The answer is to install DDR5 RAM because the motherboard’s memory slot architecture and BIOS are the final arbiters of compatibility. Even though a CPU may support both DDR4 and DDR5, the motherboard’s physical DIMM slots and voltage regulators are designed exclusively for one type; plugging DDR4 into a DDR5-only board will not physically fit or could damage components. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this question tests your understanding that the memory controller is in the CPU, but the motherboard dictates which memory generation is actually usable—a common trap is assuming the CPU’s flexibility overrides the board’s limitations. Remember the hierarchy: the motherboard’s slot type always wins. For a quick memory tip, think “CPU can talk both languages, but the motherboard only listens to one.”
220-1101 CPU Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of cpu. 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 needs to install a CPU that supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory on a new motherboard. The motherboard manual lists support for only DDR5. Which of the following is the best course of action?
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 DDR5 RAM as the motherboard supports it
Memory controllers are integrated into the CPU, but the motherboard's memory slots and BIOS determine which type is supported. If the board only supports DDR5, using a CPU that supports both will still require DDR5 modules.
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 DDR4 RAM because the CPU supports it
Why it's wrong here
The motherboard's memory slots are physically different for DDR4 and DDR5; DDR4 will not fit or work in a DDR5-only board.
✓
Install DDR5 RAM as the motherboard supports it
Why this is correct
The motherboard dictates the memory type; the CPU's compatibility with both is irrelevant if the board only accepts DDR5.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "best" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Update the BIOS to enable DDR4 support
Why it's wrong here
BIOS updates cannot change the physical memory slot design or electrical signaling; DDR4 cannot be used.
✗
Use a different CPU that only supports DDR5
Why it's wrong here
While possible, it's unnecessary; the current CPU works fine with DDR5, so no replacement is needed.
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 DDR5 RAM as the motherboard supports it — Memory controllers are integrated into the CPU, but the motherboard's memory slots and BIOS determine which type is supported. If the board only supports DDR5, using a CPU that supports both will still require DDR5 modules.
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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Question Discussion
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