Simply putting the tape backup into a drive and looking at the contents, doesn't necessarily ensure that when you go to do a restore later, that it will work.Rate this question:
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- 21.
A client wishes to set permissions on a folder in Windows XP, but when they right click the folder and select properties, the security tab is missing/grayed out. What is the issue here? (Select 2)
- A.
They are using FAT32
- B.
They have classic file sharing turned on
- C.
They have simple file sharing turned on
- D.
They are using NTFS
Correct Answer(s)
A. They are using FAT32
C. They have simple file sharing turned onExplanation
The issue here is that the client is using FAT32 as the file system, which does not support advanced security features such as setting permissions. Additionally, they have simple file sharing turned on, which also limits the ability to set permissions on folders.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of the following would provide the fastest connection speed for a Printer?
- A.
USB
- B.
IrDA
- C.
SCSI
- D.
802.11
Correct Answer
C. SCSIExplanation
USB: 480 mbps
IrDA 4 mbps
802.11 (g or a): 54 mbps (n isn't likely to be factored in on the exams, but it wouldn't be the fastest either)
SCSI: up to 320 MBps (SCSI-3 Ultra-320)Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following is not a registry file used by the Windows XP operating system?
- A.
Hardware
- B.
Software
- C.
System
- D.
Security
Correct Answer
A. HardwareExplanation
The registry files for Windows XP are stored in the C:\Windows\system32\config directory
The files are: System, Software, SAM, Security & default.
These are not to be confused with the sub_trees & keys! (hkey_local_machine, etc.)Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following shutdown options saves the current system state into memory?
- A.
Shutdown
- B.
Hibernate
- C.
Standby
- D.
Sleep
Correct Answer
C. StandbyExplanation
Standby saves the system state to memory.
The contents of memory are copied to the hard drive with Hibernate.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which of the following cabling types are fire-rated?
- A.
PVC
- B.
Plenum
- C.
Polycarbonate
- D.
Pasturate
Correct Answer
B. PlenumExplanation
Plenum cabling is fire-rated because it is specifically designed to be used in plenum spaces, which are areas in buildings where air circulates for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Plenum cables are made with fire-resistant materials that have low smoke and low flame spread characteristics, ensuring that they will not contribute to the spread of fire in these spaces. PVC, polycarbonate, and pasturate cables are not fire-rated and do not have the same level of fire resistance as plenum cables.Rate this question:
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- 26.
What are the minimum system requirements for Windows XP in terms of processor speed?
- A.
233 MHz processor
- B.
300 MHz processor
- C.
133 MHz processor
- D.
200 MHz processor
Correct Answer
A. 233 MHz processorExplanation
233 MHz is the minimum requirement as per Microsoft.
300 MHz is the recommended speed.Rate this question:
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- 27.
How much free space is required to install Windows 2000 Professional?
- A.
1 GB
- B.
2 GB
- C.
650 MB
- D.
750 MB
Correct Answer
C. 650 MBExplanation
650 MB is the required free space. A 2 GB hard drive is also required.Rate this question:
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- 28.
You have just recently installed a new 500 GB hard drive for a client. The client wishes to know what they should now do with their old hard drive. Which of the following would be correct to tell the client?
- A.
Format the drive and donate it to a charity
- B.
Format the drive and recycle it
- C.
Use a data shredder on the drive and follow company policy on what to do with the drive next
- D.
Use a data shredder on the drive and throw it in the garbage
Correct Answer
C. Use a data shredder on the drive and follow company policy on what to do with the drive nextExplanation
To remove the contents of the drive properly, the drive needs to have its data overwritten using a data shredder. The other option is to physically destroy the drive. What is done, depends on if the drive is going to be re-used (donated to a charity for example), or just recycled.Rate this question:
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- 29.
You accidentally overhear a boss talking about how they are going to have to let go one of your fellow employees, who is also a good friend of yours. What should you do with this information?
- A.
Tell your friend, but make him promise not to say anything.
- B.
Say nothing, keep the information to yourself.
- C.
Chastise your boss for not being more careful with this information
- D.
Tell your friend.
Correct Answer
B. Say nothing, keep the information to yourself.Explanation
It is important to maintain confidentiality and trust in the workplace. Sharing this information with your friend, even if you ask them to keep it a secret, can potentially create a breach of trust and harm your professional relationship. It is best to respect the privacy of your boss and the company's decision-making process by keeping the information to yourself.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following pin configurations is not associated with RAMBUS RAM?
- A.
232
- B.
184
- C.
326
- D.
240
Correct Answer
D. 240Explanation
RDRAM pin configurations:
16 bit - 184 pins
32 bit - 232 pins
64 bit - 326 pinsRate this question:
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- 31.
What type of RAM is usually associated with Laptops?
- A.
SoDIMM
- B.
DIMM
- C.
RIMM
- D.
