- A
Run a disk defragmentation to improve performance.
Why wrong: Defragmentation on a failing drive can worsen the condition by causing additional read/write operations, potentially leading to further data loss.
- B
Back up all important data immediately.
The high reallocated sectors count is a strong indicator of impending drive failure. Backing up data is the critical first step to prevent data loss.
- C
Replace the SATA cable and power connector.
Why wrong: While cable issues can cause problems, the SMART data points to internal drive failure, not connectivity. Replacing cables will not fix the underlying issue.
- D
Disable the paging file to reduce disk activity.
Why wrong: Disabling the paging file may reduce activity but does not address the failing hardware. Data backup is still the priority.
Quick Answer
The correct next step is to back up all important data immediately. A critically high reallocated sectors count, combined with a repetitive clicking sound from the case, indicates that the hard drive’s physical platters or read/write heads are failing, and the drive is actively moving data from damaged sectors to spare areas. This SMART attribute directly measures the number of bad sectors that have been remapped, and a high value signals imminent mechanical failure. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of SMART diagnostics and the technician’s priority: data preservation over troubleshooting. A common trap is to try to repair the drive or run disk utilities, but the correct response is always to secure the data first. Remember the memory tip: “Clicking means copying—back up before the drive stops ticking.”
220-1101 Storage and RAID Troubleshooting Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of storage and raid troubleshooting. 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 user reports that their computer is running very slowly and they hear a repetitive clicking sound from the case. The technician checks the SMART status of the primary hard drive and sees a 'Reallocated Sectors Count' value that is critically high. What should the technician do next?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue:
"primary"Why it matters: Asks for the main purpose or function, not a secondary benefit. Eliminate answers that describe side-effects or partial functions.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Back up all important data immediately.
A high reallocated sectors count indicates the drive is failing and likely to suffer data loss. The priority is to back up critical data immediately, then replace the drive. Continuing to use the drive risks permanent data loss.
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 a disk defragmentation to improve performance.
Why it's wrong here
Defragmentation on a failing drive can worsen the condition by causing additional read/write operations, potentially leading to further data loss.
- ✓
Back up all important data immediately.
Why this is correct
The high reallocated sectors count is a strong indicator of impending drive failure. Backing up data is the critical first step to prevent data loss.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "primary" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
Replace the SATA cable and power connector.
Why it's wrong here
While cable issues can cause problems, the SMART data points to internal drive failure, not connectivity. Replacing cables will not fix the underlying issue.
- ✗
Disable the paging file to reduce disk activity.
Why it's wrong here
Disabling the paging file may reduce activity but does not address the failing hardware. Data backup is still the priority.
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.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
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.
- →
Storage and RAID Troubleshooting — study guide chapter
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Storage and RAID Troubleshooting practice questions
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 220-1201 question test?
Storage and RAID Troubleshooting — This question tests Storage and RAID Troubleshooting — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Back up all important data immediately. — A high reallocated sectors count indicates the drive is failing and likely to suffer data loss. The priority is to back up critical data immediately, then replace the drive. Continuing to use the drive risks permanent data loss.
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: "primary". Asks for the main purpose or function, not a secondary benefit. Eliminate answers that describe side-effects or partial functions.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 18, 2026
This 220-1201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1201 exam.
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