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

Preserving chain of custody is a concept that refers to the documentation and tracking of who handled, accessed, modified, or transferred a piece of evidence, when, where, why, and how. Preserving chain of custody can help establish the authenticity, integrity, and reliability of the evidence, as well as prevent tampering, alteration, or loss of the evidence. An administrator who documented the movement of the evidence demonstrated the concept of preserving chain of custody. Implementing data protection policies, informing law enforcement, and creating a summary of the incident are not concepts that describe the action of documenting the movement of the evidence.

To safely upgrade the Microsoft Windows 10 OS, it is essential to backup critical data (C) and ensure that you have the necessary device drivers (D). Backing up critical data protects against potential data loss during the upgrade process. Having the correct device drivers ensures that the hardware components function properly with the new OS version, preventing issues like loss of functionality or compatibility problems​​.

AirDrop is a feature on Apple devices that allows users to wirelessly share files, photos, and videos with nearby Apple devices. If the MacBook is receiving unsolicited AirDrop requests, adjusting the AirDrop settings to allow sharing with contacts only or turning it off completely can help prevent these random pop-up requests.

A recovery key is a code that can be used to unlock a BitLocker-encrypted drive when the normal authentication methods (such as password or PIN) are not available or have been forgotten. BitLocker is a feature of Windows that encrypts the entire drive to protect data from unauthorized access. If a technician is trying to repair a Windows 10 OS that has BitLocker enabled, they will need the recovery key to access the drive and continue the OS repair. SSL key, preshared key, and WPA2 key are not keys that are related to BitLocker or OS repair.

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.

A cryptominer is a malicious program that uses the CPU resources of a computer to generate cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. This can cause the CPU to run at 100% utilization and slow down the system. Spyware, virus and keylogger are other types of malware, but they do not necessarily cause high CPU usage. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-cryptomining https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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​​.

To resolve an issue of low storage space on a Windows computer, the best approach is to Run Disk Cleanup (B). Disk Cleanup is a built-in utility that helps users free up space on their hard drives by deleting temporary files, system files, and other unnecessary files that are no longer needed, thereby resolving low storage space issues

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​​.

A system image is a complete snapshot of everything on a device's storage at a given point in time, including the operating system, installed programs, system settings, and all user files. This method is the best way to back up the OS and data comprehensively because it allows for the restoration of a system to its exact state at the time the image was taken. This is particularly useful in disaster recovery scenarios where it's crucial to restore a system quickly and efficiently to minimize downtime.

The scenario described is characteristic of a malware tactic known as scareware, where users are tricked into installing malware through false alerts claiming that their system is infected. The anti-malware software installed in response to a pop-up is likely malicious, causing the system to run slowly and display frequent pop-ups.

MSRA (Microsoft Remote Assistance) is a remote access technology that allows a technician to establish a session with a user who has a Windows workstation. The session allows for simultaneous viewing of the workstation by both the user and technician, as well as remote control and file transfer capabilities. RDP (remote desktop protocol) is another remote access technology, but it does not allow simultaneous viewing by default. VPN (virtual private network) and SSH (secure shell) are protocols that create secure tunnels between two devices over the internet, but they do not allow remote access sessions. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-msra https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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.

A hardware token is a physical device that provides an additional layer of security for software authorization. Some specialized software may require a hardware token to be attached to the workstation in order to run. A hardware token may contain a cryptographic key, a password, or a one-time code that verifies the user’s identity or permission. Installing the software in safe mode, installing OS updates, and restarting the workstation after installation are not likely to resolve the issue of software authorization.

Incremental backups are backups that only include the changes made since the last backup, whether it was a full or an incremental backup. Incremental backups minimize the capacity of storage used and are often used in conjunction with synthetic full backups, which are backups that combine a full backup and subsequent incremental backups into a single backup set.

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.

For a company with geographically dispersed staff and the need to keep devices updated, using cloud-based endpoint management software is the most efficient method. This type of software allows IT administrators to remotely manage and push updates to company devices, regardless of their location. It ensures that all devices remain up to date with the latest security patches and software updates without requiring physical access or user intervention. This approach is scalable, reduces the risk of unpatched vulnerabilities, and is convenient for both the IT department and the end-users.

A rollback plan describes the process of reverting a system to its previous state after a failed upgrade or change. This ensures system stability and functionality by restoring known good configurations and is a crucial part of change management to minimize disruptions in case of unsuccessful updates.

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.

To troubleshoot a user's computer remotely while the user is connected, the best option is Microsoft Remote Assistance (MSRA). MSRA allows the technician to view and control the user's screen with their permission, facilitating an effective troubleshooting session without disconnecting the user.

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.

Booting in safe mode is the initial step to diagnose a computer experiencing a blue screen of death (BSOD) following a failed Windows 10 update. Safe mode starts the computer with a minimal set of drivers and services, allowing troubleshooting and identification of the problematic software or driver causing the BSOD. This mode provides a safer environment to uninstall recent updates or drivers, perform system scans, and restore the system if necessary. Other options like System Restore wizard, last known-good configuration, and resetting BIOS settings may be subsequent steps but do not directly diagnose the issue as effectively as booting in safe mode.

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

ACL (access control list) is a security control that describes what permissions a user or group has on a shared network folder using NTFS (New Technology File System) security settings. It can be used to grant or deny read, write, modify, delete or execute access to files and folders. SMS (short message service), MFA (multifactor authentication), MDM (mobile device management) are not security controls that apply to shared network folders. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-an-acl https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

The correct answer is A. Document the date and time of change. After implementing a change, the technician should document the date and time of change in the change log or record. This helps to track the change history, monitor the change performance, and identify any issues or incidents related to the change. Documenting the date and time of change is also a good practice for auditing and compliance purposes.

Documenting the purpose of the change (B) and the risk level © are steps that should be done before implementing the change, not after. These are important information that help to justify, prioritize, and plan the change. The purpose of the change should explain why the change is needed and what benefits it will bring to the organization. The risk level should assess the potential impact and probability of the change causing any problems or disruptions to the business.

Documenting the findings of the sandbox test (D) is also a step that should be done before implementing the change, not after. A sandbox test is a way of testing the change in an isolated environment that mimics the production environment. This helps to verify that the change works as expected and does not cause any errors or conflicts with other systems or processes. The findings of the sandbox test should be documented and reviewed by the change advisory board (CAB) before approving the change for implementation.

In a Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) setup, the technician is most likely to configure mapped drives on a new PC. Mapped drives allow for easy access to shared resources such as files and printers on the network. This setup facilitates file sharing and collaboration within a small network, making it an essential configuration for SOHO environments.

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.

Personalization is a Windows 10 setting that allows a user to modify the desktop wallpaper, as well as other aspects of the appearance and behavior of the desktop, such as colors, themes, sounds, etc. Apps is a Windows 10 setting that allows a user to manage the installed applications and their features. Updates is a Windows 10 setting that allows a user to check for and install the latest updates for the OS and other components. Display is a Windows 10 setting that allows a user to adjust the screen resolution, brightness, orientation, etc. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/windows-10-settings https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

LAN is the most likely option to be impacted in this situation. LAN stands for Local Area Network, and it is a network that connects devices within a limited area, such as a building or a campus. Installing high-definition IP videoconferencing equipment in all classrooms would require a high bandwidth and reliable LAN infrastructure to support the video and audio transmission. The LAN would also need to be configured with proper security, quality of service, and multicast protocols to ensure the optimal performance of the videoconferencing system. SAN, GPU, and PAN are not directly related to this scenario. SAN stands for Storage Area Network, and it is a network that provides access to consolidated storage devices. GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit, and it is a hardware component that handles graphics rendering and computation. PAN stands for Personal Area Network, and it is a network that connects devices within a short range, such as Bluetooth or infrared. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 20

CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Core 1 Exam 220-1101 and Core 2 Exam …, page 104

yum (Yellowdog Updater Modified) is a package management utility for PCs that are running the Linux operating system. It can be used to install, update and remove software packages from repositories. chmod (change mode) is a command that changes the permissions of files and directories in Linux. man (manual) is a command that displays the documentation of other commands in Linux. grep (global regular expression print) is a command that searches for patterns in text files in Linux. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/linux-package-management https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

The best way for a technician to return the device to service safely is to reinstall the operating system. This is because the device is infected by ransomware, which is a form of malware that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption. Reinstalling the operating system will erase the ransomware and restore the device to its original state. However, this will also delete any data that was not backed up before the infection. Therefore, it is important to have regular backups of critical data and protect them from ransomware attacks1.

