The correct next step is to boot from a rescue disk and run a malware scan. This is necessary because a rootkit loads before the operating system, allowing it to intercept system calls and hide its processes from standard antivirus tools running within the infected OS. By booting from a rescue disk—such as a bootable USB with anti-malware software—you load a clean, trusted operating environment that bypasses the rootkit entirely, enabling the scanner to detect and remove the malware without interference. On the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam, this question tests your understanding of rootkit behavior and the limitations of standard scans; a common trap is suggesting a safe mode boot, but rootkits can still hide there since the same compromised OS loads. Remember the memory tip: “Rootkits ride the OS, so boot before they boot.”
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 cleaning a computer that has been infected with a rootkit. After running a standard antivirus scan, the malware is still detected on reboot. Which step should the technician take next to ensure complete removal?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Boot from a rescue disk and run a malware scan.
Rootkits load before the operating system and can hide from standard scans. Booting from a rescue disk (e.g., a bootable anti-malware USB) loads a clean OS environment, allowing the scanner to detect and remove the rootkit without interference.
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.
✗
Perform a clean installation of Windows.
Why it's wrong here
Reinstalling Windows is a last resort; a boot-time scan should be attempted first.
✓
Boot from a rescue disk and run a malware scan.
Why this is correct
A rescue disk boots a trusted OS, bypassing the rootkit and enabling effective removal.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Disable System Restore and run the antivirus again.
Why it's wrong here
Disabling System Restore helps but does not address rootkit persistence.
✗
Run the antivirus in Safe Mode.
Why it's wrong here
Some rootkits can still load in Safe Mode; a rescue disk is more reliable.
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: Boot from a rescue disk and run a malware scan. — Rootkits load before the operating system and can hide from standard scans. Booting from a rescue disk (e.g., a bootable anti-malware USB) loads a clean OS environment, allowing the scanner to detect and remove the rootkit without interference.
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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