easyMultiple Choice
220-1201 Practice Question: A user complains that their laptop's Wi-Fi…
A user complains that their laptop's Wi-Fi connection is extremely slow and keeps dropping, but other devices on the same network work fine. The laptop is an older model running Windows 10. Which of the following should the technician try first?
⚠ Common exam trap
220-1201 often tests the troubleshooting order, where candidates might jump to hardware replacement or router reset instead of starting with the least invasive software fix like driver updates.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Update the Wi-Fi driver
The first step in troubleshooting a slow Wi-Fi connection on an older laptop running Windows 10 is to update the Wi-Fi driver. Driver issues are a common cause of performance and connectivity problems, and updating is non-invasive and quick. Other devices work fine, so the router and network are likely not the issue.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Replace the laptop's Wi-Fi card
Why it's wrong here
Replacing the laptop's Wi-Fi card is a hardware-level solution that should only be considered after exhausting all software and driver-related troubleshooting steps. Hardware failures are less common than software glitches, and prematurely replacing components can be costly and time-consuming without proper diagnosis. It is crucial to rule out driver corruption, outdated software, or incorrect configuration before resorting to physical component replacement.
- ✓
Update the Wi-Fi driver
Why this is correct
Updating the Wi-Fi driver is a highly effective and often primary troubleshooting step for resolving various wireless connectivity issues, including slow speeds, intermittent disconnections, or complete inability to connect. Driver updates frequently include critical bug fixes, performance enhancements, and improved compatibility with operating system updates or new network standards. This ensures the Wi-Fi adapter communicates optimally with the operating system and the wireless network.
- ✗
Disable the firewall
Why it's wrong here
Disabling the firewall is an inappropriate and risky troubleshooting step for general Wi-Fi connectivity problems. A firewall primarily manages network traffic flow and security, not the fundamental operation of the Wi-Fi adapter or its driver. While a firewall might block specific application access, it is highly unlikely to be the cause of a laptop's overall Wi-Fi connection issues and disabling it exposes the system to significant security vulnerabilities.
- ✗
Reset the router
Why it's wrong here
Resetting the router is an unnecessary and disruptive action when only a single device is experiencing Wi-Fi issues while other devices on the same network function correctly. If other devices can connect and operate normally, the problem is localized to the specific laptop, not the router or the internet service provider's connection. Resetting the router would disrupt network access for all connected devices without addressing the root cause on the problematic laptop.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
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