The correct step is to check and clean startup entries using MSConfig or Autoruns. This is essential because malware commonly embeds persistence mechanisms by adding entries to the Windows registry Run keys or the Startup folder, ensuring it reloads every time the system boots. Simply deleting infected files leaves these startup hooks intact, allowing the malware to reinstall itself from cached or downloaded components. On the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of the malware removal cleanup process, specifically the need to address registry and startup persistence after antivirus scans. A common trap is stopping after file deletion, assuming the system is clean—remember that malware often hides in startup locations. A useful memory tip is "Delete files, then check the dials"—meaning after removing infected files, always inspect and clean startup entries to prevent re-infection.
220-1202 Malware Types and Removal Practice Question
This 220-1202 practice question tests your understanding of malware types and removal. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. 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 removing malware from a Windows 10 PC and wants to ensure that no remnants remain in the registry or startup folders. After running an antivirus scan and deleting infected files, which additional step should the technician perform?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Check and clean startup entries using MSConfig or Autoruns.
After removing malware, it is critical to check and clean startup entries using tools like MSConfig or Autoruns to prevent the malware from reloading on reboot. Malware often adds entries to the registry Run keys or the Startup folder to persist. Simply deleting files may leave these entries intact, allowing the malware to reinstall itself.
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.
✗
Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.
Why it's wrong here
This tool tests RAM for errors, not malware persistence; it is unrelated to removal.
✓
Check and clean startup entries using MSConfig or Autoruns.
Why this is correct
Startup entries are a common persistence mechanism; cleaning them ensures the malware does not restart with the system.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Disable System Restore to free up disk space.
Why it's wrong here
Disabling System Restore may remove restore points but does not address malware persistence in startup.
✗
Update all device drivers to the latest versions.
Why it's wrong here
Driver updates improve stability and security but do not remove malware remnants from startup.
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 220-1202 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 220-1202 question in full detail.
Identify which 220-1202 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.
Malware Types and Removal — This question tests Malware Types and Removal — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Check and clean startup entries using MSConfig or Autoruns. — After removing malware, it is critical to check and clean startup entries using tools like MSConfig or Autoruns to prevent the malware from reloading on reboot. Malware often adds entries to the registry Run keys or the Startup folder to persist. Simply deleting files may leave these entries intact, allowing the malware to reinstall itself.
What should I do if I get this 220-1202 question wrong?
Identify which 220-1202 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.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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