220-1201 CompTIA A+ Core 1Exam (2025) Questions and Answers

Check the exhibit diagram for both parts.

A close-up of several cables AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Part 2

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Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

LC Connector (Lucent Connector):

LC is a type of fiber optic connector commonly used in optical networking cables. It is small, compact, and widely used for high-speed data transfer over fiber optic networks.

LC connectors are specifically designed for fiber optic cables, making them the correct answer.

Incorrect Options:

A. RJ45: RJ45 connectors are used for Ethernet cables (twisted-pair copper cabling) and are not compatible with optical networking cables.

C. USB-C: USB-C is a connector type used for general-purpose data transfer, charging, and video output, not for optical networking.

D. Lightning: Lightning connectors are proprietary to Apple devices and are not used in optical networking.

Key Takeaway:

The LC connector is specifically designed for fiber optic cables, making it the correct answer for optical networking.

solution as

A screenshot of a network settings AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A screenshot of a computer AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A screenshot of a computer AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

When delivering 10Gbps speeds over long distances, fiber optic cables are the best choice. Here’s the breakdown:

A. Multimode Fiber (Correct Answer):

Multimode fiber is designed for relatively short to medium distances (up to 1,312 feet or 400 meters) while supporting high-speed data transfer (10Gbps and above).

It uses LED light sources and is cost-effective for environments like data centers or within buildings.

For the specified distance of over 328ft but under 1,312ft, multimode fiber is the most suitable option.

Incorrect Options:

B. Single-mode Fiber: While single-mode fiber supports much greater distances (up to several miles or kilometers) and higher speeds, it is more expensive and unnecessary for the specified range. Single-mode fiber is generally used for long-haul networking or telecommunications.

C. Cat 6a: Cat 6a is capable of 10Gbps speeds but only up to 328ft (100 meters). It cannot reliably handle the specified distance of over 328ft.

D. Cat 6: Cat 6 is also limited to 10Gbps speeds at distances up to 328ft (100 meters). Beyond this range, it is unsuitable.

Key Takeaway:

For delivering 10Gbps speeds over distances longer than 328ft (100m) but under 1,312ft (400m), Multimode Fiber is the best choice due to its ability to support high-speed data over medium distances at a reasonable cost.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)providesvirtualized computing resources over the internetsuch as servers, storage, and networking. It allows a business to quickly spin up virtual machines and is ideal fordisaster recoveryand scalable IT infrastructure needs.

Option B:SecaaS focuses on cloud-delivered security, not infrastructure.

Option C:PaaS offers development environments, not full virtual infrastructure.

Option D:SaaS delivers applications over the internet (e.g., email, CRM) — not for disaster recovery.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 4.1: Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts.

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Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Thermal printerscreate images using aheated print headon specially coated thermal paper. Vertical white lines indicate thatpart of the heating element is dirty or blocked, preventing heat transfer to the paper. Cleaning the print head (heating element) will restore full functionality.

Option A:Thermal printers donot use ink or toner, so this is not applicable.

Option B:Wrong paper could cause blank output, but consistent vertical lines point to the print head.

Option C:Maintenance kits are typically for laser printers, not thermal printers.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 3.7: Given a scenario, troubleshoot common printer problems.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

Channel configuration(e.g.,dual-channel,quad-channel) determines how memory modules communicate with the memory controller. Usingmatched pairs in dual- or quad-channel setupscan significantlyincrease memory bandwidth, improving performance — especially for gaming and video-intensive tasks.

Option A (Error correction):ECC RAM is used in servers for reliability, not performance or gaming.

Option B (RAM voltage):Affects compatibility and overclocking but not bandwidth.

Option D (Physical size):Refers to module form factor (e.g., DIMM, SO-DIMM) and does not impact bandwidth.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 3.2: Given a scenario, install RAM types.

A printer with text boxes AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A computer tower with a hard drive and a hard drive AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A computer tower with a computer and a hard drive AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

If users canaccess local network resourcesbut not theinternet, the most likely culprit is amisconfigured or missing default gateway. The default gateway routes traffic from the local network to external networks (i.e., the internet). If it’s not properly set or was altered during a firewall update, internet traffic won’t be forwarded correctly.

Option A:Static IPs could cause conflict, but wouldn't affect only external access if configured correctly.

Option C:An incorrect subnet mask could isolate devices, but local communication would likely be impacted too.