The other options are not effective or safe for ransomware recovery. Running an AV scan may not detect or remove the ransomware, especially if it is a new or unknown variant. Installing a software firewall may prevent future attacks, but it will not help with the current infection. Performing a system restore may not work if the ransomware has corrupted or deleted the restore points. Complying with the on-screen instructions is not advisable, as it will encourage the attackers and there is no guarantee that they will provide the decryption key after receiving the payment.

To prevent and recover from ransomware attacks, it is recommended to follow some best practices, such as234:

Use strong passwords and multifactor authentication for all accounts and devices.

Keep all software and firmware updated with the latest security patches.

Avoid opening suspicious or unsolicited emails and attachments.

Educate users and staff on how to recognize and report phishing and social engineering attempts.

Use antivirus software and enable real-time protection.

Enable network segmentation and firewall rules to limit the spread of ransomware.

Implement a Zero Trust security model to verify all requests and devices before granting access.

Create and test backups of critical data and store them offline or in a separate network.

Recover safely by isolating the infected devices, identifying the ransomware variant, and restoring data from backups.

Report any ransomware incidents to law enforcement agencies and seek help from experts.

The app file type is designed to run under macOS as an application file bundle. macOS uses application bundles to store executable files and related resources, such as libraries, image files, and localized content, in a single directory hierarchy. This approach simplifies application management and execution within the macOS environment​​.

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.

To prevent security issues related to an employee using the same password for multiple applications and websites, implementing expiration policies (B) is best. Password expiration policies require users to change their passwords at regular intervals, which helps to mitigate the risks associated with password reuse. Regularly changing passwords reduces the chances of unauthorized access from compromised credentials​​.

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.

The most likely reason for an error message stating "Not compatible with OS" during a software installation is that the installation requires administrative rights. Many software installations, especially those that affect system files or install drivers, require administrative privileges to execute correctly. Without these rights, the installer cannot make the necessary changes to the system, leading to such error messages​​.

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.

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.

After rebooting the phone, connecting to Wi-Fi, and disabling metered data, the next step the technician should take is to Clear the cache (D). Clearing the cache can resolve issues with the phone's performance and is often necessary before updating software to ensure that the updates can be downloaded and installed without issues. It removes temporary files that may be interfering with the update process​​.

The presence of pop-up windows advertising free software and the error message about memory are indicative of spyware infection. Installing and running antispyware software is a practical first step to remove the unwanted software and resolve the issue without resorting to more drastic measures like re-imaging the system.

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure connection over the internet to a network, allowing a user to access shared files and corporate email as if they were directly connected to the network. This makes VPN the best tool for secure remote work access, compared to the other options which do not offer the same level of secure, remote network access.

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 technician should verify bad sectors on the user’s computer by running chkdsk on the drive as the administrator. Chkdsk (check disk) is a command-line utility that detects and repairs disk errors, including bad sectors. It runs a scan of the disk and displays any errors that are found

The technician should quarantine the system first1

The user can enable speech recognition on a PC in the Ease of Access settings tool. To set up Speech Recognition on a Windows PC, the user should open Control Panel, click on Ease of Access, click on Speech Recognition, and click the Start Speech Recognition link. Language settings can be used to change the language of the speech recognition feature, but they will not enable the feature. System settings can be used to configure the hardware and software of the PC, but they will not enable the speech recognition feature. Personalization settings can be used to customize the appearance and behavior of the PC, but they will not enable the speech recognition feature1

Open up ease of access, click on speech, then there is an on and off button for speech recognition.

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

Since Windows systems support FAT32 and NTFS "out of the box" and Linux supports a whole range of them including FAT32 and NTFS, it is highly recommended to format the partition or disk you want to share in either FAT32 or NTFS, but since FAT32 has a file size limit of 4.2 GB, if you happen to work with huge files, then it is better you use NTFS

Changing channels can best resolve interference from other nearby SSIDs. Wireless networks operate on different channels, and changing the channel can help to avoid interference from other nearby networks.

The technician should not proceed with initiating a full scan and removal of the viruses using the presented interface or call the phone number displayed in the interface of the antivirus removal tool12

Shutting down the infected computer and swapping it with another computer is not necessary at this point12

The technician should not immediately assume that the message is legitimate or perform any actions without knowing what the interface is and what triggered it to pop up. It is important to investigate the issue further, including checking the legitimacy of the antivirus program and the message it is displaying.

One of the most important environmental concerns inside a data center is the level of humidity. High levels of humidity can cause condensation, which can result in corrosion of components and other equipment. Low levels of humidity can cause static electricity to build up, potentially leading to electrostatic discharge (ESD) and damage to components. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a relative humidity range of 40-60% in a data center to protect the equipment and ensure proper operation.

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 differential backup method would best address these concerns. Differential backups only back up files that have changed since the last full backup, which means that only a few files would be backed up each time. This would help to mitigate the risk of ransomware attacks, as only a few files would be affected if an attack occurred. Additionally, differential backups require less storage space than full backups.

The systems administrator should use Settings to access Screensaver settings to configure each user’s Windows device to require a password when resuming from a period of sleep or inactivity1

To help secure the device against this threat in the future, the administrator should require a PIN on the unlock screen and block a third-party application installation. Requiring a PIN on the unlock screen can help to prevent unauthorized access to the device, while blocking third-party application installation can help to prevent malicious applications from being installed on the device.

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

The technician should use DHCP reservation to maintain the same IP address for the server at all times. DHCP reservation allows the server to obtain an IP address dynamically from the DHCP server, while ensuring that the same IP address is assigned to the server each time it requests an IP address.

Using disk-wiping software is the most secure method for removing information from past users’ hard drives in order to reuse the hard drives. Disk-wiping software can help to ensure that all data on the hard drive is completely erased and cannot be recovered.

If a rootkit has caused a deep infection, then the only way to remove the rootkit is to reinstall the operating system. This is because rootkits are designed to be difficult to detect and remove, and they can hide in the operating system’s kernel, making it difficult to remove them without reinstalling the operating system

https://www.minitool.com/backup-tips/how-to-get-rid-of-rootkit-windows-10.html

To best resolve this issue, the executive should set AirDrop so that transfers are only accepted from known contacts (option A). AirDrop is a feature on iOS devices that allows users to share files, photos, and other data between Apple devices. By setting AirDrop so that it only accepts transfers from known contacts, the executive can ensure that unwanted files and photos are not sent to their device. Additionally, the executive should ensure that the AirDrop setting is only enabled when it is necessary, as this will protect their device from any unwanted files and photos.

This is the most effective way to selectively prevent programs from loading on a Windows 10 machine. The Startup tab can be accessed by opening Task Manager and then selecting the Startup tab. From there, the technician can methodically disable items that are currently listed as enabled, reboot the machine, and check for issue resolution at each startup. If the issue persists, the technician can then move on to disabling the next item on the list.

The technician should use afc to transfer a large number of files over an unreliable connection and be able to resume the process if the connection is interrupted1

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 process of documenting who had possession of evidence at every step of the process is called chain of custody

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 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.

https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/difference-32-bit-64-bit-windows/

 After upgrading from a 32-bit Windows OS to a 64-bit OS, the company will be able to fully take advantage of the RAM of the computer. This is because a 64-bit operating system is able to use larger amounts of RAM compared to a 32-bit operating system, which may benefit the system’s overall performance if it has more than 4GB of RAM installed 

Resource Monitor will help a technician identify the issue when a user reports a computer is running slow1

Installing applications directly from a vendor's website can be risky, as the application may be malicious or fraudulent. Uninstalling the application can help mitigate the issue by removing the source of the problem.

Default Apps should be used to ensure all PDF files open in Adobe Reader1

The systems administrator should clear the application cache12

If clearing the application cache does not work, the systems administrator should uninstall and reinstall the application12

Resetting the phone to factory settings is not necessary at this point12

Installing an alternative application with similar functionality is not necessary at this point12

The technician most likely needs to change the default gateway on the workstation to resolve the issue. The default gateway is the IP address of the router that connects the workstation to the internet, and it is responsible for routing traffic between the workstation and the internet. If the default gateway is incorrect, the workstation will not be able to access external web pages.

Badge readers are used to implement secure physical access to a data center. They are used to read the identification information on an employee’s badge and grant access to the data center if the employee is authorized2.

 This system requires individuals to have an access badge that contains their identification information or a unique code that can be scanned by a reader. After the badge is scanned, the system compares the information on the badge with the authorized personnel database to authenticate if the individual has the required clearance to enter that area. The other options listed, such as a geofence, alarm system, or motion sensor are security measures that may be used in conjunction with badge readers, but do not provide identification and authentication features.

VNC will allow a technician to see the issue along with the user when an organization is centralizing support functions and requires the ability to support a remote user’s desktop1

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.

