- A
The new RAM module is defective.
Why wrong: While a defective module is possible, the more common issue with mixed RAM is incompatibility due to differing timings, not necessarily a hardware defect.
- B
The RAM is not seated properly in the slot.
Why wrong: Improper seating typically causes a no-boot or beep code, not random blue screens after the system has been running, though it should still be checked.
- C
The RAM modules have mismatched CAS latencies, causing timing conflicts.
Different CAS latencies force the memory controller to use the slower timing for both sticks, which can lead to instability if the modules are not designed to work together.
- D
The motherboard does not support 16 GB of RAM.
Why wrong: Most modern motherboards support 16 GB easily; the issue is specifically related to mixing modules with different specifications, not total capacity.
Quick Answer
The answer is mismatched RAM CAS latencies causing timing conflicts. When you install two DDR4 modules with different CAS latencies—like one at CL16 and another at CL18—the system attempts to run both sticks at the same timing settings, typically defaulting to the slower latency or failing to synchronize. This timing mismatch leads to memory management errors, manifesting as the BSOD MEMORY_MANAGEMENT error during random freezes. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of RAM compatibility and the importance of matching specifications like CAS latency, speed, and voltage; a common trap is assuming any two DDR4 sticks will work together regardless of timings. Remember the memory tip: “CAS must match to avoid a crash”—always pair modules from the same kit or with identical latency ratings to ensure stable operation.
220-1201 RAM Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of ram. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A user reports that their computer randomly freezes and displays a blue screen error with the message 'MEMORY_MANAGEMENT'. They recently installed a new 8 GB DDR4 module alongside the existing 8 GB module. Both modules are from different manufacturers and have different CAS latencies. What is the most likely cause of the issue?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue:
"most likely"Why it matters: Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
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
The RAM modules have mismatched CAS latencies, causing timing conflicts.
Mixing RAM modules with different specifications, especially CAS latency, can cause timing mismatches that lead to system instability and blue screen errors like MEMORY_MANAGEMENT. The system tries to run both sticks at the same timings, which can fail if the modules are not compatible.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The new RAM module is defective.
Why it's wrong here
While a defective module is possible, the more common issue with mixed RAM is incompatibility due to differing timings, not necessarily a hardware defect.
- ✗
The RAM is not seated properly in the slot.
Why it's wrong here
Improper seating typically causes a no-boot or beep code, not random blue screens after the system has been running, though it should still be checked.
- ✓
The RAM modules have mismatched CAS latencies, causing timing conflicts.
Why this is correct
Different CAS latencies force the memory controller to use the slower timing for both sticks, which can lead to instability if the modules are not designed to work together.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
- ✗
The motherboard does not support 16 GB of RAM.
Why it's wrong here
Most modern motherboards support 16 GB easily; the issue is specifically related to mixing modules with different specifications, not total capacity.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
- PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
- Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
- NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
- Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
- Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
- Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related 220-1201 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
- →
RAM — study guide chapter
Learn the concepts, then practise the questions
- →
RAM practice questions
Targeted practice on this topic area only
- →
All 220-1201 questions
1,020 questions across all exam domains
- →
CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 study guide
Full concept coverage aligned to exam objectives
- →
220-1201 practice test guide
How to use practice tests most effectively before exam day
Related practice questions
Related 220-1201 practice-question pages
Use these pages to review the topic behind this question. This is how one missed question becomes focused revision.
Mobile Device Hardware Servicing practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Hardware Servicing.
Mobile Device Connection Methods practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Connection Methods.
Mobile Device Accessories practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Accessories.
Mobile Device Network Connectivity practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Network Connectivity.
Mobile Device Application Support practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Application Support.
Network Protocols practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Network Protocols.
TCP & UDP Ports practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to TCP & UDP Ports.
Wireless Networking Technologies practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Wireless Networking Technologies.
Network Services practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Network Services.
Network Configuration Concepts practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Network Configuration Concepts.
Common Networking Hardware practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Common Networking Hardware.
IP Addressing practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to IP Addressing.
Practice this exam
Start a free 220-1201 practice session
Short sessions build daily habit. Longer sessions build exam-day stamina. Try a timed session to simulate real conditions.
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 220-1201 question test?
RAM — This question tests RAM — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: The RAM modules have mismatched CAS latencies, causing timing conflicts. — Mixing RAM modules with different specifications, especially CAS latency, can cause timing mismatches that lead to system instability and blue screen errors like MEMORY_MANAGEMENT. The system tries to run both sticks at the same timings, which can fail if the modules are not compatible.
What should I do if I get this 220-1201 question wrong?
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related 220-1201 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "most likely". Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
About these practice questions
Courseiva creates original exam-style practice questions with explanations and wrong-answer analysis. It does not publish real exam questions, exam dumps, or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
Same concept, more angles
1 more ways this is tested on 220-1201
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. A customer reports that their desktop PC, which originally had 8 GB of RAM, is now very slow after they installed a second 8 GB stick. The system boots and shows 16 GB in the BIOS, but the OS only reports 8 GB usable. What is the most likely cause?
easy- A.The new RAM stick is faulty and needs to be replaced.
- B.The RAM is not fully seated in the slot.
- ✓ C.The new RAM stick is incompatible with the existing module, causing the system to run in single-channel mode and limiting usable memory.
- D.The motherboard only supports up to 8 GB of RAM.
Why C: This scenario describes a common issue where mismatched memory modules cause the system to operate in single-channel mode or fail to address all installed RAM. The most likely cause is that the new RAM stick is not compatible with the existing module, often due to differences in speed, timings, or rank, forcing the system to run at the lower common denominator or disabling dual-channel support. The BIOS sees both sticks, but the OS may only report the usable memory from one channel if the modules are mismatched.
Last reviewed: Jun 18, 2026
This 220-1201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1201 exam.
Question Discussion
Share a tip, memory trick, or ask about the reasoning behind this question. Do not post real exam questions, leaked content, braindumps, or copyrighted exam material. Comments are moderated and may be removed without notice.
Sign in to join the discussion.