Pass the CompTIA A+ 220-1201 Questions and answers with CertsForce

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates an encrypted, secure tunnel across a public or untrusted network. It uses authentication credentials to ensure that only authorized users can connect, keeping data safe from interception.

The key detail in the ipconfig output is that the system is receiving an IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DHCP server information via DHCP, but the DNS servers shown are 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4, which are Google’s public DNS servers. In most corporate networks, DNS is provided internally by the DHCP server—usually the same device assigning the IP address. When DNS values are different from DHCP-provided defaults, it indicates manual DNS configuration.

CompTIA A+ emphasizes that mismatched DNS settings can cause browsing issues, name-resolution delays, or an inability to access internal resources. DNS is critical because it translates domain names into IP addresses; if manually configured, the device bypasses the organization’s DNS server and may not resolve internal hostnames.

The subnet mask is correct for a Class B private network subdivided using /24 (255.255.255.0). NetBIOS being enabled is common and not a cause of connectivity issues here. DHCP being enabled is normal and functioning correctly, as shown by the proper IP lease obtained.

Thus, the anomalous and most likely problematic configuration is manually configured DNS, making Option D correct.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract (Aligned With CompTIA A+ 220-1201 Study Guide)

When assigning a static IP address to a network device such as a printer, the administrator must manually enter all information that a DHCP server would normally provide automatically.

CompTIA A+ networking fundamentals explain that a statically assigned host requires:

IP address (set manually)

Subnet mask (must be manually configured to define the network boundary)

Default gateway (must be manually assigned so the device can communicate outside its subnet)

DNS (also typically required, but in SOHO printer configs, it is not always mandatory unless name resolution is needed)

The question asks specifically: Which must be set manually?

The two required components for every static IP assignment in a CompTIA-compliant small office network are:

✔ B. Subnet mask

Defines the network and host portions of the IP address. Must be manually entered for static IPs.

✔ C. Default gateway

Allows communication outside the local network. Must also be manually set for static IP devices.

Why the other options are incorrect

A. DHCP

Not used in static addressing. DHCP is automatic; static addressing bypasses it.

D. DNS

Not always required for printers unless hostname resolution is needed. The question asks for what must be set manually.

E. Reservations

DHCP reservations create “static-like” addresses via DHCP, not manual configuration.

F. Exclusions

Used to prevent DHCP from assigning certain IPs; not part of configuring a static IP on a device.

A Hardware Security Module (HSM) securely manages cryptographic keys, including those used to protect credit card chips.

Why Not A (TLS): TLS secures data in transit, not encryption key storage.

Why Not B (AMD): AMD refers to processors, not security modules.

Why Not D (ARM): ARM is a processor architecture, not a cryptographic security solution.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 2 (220-1102), Section 2.5, cryptographic hardware​.

Reasoning: Projectors have air filters that prevent dust from entering the internal components. A clogged filter can cause the projector to overheat, resulting in shutdowns and even strange smells due to overheating components. Cleaning the filter is a standard troubleshooting step when projectors exhibit overheating symptoms.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Replace the bulb:

While a failing bulb may eventually cause issues, it would not typically result in a strange smell or repeated shutdowns after a fixed period. Bulb issues usually manifest as dim or flickering images.

B. Check the projector configuration:

Configuration settings, such as resolution or input options, would not cause overheating or shutdowns. This option does not address the described symptoms.

D. Adjust the gamma settings:

Gamma settings affect display brightness and contrast but have no impact on overheating or strange smells.

Practical Example:

Dust accumulation in projectors is a common issue, especially in environments with poor air circulation. A clogged filter causes restricted airflow, leading to overheating and automatic shutdowns to protect internal components. Cleaning the filter typically resolves this issue.

CompTIA A+ Exam Objective Alignment:

Objective 5.5: Troubleshoot common video, projector, and display issues.

Choppy or unintelligible audio is typically caused by issues with the microphone, such as poor quality, hardware defects, or misconfiguration.

Why Not A (Webcam): The webcam handles video, not audio.

Why Not B (Digitizer): A digitizer relates to touchscreens, not audio.

Why Not C (Inverter): Inverters manage power for displays, not audio.

CompTIA A+ Exam Reference: Core 1 (220-1201), Section 3.6, audio troubleshooting​.

When a technician encounters a burning smell, it is a critical safety issue. The first response must be to immediately power down and disconnect the device from all power sources to prevent electric shock, fire, or further hardware damage.

From the CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Official Study Guide, Objective 4.1 – Troubleshoot common hardware problems:

"Signs of electrical issues such as burning smells, smoke, or sparks require an immediate shutdown of the system and disconnection from any power source."

After ensuring safety, the technician should inspect the hardware for visible signs of damage:

From the same Objective (4.1):

"Inspect for foreign objects, liquid damage, or burnt components. These can cause short circuits or thermal events that may damage the motherboard or other internal components."

These steps are standard practice in the industry to ensure safe and accurate diagnosis of faulty devices. Trying a different adapter (Option F) may make the problem worse, and contacting vendors (Option D) comes after initial safety and inspection.

Verified Source:

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Official Study Guide, Chapter 4: Troubleshooting Hardware Problems

CompTIA Exam Objectives 220-1101, Domain 4.0 – Hardware and Network Troubleshooting

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:

PIN printing (also known as secure printing) ensures that documents are held in a queue until the authorized user enters a PIN directly at the printer. This prevents unauthorized viewing of confidential documents.

Mobile devices can share their LTE or cellular data connection using a feature called tethering, more commonly known as hotspot mode. According to CompTIA A+ objectives on mobile networking technologies, a hotspot allows a smartphone or tablet to become a mini wireless router, broadcasting a Wi-Fi signal that nearby devices can connect to. The LTE (or 5G) connection is then shared over Wi-Fi, enabling laptops, tablets, or other phones to access the internet through the mobile device.

Bluetooth is capable of tethering but provides much lower bandwidth and slower speeds—not ideal for sharing LTE widely. NFC is used for close-range data exchange or payment transactions and cannot share internet service. "Cellular" refers to the phone’s own mobile network connection, not the mechanism for sharing it with others.

Hotspot functionality is specifically built into modern mobile OSs and supports WPA2/3 encryption, password protection, and device whitelisting. This makes it the most common and efficient method to share LTE connectivity with multiple nearby devices.

Thus, Hotspot (D) is the correct answer.

Adocking stationconnects to a laptop’sproprietary port or USB-C/Thunderbolt, providing access tomultiple additional ports(USB, Ethernet, video, audio, etc.). It allows users to transform a laptop into a full desktop workstation.

Option A (NFC adapter):Used for short-range communication, not port expansion.

Option C (Port replicator):Similar to a dock but usually less powerful and often lacks charging or video output.

Option D (USB dongle):Adds a single function (like Wi-Fi or storage), not full port expansion.

CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam Objective Reference:

Objective 1.4: Given a scenario, configure settings and use cases for laptops and mobile devices.

===========