Navigate to the Windows 10 Settings menu, select the Accounts submenu, select Sign in options, select Windows Hello Fingerprint, and have the user place a fingerprint on the fingerprint reader repeatedly until Windows indicates setup is complete. Windows Hello Fingerprint can be set up by navigating to the Windows 10 Settings menu, selecting the Accounts submenu, selecting Sign in options, and then selecting Windows Hello Fingerprint. The user will then be asked to place a fingerprint on the fingerprint reader repeatedly until Windows indicates that setup is complete. Windows Hello Fingerprint allows the user to log into the laptop using just their fingerprint, providing an additional layer of security.

 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

Encrypting the hard drive would most likely resolve the issue1

Risk analysis is the process of identifying and evaluating the potential threats and impacts of a change on the system, network, or service. It is an essential step before approving a change request, as it helps to determine the level of risk, the mitigation strategies, and the contingency plans. Risk analysis also helps to prioritize the change requests based on their urgency and importance12.

MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication, which is a method of verifying a user’s identity using two or more different factors of authentication. The three factors of authentication are something you know, something you have, and something you are. These factors correspond to different types of information or evidence that only the legitimate user should possess or provide. For example:

Something you know: a password, a PIN, a security question, etc.

Something you have: a smart card, a token, a mobile device, etc.

Something you are: a fingerprint, a face, an iris, etc.

MFA provides a higher level of security than single-factor authentication, which only uses one factor, such as a password. MFA reduces the risk of unauthorized access, identity theft, and data breaches, as an attacker would need to compromise more than one factor to impersonate a user. MFA is commonly used for online banking, email accounts, cloud services, and other sensitive applications

Isolating the machine from the network is the best way to identify the source of the attack, because it prevents the malicious traffic from spreading to other devices or reaching the attacker. Isolating the machine can also help preserve the evidence of the attack, such as the malware files, the network connections, the registry entries, or the system logs. By isolating the machine, a technician can safely analyze the machine and determine the source of the attack, such as a phishing email, a compromised website, a removable media, or a network vulnerability.

Malware is software that infects computer systems to damage, disable or exploit the computer or network for various malicious purposes5. Malware is typically distributed via email attachments, fake internet ads, infected applications or websites, and often relies on user interaction to execute6. Therefore, one of the most effective ways to prevent malware infections is to educate the end user about the common signs and sources of malware, and how to avoid them7. Configuring the firewall, restoring the system from backups, and updating the antivirus program are also important security measures, but they do not address the root cause of the user’s repeated infections, which is likely due to a lack of awareness or caution.

References5: Malware: what it is, how it works, and how to stop it - Norton6: How to Prevent Malware: 15 Best Practices for Malware Prevention7: 10 Security Tips for How to Prevent Malware Infections - Netwrix

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.

In order to connect to a user’s laptop via RDP, the technician should open port 3389 on the Windows firewall. This is because RDP uses port 3389 for communication12. The other options are not necessary or relevant for establishing an RDP connection.

Confirming the user can ping the default gateway is not required for RDP, as it only tests the network connectivity between the user’s laptop and the router. RDP works over the internet, so the technician should be able to ping the user’s laptop directly using its IP address3.

Changing the IP address on the user’s laptop is not needed for RDP, as long as the IP address is valid and not conflicting with another device on the network. The user’s laptop has a valid IP address of 192.168.0.45, which belongs to the same subnet as the gateway (192.168.0.1) and the subnet mask (255.255.255.0)4.

Changing the subnet mask on the user’s laptop is not required for RDP, as long as the subnet mask matches the network configuration. The user’s laptop has a correct subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, which defines a network with 254 possible hosts4.

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

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.

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 .

The Processes tab in the Task Manager shows all the running processes on the computer, including applications and background services. The user can use this tab to identify the unresponsive application and end its process by right-clicking on it and selecting End task. This will free up the system resources and close the application. The other tabs in the Task Manager do not allow the user to address the situation. The Startup tab shows the programs that run when the computer starts, the Performance tab shows the system resource usage and statistics, and the Application history tab shows the resource usage of the applications over time

Rebooting the smartphone is the first and simplest step to resolve the issue of frequent crashes and unresponsiveness. Rebooting clears the memory, closes the background apps, and refreshes the system. It can also fix minor glitches and bugs that may cause the calendar app or the smartphone to malfunction12. The other options are either too drastic or unnecessary. Reinstalling the application may not solve the problem if the issue is with the smartphone itself. Updating the smartphone’s OS may not be possible or helpful if the device is unresponsive or incompatible. Resetting the smartphone to factory settings will erase all the data and settings on the device, which should be the last resort.

Developer Mode on Windows 10 is a feature that allows developers to test and debug their applications on their devices, as well as sideload apps and access other developer tools12. To enable Developer Mode, the user needs to go to the Settings app, select Update & Security, choose For Developers, and switch to Developer Mode123. However, enabling Developer Mode requires internet connectivity, as Windows will download and install a package of features, such as Windows Device Portal and SSH services, that are necessary for Developer Mode124. If the user does not have internet connectivity, they will receive a “failed to install package” message when trying to enable Developer Mode4. Therefore, the first thing that the technician should do is to ensure that the laptop has internet access, either through Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and then try to enable Developer Mode again4

Malware is malicious software that can cause damage or harm to a computer system or network4. A technician has verified a computer is infected with malware by observing unusual behavior, such as slow performance, pop-ups, or unwanted ads. The technician isolates the system and updates the anti-malware software to prevent further infection or spread of the malware. The next step is to run repeated remediation scans until the malware is removed. A remediation scan is a scan that detects and removes malware from the system. Running one scan may not be enough to remove all traces of malware, as some malware may hide or regenerate itself.

The Connections tab in Internet Options allows the technician to configure the proxy server settings for the workstations. The technician can enter the proxy server address and port number, and specify which websites to bypass the proxy server for. The other tabs are not relevant for configuring the proxy server settings. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 9, section 1.7; CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Certification Study Guide, page 140, section 1.7.

The first mitigation step that a technician should take when a machine is suspected to contain ransomware is to quarantine the system. This means isolating the infected machine from the network and other devices, to prevent the ransomware from spreading and encrypting more data. The technician can quarantine the system by disconnecting the network cable, turning off the wireless adapter, or using firewall rules to block the traffic from and to the machine12.

This step is more important than the other options because:

Disabling System Restore (A) is not a priority, as it will not stop the ransomware from running or spreading. System Restore is a feature that allows users to restore their system to a previous state, but it may not work if the ransomware has encrypted or deleted the restore points. Moreover, disabling System Restore may prevent the user from recovering some data or settings in the future13.

Remediating the system (B) is the ultimate goal, but it cannot be done before quarantining the system. Remediating the system means removing the ransomware, restoring the data, and fixing the vulnerabilities that allowed the attack. However, this process requires careful analysis, planning, and execution, and it may not be possible if the ransomware is still active and communicating with the attackers. Therefore, the technician should first isolate the system and then proceed with the remediation steps12.

Educating the system user © is a preventive measure, but it is not a mitigation step. Educating the system user means raising awareness and providing training on how to avoid ransomware attacks, such as by recognizing phishing emails, avoiding suspicious links or attachments, and updating and patching the system regularly. However, this step will not help if the system is already infected, and it may not be effective if the user is not willing or able to follow the best practices. Therefore, the technician should focus on resolving the current incident and then educate the user as part of the recovery plan14.

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.

Phishing is the correct answer for this question. Phishing is a type of attack that uses fraudulent emails or other messages to trick users into revealing sensitive information or installing malicious software. Phishing emails often impersonate legitimate entities or individuals and offer incentives or threats to lure users into clicking on malicious links or attachments. In this scenario, the user received a removable USB device in the mail as a prize, which could be a phishing attempt to infect the user’s computer with malware or gain access to the user’s data. Dumpster diving, tailgating, and evil twin are not correct answers for this question. Dumpster diving is a type of attack that involves searching through trash bins or recycling containers to find discarded documents or devices that contain valuable information. Tailgating is a type of attack that involves following an authorized person into a restricted area without proper identification or authorization. Evil twin is a type of attack that involves setting up a rogue wireless access point that mimics a legitimate one to intercept or manipulate network traffic. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 25

[CompTIA Security+ SY0-601 Certification Study Guide], page 1004

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

RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol, which is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft that allows a user to remotely access and control another computer over a network. RDP provides a secure session that encrypts the data between the client and the host, and allows the user to see and interact with the desktop and applications of the remote computer as if they were sitting in front of it. RDP also supports features such as audio, video, clipboard, printer, and file sharing, as well as multiple monitor support and session recording. To use RDP, the host computer must have Remote Desktop enabled and configured, and the client computer must have a Remote Desktop client software installed. The client can connect to the host by entering its IP address, hostname, or domain name, and providing the login credentials of a user account on the host. RDP is commonly used for remote administration, technical support, and remote work scenarios

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

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

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.

