The answer is that the command before Out-File does not produce any output. This is the most likely cause of an empty log file when troubleshooting a PowerShell script that runs without errors, because Out-File only writes whatever data it receives from the pipeline; if the preceding command generates no output—such as a cmdlet that queries a service that isn’t running or a variable that holds a null value—the file is created but remains blank. On the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of PowerShell’s pipeline behavior and common scripting pitfalls, often appearing as a trap where candidates assume a syntax error or permission issue is to blame. A key memory tip is “no output, no file content”—think of the pipeline as a water pipe: if nothing flows in, nothing comes out the other end.
220-1202 Scripting Basics Practice Question
This 220-1202 practice question tests your understanding of scripting basics. 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 technician is troubleshooting a PowerShell script that collects system information and writes it to a log file. The script runs without errors but the log file is empty. The script uses Out-File to write data. What is the most likely 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 the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
The command before Out-File does not produce any output.
If a PowerShell command does not produce output, piping it to Out-File will result in an empty file. The issue is that the command used does not generate any output.
Key principle: Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
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 script is not running with administrative privileges.
Why it's wrong here
Writing to a log file in the current directory doesn't normally require admin rights.
✗
The Out-File cmdlet is misspelled.
Why it's wrong here
The cmdlet is spelled correctly as Out-File, and the script runs without errors.
✓
The command before Out-File does not produce any output.
Why this is correct
If the command returns nothing, Out-File writes an empty file.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Authentication checks who the user is.
✗
The log file path contains a forward slash instead of a backslash.
Why it's wrong here
PowerShell accepts both slashes in paths, so this would not cause an empty file.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: authentication is not authorization
Logging in proves the user can authenticate. It does not automatically mean the user is allowed to enter privileged or configuration mode. Watch for AAA authorization, privilege level and command authorization details.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This kind of question is testing the difference between identity and permission. A user may successfully log in to a router because authentication is working, but still fail to enter configuration mode because authorization is missing, misconfigured or mapped to a lower privilege level.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Authentication checks who the user is.
Authorization controls what the user is allowed to do after login.
Privilege levels affect access to EXEC and configuration commands.
AAA, TACACS+ and RADIUS can separate login success from command access.
TExam Day Tips
→Do not assume successful login means full administrative access.
→Look for words such as cannot enter configuration mode, privilege level, authorization or command access.
→Separate login problems from permission problems before choosing the answer.
Key takeaway
Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
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.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1202 question in full detail.
Review Cisco AAA concepts — authentication, authorization, and accounting. Study privilege levels (0–15), command authorization under TACACS+, and how RADIUS differs. Then practise related 220-1202 questions on access control and AAA configuration.
Scripting Basics — This question tests Scripting Basics — Authentication checks who the user is..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: The command before Out-File does not produce any output. — If a PowerShell command does not produce output, piping it to Out-File will result in an empty file. The issue is that the command used does not generate any output.
What should I do if I get this 220-1202 question wrong?
Review Cisco AAA concepts — authentication, authorization, and accounting. Study privilege levels (0–15), command authorization under TACACS+, and how RADIUS differs. Then practise related 220-1202 questions on access control and AAA configuration.
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?
Authentication checks who the user is.
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Question Discussion
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