CompTIA 220-1102 Exam Dumps & Practice Test Questions
Question No 1:
A user has observed that their smartphone's data usage has increased significantly. They suspect that one or more applications may be using data in the background without their consent. The user wants to receive real-time notifications whenever an app attempts to access the internet.
Which of the following options would BEST help the user monitor and control such activity?
A. Operating system updates
B. Remote wipe
C. Antivirus
D. Firewall
Correct Answer: D. Firewall
Explanation:
Smartphones often run various applications that require internet access for purposes like updates, syncing, or background activities. While most apps use data legitimately, some may consume excessive data without the user's knowledge. In such cases, the user may want to be notified whenever an app tries to access the internet, and the best solution for this would be to use a firewall.
A firewall monitors and controls network traffic, either permitting or blocking data requests based on certain criteria. On smartphones, firewall apps can notify the user when an app attempts to access the internet, giving them the option to allow or deny the connection. These apps help users take control over background data usage and enhance their privacy by limiting unwanted data consumption.
Let’s break down the other options:
A. Operating system updates: While operating system updates are important for security and functionality, they don't specifically allow users to monitor or control app-level internet access.
B. Remote wipe: This feature is primarily designed for security, allowing a user to erase data from a lost or stolen device. It does not prevent apps from using data or notify the user about background data usage.
C. Antivirus: While antivirus software can protect against malware and harmful apps, it typically does not offer real-time notifications for every app trying to access the internet. It focuses more on identifying security threats rather than monitoring network activity.
Therefore, a firewall is the most effective tool for giving the user control over their smartphone's data usage, offering the best solution to monitor and prevent unauthorized data consumption.
Question No 2:
A retail business has assigned a technician to configure a new workstation dedicated exclusively to point-of-sale (POS) transactions. The workstation will handle sensitive data, including credit card information and customer loyalty program details.
To ensure the data remains secure even if the workstation is stolen, which encryption method is most appropriate?
A. Data-in-transit encryption
B. File encryption
C. USB drive encryption
D. Full disk encryption
Correct Answer: D. Full disk encryption
Explanation:
Point-of-sale (POS) systems are essential in retail environments, as they handle sensitive information such as credit card numbers, personal details, and transaction records. It is crucial to ensure that this sensitive data remains protected, especially if the workstation is physically stolen. The most effective encryption method in this case is full disk encryption (FDE).
Full disk encryption encrypts the entire hard drive of the workstation, making it impossible to access the stored data without proper authentication, such as a password or encryption key. This method ensures that all information on the system is secure and remains unreadable to unauthorized users, even if the device is physically taken.
Let’s consider the other options:
A. Data-in-transit encryption: This method secures data while it is being transmitted over the network. However, it doesn’t protect locally stored data on the workstation, which is where sensitive POS data is stored.
B. File encryption: Encrypting specific files or folders can help protect some of the data, but it leaves other parts of the system unprotected. This approach doesn’t offer the comprehensive security provided by full disk encryption.
C. USB drive encryption: This method secures external storage devices like USB drives but does not protect the internal hard drive where the POS data is stored.
Therefore, full disk encryption is the most suitable method for protecting all sensitive data on a POS workstation, ensuring it remains secure even if the physical device is stolen. This approach helps comply with data protection regulations such as PCI-DSS and protects customer data.
Question No 3:
An employee from a company has reported seeing pop-up messages on their workstation claiming that the system is infected with 137 viruses, demanding payment to remove them. The employee assumed that the company's antivirus software would have prevented such threats. The pop-ups only appear when the web browser is opened. As an IT technician, you need to resolve the issue and secure the workstation.
Which TWO of the following actions would MOST likely resolve the issue?
A. Scan the system with the organization’s antivirus software
B. Install a new hard drive and clone the user's current drive
C. Install an ad-blocking browser extension
D. Uninstall the company antivirus program
E. Follow the link in the pop-up and pay for the “virus removal”
F. Reset the web browser settings to default
Correct Answers: A. Scan the system with the organization’s antivirus software
F. Reset the web browser settings to default
Explanation:
The situation described is a classic case of a scareware attack. Scareware involves pop-up messages designed to deceive users into believing their system is infected, urging them to pay for fake virus removal tools. These pop-ups are often associated with malicious browser extensions, compromised websites, or altered browser settings.