The best solution for a technician to implement is to disable the browser from sending notifications to the Action Center. This will prevent the random advertisement notifications from appearing in the Windows 10 Action Center, which can be annoying and distracting for the user. The technician can follow these steps to disable the browser notifications1:

Open the browser that is sending the notifications, such as Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox.

Go to the browser settings or options menu, and look for the privacy and security section.

Find the option to manage site permissions or notifications, and click on it.

You will see a list of sites that are allowed or blocked from sending notifications to the browser and the Action Center. You can either block all sites from sending notifications, or select specific sites that you want to block or allow.

Save the changes and close the browser settings.

This solution is better than the other options because:

Running a full antivirus scan on the computer (B) is not necessary, as the advertisement notifications are not malicious or harmful, and they are not caused by a virus or malware infection. Running a scan will not stop the notifications from appearing, and it will consume system resources and time.

Disabling all Action Center notifications © is not advisable, as the Action Center is a useful feature that shows notifications and alerts from various apps and system events, such as email, calendar, security, updates, etc. Disabling all notifications will make the user miss important information and reminders, and reduce the functionality of the Action Center.

Moving specific site notifications from Allowed to Block (D) is not the best solution, as it will only stop the notifications from some sites, but not from others. The user may still receive advertisement notifications from other sites that are not blocked, or from new sites that are added to the Allowed list. This solution will also require the user to manually manage the list of sites, which can be tedious and time-consuming.

Linux is the most commonly used operating system in embedded systems because it is open source, free, customizable, and supports a wide range of architectures and devices. Linux also offers many advantages for embedded development, such as real-time capabilities, modularity, security, scalability, and reliability. Linux can run on embedded systems with limited resources, such as memory, storage, or power, and can be tailored to the specific needs of the application. Linux also has a large and active community of developers and users who contribute to its improvement and innovation. Some examples of embedded systems that use Linux are smart TVs, routers, drones, robots, smart watches, and IoT devices

The scenario described in the question suggests that the workstation has been infected by a ransomware, which is a type of malware that encrypts the files on the target system and demands a ransom for the decryption key12. The file extension .enc is commonly used by some ransomware variants to mark the encrypted files34. The developer is unable to open the database files manually because they are encrypted and require the decryption key, which is usually held by the attacker.

The best option for recovering the data is to utilize the backups, assuming that the backups are recent, valid, and not affected by the ransomware. Backups are copies of the data that are stored in a separate location or device, and can be used to restore the data in case of a disaster, such as a ransomware attack . By restoring the data from the backups, the developer can avoid paying the ransom and losing the data permanently.

Accessing a restore point is not a good option, because restore points are snapshots of the system settings and configuration, not the data files. Restore points can help to undo some system changes, such as installing a faulty driver or software, but they cannot recover the encrypted data files .

Rebooting into safe mode is also not a good option, because safe mode is a diagnostic mode that allows the system to run with minimal drivers and services, but it does not affect the data files. Safe mode can help to troubleshoot some system issues, such as malware infections, but it cannot decrypt the data files .

Using an AV to scan the affected files is also not a good option, because an AV is a software that can detect and remove some malware, but it cannot decrypt the data files. An AV can help to prevent or remove some ransomware infections, but it cannot recover the encrypted data files .

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 remove .enc file virus (Ransomware virus removal guide) 4: Enc File Extension - What is an .enc file and how do I open it? : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 13 : CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) Complete Video Course, Lesson 26 Documentation : What is a restore point? : How to use System Restore on Windows 10 : [What is Safe Mode?] : [How to boot into Safe Mode on Windows 10] : CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, page 10 : [Can antivirus software remove ransomware?]

A software firewall is a program that monitors and controls the incoming and outgoing network traffic on a computer or a server. A software firewall can help prevent unauthorized LAN devices from accessing stored files on a company file server by applying rules and policies that filter the network packets based on their source, destination, protocol, port, or content. A software firewall can also block or allow specific applications or services from communicating with the network, and alert the administrator of any suspicious or malicious activity12.

A software firewall is a better option than the other choices because:

Password complexity (B) is a good practice to protect the file server from unauthorized access, but it is not sufficient by itself. Password complexity refers to the use of strong passwords that are hard to guess or crack by attackers, and that are changed frequently and securely. Password complexity can prevent brute force attacks or credential theft, but it cannot stop network attacks that exploit vulnerabilities in the file server software or hardware, or that bypass the authentication process34.

Antivirus application © and anti-malware scans (D) are important tools to protect the file server from viruses and malware that can infect, damage, or encrypt the stored files. However, they are not effective in preventing unauthorized LAN devices from accessing the files in the first place. Antivirus and anti-malware tools can only detect and remove known threats, and they may not be able to stop zero-day attacks or advanced persistent threats that can evade or disable them. Moreover, antivirus and anti-malware tools cannot control the network traffic or the file server permissions, and they may not be compatible with all file server platforms or configurations56.

Configuring remote wipe allows the device owner or administrator to erase all the data on the device remotely, in case it is lost or stolen. This prevents unauthorized access to confidential data and reduces the risk of data breaches. Installing a VPN, implementing location tracking, and enabling backups are useful features, but they do not directly limit the loss of data if the device is compromised. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Core 2 Objectives, Domain 2.0: Security, Objective 2.5: Given a scenario, use methods to secure mobile devices.

If a user’s iPhone is permanently locked after several failed log-in attempts, the user will need to use the recovery contact and recovery key to restore access, applications, and data to the device. The recovery contact is a trusted person who can receive a verification code from Apple and share it with the user. The recovery key is a 28-character code that the user created when setting up two-factor authentication for their Apple ID. The user will need to enter both the verification code and the recovery key on another device or computer to unlock their iPhone. This method will erase the iPhone and restore it from the iCloud backup

Windows is widely used in industrial and business environments due to its major market presence, extensive support from the industry, and a broad selection of operating system options. It supports a wide variety of software, making it suitable for running complex systems like an inventory management system in a factory. Other options such as Chrome OS, Android, and iOS are either more consumer-oriented or designed for specific types of devices, making them less likely choices for an industrial application like inventory management.References: Professor Messer’s CompTIA 220-1102 A+ Course Notes​​.

Ease of Access is a utility in the Control Panel that allows users to adjust various accessibility settings on Windows, such as the on-screen keyboard, magnifier, narrator, high contrast, etc. The on-screen keyboard can be turned on by going to Ease of Access > Keyboard and toggling the switch to On12. Alternatively, the on-screen keyboard can be opened by pressing Windows + Ctrl + O keys or by typing osk.exe in the Run dialog box3.

 Date and time is the most likely cause of the issue. The date and time settings on a workstation affect the validity of the certificates used by websites to establish secure connections. If the date and time are incorrect, the workstation may not recognize the certificate as valid and display an invalid certificate error. Other workstations on the same local network may not have this issue if their date and time are correct. User access control, UEFI boot mode, and log-on times are not likely causes of the issue. User access control is a feature that prevents unauthorized changes to the system by prompting for confirmation or credentials. UEFI boot mode is a firmware interface that controls the boot process of the workstation. Log-on times are settings that restrict when a user can log in to the workstation. None of these factors affect the validity of the certificates used by websites. References:

Official CompTIA learning resources CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2, page 14

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102) Cert Guide, page 456

Classification: a) Phishing

This email is a phishing attempt, as it tries to trick the user into clicking on a malicious link that could compromise their account or personal information. Some suspicious items in this email are:

The email has a generic greeting and does not address the user by name.

The email has spelling errors, such as “unusal” and “Locaked”.

The email uses a sense of urgency and fear to pressure the user into clicking on the link.

The email does not match the official format or domain of the IT Help Desk at CompTIA.

The email has two black bat icons, which are not related to CompTIA or IT support.

The appropriate resolution for this email is A. Report email to Information Security. The user should not click on the link, reply to the email, or provide any personal or account information. The user should forward the email to the Information Security team or use a professional email form to report the phishing attempt. The user should also delete the email from their inbox and trash folder.

The suspicious items to select are:

b) From address

d) Hyperlinks

These items indicate that the email is not from a legitimate source and that the link is potentially malicious. The other items are not suspicious in this case, as the to address is the user’s own email and there are no attachments.

Classification: b) Spam

This email is a spam email, as it is an unsolicited and unwanted message that tries to persuade the user to participate in a survey and claim a reward. Some suspicious items in this email are:

The email offers a free wireless headphone as an incentive, which is too good to be true.

