The correct next step is to check the DNS server settings on the laptop. Because the ping to the gateway succeeds, Layer 3 connectivity to the local router is confirmed, meaning the issue is not with the IP address, subnet mask, or physical connection. When ping gateway succeeds but no internet DNS check is needed, the problem almost always lies in name resolution: the laptop can reach the gateway but cannot translate domain names into IP addresses. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this scenario tests your ability to isolate network layers—many students mistakenly check the gateway or DHCP first, but a successful ping to the gateway eliminates those. The common trap is assuming internet access is down when it is actually a misconfigured or missing DNS server. Remember the mnemonic: “Gateway good, DNS should.”
220-1101 Network Troubleshooting Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of network 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’s laptop is connected to a Wi-Fi network with a strong signal, but the user cannot access any network resources. The IP configuration shows an address of 192.168.1.50 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0 and a default gateway of 192.168.1.1. The technician pings the gateway successfully. What should the technician check next?
Why wrong: The adapter works since the laptop has an IP and can ping the gateway, so replacing it is premature.
B
Check the DNS server settings on the laptop.
Successful gateway ping indicates layer 3 connectivity, so the problem is likely name resolution; incorrect DNS settings would prevent browsing.
C
Verify the SSID is correct.
Why wrong: The laptop is connected to the network with a strong signal, so the SSID is already correct.
D
Disable the firewall temporarily.
Why wrong: Firewalls typically block specific traffic, but since the gateway ping works, the firewall is not blocking all traffic; DNS is a more targeted check.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Check the DNS server settings on the laptop.
Since the gateway is reachable, the issue is likely beyond the local network. DNS is the most common cause of being unable to access resources by name when basic connectivity exists. Checking DNS resolution is the logical next step.
Key principle: Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Replace the Wi-Fi adapter.
Why it's wrong here
The adapter works since the laptop has an IP and can ping the gateway, so replacing it is premature.
✓
Check the DNS server settings on the laptop.
Why this is correct
Successful gateway ping indicates layer 3 connectivity, so the problem is likely name resolution; incorrect DNS settings would prevent browsing.
The laptop is connected to the network with a strong signal, so the SSID is already correct.
✗
Disable the firewall temporarily.
Why it's wrong here
Firewalls typically block specific traffic, but since the gateway ping works, the firewall is not blocking all traffic; DNS is a more targeted check.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: usable hosts are not the same as total addresses
Subnetting questions often tempt you into counting all addresses. In normal IPv4 subnets, the network and broadcast addresses are not usable host addresses.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Subnetting questions test whether you can identify the network, broadcast address, usable range, mask and correct subnet. Slow down enough to calculate the block size correctly.
KKey Concepts to Remember
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
Block size helps identify subnet boundaries.
Network and broadcast addresses are not usable hosts in normal IPv4 subnets.
The required host count determines the smallest suitable subnet.
TExam Day Tips
→Write the block size before choosing the subnet.
→Check whether the question asks for hosts, subnets or a specific address range.
→Do not confuse /24, /25, /26 and /27 host counts.
Key takeaway
Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A network engineer segments a warehouse floor into three subnets: 20 scanners, 5 printers, and 2 management hosts. Picking the wrong mask wastes addresses or leaves too few usable hosts. Exam questions test whether you can apply CIDR notation, calculate block size, and identify the correct usable-host range for a given prefix.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1201 question in full detail.
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related 220-1201 subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
Network Troubleshooting — This question tests Network Troubleshooting — CIDR notation defines the prefix length..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Check the DNS server settings on the laptop. — Since the gateway is reachable, the issue is likely beyond the local network. DNS is the most common cause of being unable to access resources by name when basic connectivity exists. Checking DNS resolution is the logical next step.
What should I do if I get this 220-1201 question wrong?
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related 220-1201 subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
What is the key concept behind this question?
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
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