The first step in resolving this issue is to scan the system using the organization’s antivirus software. Even though the user has antivirus protection, it’s possible that some malicious extensions or malware were missed by the software’s real-time scanning. Running a full system scan can identify and remove any malware, including adware or browser hijackers that may have triggered the pop-ups.
Additionally, since the pop-ups appear when the web browser is opened, the next step is to reset the browser settings to default. This action will remove any rogue extensions, reset any altered settings (such as homepage or search engine changes), and clear cached data that could be triggering the pop-ups. Often, browser resets fix issues related to scareware and restore the browser to its original state.
Here’s why the other options are less suitable:
B. Install a new hard drive: Cloning the drive is excessive and would simply transfer the problem to the new drive. It doesn’t address the root cause of the issue, which is likely malware affecting the browser.
C. Install an ad-blocking extension: While an ad-blocker may help reduce pop-ups, it doesn’t address the underlying cause of the scareware attack. The root cause needs to be eliminated first.
D. Uninstall the antivirus program: This action would leave the system unprotected and would not resolve the issue.
E. Pay for the "virus removal": This is a fraudulent solution and could lead to further damage. Never engage with suspicious pop-ups or pay for services that seem too good to be true.
In conclusion, a combination of scanning with antivirus software and resetting the browser settings will address both the malware threat and the issue with the browser-based pop-ups effectively.
Question No 4:
A technician has been tasked with installing a new application on a macOS computer. To ensure the installation is successful, the technician must identify the appropriate file type that is compatible with macOS.
Which of the following file extensions is most commonly associated with macOS application installations?
A) .deb
B) .vbs
C) .exe
D) .app
Correct Answer: D) .app
Explanation:
When installing software on a computer, it is essential to use the correct file type that aligns with the operating system. Different operating systems are designed to run applications that come in specific formats suited to their internal architecture. macOS, Apple’s operating system, uses the .app file format for its applications.
A .app file is not a single executable file but rather a directory package that contains all the necessary files, libraries, and resources for the application to run on macOS. While to the user, it appears as a singular file, it is technically a bundle that macOS can execute properly.
Let’s consider the other file types:
.deb: This file format is used by Debian-based Linux distributions such as Ubuntu for packaging software. It’s not compatible with macOS, as Linux and macOS use different package management systems.
.vbs: A Visual Basic Script (.vbs) file is a scripting file used primarily on Windows systems. It is not used for installing applications but rather for automating tasks or running simple scripts.
.exe: An Executable (.exe) file is commonly used on Windows operating systems. These files can only be run on Windows unless special software like Wine or a virtual machine is used. They are not natively supported by macOS.
On macOS, besides the .app file extension, other formats like .dmg (Disk Image) are used to distribute applications. Inside a .dmg, the actual application executable is still in the .app format. Thus, when a technician is tasked with installing software on a macOS system, the most appropriate file extension to use is .app, making Option D the correct answer.
Question No 5:
A mobile device technician is investigating a smartphone that is exhibiting the following problems:
The phone overheats even when not in use.
Apps frequently crash, especially when multiple apps are opened.
Some apps, like GPS, do not switch between portrait and landscape modes as expected.
To resolve these issues with minimal disruption to the user, which TWO of the following actions should the technician take?
A) Enable screen auto-rotation
B) Switch the device to airplane mode
C) Close any unnecessary background applications
D) Perform a full factory reset
E) Update the device’s operating system to the latest version
F) Reinstall the problematic apps
Correct Answers: C) Close any unnecessary background applications & E) Update the device’s operating system
Explanation:
This smartphone is experiencing multiple issues: overheating, app crashes, and display orientation problems. These symptoms can often be linked to performance problems, such as excessive background processes consuming system resources, or outdated software causing instability.