The email does not provide any details about the survey company, such as its name, address, or contact information.

The email contains an external survey link, which may lead to a malicious or fraudulent website.

The email does not have an unsubscribe option, which is required by law for commercial emails.

The appropriate resolution for this email is C. Unsubscribe. The user should look for an unsubscribe link or button at the bottom of the email and follow the instructions to opt out of receiving future emails from the sender. The user should also mark the email as spam or junk in their email client, which will help filter out similar emails in the future. The user should not click on the survey link, reply to the email, or provide any personal or financial information.

Classification: c) Legitimate

This email is a legitimate email, as it is from a trusted source and has a valid purpose. There are no suspicious items in this email, as the from address, the to address, the attachment, and the email body are all consistent and relevant. The appropriate resolution for this email is B. Perform no additional actions. The user can open the attachment and review the orientation material as instructed. The user does not need to report, unsubscribe, or delete this email.

Classification: a) Phishing

This email is a phishing attempt, as it tries to deceive the user into downloading and running a malicious attachment that could compromise their system or data. Some suspicious items in this email are:

The email has a generic greeting and does not address the user by name or username.

The email has an urgent tone and claims that a security patch needs to be installed immediately.

The email has an attachment named “patch1.exe”, which is an executable file that could contain malware or ransomware.

The email does not match the official format or domain of CompTIA Information Security.

The appropriate resolution for this email is A. Report email to Information Security. The user should not open the attachment, reply to the email, or provide any personal or account information. The user should forward the email to the Information Security team or use a professional email form to report the phishing attempt. The user should also delete the email from their inbox and trash folder.

Classification: c) Legitimate

This email is a legitimate email, as it is from a trusted source and has a valid purpose. There are no suspicious items in this email, as the from address, the to address, and the email body are all consistent and relevant. The appropriate resolution for this email is B. Perform no additional actions. The user can reply to the email and thank the sender for the interview opportunity. The user does not need to report, unsubscribe, or delete this email.

One of the common reasons for a slow smartphone performance is having too many apps installed and running in the background. These apps consume the device’s memory (RAM) and CPU resources, which can affect the speed and responsiveness of the phone. Rebooting the phone can temporarily clear the RAM and stop some background processes, but they may resume after a while. Connecting to a different network does not affect the performance of the phone, unless the network is congested or has a poor signal. The user can improve the phone’s performance by uninstalling unused apps, clearing app caches, and restricting background activities12. Malware can also slow down a phone, but it is not the most likely cause in this scenario, as the user does not report any other symptoms of infection, such as pop-ups, battery drain, or data usage spikes3. Jailbreaking a phone can also affect its performance, but it is not a cause, rather a consequence, of the user’s actions. Jailbreaking is the process of removing the manufacturer’s restrictions on a phone, which allows the user to install unauthorized apps, customize the system, and access root privileges4. However, jailbreaking also exposes the phone to security risks, voids the warranty, and may cause instability or compatibility issues5.

References1: Speed up a slow Android device - Android Help - Google Help2: Why your phone slows down over time and what you can do to stop it | TechRadar3: How to tell if your phone has a virus | Norton4: What is Jailbreaking? - Definition from Techopedia5: What is Jailbreaking an iPhone? – Lifewire

Event Viewer is a Microsoft tool that records and displays system events, errors, warnings, and information. Event Viewer can help troubleshoot and diagnose problems, such as unexpected shutdowns, by showing the details of what happened before, during, and after the incident. Event Viewer can also show the source of the event, such as an application, a service, a driver, or a hardware device. By using Event Viewer, a technician can identify the root cause of the unexpected shutdown, such as a power failure, a thermal event, a driver conflict, or a malware infection. 

WPA3 (Wi-Fi Protected Access version 3) is the latest version of Wi-Fi security and offers the highest level of protection available. It is designed to protect against brute force password attempts and protect against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks. WPA3 also supports the use of stronger encryption algorithms, such as the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), which provides additional protection for wireless networks. WPA3 should be implemented in order to ensure the best possible security for the new wireless router.

PowerShell is a scripting language that can interact with Active Directory and other Windows components. It has a built-in cmdlet called New-ADUser that can create user accounts in Active Directory. PowerShell can also use the Active Directory module to access other AD-related functions and attributes. Other languages, such as Bash, SQL, and PHP, are not designed for creating Active Directory accounts and would require additional tools or libraries to do so.

Installing new software on an organization’s system or device can have various implications, such as compatibility, security, performance, licensing, and compliance issues. Therefore, it is important to follow the best practices for software installation, such as doing research on the software, checking the system requirements, scanning the installation file for malware, and obtaining the proper license345. The technician should not install the software without formal approval from the management team, as this could violate the organization’s policies or regulations. The technician should also not install the software without investigating the software and its impact on the organization, as this could introduce potential risks or problems to the system or device. The technician should indicate to the developer that formal approval is needed, and then work with the IT team to evaluate the software and its suitability for the organization before installing it

Apple Remote Desktop is a remote access solution that allows a user to access and control another macOS computer from their Windows workstation. It provides a graphical user interface so that the analyst can easily access the server software running on the macOS server. Apple Remote Desktop also supports file transfers, so the analyst can easily transfer files between the two computers. Additionally, Apple Remote Desktop supports encryption, so data is secure during transmission.

 If a technician suspects high disk I/O, the technician should use the Resource Monitor (resmon.exe) to identify the process that is causing the high disk I/O1. Resource Monitor provides detailed information about the system’s resource usage, including disk I/O1. The technician can use this information to identify the process that is causing the high disk I/O and take appropriate action1.

Use the application at home and contact the vendor regarding a corporate license. The user should use the application only on the home laptop because it contains the initial license. The user should contact the vendor regarding a corporate license if they want to use the application on multiple computers on the corporate network1

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.

The CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1002 exam covers this topic in the following domains: 1.2 Given a scenario, use appropriate resources to support users and 1.3 Explain the importance of security awareness.

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.

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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.

Explanation:

Reinstalling the browser would most likely solve the issue. This would remove any malicious software or add-ons that may be causing the issue and restore the browser to its default settings.

EAP-TLS is a method of authentication that uses certificates to establish a secure tunnel between the client and the server3. The certificates have a validity period and must be renewed before they expire1. If the user has been on an extended leave and has not logged in to the computer in several months, it is possible that the certificate on the client or the server has expired and needs to be renewed2. The other options are not directly related to EAP-TLS authentication or 802.1X network access.

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.

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.

Encrypting the laptop's hard drive will ensure that any sensitive data stored on the laptop is secure, even if the laptop is lost or stolen. Encryption ensures that the data cannot be accessed by anyone without the correct encryption key. This is an important security measure for any laptop used by an employee who travels, as it helps to protect the data stored on the laptop from unauthorized access.

MDM stands for Mobile Device Management, and it is a way of remotely managing and securing mobile devices that are used for work purposes1. MDM can enforce policies and restrictions on the devices, such as preventing users from installing unauthorized apps, modifying system settings, or accessing root privileges2. MDM can also monitor device status, wipe data, lock devices, or locate lost or stolen devices1.

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

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the files on a system and demands a ransom for their decryption1. Ransomware can also spread to other systems on the network or exfiltrate sensitive data to the attackers2. Therefore, it is important to isolate the infected machine as soon as possible to contain the infection and prevent further damage3. Powering off the machine is a quick and effective way of disconnecting it from the network and stopping any malicious processes running on it12. The other options are not directly related to preventing ransomware damage or may not be effective. Running a full antivirus scan may not be able to detect or remove the ransomware, especially if it is a new or unknown variant1. Removing the LAN card may disconnect the machine from the network, but it may not stop any malicious processes running on it or any data encryption or exfiltration that has already occurred2. Installing a different endpoint solution may not be possible or helpful if the system is already infected and locked by ransomware1.

Multifactor authentication (MFA) is a security measure that requires users to provide multiple pieces of evidence when logging in to an account or system. This can include a combination of something the user knows (e.g. a password or PIN), something the user has (e.g. a security token or smartphone) and something the user is (e.g. biometrics such as a fingerprint or face scan). By enabling MFA, the systems administrator can ensure that users are required to provide multiple pieces of evidence when logging in, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access to the system. This can help reduce the number of help desk tickets submitted due to forgotten passwords.

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.

Smart card and password is an example of two-factor authentication (2FA), not multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires two or more authentication factors. Smart card and password is an example of two-factor authentication (2FA)2

Encryption is a way of protecting cardholder data by transforming it into an unreadable format that can only be decrypted with a secret key1. Backups are a way of ensuring that cardholder data is not lost or corrupted in case of a disaster or system failure2. Both encryption and backups are part of the PCI DSS requirements that apply to any entity that stores, processes, or transmits cardholder data1. The other options are not directly related to credit card data security or compliance.

