The correct configuration is to install both DIMMs in slots 1 and 3, as these slots belong to separate memory channels, enabling dual-channel mode. This works because dual-channel memory architecture pairs two independent 64-bit channels to double the data transfer rate between the RAM and the memory controller, effectively doubling memory bandwidth compared to single-channel operation. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this concept tests your understanding of motherboard slot layouts and the performance impact of channel configuration—a common trap is installing both sticks in slots 1 and 2, which forces single-channel mode and halves bandwidth, a critical mistake for memory-intensive tasks like running virtual machines. A reliable memory tip is to remember the "1-3, 2-4" rule: for dual-channel, always use the same-colored slots or the first and third slots from the CPU, leaving the second and fourth for a second matched pair.
220-1201 CPU Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of cpu. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. 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 technician is configuring a server that requires maximum memory bandwidth for virtual machines. The motherboard has four memory slots and supports dual-channel architecture. The technician installs two 16 GB DIMMs. Which configuration will provide the best performance?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "best"
Why it matters: Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Install both DIMMs in slots 1 and 3 (different channels)
Dual-channel memory architecture requires matched pairs of DIMMs installed in specific slots (usually slots 1 and 3 or 2 and 4) to operate in dual-channel mode. Installing them in the same channel (e.g., slots 1 and 2) forces single-channel mode, halving memory bandwidth.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Install both DIMMs in slots 1 and 2 (same channel)
Why it's wrong here
This configuration uses only one memory channel, reducing bandwidth to single-channel speeds.
✓
Install both DIMMs in slots 1 and 3 (different channels)
Why this is correct
This populates both channels, enabling dual-channel mode and doubling memory bandwidth for better performance.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "best" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Install one DIMM in slot 1 and leave the other empty
Why it's wrong here
Single-channel operation provides lower bandwidth, not ideal for memory-intensive virtual machines.
✗
Install both DIMMs in slots 2 and 3 (adjacent slots)
Why it's wrong here
Slots 2 and 3 are typically on the same channel (depending on motherboard layout), which would still run in single-channel mode.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
→Underline the problem statement mentally.
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 220-1201 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1201 question in full detail.
Identify which 220-1201 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
CPU — This question tests CPU — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Install both DIMMs in slots 1 and 3 (different channels) — Dual-channel memory architecture requires matched pairs of DIMMs installed in specific slots (usually slots 1 and 3 or 2 and 4) to operate in dual-channel mode. Installing them in the same channel (e.g., slots 1 and 2) forces single-channel mode, halving memory bandwidth.
What should I do if I get this 220-1201 question wrong?
Identify which 220-1201 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "best". Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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