15+ practice questions focused on Software Troubleshooting — one of the most tested topics on the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation so you learn why the right answer is correct.
Start Software Troubleshooting PracticeA technician is troubleshooting a Windows 10 workstation that randomly displays a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) with the stop code 'DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL'. The crashes began after a new graphics card was installed. The technician has already updated the graphics driver to the latest version from the manufacturer. Which of the following should the technician do NEXT to resolve the issue?
Explanation: The DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL stop code often relates to driver memory access. When a new graphics card is installed and the latest driver does not resolve crashes, the card's firmware (VBIOS) may be outdated or incompatible. Checking for a firmware update from the manufacturer is the next logical step to ensure hardware compatibility.
A technician is removing malware from a Windows 10 workstation that redirects the browser homepage and displays pop-up ads. The system is currently running and the user is logged in. Which two actions should the technician take to safely remediate the infection? (Choose two.)
Explanation: Containment by disconnecting the network stops the malware from communicating or spreading, and booting from reputable rescue media enables an offline scan in a clean environment where the malware cannot hide or interfere. These two steps together provide the safest remediation path for an active infection before considering reimaging or other measures.
A user's Windows 10 computer displays a message that the Windows license is expired and the system is not activated. The user states the computer was working fine yesterday. A technician checks the system and finds that the date and time are set incorrectly to one year in the past. The technician corrects the date and time, but the activation error persists. Which of the following should the technician do NEXT?
Explanation: An incorrect system date can cause Windows activation to fail or expire. After correcting the date, the activation state may remain in an error condition. The slmgr /rearm command resets the activation timer and clears the current activation status, prompting Windows to reattempt activation, which is the appropriate next step.
A user reports that after installing a new third-party backup utility, their Windows 11 computer takes several minutes to reach the desktop and shows a black screen with a spinning circle. The user wants to keep the backup utility but needs faster boot times. A technician opens Task Manager and notices the backup utility has a 'High' startup impact. Which of the following should the technician do FIRST to resolve the slow boot?
Explanation: Task Manager's Startup tab shows the impact of each startup program. When a specific application is flagged as high impact and the timing correlates with its installation, disabling that startup entry is the most direct and least disruptive fix. It preserves the application for manual use and avoids unnecessary system-wide changes.
A user reports that their Windows 11 laptop occasionally shows a blue screen with the stop code CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED. The issue occurs randomly, about once every two days. The user has not installed any new hardware or software recently. Which of the following should a technician perform FIRST to troubleshoot this issue?
Explanation: CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED indicates that a critical system process has terminated unexpectedly, often due to corrupted system files. Running System File Checker (SFC) is a standard first step because it can repair those files without data loss. Other options are either too invasive or target the wrong subsystem, making SFC the most appropriate initial action.
+10 more Software Troubleshooting questions available
Practice all Software Troubleshooting questions1. Baseline your knowledge
Start with 10 questions to gauge your current understanding of Software Troubleshooting. This tells you whether you need a concept refresher or just practice.
2. Review every explanation
For each question — right or wrong — read the full explanation. Understanding why an answer is correct is more valuable than knowing the answer itself.
3. Focus on exam traps
Software Troubleshooting questions on the 220-1202 frequently use trap wording. Look for subtle differences in answers that test your precision, not just general knowledge.
4. Reach 80% consistently
Do repeated sessions until you score 80%+ three times in a row. Then move to mixed-mode practice to test cross-topic recall under realistic conditions.
The exact number varies per candidate. Software Troubleshooting is tested as part of the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 blueprint. Practicing with targeted Software Troubleshooting questions ensures you can handle any format or difficulty that appears.
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Difficulty is subjective, but Software Troubleshooting is a high-priority exam concept tested in multiple ways — direct recall, scenario analysis, and command-output interpretation. Consistent practice is the best way to build confidence.
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