Closing unnecessary background applications (Option C) is one of the first steps to address performance issues. Running multiple apps simultaneously, especially ones that require a lot of resources, can cause the CPU and RAM to overheat, leading to the device becoming hot and apps crashing. By closing background applications, the technician can reduce the workload on the phone and improve its overall performance and stability.
Updating the device’s operating system (Option E) is another critical step. OS updates often include performance improvements, security patches, and bug fixes that address system-level issues like display orientation problems or crashes. An updated OS is more likely to be stable and handle resource management more efficiently, preventing apps from crashing and resolving issues like the GPS app not switching between orientations.
Why the other options are not ideal:
Option A, enabling screen auto-rotation, only addresses the display orientation issue and does not resolve the underlying performance problems causing overheating and crashes.
Option B, switching to airplane mode, reduces heat slightly but disables essential services, making it an inefficient solution for long-term troubleshooting.
Option D, performing a factory reset, is too drastic as an initial step. It erases all user data and settings and should be reserved for more severe or unresolved issues.
Option F, reinstalling apps, might help with one or two specific apps but doesn’t address the broader performance and system-level issues.
Therefore, the best approach to resolving these issues with minimal disruption is to close unnecessary background applications and update the operating system to the latest version.
Question No 6:
A user’s desktop computer running Windows 10 has been experiencing issues since it unexpectedly restarted during the night. Since the restart, several applications fail to open or crash upon launching. The user has not manually installed any new software or changed any settings.
What is the first step the technician should take to troubleshoot the issue?
A) Replace the malfunctioning applications with open-source alternatives
B) Perform diagnostic tests on the CPU and RAM to verify hardware integrity
C) Investigate recently installed Windows updates and uninstall them individually to identify if one caused the issue
D) Wipe the hard drive clean and perform a fresh installation of Windows 10 and all applications
Correct Answer: C) Investigate recently installed Windows updates and uninstall them individually to identify if one caused the issue
Explanation:
When a computer experiences issues immediately following an unexpected reboot, the most logical first step is to check for recent changes or updates that might have caused the problem. In Windows 10, updates are often automatically installed during off-hours, which can lead to issues like application crashes or failure to open after a restart. Since the problem began after the restart, the technician should first investigate whether recent updates are the cause of the instability.
By reviewing and potentially uninstalling recently installed updates (Option C), the technician can determine whether any of them caused conflicts with existing applications or system files. This method is non-destructive and does not affect the user's data, making it the best first step in troubleshooting the issue.
Why the other options are not ideal:
Option A (replacing applications) does not address the root cause of the issue, which is likely related to software or system updates rather than the applications themselves.
Option B (performing hardware diagnostics) may be useful if the issue persists after updating, but given the timing of the reboot and the symptoms, it’s more likely to be a software problem caused by the update.
Option D (wiping the hard drive and reinstalling Windows) is an extreme and time-consuming measure that should only be considered if all other troubleshooting steps fail. It will also result in data loss unless a backup is performed.
In conclusion, the most efficient and least disruptive method is to investigate and uninstall any recent Windows updates to determine if they are causing the problem.
Question No 7:
Which technology is most commonly used to ensure secure physical access control to a data center by authenticating an individual’s identity before granting entry?
A) Geofence
B) Alarm system
C) Badge reader
D) Motion sensor
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Controlling physical access to a data center is a vital aspect of maintaining the security of sensitive information systems. Among the available options, a badge reader is the most widely used method for securing physical access to data centers by verifying the identity of an individual before granting entry.
A badge reader works as an access control system where an employee or authorized person carries an ID badge equipped with a proximity card, magnetic stripe, or smart card. These badges are scanned or tapped against a reader at entry points to grant or deny access. The badge reader works in conjunction with authentication servers to verify the credentials, ensuring that only authorized individuals are allowed access to secure areas. Additionally, these systems are often integrated with logging mechanisms that track who enters and exits the premises, providing an audit trail for security purposes.