Option D:VLANs segment networks; while misconfigured VLANs could cause access issues, they’d more likely isolate local traffic as well.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 2.6: Given a scenario, configure and troubleshoot network connectivity.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:

Excessive heat buildup due to insufficient cooling is a primary cause of unexpected shutdowns. A high-performance heat sink improves thermal transfer, dissipates more heat, and helps maintain CPU temperature within safe limits. When CPU temperatures reach levels like 208°F (98°C), the system may shut down to prevent damage.

????Reference: "CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide" by Quentin Docter – Chapter 1, pages 68–71, discusses CPU cooling and heat sink improvements​.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

If two devices have thesame static IP address, anIP conflictoccurs. This results in both devices being intermittently disconnected or unable to communicate on the network. It’s a common mistake when copying configurations manually.

Option B:DNS conflicts wouldn’t cause total disconnection — and wouldn't occur just from copying IP settings.

Option C:A cable issue would only affect one workstation.

Option D:Switchport security issues wouldn't affect both machines simultaneously unless port security was configured very specifically.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 2.6: Given a scenario, configure and troubleshoot network connectivity.

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

Wi-Fi Analyzer:

A Wi-Fi analyzer is a tool used to detect and analyze wireless networks, even those that are not broadcasting their SSIDs (hidden networks).

It provides detailed information about nearby networks, including signal strength, channel usage, and security protocols.

In this case, the Wi-Fi analyzer can identify the hidden networks that users are connected to, which are not visible on the standard user interface.

Incorrect Options:

A. Cable tester: A cable tester is used to test the integrity of physical network cables. It does not detect wireless networks or SSIDs.

B. Toner probe: A toner probe is used to trace and identify cables within a wiring system. It is not applicable to wireless network analysis.

D. Loopback plug: A loopback plug is used to test the functionality of a network port or NIC. It is unrelated to identifying hidden wireless networks.

Key Takeaway:

The most effective tool for identifying hidden wireless networks is a Wi-Fi analyzer, as it can detect networks that are not broadcasting their SSIDs.

Looking at the network configurations and outputs from both PCs and servers, here are the possible issues and solutions:

1. PC 1

Issue: The IP address for PC1 is 192.168.1.1, which conflicts with Server 1 (which also uses 192.168.1.1).

Solution: Change the IP address on PC1 to a unique one within the range, like 192.168.1.3.

2. PC 2

Issue: PC 2 is configured with 192.168.1.2, which conflicts with Server 2 that has the same IP address.

Solution: Update the IP address on PC 2 to something unique, like 192.168.1.4.

3. Server 1

Issue: The IP address for Server 1 is 192.168.1.1, which conflicts with PC1.

Solution: Since Server 1 and PC1 are using the same IP address, change one of them. For Server 1, you could change the IP address to 192.168.1.5.

4. Server 2

Issue: Server 2 is using the IP address 192.168.1.2, which conflicts with PC2.

Solution: Update Server 2 to use a different IP address, such as 192.168.1.6.

General Remediation:

The primary problem here is overlapping IP addresses, leading to connectivity issues. Each device on the network must have a unique IP address. After making these changes, ensure that all devices can communicate properly by testing the connection between devices and verifying they can access shared resources.

correct answer is "Overclocking" and "Reduce CPU Clock speed" CPU is at 4.5 Ghz when normal is 3.2 Ghz. Overclocking too much can cause freezes, and this is a gaming computer sothe user probably took it too far. https://blog.logicalincrements.com/2018/12/4-troubleshooting-tips-overclocking-pc/

An MX (Mail Exchange) record specifies the mail server responsible for receiving email for a domain.

Why Not A (CNAME): CNAME is used for domain aliasing, not for email delivery.

Why Not B (SRV): SRV records are used to locate specific services, not mail servers.

Why Not D (SOA): SOA records provide domain information but do not handle email.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1201), Section 2.6, DNS record types​.

If paper gets stuck at the last stage of printing, the rollers responsible for moving the paper through the printer are likely worn out or dirty.

Why Not B (Tray assembly): The tray assembly manages paper loading, not feeding during the print process.

Why Not C (Toner): Toner is unrelated to paper jams.

Why Not D (Printhead): Printheads manage ink/toner distribution, not paper movement.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 2 (220-1102), Section 4.6, printer troubleshooting​.