The correct answers are E. Windows Defender and A. File Explorer. Windows Defender is a built-in antivirus program that can detect and remove malicious software from a workstation. File Explorer can be used to locate and delete files associated with the malicious software1

NFC stands for Near Field Communication, and it is a wireless technology that allows your phone to act as a contactless payment device, among other things2. Payment applications that allow payments to be made with a mobile device usually rely on NFC to communicate with the payment terminal1. Therefore, if NFC is disabled on the phone, the payment will not work. To enable NFC on an Android phone, you need to follow these steps3:

On your Android device, open the Settings app.

Select Connected devices.

Tap on Connection preferences.

You should see the NFC option. Toggle it on.

The other options are not directly related to using a payment application with a mobile device. Airplane mode is a setting that disables all wireless communication on the phone, including NFC4, but it also affects calls, texts, and internet access. Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to connect your phone with other devices such as headphones or speakers, but it is not used for contactless payments. Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that allows you to access the internet or a local network, but it is also not used for contactless payments. Location services are a feature that allows your phone to determine your geographic location using GPS or other methods, but they are not required for contactless payments.

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 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

Rebooting the system in safe mode will limit the number of programs and processes running, allowing the antivirus system to more effectively identify and remove the malware. Rescanning the system will allow the antivirus system to identify and remove the malware while preserving the user's files.

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

BitLocker is a disk encryption tool that can be used to encrypt the hard drive of a Windows laptop. This will protect the data stored on the drive in the event that the laptop is lost or stolen, and will help to reduce the risk of data loss. Additionally, BitLocker can be configured to require a PIN or other authentication in order to unlock the drive, providing an additional layer of security.

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

A name on a medical diagnosis (B) is most likely to be regulated. This is because it falls under the category of protected health information (PHI), which is subject to regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. These regulations aim to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information.

The user can use the Task Scheduler (taskschd.msc) to schedule the browser to automatically launch a traffic website at 4:45 p.m. The Task Scheduler is a tool in Windows that allows users to schedule tasks to run automatically at specified times or in response to certain events.

Bollards are the best solution to enhance building security in order to prevent vehicles from driving into the building while also maintaining easy access for customers4

The most basic version of Windows that includes BitLocker is Windows Pro. BitLocker is a feature of Windows Pro that provides full disk encryption for all data on a storage drive [1]. It helps protect data from unauthorized access or theft and can help secure data from malicious attacks. Pro for Workstations includes this feature, as well as other features such as support for up to 6 TB of RAM and ReFS.

The newly installed OS is x86. The x86 version of Windows 10 can only use up to 4GB of RAM. The x64 version of Windows 10 can use up to 2TB of RAM1.

To create a secondary login with different permissions in Windows 10, the user should utilize the Accounts setting. Here are the steps to create a new user account with different permissions:

Right-click the Windows Start menu button.

Select Control Panel.

Select User Accounts.

Select Manage another account.

Select Add a new user in PC settings.

Use the Accounts dialog box to configure a new account.1

The most likely cause of this issue is that a router was misconfigured and was blocking traffic. This would explain why remote users who were not connected to corporate resources did not have any issues.

The correct answer is B. Swapping the cables for the monitors. When the second monitor is connected with the HDMI port, it is necessary to swap the cables for the monitors so that the mouse can move from the original monitor to the new monitor. This is because the HDMI port is designed to only support one monitor, and the mouse will not be able to move from one to the other without the cables being swapped.

According to CompTIA A+ Core 2 documents, "When connecting multiple displays to a system, the cables used to connect the displays must be swapped between the displays. For example, if a monitor is connected to a system using a VGA cable, the VGA cable must be moved to the next display to allow the mouse to move between the two displays."

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

The best explanation for why the system still has malware after performing a System Restore is that the malware was installed before the system restore point was created. A system restore point is a snapshot of the system settings and configuration at a certain point in time. A System Restore is a feature that allows users to restore their system to a previous state in case of problems or errors. However, a System Restore does not affect personal files or folders, and it may not remove malware that was already present on the system before the restore point was created. A system patch disabling the antivirus protection and host firewall may increase the risk of malware infection, but it does not explain why the malware persists after a System Restore. The system updates not including the latest anti-malware definitions may reduce the effectiveness of malware detection and removal, but it does not explain why the malware persists after a System Restore. The system restore process being compromised by the malware may prevent a successful System Restore, but it does not explain why the malware persists after a System Restore. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.3

 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

The software is most likely to install by default in the /Applications directory, which is the standard location for macOS applications. This directory can be accessed from the Finder sidebar or by choosing Go > Applications from the menu bar. The /Applications directory contains all the applications that are available to all users on the system1. Some applications might also offer the option to install in the ~/Applications directory, which is a personal applications folder for a single user2. The /etc/services directory is a system configuration file that maps service names to port numbers and protocols3. The /usr/bin directory is a system directory that contains executable binaries for various commands and utilities4. The C:\Program Files directory is a Windows directory that does not exist on macOS.

The most likely reason that the system is not utilizing all the available RAM is that it is running a 32-bit OS. A 32-bit OS can only address up to 4GB of RAM, and some of that is reserved for hardware and system use1. Therefore, even if the technician installed 8GB of RAM, the system can only use around 3.5GB of usable RAM. To use the full 8GB of RAM, the technician would need to install a 64-bit OS, which can address much more memory2. The system missing updates, the system’s memory failing, or the system requiring BIOS updates are not likely to cause this issue.

 Before removing a Trojan virus from a workstation, a technician should disable System Restore. System Restore is a feature that allows users to restore their system to a previous state in case of problems or errors. However, System Restore can also restore infected files or registry entries that were removed by antivirus software or manual actions. By disabling System Restore, a technician can ensure that the Trojan virus is completely removed and does not reappear after a system restore operation. Scheduling a malware scan may help detect and remove some malware but may not be effective against all types of Trojan viruses. Educating the end user may help prevent future infections but does not address the current issue of removing the Trojan virus. Running Windows Update may help patch some security vulnerabilities but does not guarantee that the Trojan virus will be removed. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.3

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.

Open-ended questions are questions that require more than a yes or no answer and encourage the customer to provide more details and information. Using open-ended questions can help the support technician to understand the problem better, identify the root cause, and find a suitable solution. Some examples of open-ended questions are:

What exactly is not working on your machine?

When did you notice the problem?

How often does the problem occur?

What were you doing when the problem happened?

What have you tried to fix the problem?

Offering to wipe and reset the device for the customer is not a good option, as it may result in data loss and inconvenience for the customer. It should be used as a last resort only if other troubleshooting steps fail. Advising that the help desk will investigate and follow up at a later date is not a good option, as it may leave the customer unsatisfied and frustrated. It should be used only if the problem requires further research or escalation and cannot be resolved on the first call. Putting the customer on hold and escalating the call to a manager is not a good option, as it may waste time and resources. It should be used only if the problem is beyond the support technician’s scope or authority and requires managerial intervention.

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

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 script type that is used with the Python language by default is .py. .py is a file extension that indicates a Python script file that contains Python code that can be executed by a Python interpreter or compiler. Python is a high-level, general-purpose and interpreted programming language that can be used for various applications, such as web development, data analysis, machine learning and automation. .ps1 is a file extension that indicates a PowerShell script file that contains PowerShell code that can be executed by a PowerShell interpreter or compiler. PowerShell is a task-based, command-line and scripting language that can be used for system administration and automation on Windows systems. .vbs is a file extension that indicates a VBScript file that contains VBScript code that can be executed by a VBScript interpreter or compiler. VBScript is an Active Scripting language that can be used for web development and automation on Windows systems. .bat is a file extension that indicates a batch file that contains a series of commands that can be executed by a command-line interpreter or shell on Windows systems. Batch files can be used for system administration and automation on Windows systems. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 4.3

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.

The next troubleshooting step that the technician should perform to resolve the issue of pages flashing on the screen before staying open when accessing banking web pages is to verify the address bar URL. The address bar URL is the web address that appears in the browser’s address bar and indicates the location of the web page being accessed. Verifying the address bar URL can help determine if the user is accessing a legitimate or malicious website, as some phishing websites may try to impersonate banking websites by using similar-looking URLs or domains.

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.

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.

The error “BOOTMGR is missing” indicates that the boot sector is damaged or missing1. The boot sector is a part of the hard disk that contains the code and information needed to start Windows1. To fix this error, one of the possible methods is to run Startup Repair from Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)1. Startup Repair is a tool that can automatically diagnose and repair problems with the boot process2.