Let’s consider the other options:
Geofence (A): This technology uses GPS or RFID to set up virtual boundaries and can trigger alerts when a device crosses into or out of a designated area. It is more commonly used in logical access control, especially for monitoring locations and tracking assets, rather than being used for physical access control like badge readers.
Alarm System (B): Alarm systems are designed to alert security personnel in the event of unauthorized access or environmental threats like fire or water damage. However, they do not actively manage who can enter the premises; instead, they respond to security incidents after they occur.
Motion Sensor (D): Motion sensors are often employed in security systems to detect unauthorized movement. While helpful for monitoring physical spaces, motion sensors do not perform authentication and therefore do not serve as an access control mechanism on their own.
In contrast, badge readers provide an active, secure method of controlling access to sensitive areas and can be configured for multi-factor authentication (e.g., badge + PIN or biometric scans), offering a balance between security and user convenience.
Therefore, while the other options play auxiliary roles in a security strategy, badge readers are the most appropriate solution for physical access control to a data center. They are a cornerstone of physical security in modern facilities.
Question No 8:
After reading about a cyberattack that exploited weak passwords in a widely-used remote access tool, the CEO of a bank wants to take steps to prevent similar incidents.
What actions should the bank take to reduce the risk of a similar attack?
A) Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all support accounts.
B) Restrict remote access to only destinations within the corporate network.
C) Block access from countries outside the bank’s operational regions.
D) Switch to a different remote-access tool for support purposes.
E) Purchase a password manager for all remote-access tool users.
F) Enforce account lockouts after five unsuccessful login attempts.
Correct Answers: A, F
Explanation:
In the scenario described, a cyberattack succeeded by exploiting weak passwords through brute-force attacks. The goal is to implement measures that prevent unauthorized access, particularly through remote access tools. The most effective ways to secure remote support accounts are through multi-factor authentication (MFA) and account lockout policies.
Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication is one of the most effective defenses against password-based attacks. Even if a password is compromised or guessed, MFA requires an additional form of verification—like a one-time passcode sent to a phone or an authentication app—before access is granted. This significantly reduces the likelihood that attackers can successfully gain unauthorized access using stolen or weak credentials. Thus, implementing MFA for all support accounts is critical in securing remote access tools from being exploited.
Account lockouts
Enforcing account lockouts after a limited number of failed login attempts (e.g., five) is another excellent defense against brute-force attacks. By locking the account after several failed attempts, this measure prevents attackers from continuously trying multiple password combinations to gain access. It effectively reduces the risk of automated brute-force attacks.
Evaluating other options:
B) Restricting remote access to the corporate network can help, but it doesn't directly address the core vulnerability of weak passwords. It might limit the attack surface, but does not offer a proactive solution to password security itself.
C) Blocking access from foreign countries may help in some cases, but it is not a foolproof method. Attackers could still gain access using VPNs or compromised legitimate accounts, making it a less effective solution.
D) Switching to a different remote-access tool might be necessary if the current one has vulnerabilities, but it does not directly address the root cause: weak password security. A new tool could still be vulnerable if weak passwords are used.
E) A password manager can help users create complex passwords, but it doesn't stop brute-force attacks if attackers are trying common or weak passwords. While useful, it is not the most effective standalone solution.
In summary, the most effective combination of actions for preventing such attacks includes multi-factor authentication and account lockout policies. These measures form part of a defense-in-depth strategy, enhancing security by addressing weaknesses in password management and brute-force attack prevention.
Question No 9:
A user has reported that their computer system is running slowly, especially during multitasking or when launching applications. As a technician assigned to diagnose the performance issue, which built-in Windows tool would be most effective for identifying
Which system resources are being heavily utilized and which processes might be contributing to the slowdown?
A) Disk Cleanup
B) Group Policy Editor
C) Disk Management
D) Resource Monitor
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
When troubleshooting performance issues on a computer, it’s essential to determine which system resources—such as CPU, memory, disk, or network—are being overused and contributing to the system's slowdown. The most effective tool to diagnose these kinds of issues in Windows is Resource Monitor.