A screenshot of a computer AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

If performance isnot a primary concernand the user requireslarge, cost-effective storage, a2TB 5400rpm SATA HDDis ideal. It offers high capacity at a lower price point than SSDs and faster HDDs.

Option A:NVMe drives offer exceptional speed but are significantly more expensive per GB and not necessary when read/write speed is not a concern.

Option B:RAID 1 improves redundancy but cuts usable capacity in half and uses expensive SSDs.

Option D:SAS drives are fast and reliable but are enterprise-grade and expensive — overkill for desktop use.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 1.3: Given a scenario, install and configure storage devices.

RG11 coaxial cable with quad shielding is designed to handle large volumes of internet traffic, providing excellent resistance to interference and high bandwidth capacity.

Why Not A (USB 3.1): USB 3.1 is used for connecting peripherals, not for high-volume internet traffic.

Why Not C (SATA3.0): SATA is used for internal data storage connections, not for network traffic.

Why Not D (Unshielded plenum RJ45): While RJ45 cables are commonly used, unshielded cables are prone to interference and are not ideal for high-volume traffic.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1201), Section 3.1, cable types and their characteristics​.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

SMB (Server Message Block)is a protocol used to access files and printers over a network, including across shared network folders. It enables the user to access and print files stored remotely on a shared directory.

Option A (ADF):Automatic Document Feeder — hardware, not a network protocol.

Option B (USB):Used for direct physical connections, not for printing over networks.

Option C (PCL):Printer Command Language — relates to printer drivers, not file sharing or access.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 3.4: Given a scenario, install and configure printers.

A Storage Area Network (SAN) is primarily used for data archiving and large-scale storage. SANs provide high-speed, block-level storage for enterprise environments.

Why Not A (PAN): Personal Area Networks are for connecting personal devices like phones and smartwatches.

Why Not B (MAN): Metropolitan Area Networks are for city-wide data communication, not storage.

Why Not D (LAN): Local Area Networks are for general connectivity, not dedicated storage.

Why Not WAN: Wide Area Networks are for connecting geographically dispersed networks, not storage.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1201), Section 2.7, network types and purposes​.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

APrivate Cloudis operated solely for a single organization. It ishosted on-premises or in a dedicated off-site data center, giving the company full control over data, security, and compliance — often hosted in theorganization’s own local data center.

Option B (Public):Hosted by third-party providers and shared by multiple clients.

Option C (Hybrid):Combines private and public cloud resources.

Option D (Community):Shared by several organizations with similar goals.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 4.1: Compare and contrast cloud computing concepts.

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B. USB-C:

USB-C is a versatile connector that supports charging, high-speed data transfer, and the ability to send audio and video signals (e.g., DisplayPort over USB-C).

It is used by most modern mobile devices and laptops because of its fast transfer speeds and power delivery capabilities.

Incorrect Options:

A. Lightning: Lightning is proprietary to Apple devices and does not natively support video output.

C. MicroUSB: MicroUSB is outdated and does not support video output.

D. MiniUSB: MiniUSB is an older standard and does not support modern features like video output or fast charging.

Key Takeaway: USB-C is the most versatile connector for charging and transferring data, audio, and video.

Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:

To determine the correct device, we need to understand how a DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) network functions in a Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) environment:

C. Cable Modem:

A cable modem is required to convert the signal provided by the ISP (Internet Service Provider) over a DOCSIS network into a format that is usable by the local area network (LAN).

DOCSIS is a standard for high-speed internet over cable television infrastructure, and the cable modem acts as the gateway between the ISP's coaxial network and the LAN.

Without the cable modem, devices in the LAN would not be able to access the internet.

B. Correct the keystone:

A keystone correction adjusts the image shape when a projector is angled either up or down. When a projector is not positioned directly perpendicular to the screen, the image becomes distorted or offset. Correcting the keystone will resolve alignment issues, ensuring that the presentation matches the display.

Incorrect Options:

A. Adjust the color settings: This is used for improving color balance and has no impact on ghosting or mismatched images.

C. Increase the brightness levels: Brightness changes the visibility of the image but does not address ghosting or alignment.

D. Replace the monitor: Replacing the monitor is unnecessary unless there is hardware failure, which is not indicated here.

Key Takeaway: Keystone correction is essential to resolve alignment and distortion issues in projected images.