SIMM
Correct Answer
A. SoDIMMExplanation
SoDIMM stands for Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module, which is a type of RAM that is commonly used in laptops. It is smaller in size compared to DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) and is designed specifically for compact devices like laptops. SoDIMM modules have a smaller form factor and are more suitable for the limited space available in laptops. Therefore, SoDIMM is the correct answer as it is the type of RAM that is usually associated with laptops.Rate this question:
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- 32.
What type of power does an LCD monitor require?
- A.
High Voltage AC
- B.
High Voltage DC
- C.
Low Voltage AC
- D.
Low Voltage DC
Correct Answer
D. Low Voltage DCExplanation
An LCD monitor requires low voltage DC power because LCD technology operates using liquid crystals that require a steady and low voltage power source to function properly. Most electronic devices, including LCD monitors, require DC power to operate. The conversion from AC to DC is typically done using an internal power supply unit or adapter. High voltage AC or DC power would be too strong and could damage the monitor.Rate this question:
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- 33.
An LCD monitor display has dimmed significantly, which of the following is most likely the culprit? (choose two)
- A.
The backlight needs to be replaced
- B.
The wiring is faulty
- C.
The inverter is failing
- D.
The video drivers are corrupt
Correct Answer(s)
A. The backlight needs to be replaced
C. The inverter is failingExplanation
The dimming of an LCD monitor display is most likely caused by either a failing backlight or a failing inverter. The backlight provides the necessary illumination for the display, and if it is not functioning properly, the display will appear dim. Similarly, the inverter is responsible for converting the DC power from the power supply into AC power that is used to power the backlight. If the inverter is failing, it can result in a dim display. Therefore, both the backlight and the inverter are likely culprits for the dimming issue.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which file system would be the most appropriate to install on a new installation of a Windows XP system?
- A.
FAT32
- B.
FAT16
- C.
NTFS
- D.
EXT2
Correct Answer
C. NTFSExplanation
NTFS (New Technology File System) would be the most appropriate file system to install on a new installation of a Windows XP system. NTFS provides better security, reliability, and performance compared to FAT32 and FAT16. It supports larger file sizes, has built-in file compression and encryption capabilities, and offers better file and folder permissions. Additionally, NTFS allows for better disk space management and recovery options.Rate this question:
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- 35.
What are the advantages of using NTFS as a file system? (choose 2)
- A.
It is more secure
- B.
It is great for smaller drives
- C.
It is a transaction based file system
- D.
It is backwards compatible with DOS
Correct Answer(s)
A. It is more secure
C. It is a transaction based file systemExplanation
NTFS is more secure compared to other file systems because it supports file and folder permissions, encryption, and auditing. This helps in protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access. Additionally, NTFS is a transaction-based file system, meaning it ensures the integrity of data by providing atomic transaction operations. This ensures that either all changes to a file are committed or none of them are, preventing data corruption in case of system failures or power outages.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Which Windows utility would you use to perform a diagnostic startup?
- A.
Disk Defragmenter
- B.
Regedit
- C.
MSCONFIG
- D.
SFC
Correct Answer
C. MSCONFIGExplanation
MSCONFIG is the correct answer because it is a Windows utility that allows users to perform a diagnostic startup. By using MSCONFIG, users can selectively enable or disable certain startup programs and services, helping to troubleshoot issues with the system. This utility is commonly used to identify and fix problems that may be caused by conflicting software or drivers during the startup process. Disk Defragmenter is used to optimize the performance of the hard drive by rearranging fragmented data, Regedit is used to edit the Windows Registry, and SFC (System File Checker) is used to scan and repair corrupted system files.Rate this question:
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- 37.
You have been brought in to install a new Network Card for a clients desktop computer. Which action should you take first?
- A.
Put on an Anti-static wrist strap
- B.
Unplug all the peripheral cabling
- C.
Shutdown windows and disconnect the power
- D.
Run IPCONFIG
Correct Answer
C. Shutdown windows and disconnect the powerExplanation
The correct answer is to shutdown windows and disconnect the power. This is the first action that should be taken when installing a new network card because it ensures that the computer is powered off and there is no risk of electrical shock. Additionally, shutting down the operating system allows for a clean installation of the network card without any potential conflicts or errors. Disconnecting the power further ensures the safety of the technician and prevents any damage to the computer or the new network card during the installation process.Rate this question:
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- 38.
What are three ways you can access System Restore in Windows XP? (choose three)
- A.
From Help and Support
- B.
From MSCONFIG
- C.
From the computer management console
- D.
From start ---> all programs --> accessories ---> system tools
- E.
Through the recovery console
Correct Answer(s)
A. From Help and Support
B. From MSCONFIG
D. From start ---> all programs --> accessories ---> system toolsExplanation
The recovery console cannot start system restore, however, you can start it from a command prompt in safe mode if needed (Microsoft website).Rate this question:
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Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Sep 04, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Aug 23, 2008Quiz Created by
TempletonPeck
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