Resource Monitor
Resource Monitor is a built-in Windows tool that provides real-time data on system resource usage. This tool allows a technician to view and analyze the following:
CPU usage: You can see which processes are consuming the most processor power. If a particular application is consuming excessive CPU resources, it can significantly slow down the system, especially when performing multitasking.
Memory usage: This section shows how much RAM is being used and which processes are consuming the most memory. It can help identify memory-hungry applications or memory leaks that might be causing system slowness.
Disk activity: Resource Monitor tracks which files are being read or written and by which processes. High disk activity could be the cause of system lag, particularly if the system is using a mechanical hard drive instead of an SSD.
Network usage: The tool can also monitor network traffic to identify which applications are using the most bandwidth, which could impact performance if the system is performing network-heavy tasks.
Evaluating the Other Options:
Disk Cleanup (A): This tool is useful for cleaning up unnecessary files, such as temporary files or system cache, to free up disk space. While it may improve performance by clearing disk space, it doesn't provide insight into which resources (CPU, memory, etc.) are being over-utilized, making it less effective for diagnosing slowdowns.
Group Policy Editor (B): The Group Policy Editor is used for managing system and user configurations in Windows, not for monitoring system performance. It does not provide any information about resource usage or performance bottlenecks.
Disk Management (C): Disk Management is used for managing hard drive partitions and volumes. It does not provide detailed data on system performance or resource utilization. While useful for managing storage, it does not directly help in troubleshooting slowdowns due to overuse of system resources.
In conclusion, Resource Monitor is the most suitable tool for diagnosing system performance issues. It provides real-time monitoring and detailed insights into resource usage, helping technicians pinpoint the root cause of slowdowns and address performance issues effectively.
Question No 10:
Which of the following methods is the most secure way to wipe sensitive data from a hard drive before disposal?
A) Formatting the hard drive
B) Deleting files from the Recycle Bin
C) Using a software-based wiping tool
D) Physically destroying the hard drive
Answer: C
Explanation:
When preparing to dispose of or repurpose a hard drive that contains sensitive data, it is important to ensure that the data is fully erased to prevent recovery by unauthorized individuals. Each of the provided options represents a different approach to data disposal, with varying levels of security.
A) Formatting the hard drive
Formatting a hard drive essentially removes the file system structure, making it difficult to locate data. However, the actual data still resides on the disk and can often be recovered using specialized software. This method does not offer a high level of security for sensitive information, as it only clears the file system and not the actual data. Therefore, it is not recommended as a secure method.
B) Deleting files from the Recycle Bin
Deleting files from the Recycle Bin removes them from the file system's immediate view, but just like formatting, the data remains on the hard drive. Recovery software can retrieve these files, making this approach insufficient for securely wiping sensitive information. This method is only useful for casual deletion, not for secure data disposal.
C) Using a software-based wiping tool
This is the most secure method listed for wiping a hard drive. Data-wiping tools use specialized algorithms to overwrite the data on the hard drive multiple times with random patterns, effectively making it unrecoverable. Some well-known data wiping tools include DBAN (Darik's Boot and Nuke) and Eraser. These tools ensure that the data is not only deleted but also overwritten to prevent recovery by any means. Many tools meet industry standards for data destruction, such as those required by government and military agencies.
D) Physically destroying the hard drive
Physically destroying the hard drive (e.g., smashing it with a hammer, shredding, or crushing) is the most effective method of ensuring data is permanently unreadable. However, this approach is not always practical, especially when the drive is not easily accessible or when the goal is to reuse the hardware. While effective, it may be more costly and time-consuming compared to using a software-based wiping tool, especially if the data destruction needs to be done on multiple drives.
While physical destruction of a hard drive is the most definitive way to ensure that data is unrecoverable, a software-based wiping tool is the most practical and secure solution for most situations, as it ensures the data is overwritten multiple times, rendering it unrecoverable without the need for physical destruction. Thus, the correct answer is C.