B. Startup Folder1: The Startup folder is a special folder that contains shortcuts to programs or scripts that will run automatically when a user logs on. The technician can create a shortcut to the script and place it in the Startup folder for the conference room computer or for all users.

E. Task Scheduler23: The Task Scheduler is a tool that allows you to create tasks that run at specified times or events. The technician can create a task that runs the script at logon for the conference room computer or for all users.

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

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

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.

FileVault is a macOS utility that uses AES-128 (Advanced Encryption Standard) to encrypt the startup disk of a Mac computer. It protects the data from unauthorized access if the computer is lost or stolen. fdisk and Diskpart are disk partitioning utilities for Linux and Windows, respectively. Disk Utility is another macOS utility that can perform disk management tasks, such as formatting, resizing, repairing, etc. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-filevault https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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.

Verifying warranty status with the vendor is the most logical next step in the remediation process after determining that a motherboard has failed. A warranty is a guarantee from the vendor that covers the repair or replacement of defective or faulty products within a specified period of time. Verifying warranty status with the vendor can help the technician determine if the motherboard is eligible for warranty service and what steps to take to obtain it. Escalating the issue to Tier 2, replacing the motherboard, and purchasing another PC are not the most logical next steps in the remediation process.

For a SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) router setup where the goal is to only allow specific computers on the network, MAC filtering is the appropriate solution:

Configure MAC filtering: This security measure involves creating a list of allowed device MAC (Media Access Control) addresses in the router's settings. Only devices with MAC addresses on this list will be able to connect to the network, effectively restricting access to authorized computers only.

The most likely cause of the user’s issue of applications opening without being launched and browser redirects when trying to go to certain websites is malware. Malware is a general term that refers to any software or code that is malicious or harmful to a computer or system. Malware can perform various unwanted or unauthorized actions on a computer or system, such as opening applications, redirecting browsers, displaying ads, stealing data, encrypting files or damaging hardware. Malware can infect a computer or system through various means, such as email attachments, web downloads, removable media or network connections. Keylogger is a type of malware that records and transmits the keystrokes made by a user on a keyboard. Keylogger can be used to steal personal or sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers or chat messages. Keylogger does not typically open applications or redirect browsers but only captures user inputs. Cryptominers are a type of malware that use the computing resources of a computer or system to mine cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. Cryptominers can degrade the performance and increase the power consumption of a computer or system. Cryptominers do not typically open applications or redirect browsers but only consume CPU or GPU cycles. Virus is a type of malware that infects and replicates itself on other files or programs on a computer or system.

Scripting languages are designed for automating tasks by writing scripts that can execute a series of commands. They are typically easier to write and understand compared to compiled languages and are widely used for automating repetitive tasks, making them the best option for task automation.

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.

Shredding is the best method to use for the physical destruction of SSDs because it reduces them to small pieces that cannot be recovered or accessed. Wiping, low-level formatting, and erasing are not effective methods for destroying SSDs because they do not physically damage the flash memory chips that store data1.

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

Screen timeout is the setting that determines how long the screen stays on after the user stops interacting with the phone. Screen brightness is the setting that determines how much light the screen emits. Both of these settings affect the battery life of the phone, as keeping the screen on longer and brighter consumes more power than turning it off sooner and dimmer. A technician should check these settings first to troubleshoot the issue of low battery life and adjust them accordingly. Screen resolution, screen zoom, screen damage, and screen motion smoothness are not settings that directly affect the battery life or the screen staying on for a long time.

 Mission Control is the macOS feature that provides the user with a high-level view of all open windows. Mission Control allows the user to see and switch between multiple desktops, full-screen apps, and windows in a single screen. Mission Control can be accessed by swiping up with three or four fingers on the trackpad, pressing F3 on the keyboard, or moving the cursor to a hot corner

Slow loading of web pages on a mobile device while in an office environment is often related to network issues rather than device storage or data limits. The most accurate explanation is degraded network service, which means the quality or bandwidth of the network connection is poor, resulting in slow or unreliable internet access. This can be caused by network congestion, poor Wi-Fi signal strength, interference, or configuration issues with network infrastructure. Unlike exceeding data limits which typically results in throttling or no service, degraded service implies the network is active but performing poorly. Low storage space generally impacts device performance and app functionality but does not directly cause slow page loads. Sluggish response time is a vague term but could be related to degraded network service. Therefore, degraded network service is the best choice. This aligns with Core 2 objectives focusing on troubleshooting connectivity issues and network performance degradation.

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.

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.

services.msc is a tool that can be used to resolve the issue of “The Audio Driver is not running” on a Windows machine. It allows a technician to view, start, stop and configure the services that run on the system, such as the Windows Audio service. compmgmt.msc, regedit.exe, explorer.exe, taskmgt.exe and gpmc.msc are other tools that can be used for different purposes on a Windows machine, but they are not related to audio drivers or services. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-services-msc https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

Calibrating the phone sensors is a step that can troubleshoot the issue of screen not autorotating on a mobile device. Screen autorotation is a feature that automatically adjusts the screen orientation based on the device’s position and movement. Screen autorotation relies on sensors such as accelerometer and gyroscope to detect the device’s tilt and rotation. Calibrating the phone sensors can help fix any errors or inaccuracies in the sensor readings that may prevent screen autorotation from working properly. Enabling the touch screen, reinstalling the operating system, and replacing the screen are not steps that should be done next to troubleshoot this issue.

 The best way to address the security and privacy concerns caused by a malware infection on a smartphone is to uninstall all recently installed applications and schedule an antivirus scan. Uninstalling the applications that may have introduced the malware can help remove the source of infection and prevent further damage. Scheduling an antivirus scan can help detect and remove any remaining traces of malware and restore the device’s functionality.

Terminal is an application that allows access to the command line in macOS. The command line is an interface that allows users to interact with the operating system and perform various tasks by typing commands and arguments. Terminal can be used to launch programs, manage files and folders, configure settings, troubleshoot issues, and run scripts in macOS. PsExec, command.com, and CMD are not applications that allow access to the command line in macOS.

RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol and it is a protocol that allows a user to remotely access and control another computer over a network. A technician can use RDP to assist a user who is in a different building but on the same network by connecting to the user’s computer and viewing their screen, keyboard, and mouse. AAA, SSH, and VPN are not protocols that can be used to assist a user with a program feature.

netstat is a tool that can be used to investigate connections on a Windows machine. It displays information about the active TCP connections, listening ports, routing tables, network statistics, etc. nslookup is a tool that can be used to query DNS servers and resolve domain names to IP addresses. net use is a tool that can be used to connect or disconnect network drives or printers. net user is a tool that can be used to create or modify user accounts on a Windows machine. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-netstat https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

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The correct answer is D. Internet Options. The Internet Options utility in Windows allows you to configure various settings related to your internet connection, including the proxy server settings. To access the Internet Options utility, you can either open the Control Panel and click on Internet Options, or open any web browser and click on the Tools menu and then on Internet Options. In the Internet Options window, go to the Connections tab and click on the LAN settings button. Here, you can enable or disable the use of a proxy server, as well as enter the address and port number of the proxy server you want to use12.

Security and Maintenance is a utility in Windows that allows you to view and manage the security and maintenance status of your computer, such as firewall, antivirus, backup, troubleshooting, and recovery settings. It does not have any option to configure proxy server settings.

Network and Sharing Center is a utility in Windows that allows you to view and manage your network connections, such as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, VPN, or dial-up. It also allows you to change network settings, such as network discovery, file and printer sharing, homegroup, and adapter settings. It does not have any option to configure proxy server settings.

Windows Defender Firewall is a utility in Windows that allows you to enable or disable the firewall protection for your computer, as well as configure firewall rules for inbound and outbound traffic. It does not have any option to configure proxy server settings.

Cross-site scripting (XSS) and SQL injection are common security vulnerabilities that can be mitigated by using input validation. Input validation is a technique that checks the user input for any malicious or unexpected characters or commands before processing it. XSS is an attack that injects malicious scripts into web pages to steal cookies, session tokens or other sensitive information from users or web servers. SQL injection is an attack that injects malicious SQL statements into web applications to manipulate databases, execute commands or access unauthorized data. Verified References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-input-validation https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a

In change management, the scope of a project lists all the changes that are taking place. The scope ensures that all team members understand the boundaries and extent of the project, helping to prevent unexpected changes. Here’s a

Scope: Defines the project's boundaries and deliverables, including all the planned changes. It ensures that everyone involved understands what is included and excluded in the project, minimizing unexpected changes.

