easyMultiple Choice
220-1102 Practice Question: A customer reports that their Windows 10 computer…
A customer reports that their Windows 10 computer is running very slowly, and they see frequent pop-up ads even when no browser is open. They also notice a new toolbar in their browser that they did not install. What type of malware is most likely causing these symptoms?
⚠ Common exam trap
220-1202 often tests symptom-based malware identification; candidates might confuse adware with viruses or worms, but the key differentiator is the presence of unwanted advertisements and toolbars without file encryption or network self-propagation.
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
✓
Adware
Adware is the most likely malware type because the symptoms—frequent pop-up ads even when no browser is open, and a new browser toolbar—are classic indicators of adware. Adware is designed to display unwanted advertisements and often bundles additional toolbars or browser extensions without user consent. It can run in the background and inject ads into various applications.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Ransomware
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware is a malicious software designed to encrypt a victim's files or lock their computer system, demanding a ransom payment, typically in cryptocurrency, for decryption or access restoration. Its primary objective is financial extortion by denying access to critical data, rather than generating unsolicited advertisements or installing unwanted browser components. Therefore, pop-ups and toolbars are not its characteristic symptoms, which typically involve a system lock screen or specific ransom note.
- ✓
Adware
Why this is correct
Adware is a type of software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material, often in the form of pop-up windows, banner ads, or redirects, after it is installed on a computer. It frequently bundles with free software and can install unwanted browser toolbars, modify browser settings, and track user browsing habits to serve targeted advertisements. These symptoms precisely match the customer's report of pop-ups and toolbars, as adware's main purpose is to generate revenue through advertising.
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Virus
Why it's wrong here
A computer virus is a type of malicious code or program written to alter the way a computer operates and is designed to spread from one computer to another by attaching itself to legitimate programs or documents. It requires a host program to execute and replicate, and its payload can vary widely, from corrupting data to logging keystrokes. While a virus can cause various system disruptions, its primary method of operation does not typically involve the continuous generation of pop-up ads or the installation of unwanted browser toolbars.
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Worm
Why it's wrong here
A worm is a standalone malicious program that replicates itself and spreads to other computers across a network without requiring a host program or user intervention. Unlike viruses, worms are self-contained and can exploit network vulnerabilities to propagate rapidly, consuming bandwidth and system resources. While a worm's payload can include creating backdoors or launching denial-of-service attacks, its fundamental design is not centered on displaying unsolicited advertisements or installing browser toolbars.
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Related to this question
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Browser Security Settings and Add-ons
Key term
Adware
Adware is software that automatically displays or downloads unwanted advertisements, often bundled with free programs, and may track user behavior without clear consent.
Key term
Windows
Windows is a family of operating systems developed by Microsoft that manages computer hardware and software, providing a graphical user interface for users to interact with their devices.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
This 220-1202 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 220-1202 exam.