The answer is that the MFP’s scan-to-folder credentials lack write permissions to the shared folder. This is correct because when a multifunction printer (MFP) sends a scanned document to a network folder, it authenticates using a stored service account—not the user pressing the scan button. If that account has only read access at the NTFS or share level, the write operation fails with an “Access Denied” error, even though other users who scan successfully may be using a different account with full permissions. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of network scanning permissions versus local user permissions; a common trap is assuming the error is caused by a network cable or driver issue. Remember the key distinction: the MFP acts as a network client, so its credentials—not the user’s—must have write access. Memory tip: “Scan writes, so the account needs write rights.”
220-1101 Multifunction Devices Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of multifunction devices. 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 small business uses an MFP that also functions as a network scanner. Users can scan to a shared folder on a Windows PC, but some users get an 'Access Denied' error when scanning. Other users can scan successfully. What is the most likely cause?
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 MFP's scan-to-folder credentials do not have write permissions to the shared folder.
Scan to folder requires the MFP to have write permissions to the shared folder. If the MFP uses a generic service account, that account must have appropriate NTFS and share permissions. The issue is likely permission-related for the MFP's credentials.
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.
✗
The network switch port is faulty.
Why it's wrong here
A faulty switch port would affect all users, not just some, and would cause connectivity issues, not access denied errors.
✗
The MFP's firmware is outdated.
Why it's wrong here
Outdated firmware could cause various issues, but the specific access denied error points to permissions, not firmware.
✓
The MFP's scan-to-folder credentials do not have write permissions to the shared folder.
Why this is correct
If the MFP's service account lacks write permissions, it will get an access denied error. Other users may be using different credentials or methods.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
The Windows firewall is blocking the MFP.
Why it's wrong here
A firewall block would prevent any connection, not just access denied, and would likely affect all users.
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.
Multifunction Devices — This question tests Multifunction Devices — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: The MFP's scan-to-folder credentials do not have write permissions to the shared folder. — Scan to folder requires the MFP to have write permissions to the shared folder. If the MFP uses a generic service account, that account must have appropriate NTFS and share permissions. The issue is likely permission-related for the MFP's credentials.
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: "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?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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