Risk analysis: Identifies potential risks and their impact but does not list the changes.

Rollback plan: Provides a strategy for reverting changes if something goes wrong but does not list changes.

Review: Involves evaluating changes but does not compile the list of changes.

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

The most likely reason for the installation failure of a 64-bit software is that the operating system is incompatible, specifically if the system is running a 32-bit version of the OS. A 64-bit program requires a 64-bit operating system to run, and if the user’s OS is a 32-bit version, the software will fail to install. Other reasons, like needing administrator privileges or updating .NET, are valid but less likely since the error message would be different.

A full backup does not depend on any previous backups, unlike differential or incremental backups, which only save the changes made since the last backup. A synthetic backup is a type of full backup that combines an existing full backup with incremental backups to create a new full backup, but it still requires multiple backup sets to recover data. Therefore, a full backup is the most suitable for the payroll workstation that needs to have its data readily available and recoverable. You can learn more about the differences between full, differential, incremental, and synthetic backups from this article.

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.

 Samba is a software suite that allows Linux servers and desktops to integrate with Windows Active Directory environments. Samba can act as a domain controller, a file server, a print server, or a client for Windows networks. Samba can also provide authentication and authorization services for Linux users and devices using Active Directory.

 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.

 Badge reader and motion sensor are devices that can be deployed to enhance physical security for a building. A badge reader is a device that scans and verifies an identification card or tag that grants access to authorized personnel only. A badge reader can help prevent unauthorized entry or intrusion into a building or a restricted area. A motion sensor is a device that detects movement and triggers an alarm or an action when motion is detected. A motion sensor can help deter or alert potential intruders or trespassers in a building or an area. Multifactor authentication is a method of verifying identity using two or more factors, such as something you know, something you have or something you are. Multifactor authentication is not a device that can be deployed to enhance physical security for a building but a technique that can be used to enhance logical security for systems or services. Personal identification number is a numeric code that can be used as part of authentication or access control. Personal identification number is not a device that can be deployed to enhance physical security for a building but an example of something you know factor in multifactor authentication. Firewall is a device or software that filters network traffic based on rules and policies. Firewall is not a device that can be deployed to enhance physical security for a building but a device that can be used to enhance network security for systems or services. Soft token is an application or software that generates one-time passwords or codes for authentication purposes. Soft token is not a device that can be deployed to enhance physical security for a building but an example of something you have factor in multifactor authentication. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 3.3

 The most likely reason that the system is not utilizing all the available RAM is that the system is utilizing a 32-bit OS. A 32-bit OS is an operating system that uses 32 bits to address memory locations and perform calculations. A 32-bit OS can only support up to 4GB of RAM, and some of that RAM may be reserved for hardware devices or system functions, leaving less than 4GB of usable RAM for applications and processes. A 32-bit OS cannot recognize or utilize more than 4GB of RAM, even if more RAM is installed on the system. To utilize all the available RAM, the system needs to use a 64-bit OS, which can support much more RAM than a 32-bit OS. The system missing updates may cause some performance or compatibility issues, but it does not affect the amount of usable RAM on the system. The system’s memory failing may cause some errors or crashes, but it does not affect the amount of usable RAM on the system. The system requiring BIOS updates may cause some configuration or compatibility issues, but it does not affect the amount of usable RAM on the system. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.1

 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

Group Policy is the most likely tool to be used to change the security settings on a user’s device in a domain environment. Group Policy is a feature of Windows that allows administrators to manage and configure settings for multiple devices and users in a centralized way. Group Policy can be used to enforce security policies such as password complexity, account lockout, firewall rules, encryption settings, etc.

DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol and it is used to assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to devices on a network automatically. This is useful for devices that do not require the same private address each time they connect to the internet. 

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

Restricting user permissions is a method of creating a more secure environment for the finance department in a non-domain environment. This means that users will only have access to the files and resources that they need to perform their tasks and will not be able to modify or delete other files or settings that could compromise security or functionality. 

The next step that the technician should do before taking the computer off site for repair is to get authorization from the manager. Getting authorization from the manager is important because it ensures that the technician has permission and approval to remove the computer from the premises and perform the repair work off site. Getting authorization from the manager can also help document and communicate the reason and duration of the repair and avoid any misunderstanding or conflict with the user or the organization. Removing the HDD and then sending the computer for repair may not be feasible or necessary if the issue is not related to the HDD or if the HDD contains essential data or software for the repair. Checking corporate policies for guidance may be a good step but it does not replace getting authorization from the manager who is responsible for the computer and its data. Deleting the sensitive information before the computer leaves the building may not be possible or advisable if the issue prevents access to the data or if the data is needed for troubleshooting or recovery purposes. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 5.1

The technician should adjust the firewall settings to resolve the issue of not being able to access an internal site at https://companyintranet.com:8888. The firewall settings control how the firewall filters and allows network traffic based on rules and policies. The firewall settings may be blocking or preventing the access to the internal site by mistake or by default, especially if the site uses a non-standard port number such as 8888. The technician should check and modify the firewall settings to allow the access to the internal site or its port number. Default gateway settings determine how a computer connects to other networks or the internet. Default gateway settings are not likely to cause the issue of not being able to access an internal site if the user can access the public internet. DHCP settings determine how a computer obtains its IP address and other network configuration parameters automatically from a DHCP server. DHCP settings are not likely to cause the issue of not being able to access an internal site if the user can access other network resources. IP address settings determine how a computer identifies itself and communicates with other devices on a network. IP address settings are not likely to cause the issue of not being able to access an internal site if the user can access other network resources. Antivirus settings control how the antivirus software scans and protects the computer from malware and threats. Antivirus settings are less likely to cause the issue of not being able to access an internal site than firewall settings, unless the antivirus software has its own firewall feature that may interfere with the network traffic. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.6

A. Disable the SSID broadcast1: The SSID broadcast is a feature that allows a Wi-Fi network to be visible to nearby devices. Disabling the SSID broadcast can make the network harder to find by unauthorized users, but it does not prevent them from accessing it if they know the network name and password.

The piece of hardware that the technician should replace to resolve the issue of the screen failing to rotate on a mobile device that was dropped is the accelerometer. The accelerometer is a sensor that detects the orientation and movement of the mobile device by measuring the acceleration forces acting on it. The accelerometer allows the screen to rotate automatically according to the position and angle of the device. If the accelerometer is damaged or malfunctioning, the screen may not rotate properly or at all, even if the settings are correctly applied. LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display and is a type of display that uses liquid crystals and backlight to produce images on the screen. LCD is not related to the screen rotation feature but to the quality and brightness of the display. Battery is a component that provides power to the mobile device by storing and releasing electrical energy. Battery is not related to the screen rotation feature but to the battery life and performance of the device. Digitizer is a component that converts touch inputs into digital signals that can be processed by the mobile device. Digitizer is not related to the screen rotation feature but to the touch sensitivity and accuracy of the display. References: CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1002) Certification Exam Objectives Version 4.0, Domain 1.5

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

Configuring the Account Lockout Policy in Windows 10 is the appropriate action to limit password attempts. This security setting determines the number of failed login attempts that will trigger a lockout, preventing unauthorized access due to repeated password guessing. It is an effective measure to enhance security by deterring brute-force attacks.

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.

Anti-phishing training is a method of educating users on how to identify and avoid phishing attacks, which are attempts to trick users into revealing sensitive information or performing malicious actions by impersonating legitimate entities or persons. Whaling attacks are a specific type of phishing attack that target high-level executives or influential individuals within an organization. Anti-phishing training can help users recognize the signs of whaling attacks and prevent them from falling victim to them. Screened subnet, firewall, and antivirus are not items that can directly address the issue of whaling attacks.

Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:

The best method is to create an ISO file from the DVD and store it on a file server, allowing remote installations across multiple devices.

B. Use an external USB DVD-ROM – Not practical for remote installations.

C. Copy ISO to a USB flash drive – Requires physically transferring the USB to each laptop.

D. Download an ISO from an unrelated website – Unsafe and violates security best practices.

Changing the text size efficiently for different scenarios, such as meetings and regular work tasks, can be managed directly through the Windows display settings. This method is both quick and easily reversible, making it the most efficient solution compared to the other options provided.

Option A: Issuing a laptop to the user with increased font size to be used only for meetingsThis option is not efficient as it requires additional hardware and setup time, which is impractical for simply adjusting text size.

Option B: Using display settings to adjust the text size during meetingsCorrect Answer. Windows provides built-in functionality to adjust the text size on the display. This can be accessed via:

Windows Settings > System > Display.

Under "Scale and layout," you can change the size of text, apps, and other items. This method allows for quick changes and can be reverted just as quickly after meetings.